The Rules of Baserunning

1. Prior to the start of a game, managers must announce to the opposing team if any known

thrown out at first base on a base hit.

a. After reaching base safely, the batter may request a substitute baserunner due to an injury.

2. The last healthy out or base running out or score may be designated as the substitute baserunner.

For example, if a batter has reached first base on a fielder's choice, the runner forced out may

baserunner. This request is voluntary and does not come from the bench.

substitute baserunners will be needed.

4. A batter whose hit reaches the outfield grass (ground ball or fly ball) cannot be thrown out at first

base. However, if an infielder touches a ground ball before it hit the outfield grass and the ball

then reaches the grass, the infielder may still attempt to make the play at first base. The intent of

the rule is to NOT take away a base hit from a batter due to physical limitations and is unable to

reach base quickly.

6. The "speed up" rule for catchers is not used at any time.

7. A batter may not advance to first base on a dropped third strike.

8. The stealing of a base or advancing on a wild pitch or passed ball is not allowed.

9. If the catcher makes an errant throw back to the pitcher, the baserunners may not advance.

10. The catcher cannot attempt to "pick-off" baserunners.

11. Lead-offs are limited to 12 feet and are usually marked with a chalk line on the field. A baserunner

exceeding the length of the lead-off beyond the allowed limit is subject to being called out.

12. Baserunners are allowed a walking or stationary lead-off. Running leads are not allowed.

13. A baserunner may begin advancing to the next base only after the pitched ball crosses home

plate.

a. With two outs, a three and two count, and force-out situations on the base paths, baserunners

5. A substitute baserunner is not allowed for the batter from home plate, since the batter cannot be

for a substitute baserunner.

become the substitute runner. The "last batted out" rule is no longer in effect as a requirement

3. Any player, 60 yrs. of age or older, who has safely reached base may request a substitute

may begin to advance upon the ball leaving the pitcher's hand.