Player orientation for the 2025 season.

The board recommended that we explain some of the playing rules for the 2025 softball season.

 

1.            All managers are responsible for ensuring players follow the league guidelines and playing rules.

2.            Umpires should familiarize themselves with field rules to better ensure safe play. 

 

The following guidelines should be followed to ensure safe play:

 

A. Field instructions: All batters are required to utilize the outer orange safety base when running towards the first base, except when a runner is attempting to advance to the second base, in which case the inner base may be used. It is important to note that the player fielding first base must yield to the advancing runner; failure to do so may result in the runner being awarded second base due to the obstruction, at the umpire's discretion.

 

B. When balls are hit to the infield and the runner is heading towards second or third base, they must either slide or veer off six feet before reaching the base. If the fielder mishandles the ball while the runner is in motion, the runner will be granted the base, subject to the umpire's discretion. When the ball is coming in from the outfield, the runner must run directly to the base without overrunning it. If a player veers off, he must return to the base before proceeding to third base. 

 

C. The scoring line and commitment line should be properly marked before the commencement of play. Once a runner crosses the commitment line, they are obligated to continue running towards home plate; any attempt to retreat to third base will result in an automatic out. The runner must either touch or pass and touch the line, similar to a base. The catcher must treat home plate as if it were the first base to record the out.

 

D. On deck: To expedite the pace of the game, it is customary to have two batters prepared in the on-deck area. It is important to note that no bats or equipment should be left unattended in the on-deck area at any given time. 

 

E. As a reminder, the pitching height is 6' to 12'.  (the screen is 6'7").

 

F. Home team managers are responsible for all equipment, including league bats. 

 

G. The home team manager is responsible for handling game write-ups.  

 

LGG 12/5/24

From LGG.