CSA Spring 2010 Abbreviated Softball Rules

Below is an abbreviated version of ASA Rules. These rules are provided as a summary for coaches and parents and are not to be used in questioning the interpretation of rules in an official game situation.

1. Dropped 3rd strike (10U/12U/14U) – Players may attempt to advance to 1^st base if the umpire calls a strike and the catcher drops the ball. When there are less than 2 outs and 1^st base is not occupied, or, anytime there are 2 outs. Runners may advance at their own risk.
2. Open home plate rules, as per ASA rule, are in effect.
3. All pitches must be delivered underhand release with both feet touching the mound at presentation.
4. A batter/runner that has acquired 1^st base by either walk or base hit may advance at their own risk.
5. A runner may not leave the base before the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand.
6. Game scores for the last third of the season will be kept for play-off seeding (excluding 6U).
7. Regular season games may end in a tie.
8. Playoffs during regular season must end with a winner. International tie breaker procedure will be used for all tie games after time has expired,
9. A batter hit by a pitch outside of the strike zone, shall be awarded 1^st base. The batter MUST make some attempt to get out of the way or else the pitch shall be called a ball and the batter will remain in the batter’s box.
10. The Infield fly rule will be used. If in the umpire’s judgment, a typical player would catch the ball with minimal effort, “infield fly” will be called and the batter will be out. By ASA rule, ordinary effort is a judgment call for the umpire.
11. Nine (9) defensive players may be used, three (3) of which are outfielders. A distance of 20’ must be kept between infielders and outfielders
12. All players must keep shirttails tucked into their shorts and jackets must be buttoned/zipped up if worn. Caps, if worn, shall be worn appropriately with the brim facing the front.
13. A minimum of eight (8) players are needed to avoid a forfeit. Players arriving late are placed at the bottom of the batting order.
14. To avoid injury to the runner and fielder, runners must slide or avoid.
15. Line-up – entire team bats.
16. Coaches have free substitution. All team members, who are present at the beginning of a regulation game, shall play a minimum of two defensive innings during the first four innings of play unless injured.
17. The “home” team will be responsible for refreshing the field between games.Re-line the field and provide the “new” game ball. The teams playing the last game of the day are responsible to ensure the bases are picked up and equipment boxes are locked prior to leaving the field.

Consult Official ASA Softball Rule Book for Exact Rules