Added by Hope Summer Playground
Updated
Teams are allowed ten (10) players on defense. All players present are placed in the batting order. The extra player on defense must be placed in the outfield. For substitution rules, refer to rule # 5 in General Rules.
A regulation game will consist of six (6) innings. Four (4) innings will constitute an official game in case of rain. Games called off prior to the fourth inning, due to weather, will be completely replayed on the established reschedule date. (EXCEPTION) Tourney games will not be ended by rain or darkness. They shall be resumed at a later date continuing exactly from the point where play was halted.
Bases shall be seventy (70) feet apart. Base runners will be not allowed to lead off.
Runners can steal bases, they may also steal home on a past ball only (NO SUICIDE SQUEEZES).
A runner missing a base will be called out after completion of play, there are no warnings regarding a runner missing a base.
There is no rule that states a runner must slide when there is a close play at a base or home. However, if a runner initiates contact with a defensive player who has the ball, or is attempting to catch the ball, interference may be called, and the runner would be out.
A batter may advance on a dropped third strike if first base is not occupied at the time of the pitch when there is one (1) out or less. A batter may advance regardless of whether first is occupied on a dropped third strike when there are two (2) outs. A batter will be called out if they make any move toward the dugout after a dropped third strike.
After a batted ball, the rules of baseball apply. Runners are eligible to score until they are put out by the defense, or the defense has forced the runners to hold. Runners may tag up and score after a caught fly ball, fair or foul. The infield fly rule does not apply in HSP Major League.
The pitching distance shall be (46) feet. A pitcher may pitch three (3) innings per game or (4) innings per doubleheader. Delivery of one pitch constitutes a full inning pitched.
No bats bigger than 2 5/8 will be allowed in Major League play. If a player is caught on the playing field with a larger bat than allowed, it will be called an automatic out, and the equipment will be removed.
For league and tournament time limits, refer to rule #8 and #9 in General Rules. For run limits and mercy rule, refer to rule #6 and #24 in General Rules. All interpretations and other rules of baseball will be referenced to the Cal Ripken Official Rules Book.
