PLAYING RULES (13-18)

The following rules are to be used for all games played between Mid-State teams for the regular season. These rules apply in any game between two Mid-State teams. If you are playing a team that is not a member of this league, playing rules agreed on by the two teams apply.

1. Teams have the option of using either the American League DH (pitcher only), Babe Ruth EH rule (10 batters) or National League (9 batters, no DH) when playing Mid-State games. You may never use the DH and the EH in the same game. You may not DH for anyone but the pitcher. You must notify the opposing team which option you are using prior to the start of each game. You must complete the game with the same number of batters you start with. e.g., if you bat 10, you must complete the game with 10. If, due to injury or ejection, you have less than 10, the game will be forfeited.

2. A crash rule will be strictly enforced. Base runners may not make contact with defensive players. Defensive players may not block the baseline without possession of the ball. Coaches should inform the umpires of this rule at the coaches meeting prior to the game.

3. Courtesy runners may be used for the pitcher and catcher only. The courtesy runner must be a player who is not in the current lineup. The same runner cannot be used for pitcher and catcher in the same inning.

4. The time limit for all league games will be two hours.

5. Starters (only) may be substituted for, then reenter the game one time. They must reenter in the same position in the batting order. The pitcher may reenter the game as a pitcher if (1) he is substituted for on offense or (2) is removed on the first visit to the mound by a coach while pitching, but may not return to the mound if removed on the second visit to the mound by a coach in the same inning. He may reenter at another defensive position as long as he reenters in the same spot in the batting order.

6. The “Mercy” rule shall be in effect. If, after five innings, one team leads by eight (8) or more runs, or if the home team leads by eight (8) or more runs after 4 ½ innings, the game shall be declared over.

7. All Babe Ruth league games MUST be kept in a separate scorebook. The league will provide these books. THE ONLY GAMES THAT ARE TO BE RECORDED IN THESE BOOKS ARE BABE RUTH GAMES. If you enter other games in these books, you’ll have to erase them before you go to any Babe Ruth tournaments. If you don’t plan to play Babe Ruth post season, disregard this rule.

8. The home team shall maintain the “Official Book”. The home team is also responsible for reporting scores. They can be posted on the league web site, FAX to 883-0093, or e-mail to: “perkins@msaba.org”.

9. Both teams shall split the cost of umpires and supply game balls jointly.

For any other rule questions, refer to the rules of baseball.