History of Softball

Although many people assume that softball was derived from baseball, the sports
first game actually came about because of a football game. The history of softball
dates back to Thanksgiving Day of 1887, when several alumni sat in the Chicago,
Illinois Farragut Boat Club, anxiously awaiting the outcome of the Yale versus
Harvard football game. When Yale was announced as winner, a Yale alumnus
playfully threw a boxing glove at a Harvard supporter. The Harvard fan swung at the
balled-up glove with a stick, and the rest of the group looked on with interest.
George Hancock, a reporter for the Chicago Board of Trade, jokingly called out, Play
ball! and the first softball game commenced with the football fans using the boxing
glove as a ball and a broom handle in place of a bat.

Due to the initial excitement surrounding the game, the Farragut Boat Club decided
to officially devise their own set of rules, and the game quickly leaked to outsiders
in Chicago and, eventually, throughout the rest of the Midwestern U.S. As the
history of softball shaped itself over the next decade, the game went under the
guise of indoor baseball, kitten baseball, diamond ball, mush ball, and
pumpkin ball. In 1926, Walter Hakanson coined the term softball while
representing the YMCA at a National Recreation Congress meeting, and by 1930, the
term stuck as the sports official name.

In 1934, the Joint Rules Committee on Softball collaborated to create a set of

standardized rules. Up until this point, the game was being played with varied rules,
player positions, and ball sizes. The original softball used by the Farragut Boat Club
was 16 inches in circumference. However, Lewis Rober Sr., the man responsible for
organizing softball games for firefighters in Minneapolis, used a 12-inch ball. Robers
ball won out as the preferred softball size, and professional softball games today are
played using a 1012-inch ball. However, many Chicagoans still hold fast to the
belief that real softball is played using a 16-inch ball. Games using these 16-inch
balls are often referred to as cabbage ball, super slow pitch, and mush ball,
and unlike competitive softball, players are not allowed to wear fielding gloves.

While the sport was originally advertised as an indoor game for baseball players
looking to maintain their dexterity during the off season, it gained so much
popularity and recognition that it quickly became its own official sport. In 1991,
womens fast pitch softball was added to the roster of the 1996 Summer Olympics
a landmark many people recognize as the ultimate success of a sport. Although
softball was later dropped from the 2012 Summer Olympics lineup, the game is still
one of the most popular participant sports in the United States and 113 countries
have officially joined the International Softball Federation since the organizations
formation in 1952.

According to the official rules developed early in the history of softball, and
eventually defined by the International Softball Federation, there are nine players on
the field at a time. The players take the positions of pitcher, catcher, first baseman,
second baseman, shortstop, third baseman, and outfielder. Usually, there are three
outfielders holding the positions of right fielder, left fielder, and center fielder.
However, slow pitch softball allows for a fourth person in the outfield. Similar to
baseball, the team with the most runs at the end of the seventh inning is named the
winner. However, if the teams are tied at the end of the seventh inning, the game
can go into extra innings, until the tie is broken.

Today, softball is one of the most popular sports in the country, and an estimated 40
million Americans engage in at least one softball game each year. Because it can be
played on either a field or an indoor arena, softball games are played year round
and involve teams with players as young as 8 years old and some players over 60
years in age. Softball is sometimes played by corecreational leagues, where both
women and men play on the same teams, but the rules are generally modified to
reduce physical inequalities between the sexes. Often, companies and organizations
form amateur coed teams to play for benefits and charity fund-raiser events.

The history of softball is still unfolding, and the game has undergone numerous
modifications since its creation in 1887, but it is still one of the most preferred
sports games in the country and has developed a following in several countries
throughout the world, especially in Australia, China, and Japan. Loved by amateurs
and professionals of all ages and athletic backgrounds, the world can only anticipate
what is in store for the future of Americas other favorite pastime.

History

The earliest known softball game was played in Chicago, Illinois

on Thanksgiving Day, 1887. It took place at the Farragut Boat Club at a gathering to
hear the outcome of the Yale University and Harvard University football game.
[3]
When the score was announced and bets were settled, a Yale alumnus threw a
boxing glove at a Harvard supporter. The other person grabbed a stick and swung at
it. George Hancock called out "Play ball!" and the game began, with the boxing
glove tightened into a ball, a broom handle serving as a bat. This first contest ended
with a score of 41-40.[4] The ball, being soft, was fielded barehanded. [5][6]

George Hancock is credited as the game's inventor for his development of ball and
an undersized bat in the next week. The Farragut Club soon set rules for the game,
which spread quickly to outsiders. Envisioned as a way for baseball players to
maintain their skills during the winter, the sport was called "Indoor Baseball".
[7]
Under the name of "Indoor-Outdoor", the game moved outside in the next year,
and the first rules were published in 1889. [7]

In 1895 Lewis Rober, Sr. of Minneapolis organized outdoor games as exercise

for firefighters; this game was known as kitten ball (after the first team to play it),
lemon ball, or diamond ball.[4] Rober's version of the game used a ball 12 inches
(30 cm) in circumference, rather than the 16-inch (41 cm) ball used by the Farragut
club, and eventually the Minneapolis ball prevailed, although the dimensions of the
Minneapolis diamond were passed over in favor of the dimensions of the Chicago
one. Rober may not have been familiar with the Farragut Club rules. Fire Station No.
19 in Minneapolis, Rober's post from 1896 to 1906, was listed on the National
Register of Historic Places in part for its association with the sport's development.
[8]
The first softball league outside the United States was organized in Toronto in
1897.

The name "softball" dates back to 1926. The name was coined by Walter Hakanson
of the YMCA[4] at a meeting of the National Recreation Congress. [9] (In addition to
"indoor baseball", "kitten ball", and "diamond ball", names for the game included
"mush ball", and "pumpkin ball".[4]) The name softball had spread across the United
States by 1930.[9] By the 1930s, similar sports with different rules and names were
being played all over the United States and Canada. The formation of the Joint Rules
Committee on Softball in 1934 standardized the rules and naming throughout the
United States.[7]

Sixteen-inch softball, also sometimes referred to as "mushball" or "super-slow

pitch", is a direct descendant of Hancock's original game. Defensive players are not
allowed to wear fielding gloves. Sixteen-inch softball is played extensively in
Chicago,[10] where devotees such as the late Mike Royko consider it the "real" game,
[11]
and New Orleans. In New Orleans, sixteen-inch softball is called "Cabbage Ball"
and is a popular team sport in area elementary and high schools.

By the 1940s, fastpitch began to dominate the game. Although slow pitch was
present at the 1933 World's Fair, the main course of action taken was to lengthen
the pitching distance. Slow pitch achieved formal recognition in 1953 when it was
added to the program of the Amateur Softball Association, and within a decade had
surpassed fastpitch in popularity. [7]

The first British women's softball league was established in 1953. [7]

In 1991, women's fastpitch softball was selected to debut at the 1996 Summer
Olympics.[4] The 1996 Olympics also marked a key era in the introduction of
technology in softball. The IOC funded a landmark biomechanical study on pitching
during the games.

In 2002, sixteen-inch slow pitch was written out of the ISF official rules, although it
is still played extensively in the United States under The Amateur Softball
Association of America, or ASA rules.

The 117th meeting of the International Olympic Committee, held in Singapore in July
2005, voted to drop softball and baseball as Olympic sports for the 2012 Summer
Olympic Games.[12]

Other sanctioning bodies of softball are AAU, NSA, PONY, ASA, ISC, USSSA, Triple
Crown and ISA.

Equipment[edit]
Equipment required in softball includes a ball, a bat (metal or wooden), gloves,
uniforms and protective gear: for example, helmets for the offensive team and a
helmet, shin guards and chest protector for the defensive catcher. Also cleats,
sliding shorts, face masks and knee sliders may be worn for softball.
Ball[edit]
Despite the sport's name, softballs are not especially soft. The size of the ball varies
according to the classification of play; the permitted circumferences in international
play are 120.125 in (30.50.3 cm), in mass between 6.25 oz (178 g) and 7.0 oz
(198.4 g) in fastpitch; 110.125 in (29.70.3 cm), mass between 5.875 oz (166.5 g)
and 6.125 oz (173.6 g) in slow pitch. For comparison, under the current rules of
Major League Baseball, a baseball has a mass between 5 and 5 14 ounces (142 and
149 g), and is 9 to 9 14 inches (229235 mm) in circumference (2 783 in or 73
76 mm in diameter).[16] A 12-inch circumference ball is generally used in slow pitch,
although in rare cases some leagues (especially recreational leagues) do use a 14-
inch circumference ball. Some balls have a raised seam, and others do not. The ball
is most often covered in white or yellow leather in two pieces roughly the shape of a
figure-8 and sewn together with red thread, although other coverings are permitted.
The core of the ball may be made of long fiber kapok, or a mixture
of cork and rubber, or a polyurethane mixture, or another approved material.[14]
In 2004, high-visibility yellow "optic" covering, long-used for restricted flight balls in
co-ed recreational leagues, became standard for competitive play. Yellow is the color
of official NCAA and NAIA softballs. Yellow softballs are fast becoming the standard
for all levels of play for girls' and women's play in particular. White balls are also
allowed, but are much more common in slow pitch than in fastpitch.
In Chicago, where softball was invented, it remains traditional to play with a ball
16 inches (41 centimeters) in circumference. The fielders do not wear gloves or
mitts.[17] A 16" softball when new is rough and hard, with hand and finger injuries to
fielders frequent if they do not "give" when receiving a ball, [18] but the ball "breaks
in" slightly during a game and continues to soften over time with continued play. A
well-broken-in ball is called a mush ball and is favoured for informal "pick-up" games
and when playing in limited space, such as a city street (because the ball does not
go as far). A 16-inch ball is also used for wheelchair softball.
Bat[edit]
The bat used by the batter can be made of wood, aluminum, or composite materials
such as carbon fiber. Sizes may vary but they may be no more than 34 inches
(86 cm) long, 2.4 inches (6 cm) in diameter, or 38 ounces (1.1 kg) in mass.[19] The
standard bat barrel diameter for both slowpitch and fastpitch softball is 214 inches.
Many players prefer a smaller barrel, which reduces mass and allows higher swing
speed. Although there are a variety of bats used, there are several that are banned
due to performance enhancement. These bats are determined to be illegal by the
Amateur Softball Association of America. Several bats are banned because of the
harm it may place upon other teams and/or giving them an unfair advantage. For
example, with a thinner wall, players are able to swing the bat faster, which allows
the ball to go faster, harder, and further. Major League Softball, played at
Recreational Parks, include a variety of teams; Men's, Women's, Co-Ed. Each League
has its own specific regulations with bats, but most must be approved by the
Amateur Softball Association. Many bats may be "doctored" in a sense that they are
end loaded, shaved and or painted. End loading of a cap refers to the addition of
weight manually placed at the end of the barrel to distribute more weight at the tip.
Shaving bats require machine use in order to remove the inner walls of the bat to
improve elasticity. Lastly, painting bats is done because competitors purchase
"illegal" bats that are dangerous and hazardous to the opposing team. These three
"doctored" and "juiced" techniques are banned from Leagues, but are still done
today.
Gloves[edit]
All defensive players wear fielding gloves, made of leather or similar material.
Gloves have webbing between the thumb and forefinger, known as the "pocket". No
part of the glove is allowed to be the same color as that of the ball, including that of
its seams. Pitchers are also not allowed to have any white on their gloves including
the seams. It is up to the umpire's discretion if he or she believes that any coloring
on the glove interferes with or hinders the batter from seeing the ball clearly. Gloves
used in softball are usually larger than the ones used in baseball. No glove larger
than 14" (36 cm) can be used in ASA (American Softball Association) sanctioned
play. There are different size gloves for different positions on the field. For example,
catchers and 1st baseman have what is called a mitt and the pocket of the mitt is
larger than any other glove. A catcher's glove has much extra padding in it and
does not have finger holes to put your fingers in. A 1st baseman's glove still has
much padding in it, but has finger holes for them. An outfielder's glove is smaller
than the catcher's but still large. A normal outfielder's glove ranges from 13 inches
to 14 inches. These extra inches give the outfielders the extra reach to catch a fly
ball far away from them. An infielder's glove is typically the smallest glove on the
field. They typically range from 11 inches to 13 inches. The point of an infielder's
glove being smaller is that way after fielding a ground ball it is quicker to take the
ball out of it and then throw it where they need to. A pitcher's glove is all about the
comfort to them, but it must be large enough to cover the ball. The advantage of it
being larger is that way the batter doesn't see the grip on the ball that the pitcher is
about to throw to them.
Uniform[edit]
Each team wears a distinctive uniform. The uniform may include a cap or visor, a
shirt, tight sliding undershorts (optional), socks, and pants; these are the
components for which standards are set.[14]
Caps, visors, and headbands are optional for female players, and sometimes have
to be the same color. Caps are mandatory for male players. A fielder who chooses to
wear a helmet (see below) is not required to wear a cap. [14]
Many female players use "sliding shorts", otherwise known as compression shorts in
other sports. These shorts help to protect the upper thigh when sliding into a base.
"Sliders" may also be worn for similar protection. These are somewhat padded
shinguards that extend usually from the ankle to the knee of the wearer and wrap
all the way around the leg(s). They protect the shin, calf, etc. from getting bruised
or damaged while sliding into homeplate and make it much more comfortable to
slide into the plate. Most male players use long, baseball-style pants. However,
some female players now wear a shorter version of baseball pants.
At the back of the uniform, an Arabic numeral from numbers 0 through 99 must be
visible. Numbers such as 02 and 2 are considered identical. Also, on the back of the
uniforms players' names are optional.[14]
All players are required to wear shoes. They may have cleats or spikes. The spikes
must extend less than 0.75 inch (19 mm) away from the sole. Rounded metal spikes
are illegal, as are ones made from hard plastic or other synthetic materials. High
school athletes are sometimes permitted to wear metal cleats, such as in Ohio. [20]
Many recreational leagues prohibit the use of metal cleats or spikes to reduce the
possible severity of injuries when a runner slides feet-first into a fielder. At all youth
(under 15) levels, in co-ed (the official terminology for mixed teams) slow pitch, and
in modified pitch, metal spikes are usually not allowed.
Protective equipment[edit]
A helmet must have two ear flaps, one on each side. Helmets and cages that are
damaged or altered are forbidden. Helmets must be worn by batters and runners in
fastpitch. Helmets are optional in slowpitch. In NCAA fastpitch softball you have the
option to wear a helmet with or without a face mask. Most female travel ball teams
for fastpitch softball require the batter to wear a helmet with a face mask. In male
fastpitch masks are generally only used for medical reasons. In fastpitch, the
catcher must wear a protective helmet with a face-mask and throat protector, shin
guards and body protector. Shin guards also protect the kneecap. [14]
In slow pitch, the catcher must wear a helmet and mask at youth levels. At adult
levels, there is no formal requirement for the catcher to wear a mask, although the
official rules recommend it. A female catcher may optionally wear a body protector
in slow pitch.[14]
There is an option to wear a face mask on the field. It is recommended in lower age
groups.
In any form of softball, any player (other than fastpitch catchers on defense) can
wear a protective face mask or face guard. As usual, it must be in proper condition
and not damaged, altered, or the like. [14] This is intended to prevent facial injuries. [21]

Gameplay[edit]
A softball game can last anywhere from 3 to 7 innings, or 12 hours[22] depending on
the league, rules, and type of softball; however 7 innings is the most common. In
each inning, each team bats until three batters have been put out (see below). The
teams take turns batting. Officially, which team bats first is decided by a coin toss,
[14]
although a league may decide otherwise at its discretion. The most common rule
is that the home team bats second. Batting second is also called "last at-bat". Many
softball players prefer to bat second because they feel they have more control in
the last inning, since they have the last at-bat.
In the event of a tie, extra innings are usually played until the tie is broken except in
certain tournaments and championships. If the home team is leading and the road
team has just finished its half of the seventh inning, the game ends because it is not
necessary for the home team to bat again. In all forms of softball, the defensive
team is the fielding team; the offensive team is at bat or batting and is trying to
score runs.
Pitching[edit]
Fastpitch pitcher Megan Gibson pitching the ball in the "windmill" motion
Play begins with the umpire saying "Play Ball". After the batter is ready and all
fielders (except the catcher) are in fair territory, the pitcher stands at the pitching
plate and attempts to throw the ball past the batter to the catcher behind home
plate. The throw, or pitch, must be made with an underarm motion: the ball must be
released below the hip when the hand is no farther from the hip than the elbow to
get it in the strike zone.
For fastpitch softball, the traditional pitching style is a "windmill" motion, extending
the arm over the body and releasing the ball at about hip level at maximum speeds.
Strength acquired in the underhand windmill motion is based from the open to close
hip motion. Without correct form and hip movement, pitches can be inaccurate and
can lose strength and speed. In girls' fastpitch, 12u up to 18u level can throw
between 30 mph and 65 mph, or more. Speed is not always the most important
factor in fastpitch softball. Pitchers can throw balls that curve inwards (screwball)
and outwards (curveball) on right-handed batters. Curves may be thrown on the
outside or off of the plate or inside off the plate moving into the strikezone. There
are also riseballs that break upwards frequently starting in the strikezone and
ending above it. Riseballs may be thrown low in the zone and move higher in the
zone or even below the zone and move into it. Drop balls and drop curves (to cause
the batter to miss or hit groundballs; this is important at the higher levels where
strikeouts occur less often). The other common pitches are change-up and fastballs.
A change of pace (off-speed) is also very important, good pitchers will be able to
throw all their pitches at varying speeds and possibly even different pitching
motions. Pitchers use deception as a primary tactic for getting batters out as the
reaction times are approximately half a second or less.
The pitcher throws the ball in or around the "strike zone". However, in advanced
play pitcher and catcher play a psychological game trying to get the batter to guess
where the next pitch is going and if it will be a strike. In other instances, such as
when an extremely powerful hitter comes up to bat and they are followed by a
weaker hitter, a pitcher may deliberately walk the first batter based on the
calculation that the next batter will be an easy out. The strike zone is slightly
different in different forms of softball. A pitch that passes through that zone is a
"strike". A pitch that the batter swings at is also a strike, as is any hit ball that lands
in foul territory.
A pitch which is not a strike and which the batter does not swing at is known as a
"ball". The number of balls and strikes is called the "count". The number of balls is
always given first, as 2 and 1, 2 and 2, and so on. A count of 3 and 2 is a "full
count", since the next ball or strike will end the batter's turn at the plate, unless the
ball goes foul.
There is also an illegal form of pitching known as "crow-hopping". A "crow hop"
occurs when the pitcher pushes with the pivot foot from somewhere other than the
pitching plate. This often involves jumping from the pitching plate and replanting
somewhere in front of the pitching plate. The umpire sticks his left arm out straight
to the side and clenches his fist. This results in a ball being awarded to the batter,
and any runners on base advancing to the next base. If the batter swings at the
pitch that is deemed illegal and puts the ball in play, the defense is given the option
to accept the results of the play or accept the penalty listed previously. Image to the
right demonstrates a legal pitch as the push-off foot has not left the ground. The
ball must be released simultaneously with the lead leg step.
In fastpitch softball, there are various types of pitches. Some are: the fastball,
changeup, dropball, riseball, screwball, curveball, dropcurve, dropchange.

The target used in slowpitch softball. A pitched ball must hit either the base or the
black carpet behind it to count as a strike
In 16-inch softball, as well as a number of varieties of slow pitch, the pitch is lobbed
so that the ball rises above the batter's head and lands on either the plate itself or a
small rectangular area on the ground behind the plate. (These restrictions make it
much easier to put the ball into play and extremely difficult to use pitching as a
defensive strategy, as the physics of projectile motion limit how fast a ball can be
thrown under such conditions and still be called a strike to a speed much slower
than a traditionally thrown ball.) Umpires will make calls based on where the ball
lands behind the plate. A pitch in "the well" (pictured) is considered a perfect pitch.
In other varieties of slow pitch (sometimes known as "modified"), the only
restriction is that the windmill cannot be used; thus the pitching arm cannot be
raised above the shoulder and both the wind-up and the release must be
underhand, still allowing for moderate speed and control in pitching.
At higher levels of play, pitchers aim for the inner and outer corners of the plate
when throwing fastballs and moving pitches. Pitchers also vary the location of the
pitch by height to make hitting the ball even harder for the individual up at bat.
Similarly, both the dropball and the riseball are pitches that change heights. To the
batter, the dropball appears to be coming in level but then as the ball reaches the
plate, the pitch drops, trying to force the batter to hit the top of the ball. This should
result in the batter missing or hitting a groundball. When pitchers throw riseballs,
batters see the ball coming in straight, but as the ball approaches the plate, it rises.
Frequently the purpose of the riseball is to have the batter attempt to chase a ball
which ends up out of the strikezone and is either missed entirely or hit as an easy
pop-fly. Another pitch that breaks at the last minute is the curveball. When pitchers
throw curveballs they snap their wrist and follow their arm across their body,
making the ball curve to the outside of the plate. There is also something called the
inside curve where ball start off the plate on the inside and curves into the
strikezone. The inside curve is frequently thrown at the batters hands so as to jam
them forcing a foul hit. Pitchers can also make the ball curve or screw to the inside
of the plate. The one pitch that drastically changes speed is the changeup,
disrupting the batter's timing. Pitchers also throw knuckle balls which are generally
slower and move erratically.
Fastpitch pitches may reach high speeds; At the 1996 Summer Olympics one pitch
reached 73.3 miles per hour (118 kilometers per hour).[23] Male pitching can reach
speeds around 85 miles per hour (137 kilometers per hour).
Batters[edit]

A batter swings at a pitch

The offensive team sends one "batter" at a time to home plate to use the bat to try
to hit the pitch forward into fair territory. The order the players bat in, known as the
"batting order", must stay the same throughout the game. Substitutes and
replacements must bat in the same position as the player they are replacing. In co-
ed, male and female batters must alternate.
The batter stands facing the pitcher inside a "batter's box" (there is one on each
side of the plate to compensate for either right or left handed batters). The bat is
held with both hands, over the shoulder, and away from the pitcher (90 degree
angle). The ball is usually hit with a full swinging motion in which the bat may move
through more than 360 degrees. The batter usually steps forward with the front
foot, the body weight shifts forward, as the batter simultaneously swings the bat.
A bunt is another form of batting. There are different types, including a sacrifice
bunt, or slap bunt. There is also regular slapping in which a batter takes position on
the left side of the plate and usually stands in the back of the box, but it is possible
form anywhere. The batter takes a step back with their leading foot as the pitcher is
in the middle of the windup, crosses over with their back foot and runs toward first
base while they swing. There are many different types of slapping and they all vary
depending on the batter and their strengths. There are half swing slaps, fake slaps,
and full swing slaps. Each type of slap has a different purpose or goal. No matter
what way the batter hits the ball, they must be inside the batter's box when the bat
makes contact with the ball. If the batter steps out of the box while swinging, the
batter is out.
Once the ball is hit into fair territory the runner must try to advance to first base or
beyond. While running to first base, the batter is a "batter-runner". When she safely
reaches first (see below) she becomes a "base-runner" or "runner".
A batted ball hit high in the air is a "fly ball". A fly ball hit upward at an angle
greater than 45 degrees is a "pop fly". A batted ball driven in the air through the
infield at a height at which an infielder could play it if in the right position is a "line
drive". A batted ball which hits the ground within the diamond is a "ground ball". If a
batted ball hits a player or a base, it is considered to have hit the ground.
A batter can also advance to first if hit by the pitch. If a batter is hit by the pitch it is
a dead ball and she is rewarded first base. She must make an attempt to get out of
the way and it is the umpire's judgmental call whether the batter attempted to
move. If he feels the batter could have moved and avoided getting hit he or she will
not reward the batter first base and the pitch will be recorded as a ball.
Getting the batter out[edit]

The Texas Longhorns softball team gets a strikeout against Penn State to end the
game, February 15, 2008.
The batter is out if: three strikes are called (a "strikeout"); a ball hit by the batter is
caught before touching the ground (a "flyout"); the batter goes to a base that is
already tagged ("tagged" or "tag play"); a fielder holding the ball touches a base
which is the only base towards which the batter may run before the batter arrives
there (a "force out" or "force play"); or in certain special circumstances. There is
also a not so common occurrence when the batter has 2 strikes and swings at strike
three. If the catcher doesn't catch the ball, the batter has the chance to run to first
base and the catcher can throw the batter out at first base.
Advancing around the bases[edit]

A player trying to avoid a tag at third base.

If the player hits the ball and advances to a base without a fielding error or an out
being recorded, then that is called a "base hit". The bases must be reached in order
counterclockwise, starting with first base. After hitting the ball the batter may
advance as many bases as possible. An advance to first base on the one hit is a
"single", to second base is a "double", to third base is a "triple", and to home plate
is a "home run". Home runs are usually scored by hitting the ball over the outfield
fence, but may be scored on a hit which does not go over the fence. A home run
includes any ball that bounces off a fielder and goes over the fence in fair-territory
(depending upon association and local league rules) or that hits the foul pole. If a
batted ball bounces off a fielder (in fair territory) and goes over the fence in foul
territory, or if it goes over the fence at a location that is closer than the official
distance, the batter is awarded a double instead. [24]
If a runner becomes entitled to the base where another runner is standing, the
latter runner must advance to the next base. For example, if a player hits the ball
and there is a runner on first, the runner on first must try to advance to second
because the batter-runner is entitled to first base. If the batter reaches first base
without being put out, then that player can then be forced to run towards second
base the next time a ball is driven into fair territory. That is because the player must
vacate first base to allow the next batter to reach it, and consequently can only go
to second base, where a force out may be recorded. [24]
Runners may advance at risk to be put out: on a hit by another player; after a fly
ball has been caught, provided the player was touching a base at the time the ball
was first touched or after; or (in fastpitch) automatically, when a pitch is delivered
illegally.[24]
Runners advance without liability to be put out: when a walk advances another
player to the runner's current base; or automatically in certain special
circumstances described below. [25]
Special circumstances[edit]
If there is a "wild throw" (or "overthrow") in which the ball goes out of the
designated play area, each runner is awarded two bases from the last base touched
at the time of the throw. Retreating past a made base, negates the advance to that
base. If a fielder intentionally carries a ball out of play, two bases are awarded from
the time the ball leaves the field of play. If this is unintentional (fielder's
momentum), the award is one base. If on a tag play, the fielder loses control (after
establishing control) of the ball and it leaves the field of play, one base is awarded.
[24]

If there is a "wild pitch" in which the ball goes out of the designated play area, each
runner is awarded one base from the base occupied at the time of the pitch.
In fastpitch, runners may try to steal bases by running to the next base on the pitch
and reaching it before being tagged with the ball. The point at which a runner can
steal a base varies. In fastpitch, the runner is allowed to begin stealing a base when
the ball is released from the "windmill" pitching motion, but until recently, stealing
was forbidden in slow pitch because a runner has the opportunity to get a larger
head start while the slow pitch is making its way to the batter. As a result of rule
changes initiated by the Independent Softball Association which later made its way
to the Amateur Softball Association and the International Softball Federation in the
21st century, most levels of slow pitch permit stealing bases, provided the runner
starts when the ball either touches the ground or crosses the plate. This rule
encourages pitchers to be more responsible with the pitch and catchers to play
defense, as balls which miss the catcher are now grounds to have stolen bases. [24]
No matter what level of play, all baserunners must keep one foot on a base until the
pitcher throws the ball or until the ball crosses the front edge of home plate
(depends on association).[24]
In fastpitch, if the catcher drops strike three (a "passed ball") with less than two
outs, the batter can attempt to run to first base if first base is unoccupied. The
catcher must then attempt to throw the ball to first base ahead of the runner. If he
or she cannot, the runner is safe. With two outs, the batter can attempt to run to
first whether or not it is already occupied.[24]
Depending on the league in slow pitch only a foul ball with two strikes on the batter
means the batter is out. Stealing in 16-inch softball is severely restricted, as a
runner may only steal the base in front of them if it is open, and if they are thrown
at, la pickoff move or snap throw. This results in many inexperienced players
being thrown or doubled off when they attempt to advance on a wild pickoff at
another baserunner.[24]
Scoring runs[edit]
A "run" is scored when a player has touched all four bases in order, proceeding
counterclockwise around them. They need not be touched on the same play; a
batter may remain safely on a base while play proceeds and attempt to advance on
a later play.[24]
A run is not scored if the last out is a force out or occurs during the same play that
the runner crosses home plate. For instance, if a runner is on third base prior to a
hit, and he or she crosses home plate after an out is made, either on the batter or
another runner, the run is not counted. [24]
Ending the game[edit]
The team with the most runs after seven innings wins the game. The last (bottom)
half of the seventh inning or any remaining part of the seventh inning is not played
if the team batting second is leading.
If the game is tied, play usually continues until a decision is reached, by using the
international tie-breaker rule or if time is expired the score would be just tied.
Starting in the top of the last inning, the batting team starts with a base-runner on
second base, which is the player who is the last available to bat (in other words, the
batter who last took their position in the batter's box; regardless whether they were
the last out or another runner was put out).
In games where one team leads by a large margin, the run ahead rule may come
into play in order to avoid embarrassing weaker teams. In fastpitch and modified
pitch, a margin of 15 runs after three innings, 10 after four, or 7 after five is
sufficient for a win to be declared for the leading team. In slow pitch, the margin is
20 runs after four innings or 15 after five innings. [14] In the NCAA, the required
margin after 5 innings is 8 runs. The mercy rule takes effect at the end of an inning.
Thus, if the team batting first is ahead by enough runs for the rule to come into
effect, the team batting second is given their half of the inning to try to narrow the
margin.
A game may be lost due to a "forfeit". A score of 70 for the team not at fault is
recorded (generally one run is awarded for each inning that would have been
played). A forfeit may be called due to any of these circumstances: if a team does
not show up to play; if one side refuses to continue play; if a team fails to resume
play after a suspension of play ends; if a team uses tactics intended to unfairly
delay or hasten the game; if a player removed from the game does not leave within
one minute of being instructed to do so; if a player that cannot play enters the
game and one pitch has been thrown; if a team does not have, for whatever reason,
enough players to continue; or if after warning by the umpire, a player continues to
intentionally break the rules of the game. This last rule is rarely enforced as players
who break rules after being warned are usually removed.
The plate umpire may suspend play because of darkness or anything that puts
players or spectators in danger. If five innings have been played, the game is
recorded as it stands. This includes ties. If fewer than four innings have been
played, the game is not considered a "regulation" game.
Games that are not regulation or are regulation ties are resumed from the point of
suspension. If it is a championship game, it is replayed from the beginning. Team
rosters may be changed.

Positions[edit]
There are nine players out on the field at one time in fastpitch softball and 10
players in slow-pitch softball. Although the pitcher and catcher have the ball the
most, each person has a specific job. In the infield there is the pitcher, catcher, first
baseman, second baseman, shortstop, and third baseman. In the outfield there is a
left fielder, center fielder, and right fielder. In slow-pitch softball there is an extra
outfielder in the outfield, who is specified as a roamer or rover. Normally, the
defensive team will play with four outfielders, meaning there is a left fielder, left-
center fielder, right-center fielder, and right fielder.
In fastpitch softball, it is common for teams to use a designated player in the lineup;
this player, which functions like the designated hitter in baseball, hits in place of
one of the position players but does not play defense.
Pitcher[edit]
The pitcher is the individual who throws the ball from the middle of the diamond. As
in baseball, fastpitch softball has a rubber used to control the pitchers delivery. A
pitcher must have both feet on the rubber at the start of their delivery but neither
foot is on the rubber when the ball is released. In baseball the rubber is on a mound
of dirt as gravity is used to generate speed. In softball the pitchers throw from
within a circle and the rubber in the circle is not elevated. The circle is also used to
control base runners. When the pitcher is in possession of the ball in the circle, a
runner who has passed a base must either advance or return to the base. They
cannot "bait" the pitcher to throw or they will be called out. The pitcher usually
throws the ball in the strike zone. In softball, the pitcher uses an underarm motion
to pitch the ball towards the strike zone. As soon as the pitcher makes a throw, the
fielders are ready to field balls that are hit in the middle of the diamond. [26] Pitchers
usually tend to be tall, very flexible and have good upper body strength. Pitchers
can be righthanded or lefthanded. The softball pitcher makes a windmill motion
while throwing under hand, unlike baseball pitchers who throw over hand.
Catcher[edit]
The catcher is normally behind home plate in a squatted position (some plays may
require the catcher to stand at an angle for intentional walks). At the plate the
catcher is responsible for catching pitches, keeping mispitched balls in front of the
plate, calling pitches that are normally done through hand signals, and they are
considered the leaders of the field. Catchers must know how many outs there are,
the number of strikes and balls on the batter so they can relay that to their team-
mates. They must also know how many runners are on base and where the ball
should be thrown next in the following play. Catchers are strong, need to be smart
and quick on their feet, and have accurate throws so they can pick runners off at
each base. Catchers should be able to have strong and muscular legs to squat for a
long period of time. The gear worn by a catcher protects them from balls thrown in
the dirt or wild pitches. The catcher is allowed to take off his/her mask to catch a
pop fly or to watch the play. The catchers gear can be very hot. Some catchers wear
pads under their knees to help keep the knees healthy.
First baseman[edit]
The first baseman is the position to the right side of the diamond when facing the
field. The major role of the first baseman is to receive throws from other defensive
players in order to get a force play at first base. Another role they play is to make
fielding plays on all balls hit towards first base. The first baseman is usually involved
in every play that occurs on the field. Individuals at first base have quick hands, a
good reach and are always on the lookout to catch the player off base. They are also
generally taller and left-handed throwing, which gives them an extended reach. First
basemen however, can be both left and right handed. Just like the catcher, first
basemen may wear specific first base mitts, usually having a longer web allowing
them to reach the taller throws over their head.
Second baseman[edit]
The second baseman plays in between the first baseman and second base itself,
usually closer to second base. If the ball is hit to the left side of the field, the second
baseman covers second base. If the ball is hit to right-field or center field, they
become the cut-off for the center fielder or the right fielder depending who the ball
was hit to. If the ball is hit to the first baseman, the second baseman then is
responsible for covering first. If the ball is hit to the second baseman, they either
throw the ball to second if there was already a player on first, or they throw to first if
there was nobody on. If there is a runner on first and the person up to bat hits the
ball to the shortstop or the third baseman, the second baseman is in charge of
covering second to receive the throw from the shortstop or third baseman. Then,
depending where the runner is between home and first, the second baseman makes
the decision to throw the ball to first or to hold the ball. Also, in the case of a bunt,
the second baseman must cover first as the first baseman runs to get the ball from
the bunt, then it is often thrown back to first base.
Shortstop[edit]
The shortstop fields all balls hit to the infield between the second and third bases.
This individual also helps cover second base, third base and is frequently involved
in force plays, double plays and often throws the ball to the catcher to throw out
runners at home plate. On steals to second base (when the runner from first is
advancing to second on the pitch) the shortstop usually covers. The shortstop only
doesn't cover second base when a right handed batter is up. In this case, the
second baseman covers the steal. Most short stops are very quick, agile and think
fast. Shortstops may play in a restricted zone but are faced with many types of hits
and interact closely with the 2nd base, 3rd base and home plate. Often double plays
are due to quick thinking/reaction by the short stop. When a ball is hit up the middle
and the shortstop catches it, they will flip the ball to the second baseman for the
best result. Shortstop also takes the cut off for the left field when the play is at
second base. When the ball is hit to the right side of the outfield, the short stop then
covers second base. If there is a runner on first base and there is a hit down the line
or in the gap to right field, the shortstop will then go for the cut to third. Meaning
the runner that is going from first to second will most likely be advancing to third,
and in that case, the shortstop will be the cut off for the throw from right field to
third base.[27] Shortstop can be one of the most difficult positions to play due to the
amount of balls being hit in that direction.
Third baseman[edit]
The third baseman is the position on the left side of the diamond when you are
looking at the field. They are responsible for fielding all balls hit their way including
bunts. In fact, the third baseman fields more bunts than a pitcher and first baseman
do. Third base is also called the "Hot Corner" because the ball can pop off the bat at
the fielder very fast. Third baseman must have great reflexes and be very quick on
their feet because not only to they need to be quick to field a bunt but also if they
are unable to predict whether the batter will bunt or hit, a ball that is hit may be a
line drive to the face. It also helps if they can run fast but it isn't a requirement. A
third baseman must have a very strong arm so that they can throw a runner out
from across the diamond. Any ball that the third baseman can get, they should.
They will have more momentum towards first base when fielding the ball than a
shortstop. They are also closer to first base when they cut off a slower ground ball
towards shortstop. Third baseman are responsible for covering third base at all
times unless the ball is hit to them. In that instance, the shortstop is responsible for
third base. Third baseman must be smart, have great reflexes, have a strong arm,
and be quick with their hands.
Outfielders[edit]
The outfielders are players that cover the grassy area behind the infield. Outfielders
are named for their positions in the field relative to home plate. Traditional outfield
positions include a left fielder, a center fielder, and a right fielder. Each player has
specific job as being an outfielder. In some leagues and organizations, four outfield
players are utilized by each team, with the center field position being shared
between two players known as the left-center fielder and the right-center fielder (or,
alternatively, the deep center fielder and the short fielder).
Right fielder[edit]
The right fielder's position is on the right side of the field, behind the first baseman,
when looking at the field from behind home plate. The right fielder is part of a group
of two other fielders that make up the outfield. The right fielder has a multitude of
jobs over the course of a softball game. Generally, outfielders act as a back-up to
the infielders when they make plays or if the ball is hit past the infield. Right field
has a particular job of covering the area behind first base if the ball is to be thrown
in that area. Right field is meant to cover this area is the ball gets past the first
baseman. This will prevent base-runners from advancing to unwanted bases.
Traditionally in the game of softball, the right fielder will have the strongest arm out
of the two other outfielders. The right fielder must have the strongest arm because
they have the furthest possibility to throw the ball. A right fielder will throw the ball
to each base more than the other outfielders will because of their position in respect
to the bases.
Center fielder[edit]
The center fielder's position is in the middle of the outfield directly behind second
base when looking at the field from behind home plate. The center fielder is part of
a group of two other fielders that make up the outfield. Center fielders technically
serve as the "captains" of the outfield. They are and should be the most vocal in
effectively communicating with their outfielders. Since the outfielders are further
apart from each other, it can be hard to hear each other. The center fielder covers
the area behind second base if the ball is going to be thrown in that direction. By
covering this area, if the ball does get past the infielder, the center fielder can
prevent base-runners from advancing to unwanted bases. Within the game of
softball, the center fielder is traditionally the fastest of the three outfielders. The
center fielder needs to be the quickest because of the large area of field they must
cover. Besides being a quick player, the center fielder must have a strong throwing
arm because of the distance between the player and home plate.
Left fielder[edit]
The left fielder's position is on the left side of the outfield behind the third baseman
when looking at the field from behind home plate. The left fielder is part of a group
of two other fielders that make up the outfield. Generally, outfielders act as a back-
up to the infielders when they make plays or if the ball is hit past the infield. The left
fielder must field their position, but also cover the area behind third base if a ball is
thrown or hit in that direction. The left fielder covers this area in the case that the
ball will pass the infielders. The left fielder can then prevent the base runner from
advancing to unwanted bases. Besides covering certain areas of the field, the left
fielder must be the smartest of the outfielders. In the left field position, the player
has full view of the field, the players, the base-runners, and the batter. The left
fielder must constantly be aware of the situation on the field and know what must
be done in different circumstances. More advanced levels require the left fielder to
be able to field the ball during "slap hit" situations by playing shallow. Left fielders
must also play a role in any run down situation between third base and home plate
or back up any plays that happen at third base in case of an overthrow.

Modification of rules[edit]
One reason for the popularity of softball is the ease of modification of its rules,
thereby allowing the game to be adapted to a variety of skill levels. For example, in
some slow pitch softball leagues a batter starts at bat with a count of one ball one
strike. In some leagues, the number of home runs that can be hit by a team are
limited. In other leagues, stealing of bases is prohibited. Some groups allow for a
more defensive game by making home plate a force out for first base. This reduces
scoring evenly on both sides, and allows for some margin of error.
Co-recreational leagues, where men and women play on the same team, often
adopt rules intended to reduce gender inequality, under the assumption that men
will be generally more powerful. For example, rules may stipulate that there must
be an equal number of men and women on the team, or that batting order alternate
male and female batters.[28] Some leagues only require 3 women to play but they
must be present on the field at all times. In most CO-ED or mixed gender leagues
there is something called an encroachment line. This requires the outfielders to stay
behind a line till the ball is hit. If an outfielder passes in front of this line before the
female batter hits a fair ball, the batter will receive a single base or the result of the
play, and the base runners will advance accordingly. The line will be 180 feet from
home plate.[29] One possible rule requires male batters to "switch hit". [30] Some
leagues even use different balls for male and female batters. [31] While these
modified rules are common, there are questions as to their place in modern adult
sports.[32]
Some leagues require teams to use limited flight softballs. These softballs, when hit,
will not go as far as regular softballs. Other leagues limit the number of runs which
can be scored in an inning. Five is a common limit.
By allowing these and other modifications, softball can be enjoyed by children,
teenagers, and adults. Senior leagues with players over the age of 60 are not
uncommon.
An example of a rule modification is the "offensive pitcher" (or "self pitch") often
found in informal games where the emphasis is on the social rather than the
competitive aspects of the game. The pitcher aids the batter by attempting to give
the easiest pitch to hit. There are no walks, and a batter is normally given a fixed
number of pitches to attempt to hit (usually 3 or 4). The batter is considered to
strike out if the batter fails to hit the ball into fair territory after the given number of
pitches. The pitcher does not act as a fielder, and a rule is often made that if a
batted ball touches the pitcher, the batter is out.
In some leagues the number of pitches to walk or strikeout can be reduced. For
instance, one strike is an out, and two balls is a walk. This is common in leagues
where doubleheaders are played, or in late season leagues when reduced daylight is
an issue. It results in shorter games, as players are more apt to swing, even at
marginal pitches, rather than risk striking out on one pitch.
Many leagues also include a second first base immediately adjacent to the main
one. This is usually orange and the batter running through first base is supposed to
run straight through it. This minimizes the chances of a collision. By the same token
some leagues have an alternate home plate and rule that plays at home are always
force plays. In these cases there is typically a white line drawn approximately 1/3 of
the way down the baseline that is considered a point of no return. This is designed
to reduce the "Pickle" which can put a great strain on the ankles and knees of older
baserunners.
Indoor play[edit]
Despite the fact that it was originally intended to be played indoors, softball is
usually played outdoors. The indoor form is sometimes called Arena Softball. It is
most similar to slow pitch. There are no "official" rules for the indoor form, but some
general conventions are given below.
Only the wall behind the batter is considered foul territory. The other walls are
considered fair. If a ball hits a wall and is caught before it lands, the batter flies out.
Usually, there is a small area on one of the walls that results in a home run being
awarded if the batted ball hits it.
Pitching is generally a little slower because of the indoor turf, or pitched through a
pitching machine.
The placement of the fielders is different. The pitcher also acts as the second
baseman. There is sometimes a catcher.
There is no limit to the number of batters a team may have available, although only
so many can bat in one inning.
Official baseline dimensions[edit]

Fast Pitch Wheelchair

Slow Pitch Baselines
Baselines Baselines

60 feet 70 feet (21.34 m) or 65 feet (19.81 m) or more 50 feet

(18.29 m) depending on the association and level of play (15.24 m)

Fastpitch pitching distances[edit]

Under 18 Girls / 8 and

under is coach pitch.

College and Adult 10 and under is 35' kid Under 16

pitch distance. 12 and
under is 40' kid pitch
distance. 14 and older is
43' kid pitch distance.

Female Male Female Male Female Male

43 feet 46 feet 43 feet 43 feet 43 feet 43 feet
 (13.11 m)
There is a little
league distance
(13.11 m)
(13.11 m (14.02 m also; 35 feet for
(13.11 m) (13.11 m) or 30 feet
) ) minors, 38 feet
(9.14 m)
for majors, 43
feet for middle
school.

Slow pitch pitching distances[edit]

Adult[15] Youth Kids Wheelchair

1419 15-16 yrs 1214

<12 years
years (Female) years

50 feet 50 feet 46 feet 40 feet 35 feet 28 feet

(15.24 m) (15.24 m) (14.02 m) (12.19 m) (10.67 m) (8.53 m)

Softball

Rules

Field, Players, and Equipment

The Field - The baselines will be 65 feet. The distance from pitcher's mound to
home plate will be 50 feet.

The Players - A team must have 9 players to start or to continue a game with
the maximum of 10 players (not including an EP - SEE LAST RULE UNDER
BATTING).

Substitutes - A player is officially in the game when his/her name has been
entered on the official score sheet. Once a player leaves the line-up, he/she
may re-enter the game. FREE SUBSTITUTION/All teams must turn in
batting order. No pinch runners...only in case of injury and that
player cannot return to the game.

The captain is the only player who may address the officials during the game,
but only on matters of rules interpretation.
 Equipment - No metal screws or screw-in cleats are allowed. Rings,
earrings, necklaces, and bracelets are advised not to be worn. Bats must be
official softball bats.

Add-ons must be made to a roster prior to the SECOND game of Intramural

softball season.

Starting the Game

The pre-game conference will consist of each captain meeting with the
umpire before the game to go over ground rules.

Scoresheets must be filled out before the game.

Pitching Regulations

The pitcher must take a position with both feet firmly on the ground and with
one or both feet in contact with the pitcher's plate.

The pitch starts when the pitcher makes any motion that is part of his/her
wind up. His/Her arm must come to a rest holding the ball in front of his/her
body, with a pivot foot in contact with the pitcher's plate. This position shall
be held for at least 1 second and not more than 10 seconds. He/She must
deliver the ball on the first forward swing to the pitching arm past the hip.
There must be no reserve stopping of the forward motion.

The pitcher shall not deliberately stop, roll, or bounce the ball while in the
pitching position in order to prevent the batter from striking it.

The pitcher shall not at any time during the game be allowed to use tape or
other substances upon the ball, the pitching hand, or fingers. Under
supervision of the umpire, powder resin may be use to dry the hands.

The pitch must be delivered with an arc between six and ten feet.

"NO PITCH" shall be declared when: 1) The pitcher pitches during a

suspension of play, 2) The runner is called out for leaving the base too soon,
3) The pitcher makes a quick return pitch, 4) The ball slips from the pitcher's
hand during the windup or backswing, or 5) The pitching arc is lower than 6
feet or higher than 10 feet.

At the beginning of the game or when a pitcher relieves another, no more

than 5 pitches may be used as a warm up. Only 3 pitches will be allowed
between innings. Play shall be suspended at this time.

Intentional walks may be made by informing the plate umpire, no pitches are
necessary.
 GAME TIME IS START TIME.

Batting

Each player of the side at bat shall become a batter in order in which his/her
name appears on the scoresheet.

The batter shall not hinder the catcher from fielding or throwing the ball by
stepping out of the batter's box, or intentionally hindering the catcher while
standing within the batter's box.

Members of a team at bat shall not interfere with a player attempting to field
a foul fly ball.

A strike is called by the umpire for each legally pitched ball hitting the strike
zone mat and the batter does not swing, and for each pitched ball swung at
and missed by the batter. This includes pitches the umpire has already
declared "NO PITCH".

A ball is called by the umpire for each pitched ball which does not hit the
strike zone mat or touches the ground before reaching home plate and is not
swung at by the batter, and for each illegally pitched ball.

A foul tip is a batted ball which goes directly from the bat to the catcher's
mitt or hand and is legally caught by the catcher. The batter is not out unless
the ball goes above the batter's head before being caught or it is the third
strike.

The batter gives up all rights if he swings at an illegal pitch.

If an Extra Player (EP) is used, all 11 on the starting line-up must bat
and any 10 of those 11 may play defense.

Only ASA approved slow pitch softball bats are allowed in league and
tournament play. Baseball bats are illegal, and if a team is found using
one the player(s) found using the bat will be ejected.

When an over the fence homerun is hit, the batter and all base runners may
go directly to dugout. Appeals for runners missing a base are not allowed.
This speeds up the game as batters and runners do not have to run the
bases. [ASA 2009 Participant Manual - Rules Supplement # 25 - page 119]

Protest

Protests shall not be received or considered if they are based solely on a

decision involving the accuracy of judgement on the part of an umpire.

The Supervisor on duty must be notified at the time of the protest.

 A formal protest must be written and turned into the Intramural Office within
24 hours after the game, but no sooner than 6 hours after the contest. See
Intramural Recreational Sports Handbook for more details.

Balls and Strikes

4 balls constitute a walk.

3 strikes constitutes an out (strike out).

If the batter has a foul after receiving the second strike, the batter is out.

Each batter will start with a 1 ball/1 strike count.

Player Conduct

Anyone involved in a fight will be suspended for the remainder of the softball
season and possible further disciplinary action, if necessary.

Any player ejected from 2 games in the season is suspended for the
remainder of the season and possible further disciplinary action, if necessary.

Any player pushing, shoving, disrespecting, etc. an umpire will be ejected

from the game. Refer to the Intramural Recreational Sports Handbook for
further penalties.

Definitions

Appeal Play - A play upon which an umpire cannot make a decision until
requested by a player. The appeal must be made before the next ball is
delivered to the batter.

Base Path - An imaginary line three feet to either side or direct line between
the bases.

Batter's Box - An area to which the batter is restricted while in position with
the intention of helping his/her team to obtain runs.

Batter/Baserunner - A player who has finished his/her turn at bat, but has not
yet been put out or touched first base.

Bunt - An ILLEGALLY tapped ball not swung at, but intentionally met with the
bat and tapped slowly within the infield.

Catcher's Box - An area which the catcher must stand while and until the
pitcher delivers a pitched ball.
 Dead Ball - Ball is not in play and is not considered in play again until the
pitcher is within 8 feet of the pitcher's mound and the umpires has called
"Play Ball".

Fair Ball - Any batted ball which settles on fair territory between home and
first base or home and third base; or that is on or over fair territory including
any part of first and third base when traveling to the outfield; or that touches
any of the bases; or if it touches any person (player or umpire); or that
passes out of the playing field beyond the outfield fence.

Foul Tip - A foul ball which goes directly from the bat, not higher than the
batter's head, to the catcher's hand and is legally caught.

Illegally Caught Ball - Occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball
with his/her cap, glove, or any part of his/her uniform while it is detached
from his/her proper place.

In Jeopardy - A term indicating that a ball is in play and an offensive player

may be put out.

Infield Fly Rule - A fair, hit ball, other than a line drive, that is caught
or in the opinion of the umpire could be easily handled by an
infielder. Players must be on first and second base (or bases loaded)
with less than 2 outs.

Interference - The act of a defensive player which hinders or prevents a

batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball, or the act of an offensive player,
which impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player while attempting to
execute a play.

Obstruction - The act of a fielder, while not in possession of the ball or in the
act of fielding a batted ball, which impedes the progress of a base runner who
is legally running bases.

Out of Play - A ball that has gone past the out of play boundary lines.

Pivot Foot - The foot which the pitcher must keep in contact with the pitcher's
plate until the ball is delivered.

Play Ball - The term used by the umpire to indicate that play shall begin or
resume.

Sacrifice Fly - A fair fly ball which enables any runner to advance or enables a
runner to score, but which results in the batter/runner to be out.

Turn at Bat - Begins when a player first enters the batter's box and continues
until he is out or becomes a baserunner.

Time - Term used by the umpire to order the suspension of play.

Miscellaneous

Games consist of 7 innings.

The game will be called at the completion of the 3 rd inning if one

team is ahead by 20runs, in the 4th inning if a team is ahead by 15
runs, and in the 5th inning if a team is ahead by 10 runs. If the home
team is ahead at the middle of the inning and the above scenarios
exist then the game is over.

There is a 50 minute time limit.

Bunting and stealing are not permitted.

Rainouts will be rescheduled at the end of the regular season if possible.

Each team is responsible for providing a scorekeeper. The home team will
keep the official score. The umpire will make the final decision on any
discrepancies of the score.

The catcher is recommended to wear a mask.

No infield practice will be allowed after the first inning.

Runners may not leave the base until the ball has been struck by the batter.

Games will be canceled by 4:00 p.m. the day of the game. Go

to [Link] for updates and cancellations.

Bring your own gloves and bats, balls will be provided.

Each runner is allowed one base if a fielder catches a fly ball in fair or foul
territory but carries it out of bounds.

When a ball is ruled out of play, all baserunners will be awarded two bases,
the base he/she is running to at the time of the throw and the following base.

If a play is close (i.e. force out at second), then the baserunner MUST slide
except for running to first base. (no longer a rule)

A forfeit will constitute a 6 point differential (changed to 6-0 with the new
forfeit policy)