ROUND ROCK BASEBALL LEAGUE

OFFICIAL RULES OF PLAY

Introduction

The Round Rock Baseball League (RRBL) Board of Directors has approved the included written language pertaining to playing rules for the RRBL program.  The Board of Directors reserves the right to add or change rules during the year for the betterment of the program and/or safety of the players.  

All RRBL games will be played under the Official Rules of Baseball (as published on MLB.com) with league specific modifications and exceptions detailed in this document. In the event of any conflict in language between any past, present, or future printed version of these rules and the RRBL online version as posted on league website, the RRBL online version shall have priority. Should any situations arise, or rulings be required that are not addressed in these rules, the decision of the RRBL BOD shall serve as the official and appropriate ruling. All decisions by League Officials shall be final and may not be appealed.

The following rules will apply for all age divisions unless otherwise noted. In the event of a conflict between these rules and The Official Rules of Baseball, then these rules shall govern.

Any reference to a particular gender contained within this document such as he, his, himself, etc., shall be meant to also include she, hers, herself and are to be interpreted as gender neutral.

NOTE: If you plan on playing in the Centex All-stars League at the end of our Spring Season, you need to refer to the Centex page for their specific rules for more details.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

RULE 1.00 - PLAYING FIELDS, UNIFORMS & EQUIPMENT

1.01 PLAYING FIELDS

1.02 UNIFORMS

1.03 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

1.04 BASEBALLS

1.05 BAT RULES

1.05.01 PENALTY

RULE 2.00 - GAME PRELIMINARIES

2.01 ROSTERS

2.02 PLAYERS - PETITION TO "PLAY UP"

2.03 MANAGERS & COACHES

2.04 MINIMUM NUMBER OF PLAYERS

2.04.01 PENALTY

2.05 LINE-UP & SUBSTITUTIONS

2.05.01 PENALTY

2.06 FORFEITS

2.07 PACE OF PLAY

2.07.01 PENALTY

2.08 DELAY OF GAME

2.09 IN GAME BEHAVIOR

RULE 3.00 - STARTING & ENDING A GAME

3.02 TIME LIMITATIONS

3.03 TIE BREAKER

3.04 RUN LIMITATIONS & MERCY RULE

3.05 SUSPENDED GAMES

3.06 SCORECARDS

3.07 PROTESTING GAMES

3.08 PROTESTING IN GAME CALLS

RULE 4.00 - BATTING AND BASE RUNNING

4.01 THE BATTER

4.01.01 PENALTY

4.02 BATTER INTERFERENCE

4.03 THROWING THE BAT

4.03.01 PENALTY

4.04 BUNTING

4.04.01 PENALTY

4.05 SQUEEZE PLAYS

4.05.01 PENALTY (4U-14U)

4.06 CONTACT AVOIDANCE

4.06.01 PENALTY

4.07 SLIDING

4.07.01 PENALTY (4U-12U)

4.08 FORCE PLAY SLIDE RULE

4.08.01 PENALTY

4.09 STEALING HOME

4.09.01 PENALTY (4U-14U)

4.10 COURTESY RUNNERS

4.11 PINCH RUNNERS

RULE 5.00 THE PITCHER

5.01 PITCHING LIMITATIONS

5.01.01 PITCHER/CATCHER LIMITATIONS (10U-18U)

5.01.02 PENALTY FOR PITCHING/CATCHING VIOLATIONS

5.02 INTENTIONAL WALKS

5.03 BALKS

5.04 DELAYING THE GAME (SEE RULE 2.08)

5.04.01 PENALTY

5.05 PITCHER

5.05.01 PENALTY

RULE 6.00 SPORTSMANSHIP & EJECTIONS

6.01 SPORTSMANSHIP

6.02 EJECTIONS

6.03 BENCH JOCKEYING

6.03.01 PENALTY (UMPIRE’S DISCRETION)

6.04 QUESTIONING STRIKE ZONE

6.04.01 PENALTY (UMPIRE’S DISCRETION)

RULE 7.00 – AGE SPECIFIC RULES

7.01 4U-6U DIVISIONS (T-BALL)

7.02 8U DIVISION (COACH PITCH)

7.03 10U-18U DIVISIONS

RULE 1.00 - PLAYING FIELDS, UNIFORMS & EQUIPMENT

1.01 PLAYING FIELDS

The playing fields will be laid out according to the dimensions below. Pitching mounds will be set by the City of Round Rock. DO NOT move the pitching mounds.

NOTE - Actual field usage for games will be determined by the league based on the number of teams and field availability.

1.02 UNIFORMS

Uniforms (jersey and cap) are included with registration and will be the official uniform for RRBL teams. No other uniforms will be worn without prior approval from the board of directors via the league president. All players shall be fully uniformed, which includes baseball pants, baseball cap, athletic shoes and team jerseys with numbers that are non-duplicating. Teams may add the name and number to the back of the jersey and to the side or back of the caps. NO OTHER printing is permitted on RRBL uniforms without board permission.

NOTE: Metal cleats are allowed in 14U and 18U. All other divisions must use plastic cleats.

Issues involving a player’s uniform legality will be resolved at the discretion of the umpire and/or League Officials. If it is determined that a player’s uniform is unacceptable then the player will be allowed to immediately conform or be removed from the game. If a player is removed from the game for a uniform violation, he will not be allowed to return and no out will be recorded unless the team drops below the minimum required by these rules.

1.03 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

CATCHERS - The catcher shall wear all appropriate protective gear including:

1. Catcher’s helmet with facemask and either a built in extended throat guard or a separately attached throat guard. The catcher’s helmet shall fully cover both ears. (All divisions)
2. Chest protector (8U-18U)
3. Shin and/or leg guards (8U-18U)
4. Protective cup (8U-18U)
5. Catcher’s Mitt (10U-18U)

BATTERS / BASE RUNNERS

All offensive players shall use a double ear-flap batting helmet whenever at bat, on deck, on base or any other time outside of the dugout and the ball is live and in play.

ON DECK BATTERS

1. Offensive team is only allowed the first 3 batters in foul territory while the pitchers are warming up.
2. On deck batters are permitted to go to the opposite on deck circle in every division if there is a safety concern. Example: Home team on third base side with the left handed batter, then the on deck batter is permitted to go to the visitor’s (1st base) side on deck circle.

1.04 BASEBALLS

Each team will supply two (2) baseballs in good condition for each game. Regulation leather covered baseballs will be used for all age divisions, except 4U which will use a RIF baseball.

1.05 BAT RULES

All bats used in RRBL games shall meet the most current standards as set forth by USSSA or USA baseball. The bat shall have a grip of tape or some other material to facilitate holding the bat during the batter’s swing (not mandatory on wooden bats) not to exceed (18) eighteen inches from the handle end. All bats must be commercially manufactured for baseball play. Softball bats or bats altered after manufacture to reduce or add weight are ineligible. All key graphics, including USSSA/USA and BPF markings, must be permanent and cannot be applied as decals or by any other method that would allow the key graphics to be easily removed or added to the bat.

Bats will be further restricted as follows:

1. Big Barrel Bats (larger than 2 ¼” diameter) – Only big barrel bats made by approved USSSA/USA licensed manufacturers that meet the following criteria:

1. Made with the new USSSA/USA mark or
2. BBCOR bat which is NFHS approved or
3. Be a wood bat.

2. Small Barrel Bats (2 ¼” diameter) – Only small barrel bats made by approved USSSA/USA licensed manufacturers that meet the following criteria:

1. Made with the new USSSA/USA mark or
2. Be a wood bat.

3. RRBL will also limit the bat size and length-to-weight ratio ("drop") specific to each age group as follows:

1. 4U-6U Divisions:  All bats shall be small barrel bats, as defined above.
2. 8U-12U Divisions:  All big barrel bats, as defined above, shall be limited to a length-to-weight ratio equal to or heavier than minus ten (-10).
3. 14U Division:  All big barrel bats, as defined above, shall be limited to a length-to-weight ratio equal to or heavier than minus five (-5).
4. 18U Division:  All bats must conform to current NFHS bat rules and limitations.

1.05.01 PENALTY

1. First Offense (Per Game)

1. If UMPIRE determines bat does not conform to RRBL rules before ball in play but a pitch has been thrown, then the Batter out will be declared out
2. If UMPIRE discovers that a bat has been used to put a ball in play and before the next legal pitch, then
3. Defensive team will have the choice of the result of play OR batter-runner being called out and all runners returning to the base occupied before the pitch.

2. Second Offense (Per Game)

1. If a team is found in violation of this rule a second time, then the manager will be ejected in addition to the First Offense penalty.          

RULE 2.00 - GAME PRELIMINARIES  

2.01 ROSTERS

Team rosters are limited to 12 players in all age divisions at the league’s discretion. All players must be registered in the appropriate age division. Any manager found to be using illegal players will be suspended for a minimum of 2 games and possibly removed from the league.

2.02 PLAYERS - PETITION TO "PLAY UP"

Due to skill level or other circumstances, some players may be allowed to play at a higher level than their age specifies. Only 2 players per team are allowed to “Play Up” without approval. Exceptions may be granted to allow more than 2 players to “Play Up” on a given team. Approval must be obtained from the commissioners of both divisions involved and the VP of Players. All players are required to register for the division they will “Play Up” to. The manager must place any player who will “Play Up” on their protection list. Players will not be allowed to “skip a division.” Players will only be allowed to “Play Up” if they have already completed a season in the division they would otherwise be aged for.

2.03 MANAGERS & COACHES

1. 4U-8U Divisions are allowed 1 manager and may have 4 approved coaches on the field and in the dugout for games for a total of 5 coaches/adults (field and dugout combined).
2. 10U-18U Divisions are allowed 1 manager and may have 3 approved coaches on the field and in the dugout for games for a total of 4 coaches/adults (field and dugout combined).

Only league approved managers, coaches, and players are permitted in the dugout or on the field

If a team is missing a coach(s), then an approved coach from another RRBL team may help with team duties on a temporary basis. RRBL will provide all approved managers and coaches with picture identification badges. ID badges must be always displayed in plain view while on the field or in the dugout. Failure to comply will result in the removal of the coach from the field and dugout until the coach has his badge.

2.04 MINIMUM NUMBER OF PLAYERS

The following rules regarding minimum players apply to all RRBL games including tournaments for both Fall and Spring seasons:

1. 6U-8U Divisions (9 players). Teams may play an official game with an eight (8) player line-up. If a team plays with a nine (9) player line-up, an out shall be declared for the tenth (10th) position in the batting lineup each turn at bat. A tenth (10th) player and all subsequent players may be added to the bottom of the batting line-up as soon as they become available. This includes “late players” regardless of if the lineup has “batted through the entirety of their lineup.” The “late player” will be placed at the last slot.
2. 10U-18U Divisions (8 players). Teams may play an official game with a seven (7) player line-up. If a team plays with a seven (7) player line-up, an out shall be declared for the eighth (8th) and ninth (9th) position in the batting lineup each turn at bat. An eight (8th) and ninth (9th) player and all subsequent players may be added to the bottom of the batting line-up as soon as they become available. This includes late players regardless of if the lineup has “batted through the entirety of their lineup.” The late player will be placed at the last slot.
3. With prior approval of the commissioner, registered players from another team within the same division may fill-in for a single game to prevent a forfeit. These are “borrowed” players.

1. 6U–8U Team utilizing "borrowed" players must have a minimum of 8 original members at game time. The roster shall not exceed 10 players and the player/players must be identified at the managers meeting at the beginning of the game. “Borrowed” players shall not play any infield position and must bat at the bottom of the lineup. A maximum of 2 players may be “borrowed” from another team.
2. 10U–18U Teams utilizing “borrowed” players must have a minimum of 7 original members at game time. The roster shall not exceed 9 total players and the player/players must be identified at the managers meeting at the beginning of the game. “Borrowed” players shall not play any infield position and must bat at the bottom of the lineup. A maximum of 2 players may be “borrowed” from another team.

2.04.01 PENALTY

If the players are not used as stated above, then the game will be a forfeit.  Teams that fall below 8 players for 10U and older (7 players or less including borrowed players), or 9 players for 8U and younger (8 players or less including borrowed players) shall forfeit the game.

NOTE: If a player leaves a game for any reason, a team may continue a game with the minimum allowable number of players and an out will not be declared.

2.05 LINE-UP & SUBSTITUTIONS

All age divisions will utilize open substitution and use a continuous line-up (bat the entire roster). Line-up cards presented to the opposing team shall include each player’s jersey number. RRBL prefers “Number, Last name, First Initial”. If a player is injured and cannot complete his at bat, then the next batter can assume the injured players at bat - the injured player will not be called out but cannot return to the game.

No player will sit two consecutive innings unless due to injury, disability, a discipline issue, or mutual agreement between player and coach. RRBL recommends notifying the player's parents and the commissioner of that division if it is a discipline issue.

2.05.01 PENALTY

If it has been determined, prior to end of game, that a team has violated rule 2.05, then the game will end in forfeit.

2.06 FORFEITS

A forfeit will result if a team fails to field the minimum number of players required by these rules ten (10) minutes past the scheduled game time. If both teams fail to have the required number of players at ten (10) minutes past the scheduled game time, the game will be declared a forfeit by both teams and will be recorded as a tie. The Umpire will wait a minimum of ten (10) minutes past the scheduled game time before declaring a game forfeit.

Forfeits will be recorded as a 6-0 score (for 6U-12U) or 7-0 score (for 14U-18U).

NOTE: Games may start earlier than scheduled if both teams are present with minimum numbers of players present.

NOTE: Games will begin no earlier than the scheduled game time without concurrence of both managers.

2.07 PACE OF PLAY

Teams will be allowed a maximum of 120 seconds (2 minutes) between half-innings. The clock starts with the last out of an inning and stops when the pitcher begins his pitching motion. Each manager is responsible for having his team ready to begin the next half-inning within this allotted time. This includes having catchers ready. This is a judgment call by the umpire and cannot be protested.

2.07.01 PENALTY

1. First offense – Warning will be issued
2. Second offense

1. A ball will be called on the defense each time the rule is violated.
2. A strike will be called on the offense each time the rule is violated.

2.08 DELAY OF GAME

Managers, coaches, or players will not intentionally delay the game at any time. Repeatedly asking the umpire for time or making multiple substitutions to run out the clock may constitute delay of the game. If a manager, coach, or player is found in violation of delaying the game, then the umpire(s) and/or umpire-in-chief (UIC), at his discretion, will either stop the official game clock and/or add an appropriate amount of time to the official time remaining. This is an umpire judgment call. The games are to be decided by play on the field and not by gamesmanship of the time limits to "run out the clock."

NOTE:  Managers will not be allowed to argue a delay of game call.

2.09 IN GAME BEHAVIOR

1. Players must remain in the dugout during the game unless they are injured, ill, or must make a trip to the restroom.
2. Players are not permitted to wander in and out of the dugout or to sit in the stands during the game. 

RULE 3.00 - STARTING & ENDING A GAME

3.01 REGULATION GAME

A regulation game consists of six (6) innings for age divisions 6U-12U and seven (7) innings for age divisions 14U-18U, unless the game is:

1. Extended because the score is tied as determined by RRBL rule 3.03 (Tie Breakers)
2. Shortened because the home team needs none of its half of the last inning or only a fraction of it to win; or
3. Shortened because an imposed time limit expires (RRBL rule 3.02); or
4. Shortened because any part of RRBL rule 3.04 (Mercy Rule) has been met; or
5. Shortened because any applicable part of RRBL rule 3.05 (suspended games) has been met.

3.02 TIME LIMITATIONS

The following time limits will apply for all RRBL games, including tournament games. Unless run rule limits apply (RRBL rule 3.04) the game will be played until time expires or all innings are completed. Once time has expired, if the visiting team is ahead by more than the maximum number of runs allowed in an inning or the home team is winning, then the game will be called, and the score recorded as it stands at that time. The game will not be called until time has expired unless the mercy rule applies after a complete inning. No new inning will be started after time has expired.

3.03 TIE BREAKER

The Texas Tie Breaker rule, when required, will be used to determine a game winner. Regular season games can end in a tie. Once time has expired and the inning is completed, the game is over in the regular season. If all innings are completed (6 in 6U-12U and 7 in 14U-18U) and the score is tied AND there is time left on the game clock, then the tie breaker can be utilized for one inning only.

The inning begins with the bases loaded and one out. The last 3 batters from the previous inning will occupy the bases. The last batter on first, second to last on second, and third to last on third. For example, if the last three batters from the prior inning were the 4th, 5th, and 6th batters, then the 6th batter is on first, the 5th batter is on second, and the 4th batter is on third. Each team has an opportunity to bat. If a batter is unable to occupy a base for any reason, that base will be occupied by the next eligible batter.

For league tournaments, the Texas Tie Breaker will be used until a winner is determined after a completed tie breaker inning.

NOTE: There are no courtesy runners allowed in a Texas Tie Breaker.

3.04 RUN LIMITATIONS & MERCY RULE  

The following run limitations will apply to all RRBL games. The imposed Mercy (run) Rule shall be used to complete a regulation game when one team’s margin of lead is greater than or equal to the listed run differential.

3.05 SUSPENDED GAMES

If a game is stopped due to rain, weather, light failure, curfew or other acts of God and cannot be resumed then it may ruled: complete game, suspended game, or no game as follows:

Completed games 

1. 6U-18U Divisions

1. If a game is called for any reason during play, it is considered a complete game if three (3) innings have been completed or if the home team is ahead in the bottom of the third inning
2. If the game is called in an uncompleted inning after having exceeded the three (3) innings minimum where the score is tied, or the home team is behind, the game will revert to the last completed inning. 

Suspended games

1. If a game is called after one (1) complete inning but before it could be considered a complete game as described above, it is considered a suspended game.

1. In a tournament, the scorecard will be turned over to the board member on duty or other league official for use when the game is resumed.
2. Time remaining in the game, if any, will be noted on the scorecard by the umpire in charge.
3. The umpire will verify the pitchers of record, batter, base runners, outs, count and score with the home scorebook and note them on the scorecard, home, and visitor scorebook.
4. The game will be resumed from the exact point of suspension and the time remaining (if any).

No Game

1. A game called before one full inning is completed is not considered a game.

1. If the game is later rescheduled, it will start over as a new game starting over from the beginning.
2. If a game is called a no game or is rained out and cannot be rescheduled, the game will not count toward the standings.

NOTE:  During Fall Season, suspended games will not be rescheduled.

NOTE:  Pitch counts will be recorded and will be in effect regardless of the final status of a game.

3.06 SCORECARDS

When used, scorecards are completed by the umpires during tournament games. Umpires will record scores, pitchers, pitch counts, catchers’ numbers, and any other pertinent notes on the game. Scorecards are final once signed by the manager after the game and if the card is not signed then it is assumed that the manager agrees with the umpire’s card. Any discrepancies must be addressed before teams leave the field of play.

3.07 PROTESTING GAMES

Umpires will work to settle all situations on the field. Protests are only allowed for rule interpretations. Protesting judgment calls will not be allowed. The Protest Fee is $100.00 cash and will be returned only if the protest is upheld. Only the team manager may protest a game.

Protesting steps:

1. The manager must notify the home plate umpire before the next pitch following the dispute and provide a copy of the rule being protested.
2. If a call to be protested is the last recorded out of a game or on a game ending play, the protest MUST be filed prior to the umpires and the protesting team leaving the field of play.
3. No protest will be allowed following the game
4. If the umpires are unable to resolve the issue, then the UIC will be called to make the final decision. This decision cannot be protested.
5. The game clock will be stopped.

3.08 PROTESTING IN GAME CALLS

Only the manager of record (who attended the home plate meeting) is allowed to communicate with the umpires. Once the umpires discuss the in-game protest, the decision is final. If a manager argues the decision, then he will be restricted to the dugout for the remainder of the game. If it is a rule interpretation, then the manager may ask for a protest as above for $100 cash.It is the umpire’s judgment, who made the call, if he will ask for help from the other umpire(s). Be specific regarding what exactly you are protesting with a question (See RULE 3.07)

RULE 4.00 - BATTING AND BASE RUNNING

4.01 THE BATTER

The batter shall take his position in the batter’s box promptly when it is his time at bat. If a batter jumps/moves/runs out of the batter box, then a strike may be called with each infraction including a strike out regardless if the pitch was outside of the strike zone. Batters will not intentionally delay the game at any time. This is a judgment call by the umpire and cannot be protested.

4.01.01 PENALTY

After a warning, a strike will be called each time the rule is violated. This is a judgment call by the umpire and may not be argued by the manager.

4.02 BATTER INTERFERENCE

If the batter makes any move that, in the judgment of the umpire, interferes with a fielder making a play, then a dead ball will be declared, the batter runner will be called out, and the advancing runner(s) will return to their original base(s).

Example: Pitch is thrown and the base runner on second base attempts to steal third base. The catcher attempts to pick the runner off, but the batter steps in his way causing the baseball to sail over the third baseman’s head. The batter is out, and the base runner returns to second base. The catcher must make a clear attempt to throw the runner out. If a throw is not attempted, then there is no interference as no play/attempt occurred. This is an umpire judgment call.

4.03 THROWING THE BAT

4U-8U - 1 warning per player.

10U-18U - 1 warning per team.

4.03.01 PENALTY

Second occurrence will result in the batter being called out. The ball will be considered a dead ball, and no runners may advance.

4.04 BUNTING

If a batter squares to bunt, then he must either bunt or take the pitch. Slashing is not allowed in any age division. Slashing is defined as a batter attempting to deceive the defense by squaring to bunt as the pitcher is delivering the ball and then swinging at the pitch (with or without runners on base). This is considered a safety issue.

4.04.01 PENALTY

If the umpire calls slashing, the batter will be declared out, the runners shall not advance.  If, by judgment, the umpires believe it was intentional the manager and/or 3rd base coach is to be ejected. There is no warning.

4.05 SQUEEZE PLAYS

Age divisions 4U-14U: A squeeze play is defined as a batter attempting to bunt the ball to provide the runner on third base an opportunity to score. This play is a legal, but will be restricted in RRBL games as follows:

A safety squeeze play is a legal play where there is a runner on third base who starts to advance home as the pitcher delivers the ball (this includes starting to advance home during the windup) but stops his advancement toward home plate as the batter squares to bunt and waits until the ball is in play before continuing to advance toward home.

A suicide squeeze play is an illegal play where the runner on third base continues toward home, without stopping, while at the same time the batter attempts to put the ball in play via a bunt.

To protect the safety of the fielders, the runner, and the batter, suicide squeeze plays as defined herein are NOT ALLOWED in 4U-14U. Suicide squeeze plays are allowed in 18U.

4.05.01 PENALTY (4U-14U)

The runner will be declared out, other runners shall not advance, and the manager will be ejected.

4.06 CONTACT AVOIDANCE

Whenever a tag play is evident, a runner must slide or seek to avoid contact with the fielder or catcher. Attempting to jump, leap, or dive over the fielder and/or catcher is not interpreted as seeking to avoid contact. Malicious contact shall supersede all obstruction penalties.

4.06.01 PENALTY

1. Non-malicious/unintentional contact - the runner shall be called out.
2. Malicious contact - the runner shall be called out and may be ejected from the game.

NOTE: When enforcing Rule 4.06, the umpire should judge the runner’s intent to determine whether the contact was non-malicious or malicious.

4.07 SLIDING

1. 4U-12U - no headfirst slides are allowed when advancing to another base. Diving back into a base headfirst is legal.

2. 14U-18U - headfirst slides are legal.

4.07.01 PENALTY (4U-12U)

If a runner slides headfirst while advancing to a base, he shall be called out.

4.08 FORCE PLAY SLIDE RULE

This rule pertains to a force-play situation at any base, regardless of the number of outs. On any force play - runners must slide directly into the bag or run in a direction away from the fielder to avoid making contact or altering the play of the fielder. Defense capability on completing a double play has no bearing on the applicability of this rule.

4.08.01 PENALTY

1. If there are fewer than 2 outs recorded, the batter-runner, as well as the interfering runner shall be declared out and no other runners shall advance.
2. If 2 outs are recorded, the interfering runner shall be declared out and the inning is over.

NOTE: This is a judgment call by the umpire and cannot be protested.

4.09 STEALING HOME

Stealing home is defined as attempting to advance to home plate during the pitch (as the pitcher delivers the ball). Under this narrow definition, the runner may not steal home. This definition is not intended to limit other plays at the plate, but rather to provide protection to the runner, batter, and fielders.

1. 10U-14U - Stealing home is NOT allowed. Runners may attempt to advance from third base to home plate, at their own risk, after the ball has crossed home plate, between pitches and on passed balls.
2. 18U - Stealing home is allowed.

4.09.01 PENALTY (4U-14U)

1. 1st offense - Runner will be called out.
2. 2nd offense - Runner will be called out and may be ejected from the game at the umpire’s discretion. The manager will be ejected.

4.10 COURTESY RUNNERS

The offensive team may use a courtesy runner for the catcher of record in the previous inning on defense. The courtesy runner shall be the player making the last recorded out. If no outs are recorded in the game, then there cannot be a courtesy runner until there is an out recorded. If at any time, a courtesy runner is determined to be ineligible, a proper replacement pursuant to these rules (if available) will be used without penalty.

NOTE - Courtesy runners are NOT allowed in 4U-8U. Courtesy runners are not allowed in tie breakers.

4.11 PINCH RUNNERS

Pinch runners are allowed anytime for a player injured during an at bat or while running. The pinch runner shall be the player making the last recorded out. In the event there have been no outs recorded (beginning of game), then the pinch runner shall be the last batter available in the order.

NOTE - If the injured player can return to the game, then he resumes his original position in the batter order.  

RULE 5.00 THE PITCHER  

5.01 PITCHING LIMITATIONS

Pitchers in the 10U-18U divisions shall adhere to the following pitching rules and limitations. Exceeding any pitching limit will result in a forfeit.

Please refer to table below for specific pitch limitations and required rest periods:

Pitchers may pitch up to a MAXIMUM of 110 pitches in 18U (15-18 years old), 95 pitches in 14U (13-14 years old), 85 pitches in 12U (11-12 years old), and 75 pitches in 10U (9-10 years old) in one calendar day. If the pitcher throws 20 or fewer pitches (30 in 18U) in a game, he can pitch the next game even if it is on the same day.

A pitcher can be locked at a particular daily rest threshold if the manager declares to the umpires and scorekeepers that the pitcher is on his last batter before reaching that threshold. At that point, the pitch counters should stop counting pitches and record the number of pitches thrown when “last batter” was declared. That will be the number entered online or on the scorecard.

EXAMPLE 1: A pitcher reaches 48 pitches when throwing against a batter. The pitcher may be scored at 50 pitches and finish pitching to that same batter if the manager declares that to be the pitcher’s last batter before reaching 50 pitches. Once removed from the mound the pitcher will be held to 2 day’s rest for the 36-50 pitch slot (10U-14U). The number of pitches entered online or on the scorecard would be 48. If the pitcher remains on the mound and begins pitching to a new batter, then that pitcher would be held to 3 days’ rest (10U-14U) for the next applicable slot if he throws more than 50 pitches.

EXAMPLE 2: A pitcher starts a new batter with a pitch count of 19. They may finish the batter and still be available to pitch the next game/day if the manager declares that to be the pitcher’s last batter before the 20th pitch. The number of pitches entered online or on the scorecard would be 19. If the pitcher remains on the mound after he finishes the batter he reached 20 pitches with, then the pitcher will not be available the next game/day. If a pitcher starts a new batter with a pitch count of 20, he will not be available the next day.

5.01.01 PITCHER/CATCHER LIMITATIONS (10U-18U)

1. The home team is responsible for keeping the official score book. BOTH teams are responsible for the pitchers’ pitch counts and catchers’ innings caught of BOTH teams.
2. Pitchers removed from the mound in a game may not re-enter the game as a pitcher.
3. If a pitcher throws 41 or more pitches that player cannot move to the catcher position for the remainder of the day’s games - this is a hard stop at 40 pitches; there is no “last batter” threshold. If a player starts at catcher, he may enter the game as a pitcher and throw the allowable number of pitches as long as he has not caught more than 3 innings.
4. If a catcher catches 4 innings or more, in a day, he can not come in as a pitcher that day. One official pitch caught in an inning constitutes an inning caught.
5. A pitcher CANNOT finish a batter upon meeting the maximum daily pitches for his division. The pitcher MUST BE removed when the maximum is reached.

5.01.02 PENALTY FOR PITCHING/CATCHING VIOLATIONS

1. First offense: Game is a forfeit and ejection of the Manager +1 game suspension.
2. Second offense: Ejection of manager for the duration of the season, and the board will determine if the Manager will be allowed to Manage with RRBL again.

NOTE: It is the manager's responsibility to pass information to his coaches. The coaches will not be responsible for violations during the managers ejection period.

5.02 INTENTIONAL WALKS

For the 10U-18U Divisions, intentional walks are allowed and may be issued upon announcement from either the pitcher or catcher. The four pitches need NOT be thrown, and the 4 pitches do not count towards pitch counts for the day.

5.03 BALKS

A balk call by the umpire results in an immediate dead ball. Balk by definition occurs when a pitcher makes an illegal motion on the mound that the umpire deems to be deceitful to the runner(s). Runners are awarded one base. If no runners are on, a ball is awarded to the batter. 10U will receive one warning per game. 12U-18U will receive no warnings.

NOTE - It is a balk if the pitcher, while touching his plate, feints a throw to first or third base and fails to complete the throw. Pitchers may feint a throw to second base.

5.04 DELAYING THE GAME (SEE RULE 2.08)

Managers, pitchers, or catchers will not intentionally delay the game at any time. No runners on base - the pitcher shall deliver the ball within 20 seconds after receiving the ball.

NOTE: Managers will not be allowed to argue or protest a delay of game call.

NOTE: There is no pitch clock or limits to the number of pick attempts at a base when runners are on base.

5.04.01 PENALTY

1. First offense – Warning will be issued
2. Second offense

1. A ball will be called on the defense each time the rule is violated.
2. A strike will be called on the offense each time the rule is violated.

5.05 PITCHER

The pitcher may not wear/attach anything to either hand, fingers, wrist, legs, face, neck (Band-Aid, tape, super glue, spider tack, pine tar, sunglasses, bandanas, etc) This excludes eye black, clear eye shields, and prescription glasses/sunglasses.

5.05.01 PENALTY

1. A pitcher found to be utilizing a foreign substance will be ejected
2. The manager will also be ejected from the game
3. A pitcher using removable items must remove the items before the next pitch or be removed from the game

NOTE: This is an umpire judgment and not subject to protest.

Warm-up - Pitchers are allowed 8 warm-up pitches to start the game, and 6 every inning thereafter. A relief pitcher is allowed up to 8 warm-up pitches, and 6 every inning thereafter. Offensive team is only allowed the first 3 batters in foul territory while the pitchers are warming up.

RULE 6.00 SPORTSMANSHIP & EJECTIONS  

6.01 SPORTSMANSHIP

All players, coaches, managers, fans, and spectators are expected to always conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner.

6.02 EJECTIONS

A no tolerance policy is in effect for all RRBL events. League officials will not tolerate abusive language or unsportsmanlike behavior. The use of profanity, loss of temper, or abuse of equipment will NOT be tolerated and will be grounds for immediate removal from the game by an umpire or league official and possible suspension from the league. Any player, coach, manager, or spectator whose conduct is unbecoming or unsportsmanlike shall at a minimum be reprimanded with a warning. If warranted, the offending party shall be ejected from the game at the discretion of the umpires and/or the league officials. Any player, coach, manager, or spectator leaving their position or base in the field, on the bench, in the dugout area, or grandstands to participate in a fight, brawl, or altercation shall be immediately ejected from the game and may be permanently disbarred or suspended from the league.

Any player, coach, manager, or spectator ejected from a game shall immediately remove himself from the park facility for the remainder of the game. Additional penalties may be assessed at the discretion of the league if THE ejected person(s) does not leave the field AND complex as instructed.

NOTE: Abusive behavior, language or profanity shall not be tolerated under any circumstances (before, during, or after a game) and shall result in an automatic ejection.

Throwing of equipment shall result in an automatic ejection. If necessary, any team may be forced to forfeit a game and/or be removed from the league/tournament. Any player, coach, manager, or spectator ejected for abusive or unsportsmanlike behavior towards umpires or other league officials will be removed from all team duties until a formal review has been completed by RRBL.

If required, the Round Rock Police Department will be contacted to aid in enforcement of ejections of managers, coaches, players, and/or fans.

NOTE: Repeat violations of this rule and/or occurrences of unsportsmanlike behavior will be grounds for permanent removal from RRBL as determined by the Board of Directors. Ejections, suspensions, or any other disciplinary action will be considered when registering or applying for any position within the league and could adversely affect your status with the league.

6.03 BENCH JOCKEYING

Bench Jockeying is defined as “trash talking” to the other team, screaming/increased volume during pitcher’s delivery, base runners hand clapping during the pitcher’s delivery, or any other behavior deemed by the umpire to be disruptive. This is umpire judgment and cannot be protested/argued. 

6.03.01 PENALTY (UMPIRE’S DISCRETION)

1. 1st offense - Bench warning
2. 2nd offense - Manager restricted to dugout
3. 3rd offense - Manager ejected

 6.04 QUESTIONING STRIKE ZONE

Arguing balls and strikes is not allowed.  This applies to players, coaches, managers, and spectators.

6.04.01 PENALTY (UMPIRE’S DISCRETION)

1. Warning
2. Restriction to the dugout and/or
3. Ejection 

RULE 7.00 – AGE SPECIFIC RULES  

7.01 4U-6U DIVISIONS (T-BALL)

These rules are specific to this age division in addition to the other general rules of play.

1. Bases are set at 55 feet. No mound.
2. The Home Team takes the third base dugout (if practical) and keeps the official book.
3. Regulation leather covered baseballs will be used.  A RIF baseball will be used for the 4U age group.
4. No player may play more than 2 defensive innings at the same infield position during a game.
5. Managers should attempt to move players every inning to give them equal playing time at different positions
6. If a team only has 9 players, the catcher position does not have to be filled.
7. Two coaches are allowed in the field of play while on defense but must remain on the outfield grass unless time has been called. A third coach may remain in foul territory in the infield area but may not enter the field of play.
8. Bats must comply with RRBL rule 1.05 and shall be small barrel bats (2 ¼” in diameter).
9. Batted ball must pass the 10-foot arch in front of home plate.
10. The ball is called foul if it does not pass the marked line.
11. Batters are not allowed to bunt or half swing at the ball. PENALTY: The ball is dead, and the batter is called back to the plate and charged with a strike.
12. Batters must have both feet in the box when hitting the ball.
13. Batters receive 3 swings per at bat, if the 3rd swing results in a foul ball, the batter will be called out.
14. A strike will be called if the batter measures up at the tee when a ball is on the tee.
15. Time should be called by the umpire when the ball is in the possession of an infielder and the lead runner hesitates; this is an umpire’s judgment call.
16. The Infield Fly Rule will NOT be in effect at any time.
17. Four outfielders will be used on defense; players cannot be stacked (no Rover) and must be at least 16 feet behind the bases.
18. All outfield players must be evenly spaced on the outfield grass.
19. Intentional walks are not allowed.
20. A coach may be at home plate to assist the batter in getting set up at the tee, but the coach may not physically position the batter in such a manner as to direct the hit in a particular direction. For instance, the coach cannot physically set the batter to "pull" the ball, etc. The coach may tell the batter where he wants the ball to go and if the batter can position himself to hit it there, then that is acceptable.
21. The coach may not draw lines or make marks in the batter's box to indicate to the batter where to place his feet to hit the ball in a particular direction.
22. The batters’ feet must be completely within the batters’ box at the time the ball is contacted.
23. A legal tee is currently defined as one that can be purchased at Sporting Goods stores. Hand-made or altered tees are not legal. The tee must be placed in a position that would naturally align the ball directly over home plate.
24. The Coach MUST remove the tee from home plate and put it in a safe location away from any runner as soon as the ball is struck and put in play. PENALTY: First offense: One warning per team will be given to the coach if the runner crosses the plate. Second offense: If the coach does not remove the tee from home plate and the runner crosses the plate the run will not count and an out will be recorded.
25. Players must throw the ball to first, second, third or home to make a "real" baseball play. The pitcher may not tag a batter/runner going to first, second or third base unless in the judgment of the umpire it would resemble a “real” baseball play. Pitchers will not be allowed to deliberately roll the ball to first base in lieu of attempting to make a throw. PENALTY: The batter runner is awarded the base. All other base runners affected by that award will advance one base.
26. Every attempt should be made to throw the ball to make a "real" baseball play.  If a thrown ball does not go all the way to the base and the ball subsequently bounces or rolls to the baseman ahead of the runner, the runner is out and no penalty will be assessed. On an overthrow, all runners advance at their own risk but may advance only as far as the base they were approaching plus one base. An overthrow is a throw past one infielder by another infielder. It is NOT a throw from an outfielder to an infielder. Only one overthrow allowed by an infield player in the infield per batted ball.
27. BALL HIT TO OUTFIELD: On a ball hit to the outfield, the runner may advance until the ball is in control by an infield player in the infield, fair or foul. The runner may advance to the base they are approaching, at their own risk or until the umpire calls time. There is no overthrow rule on a ball hit to the outfield.

7.02 8U DIVISION (COACH PITCH)

These rules are specific to this age division and are in addition to the other general rules of play.

1. Bases are set at 60 feet. No mound.
2. The Home Team takes the third base dugout (if practical) and keeps the official book.  
3. All players must play at least 1 inning in the infield in each game. If a player does not get an opportunity to play the infield due to lack of time, then that player must play 2 innings in the infield at the next game unless there are safety concerns with that player taking an infield position. PENALTY: If it has been determined prior to the end of the game that a team has violated  this rule, then the game will end in forfeit.
4. Regulation leather covered baseballs will be used
5. Bats must comply with RRBL rule 1.05
6. Batters receive 5 pitches or three strikes per at bat; if a foul ball occurs on the 5th pitch the batter will continue to hit until the ball is put in play, or the batter strikes out.
7. Any hit ball hitting the coach-pitcher will be ruled a foul ball.
8. The coach-pitcher is a “pitching machine” and cannot speak to anyone and cannot coach in any way from the field. The coach-catcher is there to facilitate speed of the game and cannot speak to anyone or coach in any way from the field. PENALTY: Coaching from the field will result in a warning from the umpire. A second occurrence will result in the removal of that coach-pitcher or coach-catcher from the field. That coach will be in the dugout for the remainder of that game.
9. The coach-pitcher must leave the field of play when the ball has been put into play. PENALTY: First offense: Coach-pitcher is called for interference. It is a dead ball and the batter runner is out. Runners return to the base they occupied  prior to the pitch. Coach-pitcher receives a warning. Second offense - Dead ball. Coach-pitcher is ejected.
10. A Coach-pitcher cannot be voluntarily changed in the middle of an inning  
11. Time should be called by the umpire when the ball is in the possession of an infielder and the lead runner hesitates, this is an umpire’s judgment call.
12. The Infield Fly Rule will NOT be in effect at any time
13. Four outfielders will be used by the defense, players can be stacked (rover allowed) and must be on the outfield grass when the ball crosses the plate.
14. Bunting is not allowed.
15. Intentional walks are not allowed.

7.03 10U-18U DIVISIONS

The rules listed below are in addition to the other general rules of play

1. Field setup for each division:

1. 10U - bases set at 65 feet; mound set at 46 feet
2. 12U - bases set at 70 feet; mound set at 50 feet
3. 14U - bases set at 80 feet; mound set at 54 feet
4. 18U - bases set at 90 feet; mound set at 60 feet, 6 inches

2. Home team takes the third base dugout (if practical) and keeps the official score book. Visiting scorebook is official pitch count
3. Each team will supply 2 leather balls in good condition for each game.
4. Bats must comply with RRBL rule 1.05
5. A pitcher must be removed from the mound after hitting 3 batters in a single game.
6. Balks will be called – 10U will receive one warning per team. There are no warnings in 12U, 14U, and 18U (See rule 5.03–BALKS)
7. If players are used as base coaches, they must wear batting helmets.