Boosters of Boys/Girls Sports Organization
Lodi Parks and Recreation Department
230 W. Elm Street, Lodi, CA 95240
(209) 333-6742
MAJORS (11/12)
AAA (11/12)
FARM (9/10)
AA (9/10)
INSTRUCTIONAL (7/8)
MACHINE PITCH (5/6)
The Boosters of Boys/Girls Sports Organization
(B.O.B.S.) and Lodi Parks and Recreation Department cosponsor Babe Ruth Baseball, Cal Ripken Jr. Baseball, and
Babe Ruth Girls softball in Lodi. The B.O.B.S. were organized
in 1960 to aid the City in coordinating youth sports. The
B.O.B.S. is a volunteer organization that assists in policy
making, equipment and uniform purchasing and fund-raising.
The work of this group gives stability to all programs and keeps
registration fees low for all of the participants.
B.O.B.S.
members donate thousands of hours to Lodi athletic programs.
This manual is the basis for the administration of this
program. Please read it carefully.
ALL COACHES MUST BE CERTIFIED THROUGH CAL RIPKEN
LEAGUE
www.baberuthcoaching.org
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
II.
III.
ADMINISTRATION
Page
A.
Policies and Procedures
6
B.
Rules and Regulations
6
C.
Financial
6
D.
Personnel
6
E.
Facilities
7
F.
Equipment
7
G.
Uniforms
8
H.
Sponsors
8
I.
Schedules
8
J.
Awards
8
THE PROGRAM
A.
National Program and Local Division
9
B.
Player Eligibility
9
C.
Areas
9
D.
Draft Procedures
9
E.
Option Rules and Compensation
10
F.
Tryouts
11
GENERAL PROGRAM INFORMATION
A.
Divisions
11
B.
Coaches & Assistants
12
C.
Transfers
12
3
IV.
V.
D.
Refunds
12
E.
Shortages (call-up Procedure)
13
F.
Practices
13
G.
Field Dimensions
14
H.
Game Lengths
14
I.
J.
Play-off Procedures
Protests
14
K.
L.
Player Participation Rules
Re-Entry Rule Explanation
15
M.
Concession Operations
15
16
18
MAJOR/AAA LEAGUE PLAYING RULES (SPECIFICS)
A.
General Rules of the Game
18
B.
Pitching Rules
18
C.
Protective Head Gear
19
D.
Games
20
E.
Pitching Rule Interpretations
20
F.
Special Rules of Importance and 21
Emphasis for all leagues
G.
Rules not covered
24
GENERAL RULES
A.
General Rules of the Game-Farm/AA
24
B.
Pitching Rules-Farm/AA
25
C.
Rest Rule
25
D.
Innings Pitched Recorded
26
E.
Removal of Pitchers
26
F.
Curve Balls
26
4
VI.
VII.
G.
Protective Head Gear
27
H.
Rules Not Covered
27
GENERAL PLAYING RULES
A.
General Rules of the Game-Instructional 27
B.
Player Participation Rules
29
C.
Pitching Rules and Regulations
30
D.
Protective Gear
31
INSTRUCTIONAL LEAGUE PLAYING RULES (SPECIFICS)
A.
VIII.
5/6 Year old Machine Pitch
31
TOURNAMENT TEAMS (MAJORS AND FARM)
A.
Tournament Play/Team Selection/Coaches 32
5
LODI CAL RIPKEN JR. BASEBALL
PROGRAM MANUAL
I.
ADMINISTRATION
The Lodi Cal Ripken Jr. Baseball Program is sponsored and
administered by the Boosters of Boys/Girls Sports Organization
(B.O.B.S.) and the City of Lodi Parks and Recreation Department with
general guidance and affiliations with National Babe Ruth Baseball.
A.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Lodi policies and procedures will be determined by the two
sponsoring organizations. Coaches will have input into policy
or procedural changes through their B.O.B.S. Sports League
Coordinator or Commissioner and/or Lodi Recreation
Department Supervisor. The B.O.B.S. Coordinator and
Recreation Supervisor will interpret items not specifically
covered in this manual.
B.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Rules and regulations will be determined by the two
sponsoring organizations plus those that comply with National
Babe Ruth Baseball Cal Ripken Jr. Division. Coaches will
have input through the B.O.B.S. Sports League Coordinator or
Commissioner and/or the Lodi Recreation Department
Supervisor. Rules and regulations will be issued to all coaches
prior to the start of the League Program. Official baseball rules
and regulations will basically guide game play. Local rules and
regulations will cover specifics of individual leagues.
C.
FINANCIAL
Financial matters will be administered by the sponsoring
organizations. Finances are considered to be registration fees,
sponsor fees, and monies raised through fund-raising
activities. Fees and fund-raising projects will be set and
administered by the sponsoring organizations.
Coaches and players will be asked to participate in a fundraising project and/or other league activities as authorized by
the sponsoring organizations.
D.
PERSONNEL
1.
Game Officials will be recruited, hired, trained,
scheduled, and paid by the Lodi Recreation
Department/B.O.B.S. The Lodi Recreation Department
also sets salaries for these people.
2.
Support Staff - Scorekeepers and a team business
manager will be volunteers. They will be recruited from
each team's parents or persons the team coaches
secure to assist with the responsibilities. Teams will be
6
asked to secure at least two scorekeepers and should
have one parent serve as a team business manager to
coordinate
team matters and responsibilities.
3.
E.
Coaches will be volunteers secured through the efforts
of B.O.B.S. and the Lodi Recreation Department
Supervisor. Coaching staff consists of one head coach
and two assistant coaches maximum. Coaches will
serve on a one-season basis.
FACILITIES
The Lodi Recreation Department will furnish and maintain
practice and game field facilities as necessary.
The
Recreation Supervisor will schedule practices. Practice
facilities will include school grounds and city park areas.
Coaches will be asked to adhere to the practice sites, days,
and time allotment. Coaches will be asked to practice no more
than three times per week and no longer than two hours per
sessions. Younger teams should work on an hour and a half
time schedule. Teams should not litter or throw debris on
fields. Coaches should check each time they practice or play a
game that the diamond facility is safe and clear of dangerous
conditions.
F.
EQUIPMENT
Equipment will be issued to each head coach by the B.O.B.S.
Broken equipment or gear may be exchanged by bringing in
the broken article to the B.O.B.S. Annex Equipment Room.
Hours will be posted. Please adhere to these times.
The Lodi Parks & Recreation Department and B.O.B.S. will
provide equipment and uniforms. It will be each head coach’s
responsibility to insure that equipment is properly cared for and
returned at the end of the season.
1.
Bats must meet Little League requirements regarding
size and length, and must be stamped “Approved Little
League”.
2.
Shoes must be worn. No metal spikes will be allowed.
3.
Each batter, runner, on deck batter, and base coach (if
player) must wear a helmet or head guard.
4.
Issued uniforms must be worn at all scheduled games.
No additions to issued uniforms will be allowed without
approval of the Lodi Recreation Supervisor and Cal
Ripken League Committee.
7
5.
G.
Catchers’ gear must be worn in its entirety whenever a
player is required to catch with a batter at bat and a
pitcher throwing the ball to him. A mask must be worn
when warming up a pitcher at any time. All catchers
must wear a cup.
UNIFORMS
Uniforms will be issued by the B.O.B.S. prior to the start of the
season.
Teams will be issued caps and shirts only. Teams must wear
white socks or similar colored socks to match their uniforms.
Pants will not be provided. Pants must match in color and
style.
Teams will be asked to wear, and not add to, issued league
uniforms, unless prior approval is given by the Cal Ripken
Committee/Lodi Recreation Department.
H.
SPONSORS
Teams will have a team sponsor. The sponsor's name will be
printed on the team shirts. Sponsors will be secured by the
B.O.B.S. with the help of the coaches. If more than one
sponsor is interested in sponsoring a team the following policy
is adhered to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
I.
Returning sponsor to team
Coach - sponsor
Returning sponsor from previous division or level.
New sponsor
SCHEDULES
Schedules will be prepared by the staff program director and
approved by the B.O.B.S. Baseball Committee. Teams
generally will play two games per week. Schedules will be
drawn on a seasonal basis in all leagues.
J.
AWARDS
Majors, AAA, Farm, and AA will receive awards.
Awards for play-off teams will be as follows:
1.
2.
Play-off Winner - trophies
Runner-up - trophies
8
II.
THE PROGRAM
A.
NATIONAL PROGRAM AND LOCAL DIVISION
The Cal Ripken Jr. Division is affiliated with the National Babe
Ruth Program. The program is in District 1, the Central
California State, and the Pacific Southwest Region.
B.
C.
PLAYER ELIGIBILITY
1.
Resident Requirement - All participants must live or
attend school within the Lodi Unified School District
Boundaries. Falsification of an address may result in
the participant's suspension for one year in youth
athletic programs.
2.
Age Requirement - Participants must be 5 years old
before May 1 of the current year and not be 13 years
old until May 1 or after in the same year in order to be
eligible for the Cal Ripken Jr. Baseball program. (A
birth certificate will be required to verify age.) If
falsification is proven, the participant may be
suspended for one year from athletic programs.
AREAS
The Cal Ripken Jr. League program is divided by regional
areas.
D.
DRAFT PROCEDURES (Majors, AAA, Farm, & AA)
In Majors and Farm some players are considered returning
players. Players who were 9 and11 years old the previous
year and were assigned to a team and registered the following
year as a 10 or 12-year-old, will automatically be re-assigned
to same team (providing there is no expansion). They must
also meet general eligibility requirements.
The draft order is determined by the order of finish from the
previous year. Teams will draft in reverse order in all rounds.
The B.O.B.S. Coordinator/Recreation Supervisor will set roster
sizes. Balance of younger and older will also be determined.
The AA/AAA draft will follow the Farm/Major draft with a draw
to determine the order.
1.
TRADING OF NEWLY DRAFTED PLAYERS - At this
point it should be noted that if teams want to exercise a
trade for a newly drafted player they may negotiate with
other coaches. The Recreation Supervisor/B.O.B.S.
Draft Committee, must approve trades.
9
E.
2.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES DEALING WITH
TRADES - In situations outside of the completion of a
draft, a team coach can make an application to propose
a trade (i.e., during the practice period, returning
players to a team, etc.). A trade under special
circumstances will be considered only if it is in the best
interest of the league, the player, and family
circumstances.
3.
AA & AAA LEAGUE- Draft all players in a serpintine
order. Draft order will be determined by a draw.
OPTION RULES
1.
Coach/Son Option
The Cal Ripken Jr. Committee has provided for an
"option" that allows a coach and his son to be
assigned to the same team. This may be done only
with a head coach and one assistant. All coach/son
options must be authorized by the B.O.B.S. and the
Recreation Supervisor before the option can be
authorized and must comply with the rule of prior
coaching experience between the two parties involved
in this request. Once approved, coaches and a
B.O.B.S. Evaluation Committee will evaluate coach/son
options and determine an appropriate draft round these
option players must be taken. If they are not drafted in
the round that is set the option is dropped and players
are no longer considered an option to a specific team
but open for all teams to draft. Any coach’s option not
covered specifically in the Father/Son Option Rule will
be at the discretion of the program coordinator and
recreation supervisor.
2.
Brother to be assigned to the same team
A parental option that may be requested is to have
brothers placed together on the same team providing
the brothers are in the same league level. There are
occasions when this may not be possible. In this case
the Recreation Supervisor and B.O.B.S. will, upon
request, review the brother option.
The B.O.B.S. coordinator, with advisement from the
coaches, will evaluate all brother situations. If there is a
noticeable difference in ability between two brothers,
the coordinator may declare where the other brother(s)
place (in which round) will be before the draft. Once the
brother option has been presented and the choice of
the first brother has been retained the other brother(s)
must be taken in the designated round. The teams may
10
choose which round to draft brother #1 and the second
brother must be taken in the designated round that
follows.
3.
F.
Compensation Round
Each team will have a certain number of returning
players who were on the team the prior year as 9
(Farm) and 11 (Majors) year-olds. These players, plus
new tryout players, who will be drafted, make up the
rostered players for this level.
One special
circumstance that may occur is a shortage on roster of
returning players. If a team has to few returning
players, the Recreation Supervisor and B.O.B.S.
baseball committee will set a general compensation
round for shortages. This will be at the end of round 2
and continuing in the following rounds. The team is
compensated for players who move away from the area
or are injured, or are involved in a situation that
prevents participation. The shorted teams will select
shortage players by the age group they are missing.
Once all teams are up to the proper pre-draft roster
number the shortage rounds will stop.
All
compensations must be reviewed by the Recreation
Supervisor and the B.O.B.S. coordinator for approval.
TRYOUTS
Tryout dates will be announced. All players must attend at
least one tryout. Failure to attend tryouts (unless previous
arrangements have been approved) causes the player to drop
to the AA/AAA division in the draw round. Ten year olds may
try out for Majors. If they do not make a Major team they will
return to Farm.
III.
GENERAL PROGRAM INFORMATION
A.
DIVISIONS (Subject to change)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Majors
AAA
Farm
AA
Instructional
Machine Pitch
11
B.
HEAD COACHES AND ASSISTANT COACHES
1.
All Coaches must be certified through Cal Ripken
League.
This
can
be
done
at
www.ripkencoaching.org .
2.
The volunteer head coaches, Recreation Supervisor
and the B.O.B.S will select assistant coaches. The
Recreational Supervisor and B.O.B.S. will have the
authority and responsibility to assign, train, evaluate,
and terminate all head coaches and assistant coaches
within the program. All coaching assignments are for a
one-season period.
Coaches will be reviewed,
terminated, or reassigned after each session of play or
before the next season of play.
3.
The conduct of head coaches and assistant coaches
must set a proper example for all participants in the
league. To put it plainly - stand up for your rights, but
exhibit and practice good sportsmanship at all times.
Volunteer coaches must uphold the B.O.B.S. Code of
Ethics. Coaches are asked to read the Code of
Ethics/Volunteer Coaches Policy and sign it prior to
active participation in the program.
4.
No one is allowed on the field or on the benches except
umpires,
eligible players, one bat boy and not more than four
designated staff members of a team.
5.
C.
Base coaches must be eligible players or designated
coaching staff members of the team at bat. Players
must be in uniform and must wear a batting helmet.
TRANSFERS
Transfers will be reviewed and considered ONLY under
extreme or serious conditions or circumstances.
This is a draft league so transfers are very unlikely. If a
problem exists, a refund may be given.
D.
REFUNDS
Refunds are given for medical reasons or moving out of the
Lodi area. After the teams are formed, only partial refunds
may be given.
12
E.
SHORTAGES (CALL-UP PROCEDURE)
Please contact the Head Coach prior to utilizing this rule!
During the course of the season, if a team should be in danger
of forfeiting a game due to lack of players, the team may go to
the league below and pull up enough players, plus one, to
allow them to participate in their scheduled game.
If the same team is required to bring players up again, they
may do so but cannot bring up the same players in
consecutive games. This is subject to the following conditions:
F.
1.
Players cannot be drawn from a team in a lower league
that has a scheduled game that same day or evening.
2.
Players in AAA league cannot pitch in the Majors,
players in Farm cannot pitch in AAA, nor a AA player
pitch in Farm, when being drawn up for forfeiture
precautions.
3.
A player being drawn up must participate in that game
at least to the extent of that league's mandatory playing
rule. The player must wear his assigned team's
uniform. Called up players may NOT play more than
rostered players who are at the game and may NOT
start if rostered players are available to start.
PRACTICES
Practice Areas and Team Workouts
1.
Practice Areas
At the beginning of the baseball program designated
practice areas will be assigned to each coach. Teams
must practice on these facilities unless otherwise
authorized by Department Supervisor or League
Coordinator.
2.
Team Workout
a.
It is recommended no team's workout or practice
session goes over two (2) hours in length.
b.
The league administrators would appreciate your
cooperation in practicing on the specific days set
by the Recreation Department Supervisor or
League Coordinator/Commissioner in order to
13
have enough facilities to accommodate all teams
practices a minimum amount of time.
c.
G.
No team will be allowed more than three
practice/organized meetings per week prior to
the start of the league play. (Practice games or
scheduled games are counted as a practice.)
After league play begins, no team will be allowed
more than two practice sessions in addition to
their scheduled game(s) during a calendar week
and may not exceed three on the field meetings
a week. One extra, non-mandatory, meeting, will
be allowed (ex.-batting cages, pitching work-out,
etc.)
FIELD DIMENSIONS
60 foot bases, 46 foot mound for Farm & AA, 70/50 for Majors
and AAA
H.
GAME LENGTHS
MAJORS & AAA-Six innings or two hours (except playoffs).
No new inning may start after two hours from game starting
time (not scheduled time). Please sign all game cards and
scorebooks to ensure proper results!
FARM & AA- Six innings or two hours (except playoffs). No
new inning may start after one hour forty five minutes from
game starting time (not scheduled time). Please sign all game
cards and scorebooks to ensure proper results!
I.
PLAY-OFF PROCEDURES
1.
All 6 teams and 5 team leagues will follow a single
elimination playoff format determined by the final
standings. All seeding ties will be determined by coin
flip if all other tie breakers are even. The 7 team and 8
team leagues remain “Top 4” for playoffs.
2.
Tie breakers for playoffs: (Top 4 ONLY)
a.
points (3 for win 1 for tie, -1 for forfeit)
b.
Winning percentage
c.
Head-to-head competition
d.
Conference/Division record (if applicable)
e.
Record vs. ‘TOP 4’ playoff teams
f.
Coin flip (unless it is a tie for the last playoff
position
g.
In 6 & 5 team formats a, c and f will be used.
3.
Playoffs
a.
Rainouts (games suspended by rain) will be
continued from the point of suspension
b.
The Ten-Run-Rule will be enforced after 4
innings, 3 ½ if the home team is ahead for 6
inning games.
14
c.
J.
All standings are final when the league season
ends!
PROTESTS
1.
If a coach believes that an umpire has misinterpreted a
rule and wishes to protest a game, he must notify the
plate umpire at the time of the disputed play and before
play is resumed. The plate umpire must notify the
opposing coach immediately. The scorer shall mark all
pertinent facts in the official scorebook. The protesting
coach must then, within forty-eight (48) hours of the
completed game, submit in writing his formal protest to
the Recreation Department Supervisor. Both managers
may be asked to appear before the B.O.B.S. Protest
Committee where a final ruling will be made. The
Protest Committee's decision shall be final. If the
protest, based on interpretation of a rule, is upheld by
the B.O.B.S. Protest Committee the game shall be
replayed from the point of protest.
2.
Protest based on an umpire's judgement is not
permitted.
3.
In the case of an ineligible player, the above protest
procedure will be followed and the penalty shall be
forfeiture of each game the ineligible player participated
in.
Any coach willfully using an illegal player at any time will
be removed from his coaching duties immediately and
suspended for three (3) years from coaching in all
B.O.B.S. programs. An illegal or ineligible player is
defined as a player whose name does not appear on
the official team roster or the coach does not have said
player’s approved medical release in his possession.
K.
PLAYER PARTICIPATION RULE
1.
All players must play three complete innings of every
game (18 outs). This will include all regular season
scheduled games and any play-off games. See ReEntry Rule explanation, which will be allowed in Major
leagues.
Exceptions:
a.
Player is sick or injured.
15
b.
He has missed required practices. (This is only
in effect from one game to the next.)
c.
A player has become or is a serious disciplinary
problem.
*** If you as a coach restrict a youngster from
playing because of one of the above reasons,
you must inform the opposing coach and the
plate umpire before the game starts. The coach
must also indicate it on line-up card. This card
will be given to the League Advisor or
Recreation Supervisor who will make note of
action.
d.
AA/AAA - Batting-Through-the-Bench Rule.
This rule will be in effect in the AA/AAA League.
This means all players will bat whether they are
in the game as a defensive player or not. The
coach, at the beginning of a game, will list all
players in batting order. This batting order will
be followed the entire game whether
substitutions are made or not. The only variation
to this rule might occur in the player participation
rule #1. If you are restricting a youngster's play,
it follows that he will not bat in this game.
L.
RE-ENTRY RULE EXPLANATION
1.
Major Rule Only
The Re-Entry Rule will be used as stated below with the
following exception: All players in every game MUST
play three innings (18 outs); this means three
consecutive innings of play. Re-entry can be used after
this rule has been met. Substitutions can occur any
time, provided the player being removed has met his
mandatory play time.
2.
Re-Entry Rule
Any of the nine (9) starting players may withdraw and
re-enter once; provided player occupies the same
batting position whenever he is in the line-up. The
pitcher is governed by the provisions of Official Baseball
Rule 3.05. A substitute who is withdrawn may not reenter.
16
NOTE: If a player re-enters illegally as a pitcher,
fielder, or runner, there is no penalty except
when discovered he must be removed from the
game immediately. If he re-enters illegally as a
batter, such illegal re-entry is penalized
according to Official Baseball Rule 6.07: Batting
out of Order.
Listed below are interpretations of the above
rule:
a.
This rule applies to both local league and
playoffs.
b.
Each of the nine (9) starting players may be
withdrawn from the game and re-entered once.
c.
The starting player, when re-entered, must
occupy the same batting position as he occupied
when starting the game. (I.e. a starting player
and his substitute cannot be in the game at the
same time.)
d.
A starting pitcher withdrawn from the game may
re-enter immediately if withdrawn while a batter
or base runner. If a starting pitcher is withdrawn
while he is on the mound pitching, his substitute
must fulfill Official Baseball Rule 3.05 (B) before
he is permitted to re-enter the game. The
Mandatory Play Rule must be satisfied.
e.
All other starting players may be withdrawn and
re-entered immediately or anytime at the
discretion of the manager. The Mandatory Play
Rule must be satisfied.
f.
A substitute withdrawn from the game can never
re-enter the game.
g.
A substitute may replace a substitute and the
starting player may still re-enter for the
substitute, (i.e. starting player Jones is replaced
by substitute Smith; substitute Smith is replaced
by substitute Clark; starter Jones is eligible to
replace substitute Clark.)
h.
A starting player withdrawn from the game more
than once cannot re-enter.
i.
Withdrawal and re-entry takes place only when a
player had been removed from the game.
17
j.
M.
An injured or ejected player may be replaced to
avoid forfeiture if no substitutes are available.
CONCESSION OPERATIONS
The Salas Park concession stand is run by the B.O.B.S. with
proceeds (after salaries) returned to youth programs. In order
to keep expenses low and proceeds high each team must
spend two shifts in the stand (one date). A schedule will be
prepared and mailed. Failure to provide workers will result in a
loss added to your league record.
IV.
MAJOR/AAA LEAGUE PLAYING RULES (SPECIFICS)
A.
GENERAL RULES OF THE GAME
Official Baseball Rules shall prevail unless otherwise specified
below. See spread sheet for details.
B.
PITCHING RULES - MAJOR/AAA LEAGUES
1.
Eligible Inning Per Week, Per Game
a.
2.
Pitchers will be allowed six total innings of
pitching eligibility per calendar week. (Monday
through Sunday is considered a calendar week).
Rest Rule
a.
In order for a pitcher to take full advantage of his
six innings of pitching eligibility per week, the
following will be adhered to:
(1)
If a pitcher pitches three or more innings
in a game, he must have two full days
rest before he can pitch to complete
eligible innings or to pitch again between
calendar weeks.
(2)
If a pitcher pitches two or less innings in a
game he does not have to adhere to the
two days rest rule to pitch his eligible
innings (calendar week) or his next
assignments if two (2) games are played
in one week he must still abide by the six
innings maximum rule per calendar week.
(3)
We have given you the basic rules - use
common sense in handling young
pitchers when interpreting these rules.
THEIR SAFETY IS AT STAKE.
18
(4)
3.
"Pitching innings of eligibility per week"
during the regular league schedule are in
effect as stated for "any and all" play-off
games.
Innings Pitched
As soon as a pitcher delivers one pitch he shall be
considered as having pitched an inning.
4.
Removal of Pitcher
If a coach makes two trips to the mound or has two
defensive conferences in any inning with any player on
the field, who then confers with the pitcher - this pitcher
must be removed and a new pitcher brought in. A trip
or conference will be declared when team calls time out
for the above mentioned discussions.
5.
Curve Balls
Coaches should strongly discourage pitchers from
throwing curve balls.
C.
PROTECTIVE HEAD GEAR
1.
Batters
All batters, on deck batters, base runners, and players
serving as base coaches must wear protective gear
provided by the Lodi Recreation Department.
A player who refuses to wear protective headgear will
not be allowed to bat, coach the bases, or be a base
runner. (A batter or base runner that intentionally
throws his protective headgear while running to a base
or between bases will automatically be called out.)
2.
Catchers
Catchers MUST wear the provided helmet/mask
combination when catching in a game or practice
session. Masks must be worn any time a catcher or
player is warming up a pitcher at a practice game or
warming up in the bullpen. A protective cup must be
worn. Coaches must wear masks when warming up
pitchers or in practice situations.
19
D.
GAMES
1.
A regulation game shall be six innings or two hours,
whichever comes first. NOTE: Tie games will be
played out if time still remains on the 2-hour time limit.
Once the time limit is reached and a started inning is
completed, if the game is still tied, it will be recorded as
a tie. (See #3 below)
2.
In case of rain or darkness, four innings or more shall
constitute a legal game. The home plate umpire shall
be sole judge as to calling a game because of rain or
darkness. Called games, because of rain, darkness, or
any other reason called by umpires, shall go back to the
last complete inning for the final and recorded result of
the contest.
If a game is called because of poor team, coach, or
spectators conduct the final results of game will be
determined by Recreation Department Supervisor and
Cal Ripken Jr. Advisory Committee.
E.
3.
If each team has the same number of runs when the
game is called it shall be declared a "tie game".
4.
The Ten-Run-Rule is in effect at 3½ or 4 of a 6-inning
game.
PITCHING RULE INTERPRETATIONS
1.
Any pitcher (age means nothing) may pitch six innings
per calendar week. A calendar week is Monday
through Sunday.
2.
Pitching eligibility in effect for re-scheduled and makeup games go in accordance to the calendar week in
which the games are played.
3.
If a pitcher delivers one pitch in an inning, he shall be
charged for one innings pitched. (He must face one (1)
batter.)
4.
A pitcher must have two days rest between pitching
assignments in which he has pitched three or more
innings in that game. If a player has pitched two or less
innings in a game, he would be eligible to pitch the next
day or days that week or on a Monday of the next week.
5.
The word "assignments" means that each game in
which a pitcher pitches is considered one assignment.
Therefore, a pitcher in the same game may start out as
20
a pitcher, play another position, and return to the
mound; this would still be considered as one
assignment.
6.
Examples of Pitching Assignments:
a.
Pitcher pitches four innings on Monday; he may
pitch two innings on Thursday.
b.
Pitcher pitches six innings on Monday; he cannot
pitch until the following Monday, which begins
the new calendar week.
c.
Pitcher pitches five innings on Tuesday; he may
pitch one inning on Friday.
d.
Pitcher pitches six (6) innings on Tuesday; he
cannot pitch until Monday of the new calendar
week.
e.
Pitcher pitches two (2) innings on Wednesday;
he may pitch four (4) innings on Thursday.
f.
Pitcher pitches six (6) innings on Wednesday; he
cannot pitch until Monday, which begins the new
calendar week.
g.
Pitcher pitches three (3) innings on Saturday; he
cannot pitch again until Tuesday. If pitcher had
pitched two or less innings on Saturday, he
would be eligible to pitch six (6) innings on
Monday, as this would be a new calendar week.
h.
Pitcher pitches six (6) innings on Saturday; he
cannot pitch again until Tuesday.
NOTE:
If a game is called before it has become a regulation game and
the umpire declares it "no game", the pitching eligibility is the
same as it was prior to the beginning of the "no game"
situation.
F.
SPECIAL RULES OF IMPORTANCE AND EMPHASIS FOR
ALL LEAGUES
1.
Teaching base runners how and when to slide is an
important part of a coach's responsibility. Players
should be instructed to slide or avoid being put out
without violent contact on any close play at first,
second, third, and home not only to avoid injury to the
fielder, but also to prevent personal injury.
21
In a double play situation, regardless of whether the
play at second is close, players should not be taught to
stand up going into second in an attempt to prevent the
pivot man from throwing to first base or to cause him to
throw wildly. The runner who does not slide risks
collision and the chance of being struck in the face by
the fielder's throw. The proper technique is for the base
runner to make a legal slide in an attempt to break up
the double play. If the pivot man has already touched
the base and is no longer in the base line, the runner
should not go out of the baseline for interference. If
such contact is malicious or flagrant the runner shall be
ejected from the game. If, in the opinion of the umpire,
the runners' interference also prevented an out on other
players, the umpire shall declare the runner out also.
2.
Crashing into a fielder – There have been reported
cases where the base runner, upon seeing the catcher
or another fielder who has the ball waiting for the
runner, remains on his feet and deliberately with great
force, crashes into the defensive player hoping to jar
the infielder so hard that he will drop the ball rather than
slide or make an attempt to avoid being tagged out.
Severe injury can result from such unnecessary
unsportsmanlike tactics. It is the duty of the umpire to
declare the runner out. When the action of the runner is
also interpreted as being a flagrant act, the violator shall
be disqualified from the game. Coaches and players
must be aware that umpires are being asked to watch
closely for obstructions by the catcher and other
fielders. It appears coaches need to remind their
players of the rule pertaining to obstruction and the
proper method of making the tag during putouts.
Catchers need to be taught to give runners a piece of
home plate in which to slide prior to catcher receiving
the ball to make the put out. It appears catchers,
because of the added protective equipment, defy
runners to challenge them and have the tendency to
obstruct runners unnecessarily when they do not have
the ball. We have the ability to make the put out at first,
second, and third base without violent collision; it should
be no different at home plate. It is the duty of the
umpire to enforce the obstruction rule and not give the
defense an unfair advantage.
3.
Faking a tag without the ball - Faking a tag on a runner
when that defensive player does not have the ball must
be curtailed. The committee has changed the rule to
provide that when the fielder does not have the ball,
obstruction is called. Repeated violations of faking a
tag without the ball may result in disqualification.
22
4.
The Rules Committee is disturbed by reports that
umpires are being "charged" by coaches and others
connected with the team to question a judgement call.
There is no place for such tactics in amateur baseball,
Any player, coach, or bench personnel who "charges"
an umpire or questions a judgement call by an umpire
shall be warned to stop this action at once. If the
warning is not heeded immediately, the offender shall
be banished from the game. Baiting or negative
cheering or chanting is not to be a part of the baseball
experience.
5.
Bench and Field Conduct - The Committee has been
apprised that many coaches and players are guilty of
conduct detrimental to the game of baseball.
Specifically, the committee has been informed the
practice of baiting opponents is on the rise. The Code
of Ethics for baseball players and coaches states, "The
ethics and sportsmanship of players, coaches, officials,
and those associated with the games must be
exemplary and beyond reproach." The penalty for
unsportsmanlike conduct, as it pertains to using words
or remarks which reflect on opposing players is
disqualification. The Rules Committee sincerely hopes
coaches will work with their players to eliminate these
unsportsmanlike acts.
6.
Out-Of-Play Interpretations
a.
The ball is dead whenever it crosses the out-ofplay line.
b.
On an overthrow, when the ball goes out-of-play,
the award of bases is as follows:
(1)
Overthrow by an infielder - Two bases for
each runner from the start of the play.
(Pitch) This is referring to ground ball
plays for an infielder.
(2)
Overthrow by an outfielder - Two bases
for each runner at the time the outfielder
lets go of the ball. NOTE: It means the
award of bases is made at the time the
outfielder threw the ball and not when the
ball crosses the out-of-play line.
(3)
Overthrow by a pitcher - When the pitcher
attempts a pick off with his foot in contact
with the pitching plate and throws the ball
23
out-of-play, the award shall be one base
for each runner. NOTE: If the pitcher
attempts a pick off with his foot NOT in
contact with the rubber, he shall be the
same as that of an infielder.
c.
G.
On a fly ball, both feet must be inside the out-ofplay line for a catch to be good. If either foot
crosses the out-of-play line after the catch, the
batter is out, ball is dead, and all runners
advance one base. In the case of intentionally
carrying the ball out-of-play, two bases will be
awarded to all runners.
Rules not Covered
Any additional or modified rules not covered herein will
be discussed, explained and issued to coaches prior to
the start of scheduled play by the Lodi Recreation
Department Supervisor and/or B.O.B.S. League
Coordinator/Commissioner. The General Spread Sheet
pre-empts the manual!
V.
GENERAL RULES
A.
GENERAL RULES OF THE GAME-FARM & AA
Official Baseball Rules will prevail unless otherwise
specified below:
1.
A batter is automatically out after his third strike whether
the catcher catches the ball or not.
2.
Runner may score from third base on a wild pitch,
passed ball, but not on an overthrow from the catcher to
the pitcher.
3.
No runner may leave his base, from the time the pitcher
is on the rubber with the ball in his possession and the
catcher is ready to receive the pitch, until the pitched
ball reaches the plate.
(a).
A violation by one runner affects all runners.
Any base runner that leaves the base too soon
will automatically be called out and all other
runners will return to the base they occupied
prior to this play. If a ball is batted during the
above play, it will be considered a dead ball
situation (no pitch). This means the pitched ball
will not count, and the batter will assume the
24
same count as before the above play took place.
(b).
B.
4.
A batter is allowed to bunt in the Farm/AA League.
5.
Teams will use nine players on the field in the Farm/AA
League. Teams must start a game with nine players. If
a team is reduced to eight players because of illness or
injury during the game, they may continue.
PITCHING RULES-FARM/AA LEAGUE
1.
C.
Umpires will indicate the above violation by
raising their hands and call "dead ball.” Runner
in violation is out.
Eligible Innings Per Week/Per Game:
a.
Farm/AA League pitchers will be allowed to pitch
a maximum of six innings per calendar week.
Monday through Sunday is considered a
calendar week.
b.
Farm/AA League pitchers will be allowed to pitch
no more than four innings per game.
c.
Nine year olds must record three outs per game
or invoke the six run rule which equates three
outs.
d.
Each teams nine year old must start the game.
REST RULE
There is rest between games to complete eligible innings per
calendar week(s).
1.
Farm/AA League pitchers will follow the same rest rule
as Major/AAA League pitchers. A pitcher who pitches
three innings must have two full days’ rest before
pitching again. (This means remaining eligible innings
in a calendar week or going from one calendar week to
another.) The two full days of rest means he can pitch
on the third day after a game in which he pitched three
innings.
Example: Pitcher pitches three innings on Monday, he
cannot pitch again that calendar week until Thursday or
later; he would have three eligible inning left.
Example: Pitcher pitches three innings on Saturday, he
cannot pitch again until Tuesday of a new calendar
25
week; at which time he has regained the six innings per
week rule but no more than four per game.
2.
If a pitcher pitches two or less innings in a calendar
week and/or between calendar weeks, he can complete
his eligible inning the next day or start a new six innings
in a new calendar week on Monday.
Example: Pitcher pitches two innings on Monday, he
can pitch the next day that week, his remaining four
innings of eligibility for that week.
Example: Pitcher pitches two innings on Saturday, he
is eligible to pitch on Monday (new calendar week), up
to four innings.
Care and concern for players MUST always take
first priority in determining whether or not a
youngster should pitch and how much. His arm and
future are the most important elements a coach
should consider when making pitching decisions.
3.
D.
It is understood that "pitching innings of eligibility per
week" during the regular league schedule are also in
effect as stated for "any and all" play-off games.
INNINGS PITCHED RECORDED
As soon as a pitcher delivers one pitch to a batter, he
will be considered as having pitched an inning.
E.
F.
REMOVAL OF PITCHERS
1.
A pitcher removed from the mound during a game
cannot pitch any more that game but may continue in
another position.
2.
If a coach makes two trips to the mound or has two
conferences (defensively in any one inning) with any
player on the field, who then confers with the pitcher;
this pitcher must be removed and a new pitcher bought
in. A trip or conference will be declared when said team
calls time out, and is granted the same by an umpire.
CURVE BALLS
All coaches should strongly discourage pitchers from throwing
curve balls. It is for their safety and future.
26
G.
H.
PROTECTIVE HEAD GEAR
1.
All batters, on deck batters, base runners, and players
serving as base coaches must wear the protective head
gear provided by the Lodi Parks and Recreation
Department. A player who refuses to wear protective
headgear will not be allowed to bat, coach the bases, or
be a base runner. (A batter or base runner that
intentionally throws his protective headgear while
running to a base or between bases will be
automatically out.)
2.
Catchers must wear the mask/helmet combination
provided when catching in a game or practice session.
Masks must be worn any time a catcher or player is
warming up a pitcher at a practice, game, or in the
bullpen. A protective cup must be worn. Coaches must
wear mask to warm up pitchers in games or practices.
RULES NOT COVERED
Any additional or modified rules not covered in this manual will
be discussed, explained, and issued to coaches prior to the
start of scheduled play by the Lodi Recreation Supervisor
and/or B.O.B.S. League Coordinator/Commissioner. The
baseball spread sheet pre-empts the manuals.
VI.
GENERAL PLAYING RULES
A.
GENERAL RULES OF THE GAME-INSTRUCTIONAL (7 & 8)
Official Baseball Rules will be used to govern the play of
Instructional League games unless otherwise specified below.
1.
Batter/runner or base runners will run the bases in
accordance with the Official Baseball Rules with the
following exception: Base runners cannot steal bases.
Base runners can only advance to the next base on a
batted ball. If a base runner is caught off base and a
play is made on him and he is tagged out, the OUT will
count. All other runners will be returned to the base
they occupied prior to the play.
Any runner off a base at the time the ball is pitched will
be called out and the pitched ball will be considered
"dead" (no pitch). Meaning, if a batter hit the ball, it will
not count, and he will bat again with the same count.
2.
Batters must take a full swing not half swings or bunts.
An arc at 15 feet will determine fair/foul. If this occurs,
27
the batted ball will not count and a strike will be called
on the batter.
3.
Team Defensive Positions
a.
b.
Ten players will make the defensive alignment
for a team.
Those positions will be
pitcher/player, catcher, first base, second base,
third base, shortstop, and four outfield positions;
to include left field, left center field, right center
field, and right field. A team can start a game
with nine players at which time the fourth outfield
position would be eliminated for the sake of
starting a game. If the tenth player then arrives
at the game, he must be inserted into the game
immediately and assumes the tenth spot in the
batting line up.
Open Defensive Substitution Rule
Coaches may utilize an open defensive
substitution rule beginning this year in Rookie
levels and down.
Coaches may freely
substitute their defensive alignment every
inning if they so choose, as to get more
players more time on defense throughout the
game.
The coach must still fulfill the
minimum three-inning mandatory play
requirement, and the batting order would
remain the same throughout the game, as in
the previous rule.
Previously a coach in the Instructional level and
all levels below Rookie had to substitute in
accordance with normal baseball rules. With the
previous rule a player had to stay in the game
defensively for three innings, and then sit three
innings, thus a player could not play the first,
third, and fifth innings on defense, for example.
With the new rule, a coach could rotate his
defense around throughout the game, and
actually be able to get player more innings by
free substitution on defense, and also not have a
play on the bench for three consecutive innings.
While coaches are still only required to play each
play three innings, it is likely with open defensive
substitutions that a coach can get a player at
least four innings on defense, while still batting
through the bench on offense.
A coach may also still utilize the same structure
as last year, only substituting once in the game
after three innings, however, the rule is designed
28
to give coaches the leeway to substitute how
they wish defensively at our non-standing levels.
B.
4.
Once the ball is hit, and general action/base running
takes place, the ball is termed alive. Play will stop when
consistent movement by the base runner halts and
runners are at, or close to, a base. At this time the ball
can be returned to the pitcher/player or pitcher/coach
without base runners being allowed to advance further.
Batters/base runners can move on the next hit or batted
ball.
5.
This rule will be in effect in the Instructional League.
This means that all players will bat whether they are in
the game as a fielding player or not. The coach, at the
beginning of a game, will list all players in a batting
order. This batting order will be followed the entire
game whether substitutions are made or not. The only
variation to this rule might occur in the players’
participation rule. If you are restricting a youngster's
play, it follows that he will not bat in this game.
PLAYER PARTICIPATION RULES
1.
All players must play three complete innings in every
game in addition to batting. Substitutions must be
made at the top or start of the fourth inning. This will
include all regular season games. (Play-offs will not be
held in Rookie League or Instructional.) Exceptions to
the above rule:
a.
Player is sick or injured.
b.
He has missed required practices. This is only in
effect from one game to the next.
c.
Player has become or is a serious disciplinary
problem.
*** If you as coach should have to restrict a youngster
from playing because of the above reasons, you must
tell the opposing coach and the plate umpire before the
game starts. You should also indicate the same on
your line up card. This card will be given to the umpire
who will make note of your actions on his game report.
Any coach who misuses or abuses this players’
participation rule will stand to forfeit any game in
question and possibly be dismissed as a team coach.
29
C.
PITCHING RULES AND REGULATIONS
1.
Pitchers will throw up to four balls with strikes being
counted against the batter. If after the fourth ball the
batter is still eligible to hit, the coach of the hitting team
will be given two pitches to throw to the batter.
Coaches will pitch from 40 feet. Walks will be
eliminated, thus forcing the ball to either be put in play
or having the batter strike out. The third strike to a
batter will constitute an out, no matter who pitches the
ball. If a batter takes the second or final pitch from a
coach, they will be called out. If the batter fouls off the
final pitch, he will be given additional pitches until he
puts the ball in play or strikes out. Batters hit by a pitch
from the non-coach pitcher are awarded first base.
Pitchers are limited to two (2) innings per game.
NOTE: After fouling off the final pitch, the batter must
attempt to hit every pitch that follows. If he takes a
pitch after fouling off a final pitch, he will be declared
out.
2.
Team pitcher/coach will make every effort to avoid
interference with any batted ball or defensive play being
made by a defensive player.
a.
Inadvertent interference by the pitcher/coach will
result in a "dead ball" call, which will stop play
immediately. The batter/runner will be awarded
first base and all other runners will be awarded
bases only if forced.
b.
Intentional interference by the pitcher/coach will
result in an immediate "dead ball" call with all
runners returned to the last base touched. If it is
a batted ball, batter is out and the runners return
to the base they were on when the ball was
batted.
3.
When coaches pitch each team will provide a defensive
pitcher/player to field the position of pitcher. He will
stand next to or behind the pitcher/coach but not in front
of the pitcher/coach. This area will be approximately
three feet on either side of the pitcher/coach and no
more than six feet behind. The objective is for this
player to field all normally batted balls in the pitcher's
area.
4.
Pitcher/coach or pitcher/player shall receive the ball
from either an infielder or outfielder when play has
30
stopped.
D.
VII.
A.
PROTECTIVE GEAR
1.
All batters, on deck batters, base runners, and players
serving as base coaches must wear the protective head
gear provided by the Lodi Parks and Recreation
Department. Any player who refuses to wear said
protective headgear will not be allowed to bat, coach
the bases, or be a base runner. (Any batter or base
runner that intentionally throws his protective headgear
while running to a base or between bases will
automatically be called out.)
2.
All catchers must wear the mask/helmet combination
provided when catching in a game or practice session.
Masks must be worn any time a catcher or player is
warming up a pitcher at a practice, game, or in the
bullpen. In addition, catchers must wear the protective
gear issued when catching in a game. A protective cup
MUST be worn.
3.
Any additional or modified rules not covered will be
discussed, and issued to coaches prior to the start of
scheduled play by the Lodi Parks & Recreation
Supervisor
and/or
B.O.B.S.
League
Coordinator/Commissioner.
GENERAL RULES OF THE GAME-MACHINE PITCH (5 & 6)
1.
Players in the Machine League bat from a machine for
the entire season. The pitching machine shall be set up
32 feet from home plate at a speed of 27 MPH.
Maximum of 5 pitches per player.
2.
Players will bat through the entire line up regardless of
the number of outs made. When each player has a
time at bat the teams will change sides. Bases will be
cleared after three outs.
3.
Two defensive coaches will be allowed on the field for
instructional purposes, one in the infield and one in the
outfield. A maximum of two time outs per inning may
be called to give instructions to a player. Time out
length will not exceed two minutes. One offensive
coach will be allowed to give instruction to the batter on
proper stance, how to hold the bat, etc. This instruction
shall be very brief.
4.
No protests will be allowed.
31
IX.
5.
Roster size will be 12-15 players.
6.
The ball used will be a safety ball.
7.
A protective cup will be required for catchers. Catchers
should wear a cup and have complete gear.
8.
Game length will be four innings or one and one halfhours.
9.
A batted ball that travels less than fifteen feet in fair
territory from home plate shall be considered a foul ball.
An arc fifteen feet from home plate shall be drawn from
the first base line to the third base line.
10.
Mandatory play of two innings on defense, substitute
top of third inning.
TOURNAMENT TEAMS
A.
Tournament Play/Team Selection/Coaches
1.
Tournament Play/Team Selection/Coaches
Being part of the National Cal Ripken Jr. Program
entitles our local program to form and participate in
tournament play if we choose to do so. The National
Rules states: if a community program participates in
tournament play they may form one (1) tournament
team per ten (10) local teams in their registered league.
If there are more than ten teams in their local program
they must form two (2) teams, etc.
Tournament play consists of District, State, Regional
and World Series levels. Sites of tournament play will
change annually as communities bid for tournament
play. The Lodi program is within District I of the Central
California State Babe Ruth. This means we play off for
district level first. If our team wins, we move up to State
play, on to regional, etc. If teams advance, the Lodi
B.O.B.S. Organization may underwrite tournament team
expenses if it deals with locally held tournaments and/or
local team advancing to higher levels. (The B.O.B.S.
will ask for parental assistance and/or cooperation on
various needs that may be incurred by tournament
teams.)
32
2.
Team Selection
Tournament teams may be formed at the conclusion of
season play. By National Rules and Regulations
Tournament teams may consist of 15 players, 3
coaches, and 1 scorekeeper/business manager. The
method of selection will be determined by the
coordinator and his committee.
3.
Team Coaches
At the beginning of each season or during scheduled
local play the League/Program administrators will
contact coaches if they are interested in coaching a
tournament team. Once the head coach is selected, it
will be up to head coaches to select his assistant
coaches. A maximum of two assistants and one
scorekeeper/coach is permitted. The program
administrators must approve all representatives. Make
sure all coaches are registered on the official team
roster before June 1.
33