IX. FARM LEAGUE

1. Nine (9) players are needed to start a game. Note: If additional players show up they must be inserted at the bottom of the line up.  If at any time a team’s roster drops below nine (9), the game will be suspended and referred to the board of directors for a decision.
2. Each team may bat their complete roster during season games and may substitute defensive players as needed at the coaching staff discretion.
3. If after four (4) innings, three and one held innings if the home team is ahead, one team has a lead of thirteen (13) runs or more, the game will be called due to the “Mercy Rule.” If after five (5) innings, four and one half innings if the home team is ahead, one team has a lead of seven (7) runs or more, the game will be called due to the “Mercy Rule.” The run limit is 6 runs per inning.
4. Batters are not permitted to show bunt, pull back and then swing (slug bunt). Penalty: Batter is out and runners are not permitted to advance.
5. When a batter squares to bunt, he/she must pull back if not offering at the pitch.
6. Squaring around and waiving the bat with the intent (in the umpire’s judgment) of distracting the pitcher is not allowed. If the batter attempts to bunt the pitch there is no penalty, if the batter pulls back the umpire should call a strike and give the team at bat a warning. The next violation will result in an automatic out.
7. Ten players may be utilized defensively

1. NOTE: There shall be four outfielders when a tenth player is utilized. Outfielders shall be stationed at least 5 feet from the grass edge. These players must remain in position until the pitched ball crosses the home plate.

8. Each player on the farm roster must participate in each game for a minimum of 6 defensive outs.

Exception: Games that are shortened by the 13 or 7 run “Mercy Rule”.

9. Disciplinary action – Players  must sit on the bench and opposing coach and umpire(s) must be told before the game starts. Disciplinary action must be reported to a Board member.
10. Farm teams that will have less than (10) players available for a regular season game or less than (12) players for a tournament game may request supplemental players from the player pool.