Down East Umpire Association
2013
2013
Down East Umpire Association Softball
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Rule Changes
Rule 1. Field and Equipment
Rule 2. Definitions
Rule 3. Players, Substitutes and Coaches
Rule 4. Starting and Ending Game
Rule 5. Dead Ball and Suspension of Play
Dead-Ball and Delayed Dead-Ball Tables
Rule 6. Pitching
Rule 7. Batting
Rule 8. Batter-Runner and Runner
Rule 9. Scoring and Record Keeping
Rule 10. Umpiring
By State Adoption
Points of Emphasis
Official NFHS Softball Signals
Down East Umpire Association Softball
2012 SOFTBALL RULES CHANGES
• 1-3-1
•The color “white” was removed from the list of permissible colors for softballs. All
softballs used for competition must now be optic yellow.
•1-5-2a
•The requirement that the bat knob protrude at a 90-degree angle from the handle was
removed.
•3-2-5
•Headwear requirements were revised and clarified. Headwear (caps, visors, headbands,
ribbons, etc.) may be mixed, but if worn, they must be white, black, beige or school colors
(the colors are not required to be the same for team members). The logo may be any color.
Flat items, no longer than 2 inches, used to control the hair, such as bobby pins, barrettes
and hair clips are permitted. Plastic visors, bandannas and hair-beads are prohibited.
•7-4-2 Penalty
•A more severe penalty was added when a batter has used an altered or non-approved
bat. In addition to an out being called on the batter, the batter and head coach will be
ejected from the contest.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Editorial Changes
•1-5-1c
•Clarified that shaving, rolling or artificially warming the bat barrel are prohibited.
•Rationale: Recent data indicates a significant improvement to bat performance when bat warmers are used (approximately 2
MPH to batted ball speed). The clarification now clearly states the prohibition in the rule, not just in a Point of Emphasis.
•2-4
•The definitions of legal and illegal bats were revised and updated.
•Rationale: Clarification for proper penalty administration.
•2-5-3; 3-5-6; 7-5 New; 7-4-12; 8-6-15; 8-6-16 New
•Several rules were updated and reorganized to clarify offensive interference.
•Rationale: The rules indicated were all related, yet inconsistently described/penalized.
•3-2-13 NOTE
•The Note was revised to clarify that state associations may grant exceptions to NFHS playing rules for participants with
disabilities, special needs and/or extenuating circumstances.
•Rationale: Clarifies that an individual state association may authorize exceptions to the playing rules to provide reasonable
accommodations to individual participants with disabilities and/or special needs or other unique and extenuating
circumstances. Such exceptions are not considered rules modifications since they are not general in nature; rather, they are
limited to the circumstances of specific individual participants.
•8-9-2 New Exception
•The courtesy-runner procedure was clarified.
•Rationale: Clarified the procedure when the pitcher/catcher on the lineup card is unable to face the first batter in the bottom
of the first inning due to injury/disqualification.
•10-1-2 New Note
•A note was added clarifying the administrative responsibilities of umpires through the completion of required reports.
•Rationale: The administrative duties of game officials continues after the game to document actions which occur during the
game. This revision illustrates the difference between the game officials’ jurisdiction during the game and other
administrative responsibilities such as submitting specific reports after the game. In addition, State Associations may continue
to develop and implement policies that allow for review of unusual incidents that occur while the game officials have
jurisdiction or after the game.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
• Rule❒1
Field and Equipment
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 THE FIELD
Down East Umpire Association Softball
LEGAL
EQUIPMENT
MARKINGS
No obstruction
Down East Umpire Association Softball
No obstruction
No obstruction
No obstruction
No obstruction
No obstruction
Down East Umpire Association Softball
- 60 FEET APART
USING A
- 12 INCH BALL
Down East Umpire Association Softball
43 FEET
MEASURED
FROM REAR TIP OF
HOME PLATE
FRONT PITCHER’S PLATE
Down East Umpire Association Softball
6 FEET DIAMETER
Down East Umpire Association Softball
OUTFIELD FENCE 185 FEET – 235 FEET
FENCE 6 – 8 FEET HIGH
FOUL TERRITORY
RECOMMENDED
30 FEET
FOUL TERRITORY
RECOMMENDED
30 FEET
Down East Umpire Association Softball
ALL LINES – 2 ½ INCHES WIDE
ALL LINES MUST BE WHITE!
RUNNING LANE,
CATCHER’S BOX,
COACHES BOXES,
BATTER’S BOXES
MUST BE MARKET
Down East Umpire Association Softball
8 ½ FEET WIDE AND 10 FEET DEEP
4 FEET IN FRONT
3 FEET IN BACK
Down East Umpire Association Softball
ON DECK CIRCLES
DO NOT HAVE TO
BE USED.
ON DECK BATTER
MUST REMAIN
ON TEAM SIDE!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
MEDIA AREA MUST BE
MARKED!
MEDIA AREA MUST BE
MARKED!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
ALL BASES MUST BE WHITE
BY STATE ADOPTION A DOUBLE FIRST BASE MAY
BE USED
Down East Umpire Association Softball
17 INCHES ACCROSS
Down East Umpire Association Softball
24 INCHES
6 INCHES
43 FEET FROM PLATE; MEASURED FROM REAR TIP OF HOME
PLATE TO FRONT PITCHER’S PLATE
Down East Umpire Association Softball
12 INCH SOFTBALL
BALL COLOR – OPTIC YELLOW OR WHITE
MUST HAVE MARK!!!
PLAY
SIZE
Fast Pitch 12”
COR
.47 max
COMPRESSION
375 lbs.max
WEIGHT & CIRCUMFERENCE
61/4 to 7 ounces
117/8 to 12¼ inches
Down East Umpire Association Softball
ANY FIELD DEMENSIONS THAT ARE DISCOVERED
TO BE INCORRECT MUST BE FIXED AT TIME OF
DISCOVERY!!!!!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
MAY BE 2 COLORS; COLORS NOT TO BE
CONFUSED WITH BALL COLOR
14 INCHES HIGH ; 8 INCHES WIDE
NO FORGEIN OR STICKY SUBSTANCES
IF ILLEGAL MUST BE REPLACED
IMMEDIATELY!!!!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
NON APPROVED BAT LIST www.asasoftball.com)
NO DINTS, CRACKS, DINGS, RIVETS, PINS, SHARP AREAS, RATTLE, OR
ALTERATIONS.
MUST HAVE
MARK ON BAT
Down East Umpire Association Softball
STAMP MUST BE
PRESENT ON HELMENT
AND MASK!
NO CRACKS, DENTS, OR SCREWS MISSING!
MUST BE WORN BY:
BATTER, ON DECK BATTER, BALL SHAGERS UNDER 18
IN LIVE BALL TERRITORY!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
NO CRACKS, DENTS, OR SCREWS
MISSING!
STAMP MUST BE
PRESENT ON
HELMENT!
MUST BE WORN BY:
CATCHER OR ANY NON-ADULT WARMING UP PITCHER
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Down East Umpire Association Softball
LEGAL TO WEAR ON DEFENSE ONLY!!!
EXCEPT THE CATCHER!
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NO EQUIPMENT IN LIVE BALL TERRITORY!!!!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
ALL ILLEGAL EQUIPMENT MUST BE REMOVE OR FIXED PRIOR TO
GAME TIME!!!!
SHEILDS MUST BE CLEAR!!!
PENALITY: COACH AND PLAYER DISQUALIFIED!!!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒2
Definitions
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 APPEALS – UMPIRE MAKES RULING UPON REQUEST BY COACH OR PLAYER.
TYPES: Missing a base, leaving a base, batting order, or
attempting to advance to second base after rounding 1st
METHODS: LIVE BALL OR DEAD BALL
ALL ABOVE CAN BE LIVE BALL OR DEAD BALL EXCEPT
BATTING ORDER – DEAD BALL ONLY
Must be made before next legal pitch, end of an inning prior to
infilders leaving fair territory, on last play of game before
umpires leave field of play. NOTE: umpires should not leave
the field at end of the game until last infielder leaves fair
territory.
RUNNERS MAY ADVANCE DURING A LIVE BALL APPEAL!
MAY NOT RETURN TO TOUCH A BASE IF REACHED NEXT
BASE, LEFT FIELD OF PLAY OR FOLLOWING RUNNER
SCORES.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 BALL, BATTED, BLOCKED, DEAD, DELAYED DEAD, FLY, GROUND, PASSED, ROTATION
BALL: Playing implements. Term designated for a pitch
not a strike.
BATTED BALL: Pitch contacted by a bat; fair or foul
BLOCKED BALL: live ball pitched, batted or thrown touched
or stopped by something not a part of normal play
DEAD BALL: A ball not in play.
DELAYED DEAD BALL: Rule Violation ruled on after ball
becomes dead.
FLY BALL: Batted ball that rises an appreciable height above
ground.
GROUND BALL: Batted ball that bounces on ground; fair or
foul
PASSED BALL: Pitch by catcher; Runner may advance
BALL ROTATION: Determins which ball that is in play
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 BASE LINE, PATH
1. BASE LINE: direct line between two separate bases.
2. BASE PATH: Base line; 3 ft on either side; More than 3 ft / OUT
3. NOTE: runner establishes her path when not be played on.
SECTION 4 BAT: ALTERED BAT, ILLEGAL BAT, NON-APPROVED BAT
1.ALTERED BAT: leagl bat structurally changed
2.ILLEGAL BAT: bat that doesn’t meet specifications
3.NON-APPROVED BAT: ASA Specifications; www.asasoftball.com
SECTION 5 BATTER, BATTER-RUNNER, ON-DECK BATTER
1.BATTER: player of team at bat; occupy either batter’s box
2.BATTER-RUNNER: Player finished time at bat; play ends or put out
3.ON-DECK BATTER: offensive player; on deck circle at team dugout;
stay in circle during warm-ups or becomes batter;
SECTION 6 BATTER’S BOX
Area including lines in which batter is positioned when batting.
SECTION 7 BATTING ORDER, OUT OF ORDER
1. BATTING ORDER: Official line-up / batting order/ starters positions
2. BATTING OUT OF ORDER: failing to bat in proper sequence on
line-up
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 8 BUNT, ATTEMPTED BUNT, DRAG BUNT
1.BUNT: ball tapped at; not a swing
2.ATTEMPTED BUNT: holding bat or movement to intended to tap
ball. Pull back bat or take away from ball is taking the pitch.
3.DRAG BUNT: bunt attempt while running forward in the batter’s
box.
SECTION 9 CATCH
1.CATCH: secure possession of a batted, pitched or thrown ball.
2.Fielder must prove control; release must be voluntary.
3.During Transfer to throwing hand dropping ball is ruled a catch.
4.It’s a Catch: Secure possession before stepping, touching or falling
into dead ball territory or falling over fence and on a fence
5.No catch
a. Catch without use of glove, hand in proper place
b. Fails to maintain possession for any reason
c. Use of uniform or equipment that is displaced
d. Touch ball while foot is touching dead ball territory at time.
e. Traps ball
6.Ball prevented from touching ground by player’s equipment/body
must be securely held by hand or glove
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 10 CATCHER, CATCHER’S BOX
1.CATCHER: player catching pitches; must be in catcher’s box
2.CATCHER’S BOX: 10 ft deep; 8.5 inches wide.
SECTION 11 CHECKED SWING
Batter stops an attempted hit/slap/bunt; swing carried batt barrekk in
front of batter’s body. Bat struck at the ball – judgement
SECTION 13 COACHES BOX:
1 coach/ box; restricted to box during pitch
SECTION 14 CONFERENCES; CHARGED, PREGAME
1. CHARGED: request to meet with offensive or defensive player
2. PREGAME: meeting involving umpires, head coach &/or captains
SECTION 15 CONFINES OF FIELD
Field of play, dugout/bench area, warm-up area within view of umpires
SECTION 17 DUGOUT (BENCH AREA)
Area reserved for team personnel engaged in game
SECTION 18 EFFECT
Consequence of play or results
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 19 EJECTION
Umpire exercises authority to remove team personnel from game
SECTION 20 FAIR BALL
1. FAIR BALL: batted ball that:
a. settles or touched fair
b. Touches or bounds a base
c. Touches 1st,2nd, or 3rd base
d. While fair touches anybody or anything
e. Over fence while fair
f. Touches fair beyond a base
2. FAIR FLY: judged according to flight of ball at touch
SECTION 21 FAKE TAG
Obstruction Call – simulates a tag
SECTION 22 FIELD OF PLAY, FAIR, FOUL, DEAD BALL TERRITORY
1. FIELD OF PLAY: area in which ball may be played or fielded legally.
2. FAIR TERRITORY: with-in & including foul lines; plate, lines, & poles
3. FOUL TERRITORY: outside of foul lines
4. DEAD-BALL TERRITORY: area outside normal playing area; Pregame
conference
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 23 FIELDERS, INFIELDERS, OUTFIELDERS
1. Any player on the team in field of play
2. Infielders 1st, 2nd, 3rd, ss, P, C
3. Outfielders LF, CF, RF
Section 24 force play
1.Force play – runner is forced to run; must advance to next base
2.Force Ends; runner touches next base or following runner is out
3.No force if a batted ball is caught prior to touching ground
4.Force reinstated if runner retreats to any base other than home; may
be declared out upon touch of base to which she is forced.
SECTION 25 FOUL BALL, FOUL TIP
1.Foul Ball – batted ball that:
a. Settled or touch foul
b. Bounds outside 1st or 3rd base
c. First to hit gound foul beyond 1st and 3rd base
d. Touches someone or something in foul territory
e. Runner interferes with defense attempt to field a foul ball
f. Touches batter or bat while batter is in box
g. Goes from bat to catcher’s body or equipment prior to catch
2.Foul Tip – batted ball goes from bat to glove/hand caught; live ball
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 26 GAME, SUSPENDED, CALLED, REGULATION, FORFIETED
1. Suspended game is stop temporarily to be finished later;
2. Called game is ended by umpire
3. Regulation game 7 innings unless shortened by rule
4. Forfeited Game is awarded to opponent of offending team
SECTION 27 ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL
1.Illegally batted ball is a pitch contacted by the batter:
a. With illegal bat
b. Any part of foot on plate at time of contact with ball
c. Foot entirely out of batter’s box
SECTION 28 IN FLIGHT
Ball in flight is batted, thrown or pitched ball that hasn’t touched
ground, an object, or person
SECTION 29 INFIELD
Portion of field that is normally skinned; covered by infielders
SECTION 30 INFIELD FLY RULE
Fair fly that can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort. Runners
on 1st & 2nd or bases loaded. Batter out; live ball; no force; runners
may tag
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 31 INNING
3 outs/ team; both teams play offense and defense; inning start on last
out
SECTION 32 INTERFERENCE (OFFENSE)
1. Physical or verbal act by offense that impedes, hinders, or
confuses defense; runner creates malicious contact with fielder
2. Types: equipment, umpire, or spctator
SECTION 33 LEAP
Pitcher has both feet airborne prior to delivery
SECTION 34 LINE DRIVE
Batted ball which travel parallel or near ground for most of its flight
SECTION 35 OBSTRUCTION (DEFENSE)
Any act by the defense tha hinders or impedes a batter’s attempt or
runner advancing. Act may be intentional or unintentional. Unless
fielder is in possession of ball or making initial play on ball
SECTION 37 ON-DECK CIRCLE
5 ft Diameter; safe distance away from home plate
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 38 OUT, FORCE OUT, TAG OUT, PUT OUT
1. OUT: umpire declares offensive player has been retired; 3/tean
2. FORCH OUT: put out in which offensive player is forced to
advance.
3. TAG OUT: touch the runner with live ball or ball in glove/hand
4. PUTOUT: fielder retiring an offensive player
SECTION 39 OUTFIELD
Portions of the field beyond the infield
SECTION 40 OVERSLIDING, OVERRUNNING, OVERWALKING
Runner goes past a base after advancing
SECTION 41 PENALTY
Loss assessed by umpire for a rule infraction
SECTION 42 PINCH HITTER, PINCH RUNNER
1. Pinch Hitter: person inserted to bat.
2. Pinch Runner: person inserted into line-up to run
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 43 PITCH, LEAGL, NO PITCH, QUICK
1. Pitch: live ball legally delivered to the batter
2. Illegal Pitch: violation of pitching rule
3. No Pitch: umpire halts play or nullifies pitch
4. Quick Pitch: Pitch delivered that catches batter unprepared
SECTION 44 PITCHER
Person designated on line-up card as pitcher to deliver pitch to batter
SECTION 45 PITCHER’S 16 FOOT CIRCLE
16 foot circle used for look-back rule; both feet are partially with in
circle;
SECTION 46 PITCHER’S PIVOT FOOT
Pitcher’s pivot foot must be in contact with the ground
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 47 “PLAY BALL”, MAKE A PLAY, INITIAL PLAY
1.“Play Ball”: umpire uses term to start or resume play
2.Make a Play
a. Any action by the pitcher that cause a reaction(look-back rule)
b. Any action by a fielder attempting to catch/gain control of a
batted or thrown ball
c. Attempt by a defensive player to retire a runner/batter-runner
SECTION 48 RESTRICTED TO THE DUGOUT/BENCH AREA
‘Restricted to the dougout/bench area” indicates a participant has been
confined to the dugout/bench area for the remainder of the game for a
rule infraction (not a major unsporting act).
SECTION 49 RUN
Run is scored when an offensive player legally advances to and touches
home plate
SECTION 50 RUNNER, RETIRED RUNNER
1. Runner: offfensive player who advances to, touching or returning
to a base.
2. Retired Runner: player who has scored or has been put out and is
still in live-ball territory.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 51 SLAP HIT
1. Slap Hit: batted ball struck with a short chopping motion rather
than with a full swing.
2. Two types of slap hits are:
a. Batter takes stance as if to bunt but then either drives the ball
into the ground with a short swing or punches it over the
infield.
b. Batter takes running steps toward the pitcher befor making
contact with the pitch
SECTION 52 SLIDE: LEGAL, ILLEGAL
1.Legal Slide: feet/head first; feet first one leg and buttock shall be on
the ground. Runner shall be within reach of base with hand/foot
2.Illegal Slide:
a. Rolling or cross-body slide into fielder
b. Raised leg is higher than the fielder’s knee while standing
c. Runner goes beyond the base and makes contact with or
alters play of the fielder
d. Runner tries to injure the fielder.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 53 SQUEEZE PLAY (F.P.)
Squeeze Play: play in which a runner steals home and batter bunts
SECTION 54 STARTING PLAYERS
9 or 10 (DP/FLEX) Players submitted to and accepted by the plate
umpire at pregame conference
SECTION 55 STOLEN BASE
Stolen Base: advance of a runner to next base without aid of a base
hit, putout, fielding error, passed ball, or wild pitch. Double or triple
steal involves 2 or 3 runners
SECTION 56 STRIKE, STRIKEOUT, STRIKE ZONE
1.Strike: any pitch that enters strike zone without first touching the
ground or is swung at by the batter and missed. May be called by the
umpire for specific actions by the batter. 2-8-2, 3-6-19, 7-2-1 and 7-3-1
2.Strikeout: result of a third strike charged to a batter
3.Strike Zone(F.P.): space over home plate which is between the
batter’s forward armpit and the top of the knees when the batter
assumes a natural batting stance. Any part of the ball passing through
the zone is a strike. According to batter’s usual stance.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 57 SUBSTITUTE, UNREPORTED, ILLEGAL
1.Substitute: player not listed on the lineup as a starter but who may
legally replace a starting player. Any player who enter or renters the
game; DP when the DP plays defense for the Flex; FLEX when the
FLEX plays offense for the DP.
2.Unreported Substitute: is a substitute who has a legal right to
participate but has not reported to the umpire prior to participation
(3-6-7). All Substitutes must be reported to Umpire.
• Note: Courtesy Runner is not a substitute , but must be
reported. (8-9-7)
3.Illegal Substitute: player who enters or reenters the game without
eligibility to do so; (illegal re-entry) player who reenters the game in
wrong position in batting order; FLEX enter the game as a batter or
runner in a different postion in the batting order than the DP; or a
player who violates the courtesy runner rule.
SECTION 58 THREE FOOT RUNNING LANE
Three Foot Running Lane: space defined by a line drawn 3 ft from and
parallel to the first base line starting halfway between home and first
base and extending to first base in foul territory.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 59 “TIME” OR “TIME-OUT”
“Time “: term used by umpire to suspend play. Ball becomes Dead.
SECTION 60 TIME AT BAT
Time at Bat: period beginning when a batter first enters the batter’s
box and continues until she is putout or becomes a batter-runner.
EXCEPTION: Batter is not charged a time at bat on a sacrifice hit, hit
by pitched ball, award a base on balls, replace before being charged
with 2 strikes, replaced with 2 strikes and the substitute does not
strike out, or she advances to first base because of obstruction .
SECTION 61 TIMING PLAY
Timing Play: play when the last out of an inning is not the result of a
force out and the exact time of the out may or may not allow a run to
score. If a runner touches home base before the last out (not a force)
is made, the run would be scored. Runner touches home base on a
force or after the last out then no run would be scored.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 62 TOUCHING
Touching: contact with ball, equipment or a person. Applies to a
pitched ball touching a batter, batted ball touching the batter or runner,
catcher touching the bat, player toucing a base, or ball touching
player/non-player. Contact any part of person or clothing
SECTION 63 WALK, INTENTIONAL WALK
1. Walk: 4 pitches thrown out of the strike zone awarding batter 1st
base.
2. Intentional Walk: request made to the umpire by the defensive
coach or catcher, for the putpose of awarding the batter first base.
No pitches are thrown.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒3
Players, Substitutes and Coaches
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 PLAYERS, POSITIONS
1. Start with 9 or 10 with DP/FLEX (optional)
2. Captains Optional
3. Lineup card; first initial, last name, jersey #, position, batting
order and substitutes
Penalty: 1st Warning/2nd or more restricted to dugout
4. Fielders designated by position #. See Diagram.
5. All fielders shall be in fair ground at time of pitch except
catcher.
6. Players may change to different position any time, except as in
3-32 Note.
SECTION 2UNIFORMS, PLAYER EQUIPMENT
1.Uniforms same color or style. State Association Permission
2.Jersey # required; Solid Contrasting Color; ¼ inch border; no
players with same # (0 & 00 considered same #)
3.Uniform 1 logo/trademark/reference 2 ¼ inches per item
4.USA Flag 2 x 3 inch max allowed with written state association
approval
5.Caps, visors can be mixed; Same Color; no bandana/plastic visors
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2UNIFORMS, PLAYER EQUIPMENT cont.
6.Sleeves may vary; approximately same length; not ragged/frayed
7.Undergarments: black, white, gray or solid school color
a. Upper body and lower body undergarments do not have to
match
b. Exposed must be same color
8.Uniforms; No dangerous or reflective buttons or ornaments
9.No items on pitching hand, wrist, arm or thighs that may be judge
to be distracting to the batter
10.Player shall wear uniform properly as designed by manufacturer
PENALTY: remove/correct uniform. Notify coach
11.Shoes required; plastic, nylon, canvas, leather, or synthetic
material; soft/hard cleats or metal cleats; Metal Cleats ¾ inch from
sole . Note: Metal toe plates permitted.
12.No Jewelry; Religions & Medical-alert medals (not Jewelry) must
be taped to body. Exception: Hair control devices
13.½ inch foam or padding closed over guards, casts, braces, splints
14.Any equipment judged to by potentially dangers is illegal
PENALTY: Section 2; 3-6-1 Penalty
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 SUBSTITUTING
1.Substitute not listed on lineup card may play. 3-1-3 Penalty
2.Sub may enter during dead ball; coach or substitute may report
change to umpire. Name/# of player entering/reentering FLEX/DP
change; Courtesy Runner
Note: Pitcher may return as pitcher 1 time per inning
3.Plate Umpire Record all lineup card changes and report them ot
opposing team. Substitute has entered the game when:
a. Runner takes place of runner she replaced
b. Pitcher steps on pitcher’s plate
c. Fielder reaches fielding position
d. Batter in batter’s box
e. When ball is declared live by plate umpire
4.Sub or Courtesy Runner shall not enter game unreported. 3-6-7
Pen, 8-9-7
5.Anyone my reenter once
6.DP/FLEX option declared at pregame conference
8.No subs; player unable to continue
a. Previous batter may run temporary until putout
b. Player who could not continue shall be out when due to bat
c. Team become Defense. 4-31- g
d. A player become available
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 SUBSTITUTING cont.
9. Signs of Concussion: Remove player; appendix a
10. Anyone bleeding/bloody shall be directed to leave the game
until stop bleeding, body/uniform cleaned; Reentry rule applies
SECTION 4 ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTE
1.May be discovered by umpire or either team once ball is live and
an illegal substitute has taken position as:
a. Runner she replaced or batter in batter’s box
b. Pitcher on pitcher’s plate or fielder reaching position
c. Courtesy-runner if that violates courtesy-runner rule
PENALTY: OUT; Restricted to Dugout
2.Illegal Offensive players discovered:
a. In batter’s box; before batter-runner reaches 1st or putout;
pitch delivered
b. Illegal batter-runner or runner advances, scores or causes
play to be made allowing another runner to advance or
score and infraction is discovered before next pitch.
c. Infraction detected after next pitch
d. Game ending play prior to infielders/umpires leaving
PENALTY: Out if still on base (2c,2d);Play nullified, outs stand runners
return (2b,2d); play stands (2c); all restricted to dugout
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 4 ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTE cont.
3.Illegal defensive player discover before next pitch
a. Involved in a play with a batter ball
b. Non-batted ball is touched by an illegal sub that leads to
runner being putout
c. Non-batted ball touched that alters play but no runner
putout
PENALTIES:
1. RESTRICTED dugout/bench for game; (3a,3b) offense has
option;(3c) may award bases; (3a) batter may bat again;
(3b,c) No pitch if it is a strike, pitch counts if a ball
2. After a pitch all plays stand but illegal player is restricted to
bench
3. Play stand if play doesn’t lead to a putout or alter play. Sub
restricted.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 5 COACHING
1. Pregame conference with head coach. Verify lineup,
players/equipment legal
PENALTY: Game will not begin
2. Any team member may occupy coaches box
3. Coach wears school uniform or jersey/coaching shirt with shorts
or slacks; warm-up suit
PENALTY: coach not allowed on field of play until fixed
4. Coach may not physically assist a runner
PENALTY: Runner out; ball live 8-6-5
5. Team personnel may be near a base; must vacate any area
needed by a fielder.
PENALTY: dead ball; runner closes home out; all other runner
return
6. Any offensive team member other than runner or retired runner
interferes with batted fair or foul fly ball batter out; possible
double play, runner closest to home is out.
PENALTY: Dead ball; batter and runner out 8-6-16,17,19; 7-4-12
7. Coach may leave bench to attend to a player ill/injured
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 6 BENCH AND FIELD CONDUCT
1. Team must wear or use legal equipment
PENALTY: removed/legal; coach and player disqualified
2. No fake tag without ball
3. Shall not carelessly throw a bat
4. After game has start may not hit balls to defense
5. Stand behind catcher while other team is on defense
6. No one outside dugout; unless legally allowed to do so
Note: Bench personnel may warm-up between innings
7. Players and subs shall not enter the game unreported
8. Amplifiers or bullhorns prohibited for coaching purposes
9. Team personnel shall not do anything to cause an illegal pitch
10. Only scorekeeping devices are allowed in coach’s box
PENALTY: Art. 2-10 team warning, next offender restricted to
dugout. Art. 2 fake tag – obstruction; Art. 7 head coach
restricted to dugout; Art. 8,9,10 may issue a warning,
restrict to dugout
11. No electronic device for coaching purpose during the game
12. Tobacco Prohibited
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 6 BENCH AN D FIELD CONDUCT cont
13.Unsporting Acts shall not be committed
a. Word/actions to incite
b. Profanity/intimidation/deceitful tactics/baiting /taunting
c. Anything not in sprit of the game
14.Team personnel shall not charge and umpire
15.Arguing calls by umpires is prohibited
16.No throwing equipment
PENALTY: Art. 11-16 may be an ejection; Warning; Art 11,13
coach may be restricted
17.Shall not intentional remove lines of batter’s box or field of play
PENALTY: strike/ball may be called; team warning leading to
restriction to dugout if repeated.
18.Initiating malicious contact is prohibited
19.Team personnel shall not participate in a fight; coach assists to
break it up
PENALTY: ejected (18-19); Play dead, out unless putout or
scored, all runner return, defender ejected
20.Anyone restricted to bench may be ejected for misconduct.
Players remain on bench. Coach leave playing area.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 7 CHARGED CONFERENCES
1 Offensive conference per inning
Umpire should deny any subsequent request
No conference if attending to an injured
player
 3 during 7 inning game
 Extra inning 1 per inning
PENALTY: after 3 or 1 in extra innings pitcher shall be removed
as pitcher for duration of the game
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒4
Starting and Ending Game
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 STARTIN A GAME
1.Coach decides if field is playable to start
2.Pregame Conference – 5 min to game time
a. No warm-ups
b. Home/Visiting team lineups; Verified
c. Ground rules
d. Verify Player/Equipment Legal
3.Home coach may designate special ground rules;
teams must agree or umpire makes a decision. Not to
supersede Rule Book
a. Field marked
b. Ball dead if goes over backstop
c. Wild pitch, passed balls, batted balls that passes
through a fence apply 8-4-3c
d. Dead ball area if difficult to field ball in a spot
on the field
e. Chalk Live/Dead ball area on unfenced fields
4.Visitors bat first
5.“Play Ball” announce by umpire to start game
6.Umpires have sole judgement on the safety of
continued play
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 ENDING GAME
1.Team behind has completed its turn at
bat in the 7th inning or extra inning unless
home team is losing
2.Regulation Game if
a. 5 full inning played; 4 ½ home team
winning
b. Played beyond 5 inning when game
is called
3.State Adoption – suspended games
4.If called prior to regulation game:
suspended
5.Tied Score stands; State Adoption Rule
6.Tie Breaker may be use by State
Adoption
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 FORFIETED GAME
1.Forfeited Game when
a. Late appearing after umpire call ‘play ball’;
state adoption
b. Refuse to continue play once games has
started
c. Delay more than 1 min after umpire calls
‘play ball’
d. Delay tactics
e. Willfully violates rules after being warned
f. Less than 9 players to start
g. Less than 8 players ; Out called in that spot;
h. Home team fails to put field in playing
conditions when directed by umpire.
2.Score 7 – 0 unless forfeited after # of inning to
be a regulation game; score remains the same.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 4 PROTESTED GAME
•It is optional on the part of a state
association as to Whether protests are
permitted. When allowed, protests are
permitted regarding rules one through
nine only. When protests are submitted to
organizations which do allow the filing,
such protest shall be submitted using a
prescribed procedure (10-2-3i). All
individual and team averages shall be
included in the official records, except that
no pitcher shall be credited with a victory
or a loss in such a game if the game is not
completed
•Play Off’s must have Protest Committee
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒5
Dead Ball and Suspension of Play
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 DEAD BALL
ART. 1
Activity /Play /Action
Ref
Award / Penalties
Pitch touches Batter
5.1.1a
Awarded first / except – no effort to avoid
8.1.2b, 7.3.2, 7-4-8, 7-4-2
Illegally batted ball
5.1.1b
Batter is out / runners return
7.4.8, 7.4.2
Ball hit twice in fair or foul territory
5.1.1b
Batter is out / runners return
7.4.13, 7.4.13 exception 8.2.6
Uncaught foul ball
5.1.1d
Runners return to base occupied at time of pitch
8.3.2 Exception
Spectator interference
5.1.1d
Umpire judgment – award that nullifies interference
8.4.3l
Interference by runner
5.1.1e
Interfere is out and all runners return to occupied at time of
the play. 8.6.10
Interference by retired runner
5.1.1e
Runner closest to home is out – all other runners return to
base occupied at the time of play. 8.6.10
Interference by runner ( foul fly)
5.1.1m
Interfere is out and runners return to last occupied base.
Strike on the batter 8.6.10b
Interference by the coach or other team members
With a thrown ball
5.1.1g
For interference by the coach the runner is out. With other
team members rule 3.5.4.5 penalty 8.4.2f
Interference by the coach or other team members
With a batted ball
5.1.1e
Batter / runner is out. If interference prevents a DP runner
closest to home is also out. 8.6.16
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 DEAD BALL
ART. 1
Activity /Play /Action
Ref
Award / Penalties
Fair batted ball over the fence in flight prevented by spectator
or players detached equipment
5.1.1f
Award all runners home 8.4.3e-g
Fair ball touches spectator, bounces over or lodges in a fence
5.1.1f
Award umpires judgment or two bases 8.4.3h,k
Fair ball touches a runner or umpire before or after it passes a
fielder and another fielder has a play.
5.1.1f
Hit runner is out. Batter is awarded first and all other runners
return to base last occupied unless forced to advance. 8.1.2a,
8.4.1f, 8.6.11
A thrown ball , not a pitch which becomes blocked
5.1.1g
Award all runners two bases from last base reached at the time
of the throw. 8.4.3f
A pitched ball which becomes blocked
5.1.1g
Award all runners one base from the time of the pitch. 8.4.3c
Umpire handles live ball, inspect the ball or calls time for any
reason.
5.1.1h
Runners return to last base they reached or passed. 5.2.1
Fair or Foul ball is caught and the fielder leaves the field of play
with one or both feet.
5.1.1i
Award all runners one base from the last base reached or
passed. Unless it was the third out. Note 8.4.3j
A live ball is intentionally kicked, thrown or carried into dead
ball territory
5.1.1k
Award all runners two bases from the last base reached or
passed. 8.4.3k
Offensive team calls time or any other command in an effort
to cause the opposing pitcher to violate the pitching rules.
5.1.1j
No runners may advance. Team warning issued for first
offense . Subsequent offenders are ejected.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 DEAD BALL
ART. 1
Activity /Play /Action
Ref
Award / Penalties
Infielder intentionally drops a fly ball or line drive with less
than two out and base runners. DP ball
5.1.1l
Batter runner is out and all other runners return base
occupied at the time of the pitch. 8.5.7
Illegal pitch not released or released to a base.
5.1.1p
All runners advance one base and batter is awarded a ball.
6.2.7 Penalty 6.2.1, 6.2.2
Base runner leaves the base before pitcher releases the pitch.
6.2.4c
No pitch is declared and the runner is out. 6.2.4c, 8.6.18
Quick pitch before the batter has taken position or is off
balance.
6.2.4b
No pitch is declared 6.2.4b
Illegal slide
8.6.13
Runner is out and all other runners return to base occupied
prior to infraction.
Malicious interference
8.6.14
Runner is out and ejected. All runners return to the base
occupied at the time of the interference.
Ball hitting loose equipment of the team on defense.
5.1.1g
All runners advance two bases. 8.4.3f Penalty
Interference by the batter when catcher attempts a putout.
5.1.1q
Batter is out. Runners return to the base occupied at the time
of the play. 7.4.4
Batter steps backward toward home to avoid be put out.
8.2.8
Batter runner is out and all other runners return to base
occupied at the time of the play. 8.2.8
Batter runner fails to advance to first and enters team area.
8.2.4
Batter runner is out. Runners return to the bases occupied at
the time of the infraction. 8.2.4
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 DELAYED DEAD BALL
ART. 2, 3 & 4
Activity /Play /Action
Ref
Award / Penalties
Illegal Pitch released
5.1.2a
The pitch is ruled a ball and runners are awarded one base. If
pitch is hit the offensive team has the option of the play or
the award . 6.1.1,2,3,4 Penalty
Obstruction of the batter by the catcher or fielder
5.1.2b
If batter and all runners advance at least one base. If
awarded first base runner only advance if forced. 6.4.12,
8.1.1d
Intentionally touching batted ball with detached player
equipment.
5.1.2c
Award of three bases if not reached during the play. 8.4.3e
Intentionally touching thrown ball with detached player
equipment.
5.1.2c
Award or two bases if not made during the play. 8.4.3e
Interference on the catcher by the umpire on at thrown ball.
5.1.2c
If the runner is not put out, the runner must return to the
occupied at the time of the attempted play. 8.5.6
Obstruction
5.1.3
2.36
Award to the base they would have reached had there been
no obstruction.
Contact with the ball with any illegal mitt or glove
8.8.15
The offensive team can take the result of the play or the
penalty. Returning the batter to her at bat with the count
prior to the play. 8.8.15c
Deliberately removing the helmet in live ball territory
5.1.2e
Team warning. Subsequent violators , player and head coach
will be restricted to the dugout. 3.6.1 Penalty
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 SUSPENSION OF PLAY





Time Shall be Called
Put the Ball back in play after – time or dead ball
Suspension of the Game – Field / Weather or Other; Note: After 30 minutes, the umpire may declare the game ended
or, by state association adoption, suspended.
 when a player, bench personnel or spectator is ordered from the field of play, or player is ordered to secure
protective equipment.
 when an umpire or player is incapacitated, unless injury occurs during a live ball, then time shall not be called
until no further advance or putout is possible.
NOTE: If necessary, the umpire may suspend play immediately if, in the umpire’s judgment, further play may cause
injury or jeopardize a participant’s safety. (10-2-3g)
 when a player or coach is granted time for a substitution, conference with the pitcher, or for similar cause.
 when play is suspended for any other cause, including an award of a base after an infraction, inspection of the
ball, or the ending of a half-inning.
ART. 2 . . . When the ball becomes dead:
a. no action by the defense during that time can cause a player to be put out, except a proper dead-ball appeal. (21-3b)
b. a runner may not advance, nor return to a base that was not touched or that the runner was not in contact with
on a caught fly ball during a live ball if the runner had advanced to or beyond a succeeding base.
c. any runner may advance when awarded a base or bases for an act which occurred before the ball became dead.
All awarded bases must be touched. (8-1-2, 8-3-11)
 Two Umpire Signals
 Time and Dead Ball
 Delay Dead Ball
 Put the Ball Back in Play
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒6
Pitching
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 PITCHING REGULATONS (FP)
1.Pivot Foot on pitcher’s plate; Non-pivot foot in contact or
behind. Both within 24-inch length of pitcher’s plate.
a. Shoulder must be in line with 1st and 3rd with ball in
the glove or hand with hands separated
b. Simulate taking a signal from catcher
c. Hand together for 1 to 10 seconds.
Motionless/moving
d. Catcher must be with in the box and ready to
receive a pitch to be a pitcher.
e. Pitcher must have ball to be on or near pitching
plate.
f. Pitcher may remove herself from pitching position
1. Step back w/both feet before hands come
together
2. Hands together; not windup; step back w/both
feet.
3. Either foot may be removed first
PENALTY: (Art. 1) Illegal Pitch
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 PITCHING REGULATONS (FP)
2.Pitch
a. Starts: 1 hand is taken off ball / any motion that is part of
windup after hands have been brought together
b. Hands together and motion starts; 1 step forward, towards
batter. Backwards step allowed prior to hands coming
together
Exception: 6-1-1f2; Removing from pitcher’s position
Notes:
1. Slide not a step
2. Crow Hop & Leap are Illegal. 2-16;2-33
3.Legal delivery underhand motion
a. Release forward; past vertical line of body
b. Hands below hip; wrist no farther away from body than
elbow
c. Delivered on throwing arm side; not behind back; not
between legs
d. Pitch completed with step toward the batter
PENALTY: (ART. 2,3,4) Illegal Pitch. Delayed Dead Ball if pitched;
Ball on batter; Base runners advance one base(6-2-2 exception)
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION
1 PITCHING REGULATONS (FP)
4. Any Windup
a. Immediately deliver ball to batter
b. No rocker motion; no returning hands to
ball
c. No stop or reversal of forward motion
d. 1 ½ revolution of the arm
e. Doesn’t continue to windup after taking a
forward step or after ball is released.
Note: continuation is any action causing arm
to continue past the shoulder
PENALTY: (ART. 2,3,4) Illegal Pitch. Delayed Dead
Ball if pitched; Ball on batter; Base runners
advance one base(6-2-2 exception)
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 INFRACTION BY PITCHER (FP)
1. Shall not deliberately drop, roll, bounce or etc to prevent
batter from swinging
Penalty: Illegal Pitch; Delayed Dead Ball; Ball on Batter; 1
base award to runner on base.
2. Shall not use any substance on pitching hand; shall not be any
substance applied by any player; wipe off fingers before
contacting the ball; remove distraction items from pitching
hand or arm
Penalty: Illegal Pitch; Delayed Dead Ball; Ball on Batter; 1
base award to runner on base.
EXCEPTION: hit ball coach has option to take play or penalty
Note: Delayed Dead Ball Signal and Voiced
3. 20 seconds to release next pitch once pitcher has ball
Penalty: Ball on batter
4. No pitch declared
a. Suspension of play
b. Quick pitch
c. Runner leaves base too soon
d. Attempts to pitch before runner return to their base.
e. Time is Called to cause an illegal pitch
Penalty: (Aft. 4a-d) Dead Ball; (4e) live ball legal pitch
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 INFRACTIONS BY PITCHER (F.P.)
5.1 min; 5 pitches between innings
Note:
1. Pitcher returning same half inning no warm-up pitches
2. Umpire may allow more pitches due to weather or injury
Penalty: Ball on batter for each pitch in excess of 5. Doesn’t
apply if umpire delays the start of play
6.Ball slips from hand during backward or forward motion, it is a
pitch.
Effect: Ball on batter; runner may advance with liability of
being putout; Fielder may retrieve ball if batter has no
chance of hitting it
EXCEPTION: batter has a chance to swing at pitch; strike is
called; live ball if batted
7.Pitcher shall not throw to a base while in contact of pitcher’s
plate after having taking a pitching position
Note: pitcher may remove herself from pitcher’s plate;
8.Illegal pitch if fielder is in the line of batter’s vision or distracts the
batter prior to pitch being released.
9.Shall not deliver a pitcher until fielders are in position
Penalty: (Art. 7,8,9) Illegal Pitch; Dead Ball ; Ball; runners may
advance
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 INFRACTIONS BY CATCHER (F.P.)
1.Inside lines of catcher’s box when pitch is released.
Penalty: Illegal Pitch
2.Return ball to pitcher after each pitch; except after a
strikeout or putout by catcher or play on a base runner.
Penalty: Ball on batter
EXCEPTION: Intentional Walk w/o pitching
SECTION 5 BALL ROTATION
1. Pitcher may choose any ball to start each half inning
unless both ball have not been in the game; bottom of
1st inning pitcher must use an unused ball;
2. Pitcher may request the other ball before throwing a
warm-up pitch. Otherwise wait until the ball goes out
of play or becomes blocked..
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒7
Batting
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 POSITION AND BATTING ORDER
1.Player bats according to her position on lineup card. (4-1-2)
Substitute shall take the place of replaced player. Batter follows
preceding player. Improper Batter: in box & 1 pitch thrown. May
be corrected before being putout or becoming a base runner.
2.After 1st inning, next batter is the batter following the last
batter to complete her turn at bat in preceding inning.
PENALTIES (Art. 1,2)
1. Batter Out; defense only appeal after at bat completed
2. Runner; Appeal prior to next pitch, infielders leave field
proper batter out; Runners return, outs stand, all
actions leading to appeal is legal.
3. Legal pitch; improper batter now legal batter.
4. Proper batter called out; next to bat will be player
whose name follows that of proper batter.
5. Improper batter become legal batter. Next batter is
whose name follows such batter.
6. Several players bat out of order; player’s turn at bat
occurs while on base; remains on base but no Out.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 STRIKES, BALLS AND HITS
1.Strike when:
a. Pitch enter strike zone not struck at
b. Struck at and missed
c. Foul less than 2 strikes
d. Foul tip or foul on attempted bunt(F.P.) even on 3rd
strike.
e. Penalty strike (7-3-1)
f. Foul ball – batted ball contacts batter while in box
g. Dead ball strike
1) Swing and ball hits batter
2) Batter prevents ball from entering strike zone
h. Offensive player intentionally removes a line.
2.Ball is declared when pitch not struck at, not in strike zone,
illegal pitch or catcher’s / pitcher’s delay
EFFECT: Pitch hits plate is a ball unless struck at
3.Foul / fair hit, Bunt (F.P.) touched by bat of batter in box.(220:2-8)
EXCEPTION: FOUL TIP
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 BATTING INFRACTIONS
1. 10 seconds to enter box; batter shall not delay next
pitch
PENALTY: strike may be called, declared out strike 3
Effects:
2. Batter shall not permit a pitch to touch her
PENALTY: ball or strike unless strike 3 or ball 4
SECTION 4 BATTER IS OUT
1.1 less players than started with; Out when her turn to
bat
2.Batter in box w/illegal bat; discover used an illegal bat
before next pitch
3.Batter changes batter’s box while pitcher is ready to
pitch
4.Batter interferes with catcher: lean over plate, hinders
action at plate, hinders attempted play on runner, fails to
vacate area for play at plate
5.3rd strike caught
7.Runner on 1st ; 3rd strike with less than 2 outs.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 4 BATTER IS OUT cont:
7. Runner on 1st ; 3rd strike with less than 2 outs.
8. Batter contact ball with foot outside batter’s box or
touching plate
9. Bunt 3rd strike foul
11.Foul caught in flight or spectator interference
12.Interference ; foul ball
13.Hitting a ball second time
14.Throws her bat and interferes with player making a
play
PENALTY: Section 4 – Batter Out; Art
2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,12,13 – Dead Ball; Art 2,6,9,10,11,13
– runners return to last base occupied; Art 2 – put out
on play stands; Art. 4,11 – return to base touch at time
of the interference. Also 8-6-10 Penalty
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒8
Batter-Runner and Runner
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 1 . . . A batter becomes a batter-runner with the right to attempt to score by advancing to first, second and third
and then home plate in the listed order when:
a. she legally hits a fair ball.
b. (F.P.) the catcher fails to catch the third strike before the ball touches the ground when there are fewer than
two outs and first base is unoccupied at the time of the pitch, or anytime there are two outs.
c. an intentional base on balls is awarded (S.P.), or a fourth ball is called by the umpire.
EFFECTS:
1.(F.P.) The ball is in play unless it has been blocked.
d. the catcher or another defensive player obstructs, hinders or prevents the batter from striking or hitting a
pitched ball.
EFFECTS:
The umpire shall give a delayed dead-ball signal.
1.If the batter hits the ball and reaches first base safely and if all other runners
2.have advanced at least one base on the batted ball, catcher obstruction is canceled. All action as a result of the
batted ball stands. No option is given. Once a runner has passed a base, the runner is considered to have reached
that base (whether missing the base or not) and no options are given.
3.Otherwise, the coach or captain of the team at bat, after being informed by the plate umpire of the obstruction,
has the option to take the result of the play, or have the obstruction enforced by awarding the batter first base and
advancing all other runners only if forced.
e.The catcher or any other fielder shall not:
1.Step on, or in front of home plate without the ball, or
2.On a swing or attempted bunt, touch the batter or her bat with a runner on third base trying to score by means of a
squeeze play or a steal.
PENALTY: (Art. 1) The runner would be awarded the base on the attempted steal or squeeze. The batter shall also be
awarded first base on the obstruction and the ball is dead.
ART. 2 . . . A batter is awarded first base when:
a. a fair batted ball strikes the person, attached equipment, or clothing of an umpire or a runner.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
EFFECTS:
1. If, after touching a fielder (including the pitcher), the ball is in play.
2. If, after passing a fielder other than the pitcher, and no other fielder had a chance to make an out, the ball is in play.
3. If before passing a fielder without being touched, the ball is dead. If the runner is hit by the ball while off base and before it has passed an
infielder,
excluding the pitcher, or if it passes an infielder and another fielder has an opportunity to make an out, the runner is out and the batter-runner is
entitled to first base without liability to be put out. Any runner not forced by the batter-runner must return to the base reached prior to the
interference.
When a fair ball touches a runner who is in contact with a base, the ball is dead or live depending on whether the closest fielder is in front of
the base (live) or behind the base (dead). The runner is not out unless she intentionally interferes.
4. If the fair batted ball hits an umpire before passing a fielder other than the pitcher, the ball is dead and the batter-runner is entitled to first base
without
liability to be put out.
b.
(F.P.) a pitched ball not swung at nor called a strike touches any part of the batter's person or clothing. It does not matter if the ball strikes
the ground
before hitting the batter. The batter's hands are not to be considered a part of the bat.
PENALTIES: (Art. 2).
1.
The ball is dead. The batter is entitled to one base without liability to be put out. If no attempt is made to avoid being hit or there is an
obvious attempt to get hit by the pitch, the batter will not be awarded first base unless it is ball four.
2.
If the batter is hit anywhere on the body, including on the hands, while swinging at a pitch and hits the ball fair or foul, the ball is dead
and a
3.
strike called. If it is strike three, the batter is out.
SECTION 2 BATTER-RUNNER IS OUT
•
•
•
•
•
•
The batter-runner shall be called out when:
ART. 1 . . . (F.P.) The catcher drops the third strike and is legally put out prior to reaching first base with two outs or less than two outs and first base is
not occupied at the time of the pitch.
ART. 2 . . . After hitting a fair ball the batter-runner is legally put out prior to reaching first base.
ART. 3 . . . After a fly ball is hit, the ball is caught by a fielder before it touches the ground, any object or person other than a defensive player.
EFFECT: (Arts. 1, 2, 3) The ball is in play.
ART. 4 . . . The batter-runner fails to advance to first base and enters the team area after a batted fair ball, a base on balls, a hit batter (F.P.), a dropped
third strike (F.P.), or catcher obstruction.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 BATTER-RUNNER IS OUT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
EXCEPTION: (S.P.) The ball is dead on a base on balls, or on a hit batter (F.P.) the ball is dead, the batter-runner is not out and runners cannot advance unless
forced.
PENALTY: (Art. 4) The ball is dead and the runner(s) must return to the last base touched at the time of the infraction.
ART. 5 . . . She runs outside the three-foot (0.91m) lane and, in the judgment of the umpire, interferes with the fielder taking the throw at first base (there must
be a throw); however, the batter-runner may run outside the three-foot (0.91m) lane to avoid a fielder attempting to field a batted ball. A runner is considered
outside the running lane if either foot is completely outside the lane and in contact with the ground.
ART. 6 . . . The batter-runner interferes with a fielder attempting to make an initial play, interferes with a fielder attempting to throw the ball, intentionally
interferes with a thrown ball while out of the batter's box, makes contact with a fair batted ball before reaching first base, or (F.P.) interferes with a dropped
third strike. If this interference, in the umpire's judgment, is an obvious attempt to prevent
a double play, the runner closest to home plate shall be called out. A batterrunner being hit with a thrown ball does not necessarily constitute interference.
ART. 7 . . . The batter-runner interferes with a play at home plate in an attempt to prevent an obvious out at home plate.
ART. 8 . . . The batter-runner steps back toward home plate to avoid or delay a tag by a fielder.
PENALTY: (Arts. 5 through 8) The ball is dead and runner(s) must return to the last base touched at the time of the interference. (Art. 7) The runner is also
out.
ART. 9 . . . She hits an infield fly.
NOTE: When an infield fly is not initially called, the batter-runner is declared out if brought to the umpire’s attention before the next pitch.
ART. 10 . . . An infielder intentionally drops a fair fly ball, including a line drive or a bunt, which can be caught with ordinary effort with first; first and second;
first and third; or first, second and third bases occupied with fewer than two outs. A trapped ball shall not be considered as having been intentionally dropped.
PENALTY: (Art. 10) The ball is dead, and each runner must return to the last base touched at the time of the pitch. If an infield fly is ruled, it has precedence
over an intentionally dropped ball.
ART. 11 . . . The immediate preceding runner who is not yet out intentionally interferes, in the umpire's judgment, with a fielder who is attempting to catch a
thrown ball or throw a ball in an attempt to complete the play on the batter-runner.
PENALTY: (Art. 11) Interference is ruled, the ball is dead, the batter-runner and the interfering runner are out, and all other runners are returned to the
base last occupied at the time of interference.
ART. 12 . . . If a spectator reaches into the field of play and interferes with a fielder's opportunity to catch a fly ball.
PENALTY: (Art. 12) The ball is dead, the batter-runner is out and the umpire should award the runners the bases in the umpire's judgment that they would
have reached had the interference not occurred.
ART. 13 . . . The on-deck batter commits interference or offensive team equipment causes a blocked ball (and interference).
PENALTY: (Art. 13) The batter-runner being played on is out. If no play is obvious, no player is out, but runners shall return to the last base touched at the
time the ball is declared dead
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 TOUCHING BASES IN LEGAL ORDER
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ART. 1 . . . An advancing runner shall touch first, second, third and then home plate in order.
ART. 2 . . . When a runner must return to a base while the ball is in play or dead, the runner must touch the base(s) in
reverse order.
EXCEPTION: On a foul ball.
EFFECT: (Arts. 1, 2) Offensive players could be ruled out on a proper appeal by the defensive team. (2-1)
ART. 3 . . . When a runner or batter-runner acquires the right to a base by touching it before being put out, the runner or
batter-runner is entitled to hold the
base until touching the next base in order or is forced to vacate it for a succeeding runner.
ART. 4 . . . When a runner passes a base, she is considered to have touched that base. This also applies to awarded bases.
ART. 5 . . . When a runner dislodges a base from its proper position, neither the runner nor the succeeding runner(s) in the
same series of plays are compelled
to follow a base out of position.
EFFECT: (Arts. 3, 4, 5) The ball is in play and runners may advance or return with liability to be put out.
ART. 6 . . . A runner shall not run bases in reverse order either to confuse the fielders or to make a travesty of the game.
PENALTY: (Art. 6) The ball is dead and the runner is out.
ART. 7 . . . Two runners may not legally occupy the same base simultaneously.
EFFECT: The runner who first legally occupied the base shall be entitled to it, unless forced to advance. The other runner
may be put out by being touched with the ball.
ART. 8 . . . Failure of a PRECEDING runner to touch a base or to legally tag up on a caught fly ball, and who is declared out,
does not affect the status of a SUCCEEDING runner who touches bases in proper order. If the failure to touch a base in
regular order or to legally tag up on a caught fly ball is the third out of the inning, no SUCCEEDING runner may score a run.
ART. 9 . . . No runner may return to touch a missed base or one left too soon after a following runner has scored or once
she leaves the field of play.
ART. 10 . . . Bases left too soon on a caught fly ball must be retouched prior to advancing to awarded bases.
ART. 11 . . . Awarded bases must be run legally.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
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SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
ART. 1 . . . Runners may advance with liability to be put out when:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
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EFFECT: (Art. 1) The ball is in play.
ART. 2 . . . A runner forfeits exemption from liability and may be put out when:
a.
b.
c.
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a.
forced to vacate a base because the batter was awarded first base.
EFFECT: (F.P.) The ball remains in play unless it is blocked. Any runner affected is entitled to one base and
may advance farther at their own risk if the ball is in play. (S.P.) The ball is dead.
b)
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the ball is in play or on awarded bases, the runner fails to touch a base before attempting to make the next base.
after overrunning first base, the runner attempts to continue to second base.
after dislodging a base, a runner attempts to continue to the next base.
ART. 3 . . . A runner is entitled to advance without liability to be put out when:
a.
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(F.P.) the ball leaves the pitcher's hand on the delivery.
(S.P.) a pitched ball is batted.
a thrown ball or a fair batted ball is not blocked.
a thrown ball hits an umpire.
a legally caught fly ball is first touched by any defensive player.
a fair ball strikes an umpire or a runner after having passed a fielder other than the pitcher, and provided no other
fielder had a chance to make an out, or when a fair batted ball has been touched by a fielder, including the pitcher.
the ball gets lodged in a defensive player’s uniform or equipment.
a fielder not in possession of the ball or not making an initial play on a batted ball, impedes the progress of a runner
or batter-runner who is legally running bases. Obstructed runners are still required to touch all bases in proper
order, or they could be called out on a proper appeal by the defensive team. Should an act of interference occur
following any obstruction, enforcement of the interference penalty would have precedence.
PENALTY: (Art. 3b) When any obstruction occurs (including a rundown), the umpire will signal a delayed
dead ball. The ball will remain live.
If the obstructed runner is put out prior to reaching the base that would have been reached had there not
been obstruction, a dead ball is called and the obstructed runner and each other runner affected by the
obstruction will be awarded the base or bases which would have been reached, in the umpire's judgment,
had there not been obstruction. An obstructed runner may not be called out between the two bases
where she was obstructed.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
EXCEPTIONS:
When an obstructed runner, after the obstruction, safely obtains or returns to the base she would have been awarded, in
the umpire's judgment, had there been no obstruction and there is a subsequent play on a different runner, the obstructed
runner is no longer protected between the bases where she was obstructed and may be put out.
When properly appealed for missing a base or leaving a base before a fly ball was first touched while advancing. If
obstruction occurred while a runner was returning to touch the base, she is protected.
When committing an act of interference.
When passing another runner.
When the batter flies out for the third out.
When the batter-runner is obstructed between two bases and she flies out.
b.
c.
If the obstructed runner is put out after passing the base she would have reached had there been no obstruction, the obstructed
runner will be called out. The ball remains live.
When a runner, while advancing or returning to a base, is obstructed by a fielder who neither has the ball nor is attempting to field a
batted ball, or a fielder who fakes a tag without the ball, the obstructed runner and each other runner affected by the obstruction, will
be awarded the base or bases which would have been reached, in the umpire's judgment, had there been no obstruction.
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PENALTY: (Art. 3c) The ball is dead and all runners are awarded one base only. The batter is awarded first base only on the
fourth ball.
d.
e.
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(F.P) a pitcher makes an illegal pitch, providing the offensive coach does not take the result of the play (see 6-2-2 Exception).
a fielder intentionally contacts or catches a fair batted, a thrown, or a pitched ball with her cap, helmet, mask, protector, pocket,
detached glove or any part of the uniform which is detached from its proper place on their person.
PENALTY: (Art. 3e) The batter and runner would be entitled to three bases from the time of the pitch if a batted ball, two
bases from the time of the throw if a thrown ball, or one base from the time of the pitch if a pitched ball and in (F.P.) may
advance farther at their own risk. If the illegal catch or touch is made on a fair hit ball that, in the judgment of the umpire,
would have cleared the outfield fence in flight, the batter-runner shall be awarded four bases.
f.
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(F.P.) a wild pitch or passed ball lodges in or goes under, over or through the backstop.
the ball is in play and is overthrown (beyond the boundary lines) or is blocked by the defense.
PENALTY: (Art. 3f) All runners will be awarded two bases, and the award will be governed by the positions of the runners
when the ball left the fielder's hand. Runners may return to touch a missed base or base left too soon. If two runners are
between the same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead runner.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
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2.
3.
4.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When a fielder loses possession of the ball, such as on an attempted tag, and the ball enters the dead-ball area or
becomes blocked, each runner is awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the ball entered the dead-ball
area or becomes blocked.
When the ball becomes dead, no runner may return to touch a missed base or a base left too soon if she has advanced,
touched and remains a base beyond the missed base or the base left too soon. A runner shall not be declared out if a
fielder deliberately carries or throws the ball into dead-ball territory to prevent that runner from returning to a missed base
or a base left too soon. In this case, the runner(s) may return to a missed base or base left too soon.
If the ball becomes blocked due to offensive equipment not involved in the game, the ball is ruled dead and runners are
returned to the last base touched at the time of the blocked ball. If the blocked ball prevented the defense from making an
out, the runner being played on is called out.
If an awarded base is in error, after one pitch is thrown (legal or illegal), the error cannot be corrected.
g.
h.
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PENALTY: (Art. 3h) The ball is dead and all runners are awarded two bases from the time of the pitch.
i.
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in the judgment of the umpire, a fielder intentionally carries, kicks, pushes or throws a live ball from playable territory into dead-ball
territory.
PENALTY: (Art. 3j) The ball is dead. Each runner is awarded two bases from the last base touched at the time the fielder
entered or the ball was kicked, pushed or thrown into dead-ball territory.
k.
l.
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a live ball is unintentionally carried by a fielder from playable territory into dead-ball territory. A fielder carrying a live ball into the
dugout or team area to tag a player is considered to have unintentionally carried it there.
PENALTY: (Art. 3i) The ball is dead. Each runner is awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the fielder
entered dead-ball territory.
j.
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a fair batted fly ball strikes the foul pole above the fence level or leaves the playing field in fair territory without touching the ground or
going through the fence. It shall entitle the batter-runner to a home run.
a fair ball bounces over or rolls under or through a fence or any designated boundary of the playing field. Also, when it deflects off of a
defensive player and goes out of play in foul territory, deflects off a runner or umpire and goes out of play after having passed an
infielder excluding the pitcher and provided no other fielder had a chance to make an out.
there is spectator interference with any thrown or fair batted ball, the ball is dead at the moment of interference.
a ball gets lodged in (a) umpire's gear or clothing or (b) in an offensive player's clothing.
PENALTY: (Arts. 3k, 3l)The ball is dead and the umpire should award the runners the bases in the umpire's judgment they
would have reached.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
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SECTION 5 RUNNER MUST RETURN TO HER BASE
A runner must return to the last base legally occupied when:
ART. 1 . . . A batted ball is foul.
ART. 2 . . . An illegally batted ball is declared by the umpire.
ART. 3 . . . A batter, batter-runner or runner is called out for interference. Each other runner shall return to
the last base which, in the umpire's judgment, was touched by the runner at the time of the interference.
ART. 4 . . . (F.P.) Any part of the batter's person or clothing is touched by a pitched ball that is swung at and
missed.
ART. 5 . . . (F.P.) A batter is hit by a pitched ball, unless forced to advance because of the batter being
awarded first base.
PENALTY: (Arts. 1 through 5) The ball is dead. Each runner must return to her base without liability to be
put out, except when forced to go to the next base because the batter became a batter-runner. Runners
need not touch the intervening bases in returning to their base.
ART. 6 . . . (F.P.) The plate umpire or any part of the plate umpire's clothing interferes with the catcher's
attempt to throw out a runner stealing, or an attempted pick off play.
PENALTY: (Art. 6) This is a delayed dead ball at the time of the interference. If the runner is ruled out, the
ball remains live. If the runner is not out, she must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. It
is not umpire interference if, on a passed ball or wild pitch, the umpire gets hit by a thrown ball from the
catcher or if contact is made with the catcher trying to retrieve the ball. The ball would remain live.
ART. 7 . . . ( S.P.) Base stealing is not allowed.
EFFECT: Each runner may leave a base when a pitched ball is batted, touches the ground or reaches
home, but must return to that base immediately after each pitch not hit by the batter.
ART. 8 . . . An intentionally dropped ball is ruled.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
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SECTION 6 THE RUNNER IS OUT
A runner is out when:
ART. 1 . . . Running to any base in regular or reverse order and the runner runs more than three feet (0.91 m) from the base path to avoid being touched by the
ball in the hand(s) of a fielder.
ART. 2 . . . The ball is in play and while the runner is not in contact with a base, the runner is legally touched with the ball in the hand(s) of a fielder.
ART. 3 . . . On a force play, a fielder contacts the base while holding the ball, touches the ball to the base or tags the runner before the runner reaches the base.
has been put out. If this was the third out of the inning, any runs scoring prior to the out for passing a preceding runner would count. A runner(s) passing a
preceding obstructed runner, as in 8-4-3b Penalty c, is not out.
ART. 5 . . . Any offensive team member, other than another runner, physically assists the runner.
PENALTY: (Arts. 1 through 5) The ball is in play and the runner is out.
ART. 6 . . . The runner leaves a base to advance to another base before a caught fly ball has touched a fielder, provided the ball is returned to the infield and
properly appealed.
ART. 7 . . . The runner fails to touch the intervening base or bases in regular or reverse order and the ball is returned to the infield and properly appealed. If the
runner put out is the batter-runner at first base, or any other runner forced to advance because the batter became a batter-runner, this is a force out.
ART. 8 . . . The batter-runner legally overruns first base, attempts to run to second base and is legally touched while off the base.
ART. 9 . . . Running or sliding for home plate and the runner fails to touch it, and a fielder properly appeals to the umpire for the decision.
PENALTY: (Arts. 6 through 9) These are appeal plays. See 2-1.
ART. 10 . . . The runner interferes:
a.
with a fielder attempting to make the initial play on a fair batted ball.
b.
with a fielder attempting to field a fly ball over foul territory.
c.
with a fielder attempting to throw the ball.
d.
intentionally with a fielder or thrown ball.
NOTE: Jumping, hurdling and leaping are all legal attempts to avoid a fielder only if the fielder is lying on the ground.
ART. 11 . . . The runner is struck with a fair untouched batted ball while not in contact with a base and before it passes an infielder, excluding the pitcher, or if it
passes an infielder and any fielder has an opportunity to make an out.
ART. 12 . . . The runner intentionally contacts a fair ball that an infielder has missed.
ART. 13 . . . The runner does not legally slide and causes illegal contact and/or illegally alters the actions of the fielder in the immediate act of making a play on
her. Runners are never required to slide but, if the runner elects to slide, the slide shall be legal.
ART. 14 . . . She remains on her feet and maliciously crashes into a defensive player. Malicious contact supersedes obstruction.
PENALTY: (Arts. 10 through 14) The ball is dead and the runner is out. Each other runner must return to the last base touched at the time of the interference.
When a runner is called out for interference, the batter-runner is awarded first base and credited with a fielder's choice. If this interference, in the judgment
of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play and occurs before the runner is put out, the immediate succeeding runner shall also be called
out. If interference occurs by the runner on a foul fly ball, the runner is out and the ball is dead. A foul ball is called in this situation and the batter remains at
bat unless it was a bunt attempt with two strikes on the batter (F.P) or it was the third strike (S.P); the batter is also out in these cases. (Art. 14) The runner is
also ejected.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 6 THE RUNNER IS OUT
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ART. 15 . . . The on-deck batter commits interference or offensive team equipment causes a blocked ball (and interference).
PENALTY: (Art. 15) The runner being played on is out. If no play is obvious, no player is out, but runners shall return to the
last base touched at the time the ball is declared dead.
ART. 16 . . . The coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate on or near the baseline while a fielder is
attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball and thereby draws a throw to home plate.
ART. 17 . . . A coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball while in the coach's box, or interferes with the defensive
team's opportunity to make a play on another runner.
ART. 18 . . . After being declared out or after scoring, a runner interferes with a defensive player's opportunity to make a play
on another runner. A runner continuing to run and drawing a throw may be considered a form of interference. This does not
apply to the batter-runner running on the dropped third strike rule.
PENALTY: (Arts. 16, 17, 18) The ball is dead and the runner closest to home plate at the time of the interference shall be
declared out. Each other runner must return to the last base touched at the time of the interference.
ART. 19 . . . Member(s) of the offensive team stand or collect around a base to which a runner is advancing, thereby
confusing the fielders and adding to the difficulty of making the play. Members of a team include bat/ball shaggers or any
other person authorized to sit on the team's bench.
PENALTY: (Art. 19) The ball is dead and the runner is out. Each other runner must return to the last base touched at the
time of the interference.
ART. 20 . . . (S.P.) The runner fails to keep contact with the base to which they are entitled until a pitched ball is batted,
touches the ground, or reaches home plate.
ART. 21 . . . (F.P.) The runner fails to keep contact with the base to which the runner is entitled until the ball leaves the
pitcher's hand.
PENALTY: (Arts. 20, 21) The ball is dead, "no pitch" is declared when applicable, and the runner is out.
ART. 22 . . . She abandons a base, enters her team area or leaves the field of play.
ART. 23 . . . She positions herself behind and not in contact with a base to get a running start on any fly ball. The ball remains
live.
ART. 24 . . . Prior to a pitch (legal or illegal) to the next batter, if the runner was discovered having used an illegal bat, she
shall be declared out and any runners put out prior to the discovery shall remain out.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 7 (F.P.) LOOK-BACK RULE
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ART. 1 . . . The look-back rule will be in effect when the ball is live, the batter runner has touched first base
or has been declared out, and the pitcher has possession of the ball within the pitcher's circle. (2-45)
ART. 2 . . . The runner(s) may stop once, but then must immediately return to the base or attempt to
advance to the next base.
ART. 3 . . . Once the runner stops at a base for any reason, she will be declared out if she leaves the base.
ART. 4 . . . Responsibilities of batter-runner after completing a turn at bat, and while the pitcher has the ball
within the 16-foot pitching circle, including a base on balls or a dropped third strike are as follows:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
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A batter-runner who rounds first base toward second base may stop, but then must immediately, without stopping,
return to first or attempt to advance to second base.
A batter-runner who overruns first base toward right field, turns left and immediately stops, must then return nonstop to first or attempt to advance to second base.
A batter-runner who overruns first base toward right field, turns left and moves directly toward second base and
stops is committed to second and must attempt to advance non-stop to second base.
A batter-runner who overruns first base toward right field, turns left and moves back toward the infield in any
direction except directly toward second base is committed to first and must return to first base.
A batter-runner who overruns first base toward right field, and turns right, is committed to first base and must
return to first base.
PENALTY: (Arts. 2, 3, 4) The ball is dead. "No pitch" is declared when applicable, and the runner is out. If
two runners or more are off their bases, when one is called out, the ball is dead and other runners are
returned to the last base touched. Only one runner may be called out.
EXCEPTION: The runner will not be declared out if a play is made on another runner (a fake throw is
considered a play), the pitcher no longer has possession of the ball within the 16-foot circle, or the pitcher
releases the ball on a pitch to the batter.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 8 RUNNER IS NOT OUT
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ART. 1 . . . A runner runs behind or in front of the fielder and outside the base path in order to avoid interfering with a fielder attempting to make the initial play
on the ball.
ART. 2 . . . A runner does not run in a direct line to a base, provided the fielder in the direct line does not have the ball in her possession.
ART. 3 . . . More than one fielder attempts to field a batted ball and the runner comes into contact with the one who, in the judgment of the umpire, could not
have made an out.
ART. 4 . . . A runner is hit with a fair, untouched batted ball that has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher, and, in the judgment of the umpire, no other
fielder had a chance to make an out.
ART. 5 . . . A runner is hit with a fair untouched batted ball over foul territory that, in the judgment of the umpire, no fielder had a chance to make an out.
ART. 6 . . . A runner is hit with a fair batted ball after it touches, or is touched by, any fielder, including the pitcher, and the runner could not avoid contact with
the ball.
ART. 7 . . . A runner is touched while off a base:
a.
b.
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ART. 8 . . . The defensive team does not request the umpire's decision on an appeal play as in 2-1-4.
ART. 9 . . . A batter-runner overruns first base after touching it and returns directly to the base.
ART. 10 . . . The runner is not given sufficient time to return to a base. The runner
will not be called out for being off base before the pitcher releases the ball.
EFFECT: "No pitch" will be called by the umpire and the runner(s) will be permitted to return to the proper base(s) without penalty.
ART. 11 . . . She has legally started to advance when the pitcher receives the ball while in the 16-foot circle, or when the pitcher steps into the 16-foot circle with
the ball in her possession.
ART. 12 . . . The runner stays on the base until a fly ball touches a fielder and then attempts to advance.
ART. 13 . . . Hit by a fair batted ball when touching the base, unless the runner intentionally interferes with the ball or a fielder making a play.
ART. 14 . . . The runner slides into a base and dislodges it from its proper position. The base is considered to have followed the runner.
EFFECT: A runner reaching a base safely will not be out for being off the base if it becomes dislodged. The runner may return without liability to be put out
when the base has been replaced. A runner forfeits this exemption if they attempt to advance beyond the dislodged base before it is again in proper position.
ART. 15 . . . A fielder makes a play (a pitch by the pitcher is not considered making a play) on a batter, batter-runner or runner while using an illegal glove, and it
is discovered before:
a.
b.
c.
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with a ball not securely held by a fielder.
with a hand or glove of a defensive player and the ball is in the other hand.
the next pitch (legal or illegal).
the pitcher and all infielders have left fair territory and the catcher has left her normal fielding position on the way to the dugout.
The umpires have left the field.
PENALTY: (Art. 15) The offended coach may have the entire play nullified with each runner returning to her original base and the batter batting over again,
assuming the ball and strike count prior to the steal attempt or pitch that was hit; or the offended coach may take the result of the play and disregard the
illegal act.
ART. 16 . . . A runner legally returns to a base left too soon or missed prior to an appeal being made, or is returning to a base during a dead ball.
ART. 17 . . . A runner physically passes an obstructed preceding runner.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 9 COURTESY RUNNERS
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2.
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ART. 1 . . . The team at bat may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and/or the catcher at any time. Neither the pitcher nor
the catcher will be required to leave the game under such circumstances. The same courtesy runner may not run for both the
pitcher and the catcher any time during the game.
ART. 2 . . . In the top of the first inning only, the pitcher and catcher are identified as those players listed on the lineup as the
pitcher and catcher; both must face at least the first batter on defense (one pitch). Thereafter, the pitcher and catcher are
identified as the last players who physically played that position on defense. The pitcher or catcher must bat and reach base
legally (or earn their way on base) in order to be eligible for a courtesy runner.
ART. 3 . . . Players who are currently in the game or have participated in the game in any other playing capacity are ineligible
to serve as courtesy runners.
ART. 4 . . . A player may not be a substitute for any player in the half inning that she ran as a courtesy runner.
EXCEPTION: If an injury or disqualification occurs and no substitutes are available, the courtesy runner must be used as a
substitute, and take the place of the injured player. Should the courtesy runner be on base, and is entered as a substitute, the
pitcher or catcher for whom the courtesy runner is running, must run in her place.
ART. 5 . . . The courtesy runner is not permitted to run as a courtesy runner for the Designated Player (DP), if the DP is only
batting, and not playing defense, for the pitcher or the catcher.
ART. 6 . . . Once the courtesy runner is designated for that half-inning, the pitcher or catcher for whom she is running may not
return to run while that courtesy runner is on base. A courtesy runner shall not run for a courtesy runner. When a legal
substitute replaces a courtesy runner, the player for whom she was running has left the game.
EXCEPTIONS:
Should an injury or disqualification occur to any other offensive player, and no substitutes are available, the courtesy runner
must take the place of the player. In this case, the courtesy runner enters as a substitute and the pitcher or catcher for whom
the courtesy runner is running, must run in her place.
If the courtesy runner is injured or disqualified, the player for whom she is running (pitcher or catcher) may return to run the
bases or a legal substitute may be entered.
PENALTY: (Arts. 1 through 6) Illegal substitute as in 3-4.
ART. 7 . . . A courtesy runner must be reported to the plate umpire.
PENALTY: (Art. 7) Unreported substitute as in 3-3-4 and 3-6-7 Penalty.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 10 DOUBLE FIRST BASE (STATE ASSOCIATION ADOPTION)
• ART. 1 . . .The defense must use the white portion and the batter-runner the colored
portion when a play is being made on the batter-runner.
• PENALTIES (Art. 1):
1. The batter-runner is out when there is a play being made at first base and the batterrunner touches only the white portion provided the defense appeals prior to the
batter-runner returning to touch the white or colored base.
2. The batter-runner is out for interference when there is a force play and the batterrunner touches only the white portion and collides with the fielder about to catch a
thrown ball while on the white. See Rule 8-2-5 Penalty.
3. Obstruction is called on the defense when there is a force play on the batter-runner,
who touches only the colored portion and collides with the fielder about to catch a
thrown ball, while also on the colored portion. See 8-4-3b Penalty.
• ART. 2 . . .The defense and the batter-runner may use either the white or colored
portion:
a.
b.
c.
•
On any force out attempt from the foul side of first base.
On an errant throw pulling the defense off the base into foul ground.
When the defensive player uses the colored portion of the double base, the batter-runner can run
in fair territory when the throw is coming from the foul side of first base, and if hit by the thrown
ball, it is not interference. If intentional interference is ruled, the runner is out.
ART. 3 . . .The batter-runner or runner may touch the white or colored base:
a.
b.
c.
d.
When advancing on a fair ball hit to the outfield with no play being attempted or when returning
to first base.
When tagging up on a fly ball.
(F.P.) When returning on an attempted pick-off play.
When advancing on a base on balls.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒9
Scoring and Record Keeping
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule❒8
Batter-Runner and Runner
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 1
1. with the right to attempt to score by advancing to first, second and
third and then home plate in the listed order when:
a. she legally hits a fair ball.
b. (F.P.) the catcher fails to catch the third strike before the ball
touches the ground when there are fewer than two outs and first
base is unoccupied at the time of the pitch, or anytime there are
two outs.
c. an intentional base on balls is awarded (S.P.), or a fourth ball is
called by the umpire.
EFFECTS:
1. (F.P.) The ball is in play unless it has been blocked.
d. the catcher or another defensive player obstructs, hinders or
prevents the batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball.
EFFECTS:
1. The umpire shall give a delayed dead-ball signal.
2. If the batter hits the ball and reaches first base safely and if all
other runners have advanced at least one base on the batted ball,
catcher obstruction is canceled. All action as a result of the batted
ball stands. No option is given. Once a runner has passed a base,
the runner is considered to have reached that base (whether
missing the base or not) and no options are given.
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 1
3. Otherwise, the coach or captain of the team at bat,
after being informed by the plate umpire of the
obstruction, has the option to take the result of the
play, or have the obstruction enforced by awarding the
batter first base and advancing all other runners only if
forced.
e. The catcher or any other fielder shall not:
1. Step on, or in front of home plate without the ball, or
2. On a swing or attempted bunt, touch the batter or her
bat with a runner on third base trying to score by
means of a squeeze play or a steal.
PENALTY: (Art. 1) The runner would be awarded the base
on the attempted steal or squeeze. The batter shall
also be awarded first base on the obstruction and the
ball is dead.
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 2
2. A batter is awarded first base when:
a. a fair batted ball strikes the person, attached equipment, or
clothing of an umpire or a runner.
EFFECTS:
1. If, after touching a fielder (including the pitcher), the ball is in
play.
2. If, after passing a fielder other than the pitcher, and no other
fielder had a chance to make an out, the ball is in play.
3. If before passing a fielder without being touched, the ball is
dead. If the runner is hit by the ball while off base and before
it has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher, or if it passes
an infielder and another fielder has an opportunity to make an
out, the runner is out and the batter-runner is entitled to first
base without liability to be put out. Any runner not forced by
the batter-runner must return to the base reached prior to the
interference. When a fair ball touches a runner who is in
contact with a base, the ball is dead or live depending on
whether the closest fielder is in front of the base (live) or
behind the base (dead). The runner is not out unless she
intentionally interferes.
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 1
1. with the right to attempt to score by advancing to first, second and
third and then home plate in the listed order when:
a. she legally hits a fair ball.
b. (F.P.) the catcher fails to catch the third strike before the ball
touches the ground when there are fewer than two outs and first
base is unoccupied at the time of the pitch, or anytime there are
two outs.
c. an intentional base on balls is awarded (S.P.), or a fourth ball is
called by the umpire.
EFFECTS:
1. (F.P.) The ball is in play unless it has been blocked.
d. the catcher or another defensive player obstructs, hinders or
prevents the batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball.
EFFECTS:
1. The umpire shall give a delayed dead-ball signal.
2. If the batter hits the ball and reaches first base safely and if all
other runners have advanced at least one base on the batted ball,
catcher obstruction is canceled. All action as a result of the batted
ball stands. No option is given. Once a runner has passed a base,
the runner is considered to have reached that base (whether
missing the base or not) and no options are given.
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 1
3. Otherwise, the coach or captain of the team at bat,
after being informed by the plate umpire of the
obstruction, has the option to take the result of the
play, or have the obstruction enforced by awarding the
batter first base and advancing all other runners only if
forced.
e. The catcher or any other fielder shall not:
1. Step on, or in front of home plate without the ball, or
2. On a swing or attempted bunt, touch the batter or her
bat with a runner on third base trying to score by
means of a squeeze play or a steal.
PENALTY: (Art. 1) The runner would be awarded the base
on the attempted steal or squeeze. The batter shall
also be awarded first base on the obstruction and the
ball is dead.
SECTION 1 THE BATTER BECOMES A BATTER-RUNNER
ART. 2
2. A batter is awarded first base when:
a. a fair batted ball strikes the person, attached equipment, or
clothing of an umpire or a runner.
EFFECTS:
1. If, after touching a fielder (including the pitcher), the ball is in
play.
2. If, after passing a fielder other than the pitcher, and no other
fielder had a chance to make an out, the ball is in play.
3. If before passing a fielder without being touched, the ball is
dead. If the runner is hit by the ball while off base and before
it has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher, or if it passes
an infielder and another fielder has an opportunity to make an
out, the runner is out and the batter-runner is entitled to first
base without liability to be put out. Any runner not forced by
the batter-runner must return to the base reached prior to the
interference. When a fair ball touches a runner who is in
contact with a base, the ball is dead or live depending on
whether the closest fielder is in front of the base (live) or
behind the base (dead). The runner is not out unless she
intentionally interferes.
SECTION 2 BATTER-RUNNER IS OUT
The batter-runner shall be called out when:
10.infielder intentionally drops a fair fly ball, including a line drive
or a bunt, which can be caught with ordinary effort with first;
first and second; first and third; or first, second and third bases
occupied with fewer than two outs. A trapped ball shall not be
considered as having been intentionally dropped.
PENALTY: (Art. 10) The ball is dead, and each runner must
return to the last base touched at the time of the pitch. If
an infield fly is ruled, it has precedence over an
intentionally dropped ball.
11.The immediate preceding runner who is not yet out
intentionally interferes, in the umpire's judgment, with a
fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball or throw a ball
in an attempt to complete the play on the batter-runner.
PENALTY: (Art. 11) Interference is ruled, the ball is dead, the
batter-runner and the interfering runner are out, and all
other runners are returned to the base last occupied at
the time of interference.
SECTION 2 BATTER-RUNNER IS OUT
The batter-runner shall be called out when:
12.If a spectator reaches into the field of play and
interferes with a fielder's opportunity to catch a fly
ball
PENALTY: (Art. 12) The ball is dead, the batterrunner is out and the umpire should award the
runners the bases in the umpire's judgment that
they would have reached had the interference
not occurred.
13.The on-deck batter commits interference or
offensive team equipment causes a blocked ball (and
interference).
PENALTY: (Art. 13) The batter-runner being played
on is out. If no play is obvious, no player is out,
but runners shall return to the last base
touched at the time the ball is declared dead.
SECTION 3 TOUCHING BASES IN LEGAL ORDER
1. An advancing runner must touch bases in order
2. Returning runner must touch bases in reverse order
EXCEPTION: On a foul ball.
EFFECT: (Arts. 1, 2) Offensive players could be ruled out on a proper
appeal by the defensive team. (2-1)
3. Runner or batter-runner acquires the right to a base by touching it
before being put out; entitled to hold the base until touching the
next base or forced to vacate it for a succeeding runner.
4. Runner passes a base, she is considered to have touched that
base. This also applies to awarded bases.
5. Runner dislodges a base; neither the runner nor the succeeding
runner(s) in the same series of plays are compelled to follow a
base out of position.
EFFECT: (Arts. 3, 4, 5) The ball is in play and runners may
advance or return with liability to be put out.
6. Runner shall run base in reverse order to confuse the fielders
PENALTY: (Art. 6) The ball is dead and the runner is out.
SECTION 3 TOUCHING BASES IN LEGAL ORDER
7. Two runners may not legally occupy the same base simultaneously.
EFFECT: The runner who first legally occupied the base shall be
entitled to it, unless forced to advance. The other runner
may be put out by being touched with the ball.
8. Failure of a PRECEDING runner to touch a base or to legally tag up
on a caught fly ball, and who is declared out, does not affect the
status of a SUCCEEDING runner who touches bases in proper order.
If the failure to touch a base in regular order or to legally tag up on
a caught fly ball is the third out of the inning, no SUCCEEDING
runner may score a run.
9. No runner may return to touch a missed base or one left too soon
after a following runner has scored or once she leaves the field of
play.
10. Bases left too soon on a caught fly ball must be retouched prior to
advancing to awarded bases.
11. Awarded bases must be run legally.
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
Art. 1… Runners may advance with liability to be put out when:
EFFECT: (Art. 1) The ball is in play.
Ball leaves pitcher’s
hand
Fly ball touched
by a defender
Thrown ball
Thrown ball hits umpire
Ball gets lodged in player’s
uniform
Fair batted ball
Fair batted ball hits an
umpire or a runner after a
defender made a play on
ball
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
ART. 2 . . . A runner forfeits exemption from liability and may be put out when:
ball is in play; awarded bases, the runner
fails to touch a base before attempting to
make the next base.
after overrunning first base, the runner
attempts to continue to second base.
after dislodging a base, a runner attempts to
continue to the next base
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
ART. 3 . . . A runner is entitled to advance without liability to be put out when:
forced to advance because
the batter was awarded
first base.
a fielder not in possession of ball or not
making an initial play on a batted ball,
impedes the progress of a runner or
batter-runner who is legally running
bases.
(F.P.) a wild pitch or
passed ball lodges in or
goes under, over or
through the backstop.
PENALTY: (Art. 3c) Dead Ball; runners are
awarded 1 base only; batter is awarded 1st only
on the fourth ball.
PENALTY: (Art. 3b)
Obstruction; umpire
signal a delayed
dead ball.
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
ART. 3 . . . A runner is entitled to advance without liability to be put out when:
Illegal pitch; Unless coach
takes result of play
fielder intentionally contacts or catches a ball with her cap,
helmet, mask, protector, pocket, detached glove or any part
of the uniform which is detached from its proper place on
their person.
PENALTY: (Art. 3e) The batter and runner would be entitled to three bases from the time of
the pitch if a batted ball, two bases from the time of the throw if a thrown ball, or one base
from the time of the pitch if a pitched ball and in (F.P.) may advance farther at their own
risk. If the illegal catch or touch is made on a fair hit ball that, in the judgment of the
umpire, would have cleared the outfield fence in flight, the batter-runner shall be awarded
four bases.
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
ART. 3 . . . A runner is entitled to advance without liability to be put out when:
overthrown beyond the
boundary lines
PENALTY: (Art. 3f) runners awarded 2 bases, at time the ball
left the fielder's hand. Runners may return to touch a missed
base or base left too soon. If two runners are between the
same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead
runner.
Ball bounces over, rolls under,
goes through fence.
Fair ball over fence. Hits pole
above fence.
HOME RUN!
PENALTY: (Art. 3h) Dead Ball;
runners awarded 2 bases
from the time of the pitch.
SECTION 4 RUNNERS ENTITLED TO ADVANCE
ART. 3 . . . A runner is entitled to advance without liability to be put out when:
Ball carried into dead ball area.
PENALTY: (Art. 3i) Dead Ball;
runners 1 base at the time the
fielder entered dead-ball
territory.
Intentionally Carried, kicked or thrown ball into dead ball
area.
PENALTY: (Art. 3j) Dead Ball; runners awarded 2 bases at
the time the fielder entered or the ball was kicked,
pushed or thrown into dead-ball territory
a ball gets lodged in (an)
umpire's gear or clothing or
(b) in an offensive
player's clothing.
Spectator Interference
PENALTY: (Arts. 3k, 3l)Dead Ball; umpire should award the
runners the bases in the umpire's judgment they would
have reached.
SECTION 5 RUNNER MUST RETURN TO HER BASE
1.Foul Ball
2.Illegal Batted Ball
3.batter, batter-runner or runner is called out for interference. Each other
runner shall return to the last base which, in the umpire's judgment, was
touched by the runner at the time of the interference.
4.Pitch ball struck at and ball hits batter’s person or clothing
5.Unless forced to advance by batter being awarded 1st
PENALTY: (Arts. 1 through 5) The ball is dead. Each runner must return
to her base without liability to be put out, except when forced to go to
the next base because the batter became a batter-runner. Runners need
not touch the intervening bases in returning to their base.
6.Plate umpire interference with the catcher’s throw
PENALTY: (Art. 6) This is a delayed dead ball at the time of the
interference. If the runner is ruled out, the ball remains live. If the
runner is not out, she must return to the base occupied at the time of
the pitch. It is not umpire interference if, on a passed ball or wild pitch,
the umpire gets hit by a thrown ball from the catcher or if contact is
made with the catcher trying to retrieve the ball. The ball would remain
live.
8.Intentionally dropped ball ruled
SECTION 6 RUNNER IS OUT WHEN
1.Running to any base in regular or reverse order and the runner runs
more than three feet (0.91 m) from the base path to avoid being touched
by the ball in the hand(s) of a fielder.
2.The ball is in play and while the runner is not in contact with a base,
the runner is legally touched with the ball in the hand(s) of a fielder.
3.On a force play, a fielder contacts the base while holding the ball,
touches the ball to the base or tags the runner before the runner reaches
the base.
4.The runner physically passes a preceding runner before that runner has
been put out. If this was the third out of the inning, any runs scoring
prior to the out for passing a preceding runner would count. A runner(s)
passing a preceding obstructed runner, as in 8-4-3b Penalty c, is not out.
5.Any offensive team member, other than another runner, physically
assists the runner.
PENALTY: (Arts. 1 through 5) The ball is in play and the runner is out.
6.runner leaves a base to advance to another base before a caught fly
ball has touched a fielder, provided the ball is returned to the infield and
properly appealed.
SECTION 6 RUNNER IS OUT WHEN
7.runner fails to touch the intervening base or bases in regular or reverse
order and the ball is returned to the infield and properly appealed. If the
runner put out is the batter-runner at first base, or any other runner
forced to advance because the batter became a batter-runner, this is a
force out.
8.The batter-runner legally overruns first base, attempts to run to second
base and is legally touched while off the base.
9.Running or sliding for home plate and the runner fails to touch it, and a
fielder properly appeals to the umpire for the decision.
PENALTY: (Arts. 6 through 9) These are appeal plays. See 2-1.
10.The runner interferes:
a. with a fielder attempting to make the initial play on a fair batted
ball.
b. with a fielder attempting to field a fly ball over foul territory.
c. with a fielder attempting to throw the ball.
d. intentionally with a fielder or thrown ball.
NOTE: Jumping, hurdling and leaping are all legal attempts
11.runner is struck with a fair untouched batted ball while not in contact
with a base and before it passes an infielder, excluding the pitcher, or if it
passes an infielder and any fielder has an opportunity to make an out
SECTION 6 RUNNER IS OUT WHEN
15.on-deck batter commits interference or offensive team equipment
causes a blocked ball (and interference).
PENALTY: (Art. 15) The runner being played on is out. If no play is
obvious, no player is out, but runners shall return to the last base
touched at the time the ball is declared dead.
16.The coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate on or
near the baseline while a fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted
or thrown ball and thereby draws a throw to home plate.
17.A coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball while in the coach's
box, or interferes with the defensive team's opportunity to make a play
on another runner.
18.After being declared out or after scoring, a runner interferes with a
defensive player's opportunity to make a play on another runner. A
runner continuing to run and drawing a throw may be considered a form
of interference. This does not apply to the batter-runner running on the
dropped third strike rule.
PENALTY: (Arts. 16, 17, 18) The ball is dead and the runner closest to
home plate at the time of the interference shall be declared out. Each
other runner must return to the last base touched at the time of the
interference.
SECTION 6 RUNNER IS OUT WHEN
19.Member(s) of the offensive team stand or collect around a base to
which a runner is advancing, thereby confusing the fielders and adding to
the difficulty of making the play. Members of a team include bat/ball
shaggers or any other person authorized to sit on the team's bench.
PENALTY: (Art. 19) The ball is dead and the runner is out. Each other
runner must return to the last base touched at the time of the
interference.
21.(F.P.) The runner fails to keep contact with the base to which the
runner is entitled until the ball leaves the pitcher's hand.
PENALTY: (Arts. 20, 21) The ball is dead, "no pitch" is declared when
applicable, and the runner is out.
22.She abandons a base, enters her team area or leaves the field of play.
23.She positions herself behind and not in contact with a base to get a
running start on any fly ball. The ball remains live.
24.Prior to a pitch (legal or illegal) to the next batter, if the runner was
discovered having used an illegal bat, she shall be declared out and any
runners put out prior to the discovery shall remain out.
SECTION 7 (F.P.) LOOK – BACK RULE
1.LIVE BALL – Pitcher has Possession of ball within 16ft circle;
batter-runner has touched 1st or been declared out
2.Runner may stop once; must immediately return or advance
3.Runner that stops at a base will be declared out for leaving
4.Batter-runner; including base on ball or dropped 3rd strike
a. Round 1st and stop once
b.
c.
d.
e.
batter-runner who overruns 1st, turns left and immediately
stops, must return non-stop to 1st or attempt to advance.
overruns 1st toward right field, turns left and moves directly
toward 2nd and stops is committed and must attempt to
advance non-stop to 2nd.
overruns first base toward right field, turns left and moves back
toward the infield in any direction except directly toward 2nd
base is committed to 1st and must return to 1st.
A batter-runner who overruns 1st toward right field, and turns
right, is committed to 1stand must return to first base.
PENALTY: (Arts. 2, 3, 4) Dead Ball;"No pitch“ if applicable; runner is out. If two
runners or more are off their bases, when one is called out, the ball is dead and
other runners are returned to the last base touched. Only one runner may be
called out.
EXCEPTION: The runner will not be declared out if a play is made on another
runner (a fake throw is considered a play), the pitcher no longer has possession of
the ball within the 16-foot circle, or the pitcher releases the ball on a pitch to the
batter
SECTION 8 RUNNER IS NOT OUT
1.Runner runs behind/in-front fielder and out of base line to
avoid fielder making initial play on the ball.
2.Runner doesn’t run in a direct line to a base provided the fielder
does not have the ball in the direct line.
3.More than one fielder attempts to field a ball; runner comes in
contact w/fielder; in umpire’s judgment could not have made and
out.
4.Batted ball passes a fielder other than pitcher and no other
fielder could have made a play; ball hits runner
5.Runner is hit by a foul ball; judged not to be interference
6.Runner hit by a batted ball after a fielder has touch it
7.Runner touched while of base:
a. Ball not securely held by a fielder
b. With a hand or glove with ball in other hand
8.No appeal has been requested by defense
9.Overruns 1st;returns directly to the base
10.Runner doesn’t get time to return to a base; “NO PITCH!”
SECTION 8 RUNNER IS NOT OUT
11. Runner as start to advance prior to ball and player in circle
12. Runner stays on base until fly ball touches a fielder then advances.
13. Runner hit by a fair batted ball while touching a base; unless
interferes with the ball or fielder making a play
14. Runner slides and dislodges a base
Effect: runner may return unless attempting to advance
15. Fielder makes a play while using an illegal glove on batter, batterrunner, runner and discovered before:
a. Next pitch
b. Pitcher & all infielders have left fair territory ; catcher have left
fielding position towards dugout
c. Umpires have left the field
PENALTY: (Art. 15) The offended coach may have the entire play nullified
with each runner returning to her original base and the batter
batting over again, assuming the ball and strike count prior to the
steal attempt or pitch that was hit; or the offended coach may take
the result of the play and disregard the illegal act.
16. Runner returns to a base left too soon prior to an appeal or returning
to a base during a dead ball
17. Runner physically passes an obstructed preceding runner
SECTION 9 COURTESY RUNNER (S)
1.For pitcher and/or catcher while at bat anytime; 1 runner for
each position
2.Pitcher/Catcher listed on line-up or physially played the position
in previous inning.
3.Must be a legal substitute that has not played
4.A player may not be a runner and sub in same half inning
Exception: injury, no other subs; pitcher/cater must run
5.DP must be pitcher/catcher to use a runner
6.Must sub for pitcher/catcher to change courtesy runner
Exception:
1. Due to an injury or disqualification courtesy runner must
be used as a sub; pitcher/catcher runs
2. Courtesy runner injured; pitcher/catcher runs or sub for
pitcher/catcher
PENALTY: (Arts. 1 through 6) Illegal substitute as in 3-4.
7.Must be reported to plate umpire
PENALTY: (Art. 7) Unreported substitute as in 3-3-4 and
3-6-7 Penalty
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 10 DOUBLE FIRST BASE
Defense
must use
white bag
Batter – Runner must use
colored portion of base
Defense / batter-runner may use either base if play forces them to use
opposite bag
Batter-runner or runner may use white or colored base when no play is
being made or going back into / tag up at first base
Down East Umpire Association Softball
1 RUN FOR LEGALLY
TOUCHING 1ST, 2ND, 3RD &
HOME
EXCEPTION: 3RD OUT IS
MADE ON FORCE OR
BEFORE RUNNER SCORES
ON APPEAL.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
HOME TEAM THE OFFICIAL SCOREBOOK
Down East Umpire Association Softball
Rule ❒10
Umpiring
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 GENERAL: ART. 1, 2,3,
1 OR 2 BASE
UMPIRE(S)
PLATE
IF ONLY 1
Jurisdiction
1 umpire with-in confines
Ends by leave field of play
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 1 GENERAL: ART. 4,5,6
PROHIBITED
PROHIBITED IN VICINITY
Decision to eject player
/ non-players is final!!!!
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 PLATE UMPIRE
1. BEHIND HOME PLATE/CATCHER
a. CALL AND COUNT BALLS, STRIKES
b. SIGNAL FAIR/FOUL
c. MAKE DECISIONS REGARDING BATTER
d. MAKE DECISIONS NOT RESERVED FOR BASE
UMPIRE.
2. FORFIET GAME; JURISDICTION OVER RULES NOT
COVERED BY THE BOOK
3. Duties:
a. Pregame Conference, Inspect Equipment &
field, designate official scorekeeper
b. Play Ball Signal to start/resume game; Call time
to stop game.
c. Eject/Restrict players/coaches to dugout
d. Announce/record substitute
e. Call game due to conditions
f. Enforce rules
g. Make finial decisions not covered in rules
h. Forfeit game
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 2 PLATE UMPIRE cont.
g. Make finial decisions not covered in
rules
h. Forfeit game
i. Report all situations: protest,
suspended, etc
Exception: Last play of game
j. Record all conferences / warnings
k. Remove player exhibiting signs of a
concussion
l. Penalize for equipment violations
m.Rectify any situations in which an
umpire’s decision has place either team
in jeopardy
n. Correct scorekeeping errors
Down East Umpire Association Softball
SECTION 3 FIELD UMPIRE
1. ASSIST PLATE UMPIRE; Make calls on base except those
reserved by plate umpire; call time, illegal pitches,
defacement of ball, fair/foul, unsporting acts,
2. Only 1 field umpire; all plays at 1st and 2nd unless umpire
chase; 3rd when plate umpire can’t cover
3. Concurrent jurisdiction with all umpires
SECTION 4 EQUIPMENT AND APPREAL
1. PLATE: Mask w/ throat protector; chest protector
2. Powder Blue Shirt, Heather Gray Pants (CHARCOL GRAY
DOWN EAST UMPIRES) Blue pullover jacket / knit
sweater, cap, navy ball bags. Shoes, socks, and belt shall
be black. Undershirt white
3. Cast, splints and braces must be padded.
Down East
Umpire
Association
Softball
SOFTBALL RULES BY STATE ASSOCIATION ADOPTION
•
1-1-2 Note
•
•
1-2-1 Note
1-3-6 Note
•
3-2-1
•
3-3-7 (S.P.):
•
•
4-2-3
4-2-3 Note 2:
•
4-2-6
•
4-3-1a
•
4-4-1
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5-2-1b Note:
By state association adoption (S.P.), the pitching distance shall be 50’ when using a
12-inch ball.
A double first base is permitted. (8-10)
By state association adoption, an 11-inch softball shall be used in girls slow pitch.
(1-1-2a)
State associations may, on an individual basis, permit a player to participate while
wearing a different style uniform for religious reasons.
By state association adoption, a team may use an 11th player called an Extra
Player, EP.
By state association adoption, game-ending procedures may be determined.
By state association adoption, the number of innings for one or both games in a
doubleheader may be scheduled for five innings. Current state association gameending procedures still apply.
By state association adoption, the tie-breaker procedure may be instituted at a
point in the game specified by the state association.
State associations are authorized to specify the time frame and/or circumstances
before a forfeit will be declared for a late arrival by one of the teams.
It is optional on the part of a state association as to whether protests are
permitted.
After 30 minutes, the umpire may declare the game ended or by state association
adoption, suspended.
Down East Umpire Association Softball
2012 POINTS OF EMPHASIS
1.Pitching
2.Legal Apparel and Equipment
3.On-Deck Batter/Location
A. DO NOT PITCH
Signal toward
pitcher
B. PLAY BALL
Verbally calls
“Play ball”
E. STRIKE/OUT
F. INFIELD FLY
Fist to hammer at
90 degrees
Verbally call
“Infield fly”
C. TIME OUT/FOULBALL/
DEAD BALL
Verbally calls “Time,”
“Foul ball” or “Dead ball
G. SAFE
Verbally call
“Safe”
D. DELAYED DEAD BALL
Extend left arm out,
fist with palm down
(or out)
H. FAIR BALL
Point to fair territory
with hand closest to
infield. No verbal call
I. FOUL TIP
Fingers touch together,
chest high, followed by
strike call.
K. HOME RUN
Right fist in the air,
rotate counterclockwise
J. COUNT
Left hand indicates balls,
followed by strikes on the
right hand. Verbally give
count.
L. DOUBLE
First two fingers in
the air