The following rules have been adopted by the league and are replacements or additions to the official rules, while others are listed due to their significance. New or modified rules for 2010 are high lighted in Red

1. EQUIPMENT:

All players (excluding spares) must wear the official team sweaters at all times during the game unless agreed upon by both coaches and the home plate umpire after being given a reasonable explanation as to why the player does not have his sweater. Players will be allowed only one reprieve per season. Any subsequent repetition of this offense, the player will be disallowed from playing in that game.

Any player who alters in any way, other than normal wear and tear, the official team sweater or corporate logo of the sponsor shall NOT be permitted to participate in that game, or any subsequent game until a replacement sweater has been paid for.

(a) All players are encouraged to wear the official league cap. In case of inclement weather, the umpire may give permission to wear a jacket on top of the team sweater.

(b) Bats – In order to take the strain of use off league bats, a player may bring his own bat to be used in a game, as long as this bat is shared with both teams during the game. Said bat must conform to all league specifications for bats.

The official bat shall be round and measure not more than 34 inches long, and not more than 2 1/4 inches in diameter at its largest part and its weight shall not exceed 38 ounces. The bat shall have a safety grip of cloth, tape, cork, or some other composition material, to facilitate holding the bat during the batter’s swing. Bats may be made of hardwood, aluminum, or other metal tubing, fiberglass, graphite or bamboo. The angular handled and water filled bats are legal. TITANIUM alloy bats, or bats having been altered (excluding normal wear) such that the manufacturers markings and specifications are not visible, are not permitted. Bats that are dented or cracked shall be deemed illegal and removed from play.

The official bat for the KMSPL season will be a single wall construction bat.  Double wall, triple wall and composite bats are not allowed. Composite handles will be allowed.

Effect: When a bat does not meet the specifications outlined above, the umpire shall prohibit the use of the bat. 

c)  Players are not allowed to use shoes with metal sole and/or heel plates. Metal or screw-on metal cleats are not allowed. 

e) All gloves designed for baseball may be worn by any player. “Trappers” are not restricted to catchers and first basemen.

f)   Balls – The official league ball will be a flight reduced mid compression (525) core 44 ball as purchased by the league equipment manager. 

Each game shall start using a new ball provided by the home team. The visiting team shall provide an official provisional ball in good shape as selected by one of the umpires.

2. REGULATION GAMES:

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a) A regulation game consists of nine innings. 

b)  No inning may be started 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start of another game or past 10:45 p.m.. 

c)  No pitch will be allowed 5 minutes prior to the start of the next game or past 10:55 pm..  If the inning is not complete the score will revert back to that at the time of the last completed inning.

d) MERCY RULE: If one team is leading by 20 runs or more, at the end of any complete inning during regular season or playoffs, after five complete innings, the official game is considered to have ended.  Should play continue, individual stats past this point will not be recorded, and the field must be cleared 15 minutes prior to the start of the next scheduled game.

e)   Where there is a problem with rain, sloppy field conditions, lights, etc., the umpires alone are to decide whether the game is to be played. The Umpire-in-Chief is responsible for the rescheduling of cancelled games. 

f)  MAKE UP GAMES: No make up games shall be scheduled on statutory holiday weekends and if possible when making the regular season and playoff schedules every effort should be made by the league scheduler not to schedule any games on statutory holiday weekends.

3. DEFINITIONS:

Appeal Play – is a live or dead ball play, which the umpire cannot rule upon until a decision is requested by the defensive or offensive team. This appeal must be made before the next legal or illegal pitch, intentional walk, or before all defensive players have left the field.

Base Path – is an imaginary line three feet to either side of a direct line between two bases. An established base path is an imaginary line in direct line from the runner to the base in which he is advancing. The base path becomes established when the fielder receives the ball and begins his attempt to tag the runner.

Batter’s Box – is the area within which the batter takes his position, when it is his turn to bat. Prior to the pitch, both feet must be in contact with the ground within the lines of the batter’s box. (The lines are considered to be inside the box.)

Bunt – is a batted ball not swung at, but intentionally met with the bat and tapped slowly within the infield.

Catch (legal) – is the act of the fielder receiving the ball, in flight, and having it securely in his possession, in his hand or glove. It is a legal catch provided he does not use his cap or any other part of his uniform, or the glove is not in its normal position on the hand to stop or catch the ball, or he does not collide with a wall, fence, another person, or fall down and as a result of any such collision, drop the ball. To establish the validity of the catch, the fielder shall hold the ball long enough so the umpire is convinced that he had complete control of the ball himself, and any release of the ball by him was voluntary and intentional. Dropping the ball while attempting to throw it shall not invalidate the catch. 

Commit Line – is a line drawn perpendicular to the 3^rd base line in foul territory 20 feet before reaching home plate from 3^rd.

Crossing a Line – a runner crosses either the "COMMIT" or "SAFETY" line once his foot touches or lands past the line in question.  Once a runner has crossed the "COMMIT" line, he must continue home under all circumstances.

Dugout – A overthrown ball is considered "in the dugout" and is immediately dead when it rolls into the dugout on the ground, touches an offensive player who is in the dugout, or hits the permanent fence directly upwards above either dugout.

Fair Ball – is a batted ball that settles on fair territory between home plate and first base or home plate and third base, or that is on or over fair territory, including any part of first or third bases when bounding to the outfield, or that first touches any base, or that touches a player or umpire over fair territory, or which first touches the ground or an object in fair territory, or over fair territory, beyond first and third bases, or that while over and above fair territory passes out of the playing field i.e., over and beyond the outside fence.

Fair Territory – is that part of the playing area within and including the first and third base foul lines, from home plate to the bottom of the extreme playing area fence and then extending perpendicularly upwards. (Home plate is in fair territory)

Force Out – occurs when a base runner is forced to advance to the next base due to the batter becoming a base runner. If the base runner (on or off the base) is tagged by a fielder with the ball or a fielder holds the ball on the base to which the base runner is forced to advance before the runner can reach that base and before any succeeding runner is put out, that base runner is considered to be forced out.

Foul Ball – is any batted ball that stops or settles in foul territory without first being touched in fair territory, or which is first touched in foul territory, or that first touches some out-of-play object, or an area in foul territory, or that first touches foul ground beyond first or third base. 

Foul Tip – is a batted ball that goes directly from the bat, not higher than the batter’s head, to the catcher’s hand or glove and is legally caught. The first contact of the ball from the bat, must be the catcher’s hand or glove.

Illegally Batted Ball – is one batted fair or foul by the batter when either one or both feet are in contact with the ground COMPLETELY outside the lines of the batter’s box, or when his foot is in contact with home plate, or when the ball is batted with an illegal bat.

Illegally Caught Ball – occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball with an illegal glove, or with a glove, mask, cap, or any other piece of clothing detached from its proper position on the fielder’s body.

Infield – is that portion of the field within the baselines, and also includes the areas of the field normally covered by infielders in defensive positions.

Infield Fly – An Infield fly is an umpire's JUDGMENT call, NOT subject to appeal or dispute and NOT automatic. On an infield fly,  the umpire must judge whether the ball could have been caught by an infielder with ordinary effort - not by some arbitrary limitation such as grass, or the base lines.  The umpire must rule also that the ball is an infield fly, even if handled by an outfielder, if in the umpire's judgment, the ball could have been as easily handled by an infielder. The infield fly is in no sense to be considered an appeal play.  The umpire's judgment must govern, and the decision should be made immediately, for the sake of the runners, with the ball in the air.

Note: If a fairly batted ball is to be declared an infield fly, the umpire shall call: “INFIELD FLY, IF FAIR, BATTER IS OUT”, for the benefit of the runners. Failure to make such a call does not preclude the batted ball from being an infield fly. The ball is alive and if runners advance, they do so at their own risk and are in jeopardy if the ball is caught. The ruling is the same as any other caught or dropped fly ball. A foul ball is not an infield fly and, if the ball falls untouched to the ground and subsequently rolls into foul territory before first and third bases, it is simply a foul ball.

Interference – is an act of players or others who interfere with a player’s opportunity to execute a play.

a) Offensive Interference - When a player interferes with, or impedes, or confuses a defensive player while he is attempting to make a play, by either physical or vocal actions.

b) Spectator Interference - when a spectator interferes with a player’s ability to make a play.

Legal Touch – occurs when a fielder, who is securely holding the ball in his hand, touches the runner or batter-runner that is not touching a base. The fielder may touch the runner with the hand or glove in which the ball is securely held. It is not considered securely held if the ball is dropped or juggled by the fielder after having touched the runner unless the runner intentionally knocks the ball from the hand of the fielder.

Line Drive – is a batted ball that goes in a straight line, sharply and directly, into the playing field.

Live Ball – is a ball that is alive and playable and remains so until for some reason the umpire is required to call TIME, at which time the ball becomes dead and is not playable.

Obstruction – is an act of a fielder, while not in possession of the ball, or not in the act of fielding a batted ball, or taking a proper position to receive a thrown ball (thrown ball must already be in flight) which impedes the process of a runner who is legally running the bases. The obstruction does not have to be intentional. Obstruction also includes the act of a defensive player who hinders the batter’s ability to swing.

Overthrow – is a ball thrown from one fielder toward another and, for whatever reason, goes into “out of play territory”. If this occurs, all base runners will be awarded bases as outlined under Rule 8.e) i).

Pitcher/Infielder – the pitcher becomes an infielder when, after releasing the ball towards the batter, he has a reasonable opportunity to field a batted ball.

Safety Line – is a line drawn PARALLEL TO THE FIRST BASE LINE, FROM THE FRONT LEFT CORNER (THE CORNER CLOSEST TO THIRD BASE) TO THE BACKSTOP.

Strike Zone – is that space directly above home plate, which is not higher than the batter’s highest shoulder,  nor lower than the bottom of the batter’s front knee, when the batter assumes his natural batting stance. Any part of a pitched ball that passes through any part of the strike zone shall be considered to be a strike.

Three Foot Line – is the designated running area at the latter half of the home plate to the first base path, that a batter-base runner must run in so as not to be called out for interfering with the first baseman’s ability to receive a throw.

4.  OFFICIAL TEAMS:

a) A team must have a minimum of nine players to start a game (including spares). Seven of these players must be regular players. A team must have sufficient players to start a game within fifteen minutes of the scheduled starting time or the game is forfeited.

b) A team must have a minimum of eight players (including spares) to continue a game.

c) Each player on the team roster must participate in a game. All players present must be included in the batting order and must bat in turn.

d) In each inning, the defensive team may use a maximum of eleven players in the field. No player is to sit out a second inning until each player on the team has sat out an inning. No player is to sit out a third inning until each other player on the team has sat out two innings.

e) A player who arrives after the first pitch of the game may play, but his name must be added to the bottom of the batting order. If his team is in the field and is playing with less than 11 fielders, he may join the game immediately.

f)   Should a base runner be injured at any time during the course of his running the bases, he may temporarily come out of the game and be replaced by a pinch runner, once play has stopped and "TIME" has been called.   The replacement player shall be the last out.   The pinch runner will be for that specific tour around the bases ONLY, and if the replaced player becomes injured a second time, he may again be substituted for however, must leave the game.  The injured player may sit out in the next defensive inning independent of the previous number of sits, however, this constitutes as another sit.   The next time the injured player has his turn at bat (even if the next at-bat occurs in the same inning), he MUST run the bases, or be removed from the game permanently. 

Pinch runners must abide by the same rules applied to a pinch runner who is running for a player who is under the permanent replacement runner rule (see (g - ii)). Therefore no stealing and only advancing on a hit ball or walk.

g) Permanent injury

At the beginning of the season and before the ratings have been decided and the draft has been held, any player may petition the executive to use a “pinch runner”. The Executive may or may not grant a member in good standing the ability to have a pinch runner for each game under the following conditions :

a.     Before each game, the coach or player must announce to the opposition that a pinch runner will be used. Failure to inform the opposition will result in the player having to run for himself for that particular game.

b.     In order to acquire a pinch runner, the player must reach first base.

c.      The injured player must stop at 1^st base. If the runner advances to second base, he is out.

d.     The pinch runner will be the last out previous to the injured player. All efforts should be made by the team using the pinch runner to be as fair as possible in assigning the runner. 

e.     The executive may at any time revoke the eligibility of any player to have a “Pinch runner” for any reason they feel valid based on their own criteria.

f.     No player may use a “pinch runner” in the playoffs unless they have used one for more than half of the games of the regular season.

g.    The executive may add, modify, delete, any rules regarding the “pinch runner” rule at any time during the year as they see fit, whether it be as a general change or a change to a specific individual based on problems that arise or abuse of the rule by individual players, coaches, or teams.

     Amendment by the executive:

i.             Any player requesting and acquiring permanent injury status and using the permanent injury pinch runner rule, MUST bat last in the batting order ahead of only spares.

ii.           Pinch runners may ONLY advance on a batted ball. If they advance a base on ANY other play, they are out.

iii.         The same opportunity exists for a player to have a pinch runner once the season starts, through petitioning the Executive.

iv.         Once a player has been granted a pinch runner, either prior to the season starting, or during the season, this remains in effect for the remainder of the regular season AND the playoffs.

h) A player who misses a turn at bat because of illness or injury must leave the game.

i) A fielder who leaves the game because of illness or injury may return to the game, provided he does not miss a turn at bat. He must, however, return to the field on his next scheduled turn or leave the game.

j)   Only registered players and spares may occupy the playing field or dugout during a game. 

5. PITCHING REGULATIONS:

a) The pitcher’s “box” is 2 feet wide and 10 feet long. The front edge of this box shall be centered on the direct line from home plate to second base. The front edge shall be 46 feet from the rear corner of home plate.

b) On release of the ball, the pitcher must have one foot completely inside the pitchers box.

c) The pitch must be delivered with a smooth, continuous underhand motion, releasing the ball below the waist with moderate speed.

d) The ball must be delivered with a perceptible arc of at least three feet from the point of release and may not exceed a maximum height of 10 feet above the ground.

i)   If a pitcher throws three illegal pitches in one game, he must be assigned to another position on the field after the third such pitch. If the same pitcher does this in three games, he will not be permitted to pitch again during the season, including playoffs.

ii) No play whatsoever can result from an illegal pitch. The batter will either take the pitch for a called ball, or, if the batter hits the ball, whether fair or foul, he will return to the batter’s box and the count against him will be increased by one ball. Runners will return to the bases they occupied at the time of the illegal pitch.  The pitcher must deliver the ball within (1) minute of the umpire calling “play ball”. If the pitcher fails to deliver the ball within the prescribed time limit, the batter shall be awarded a walk.

Note: These are the complete pitching regulations. Any infraction of the above is an illegal pitch. A ball is called on the batter, the ball is dead, the runners may not advance.

5.1 Mandatory use of a pitching net       

The pitcher’s protective net is to be used at all times. The pitcher must have one foot within the pitching box, as defined in rule 5 a), at the time of release of the pitch and is allowed to make defensive fielding plays after release of the pitch. The pitching net must be positioned parallel to the pitching rubber and can be facing either side of the rubber at the pitchers discretion and where he personally feels safer. Any thrown ball striking the net is in play, any batted ball striking the net is a dead ball, AND NO CHANGE TO THE COUNT WILL ENSUE.

6. BATTING REGULATIONS:

a) Each player on the team at bat shall become the batter in the order in which his name appears on the score sheet. 

Effect: Batting out of order is an appeal play, by the defense.

i)   If an incorrect batter is discovered before he completes his turn at bat, the correct batter may take his place, assuming any accumulated balls and strikes.

ii) If the mistake is discovered after the incorrect batter has completed his turn at bat, and before a pitch is made to the next batter, the batter who should have batted is called out. All base runners must resume their positions prior to the incorrect batter coming to the plate.

iii) If the mistake is not discovered until a pitch is made to the next batter, the turn at bat of the incorrect batter is then legal. No one is called out for failure to bat and players missing their turn at bat have lost that turn and do not bat again until reached in the regular batter rotation. 

iv) All spares shall bat at the bottom of the batting order.

b) Bunting is not allowed. A batter who attempts to bunt is out, the ball is dead, and other runners may not advance.

 c) STRIKE OUTS: A batter is considered to have struck out if the count against him reaches three strikes, including foul balls.  Hitting a foul ball on a "third" strike, is an out, the ball is dead, and runners may not advance. 

d) Foul balls to the catcher:  A ball hit to foul territory is either a “foul ball” (above the batter's head) or a “foul tip”.

(i) A foul tip is a batted ball which goes directly from the bat, not higher than the batter's head, to the catcher's hands and is legally caught, and any foul tip that is caught is a strike (not an "out" unless it is a third strike). The ball is dead. 

ii) A batter is out if a fly ball, including a foul fly ball, is legally caught by any player, including the catcher.

e) BATTER’S BOX:  The batter’s box shall be provided on either side of home plate, with the inside line of this box six inches from the plate. The box shall be 7 feet long, extending 4 feet forward and 3 feet toward the rear, measured from the centre corner of home plate. The width is 3 feet. All lines are considered to be within the box.

i)   The batter must stand with both feet inside the batter’s box when the ball is delivered by the pitcher. A batter who fails to take his position within 20 seconds of the umpire’s “play ball” will be called out.

ii) When the ball is hit, that part of the batter’s foot which is touching the ground must not be completely outside of the batter’s box, nor touching any part of home plate.

Effect: The ball is dead, the batter is out, base runners may not advance.

7. BASERUNNING:

a) The distance between the bases shall be 65 feet.

b)  Safety Bag (at 1st base):  The “safety bag” is orange and attached to the regular first base, but lies completely in foul territory.

i)   The batter-runner must touch only the safety bag if a play is being made at first base. Failing to do so constitutes an out.

ii) The fielder must touch some portion of the base in fair territory in all cases. If the fielder uses only the safety base for the out, the runner is safe.

iii) The batter-runner may touch either bag at 1st base if no play is being made on him or his intention was to carry on to 2nd base.

Note: The fielder or batter/runner may touch both bags in attempting to make the play without penalty, providing NO INTERFERENCE OCCURRED.

c)  First Base Awarded: The batter is awarded first base:

i) When 4 balls are called by the umpire.

ii) When the pitcher tells the umpire to intentionally walk the batter.

d)  Catcher Obstruction: If the catcher obstructs the batter on the batter’s backswing no pitch is called all play is dead no runner may advance. If the obstruction is on the downswing part of the swing which prevents him from striking at a pitched ball, he will be awarded first base except if the batter succeeds in hitting the pitch and reaches first safely, and no runner is put out before advancing at least one base. In this case, the obstruction should not be called or enforced. If the obstruction is not enforced, the ball remains in play. 

e)  Batter Out: A batter is out under the following circumstances:

i)   When he is hit by his own batted ball in fair territory, after leaving the batter’s box.

ii) When he drops the bat in fair territory and it makes contact with a fair ball.

iii) When a fly ball is legally caught, with the fielder’s feet within the established boundaries of the field at the time of the catch.

iv) When, after a fair ball he is touched with the ball by a fielder, while off the base.

v) When, after reaching first base safely, he over runs that base and then while making an attempt to start to second base, before returning to first base, is touched with the ball by a fielder.

Effect: The runner is in jeopardy and must be tagged or put out.

f)   Base runners Out: Base runners are out under the following  circumstances:

i)   When a base runner fails to keep contact with the base to which he is entitled, until a pitched ball passes home plate or is batted.

Effect: No pitch is declared, ball is dead and runner is out for leading.

ii) When the base runner interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball, or interferes with a fielder catching a ball, or throwing a ball, or with a thrown ball.

Note: If in the opinion of the umpires, the interference is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, the most advanced runner shall also be called out.

iii) When a base runner is struck by a fair batted ball WHILE OFF HIS BASE before the ball touches any infielder, or passes an infielder excluding the pitcher.

iv) When a base runner intentionally kicks a live ball, or intentionally interferes with a ball in play, whether or not the runner is in contact with his base.

v) When a coach physically holds or pushes a runner, to assist him to return or leave a base.

vi) When a base runner who has been put out, continues to run the bases, thus simulating a live base runner, and thereby draws a throw to retire him a second time.

Effect i – vi):  Ball is dead immediately and base runner is out.  Other runners must return to the last legally touched base at the time of, or before the above described action.

vii) When, while the ball is in play, a base runner is legally touched by a fielder while off the base.

viii) When, on a force out, a fielder tags him with the ball (while on or off a base) or holds the ball on the base to which the base runner is forced to advance, before the base runner can reach that base.

ix) When running toward any base, he runs more than three feet from the established base path, to avoid being tagged with the ball in the hands of the fielder.

x) When a base runner PASSES a preceding runner before that runner has been put out.

Effect vii – x: The ball remains alive and in play with all other base runners in jeopardy.

xi) When a base runner leaves his base to advance to another base before a caught fly ball has touched a fielder, provided the ball is returned to a fielder and legally held on that base, or a fielder legally touches the runner before the runner returns to his base.

xii) When a base runner fails to touch an intervening base or bases, (including awarded bases) in regular or reverse order, while the ball is in play, and the ball is held legally on the missed base, or the runner is legally touched with the ball, while off the base.

Effect xi – xii: These are appeal plays and the defensive team loses its right to make an appeal on any of these situations if the appeal is not made known before the next legal pitch, intentional walk, or illegal pitcher action or before all fielders have left fair territory.

1.  Unless two are out, the status of a following runner is not effected by a preceding runner’s violation or failure to comply.

2.  If, on an appeal, a preceding runner is the THIRD OUT, no following runner shall be allowed to score.

3.  If, an appealed out is the THIRD OUT, and is the result of a force out, neither preceding nor following runners shall score.

4.  If the appealed out is the result of the base runner not touching first base, preceding runners shall not score.

5.  On any appealed play not a force out, all runners in advance of a runner being appealed out, who crosses the "SAFETY" line legally before actual physical completion of the THIRD APPEALED OUT in any inning shall be counted. Succeeding runners cannot score.

g) Base Stealing:

i)   Base stealing is allowed with the exception of stealing on a swinging strike.

ii)  The runner must keep contact with the base to which he is entitled, until a pitched ball has reached, passed or bounced in front of home plate or is batted.

Effect: The ball is dead, “no pitch” is declared, and the base runner is called out.  THIS IS NOT A PLAY WHICH MAY BE APPEALED.

iii) A player who steals a base may, with liability to be put out, attempt to advance another base or two on the same play.

iv) A runner who occupies 3rd base at the time of the pitch may advance home only as the result of a ball being hit by the batter. (The runner may not steal home.)

v) A base runner who legally leads off 3rd base is liable to be put out. He must return to 3rd base if a play is made on him or be declared out when a player with the ball touches 3rd base.  This is a force play. If this runner crosses the "COMMIT" line, he will be declared out.

h) Two Runners Occupying the Same Base:  Two runners may not occupy the same base simultaneously. The runner who first occupied the base is entitled to it, unless forced to advance.  The other runner(s) may be put out by being touched with the ball.

i)   Overrunning First Base : The batter/runner is not liable to be put out after overrunning 1^st base, provided he returns directly to 1^st base.  If, after overrunning first base, in the judgment of the umpire(s), the runner attempts to continue to 2^nd base, he is liable to be put out.

j)   Bodily Contact:

i)   A defensive player fielding a batted ball has the right of way. A runner interfering shall be called out.

ii) A fielder who does not have a play and without the ball in his possession, blocks the path of the base runner is guilty of obstruction.

Effect: The runner will be declared safe and awarded whatever base the umpire feels he would have reached had there been no obstruction. The fielder may be ejected from the game if the umpire feels an injury was at risk.

iii) If his path is blocked, the BASE RUNNER has a responsibility to avoid a collision. If the fielder has possession of the ball in the base path, the runner is obliged to avoid a collision but retains the right to proceed to the next base until he is either put out, or forced out at the appropriate base. A runner intentionally colliding with a fielder shall be called out and automatically ejected from the game. A slide must be designed to avoid the tag and/or a collision. Any attempt to jar the ball loose from the fielder will result in the runner being called out and possibly being ejected from the game.

k)   Safety Line & Commit Line Rule:  
Pursuant to the KMSPL's attempts to ensure the safety of its players, a "SAFETY" line and a "COMMIT" line will be continuously in effect, independent of field conditions, for all KMSPL games.  This means there is a force play at the plate under all circumstances, however the offensive player must cross a "SAFETY" line rather than touch home plate to score. 

i)   The runner is declared OUT under Rule 7 f) xiii) through xix)

ii)  The runner is to be declared SAFE at home when, in the judgement of the umpires :

8. BALL IN PLAY:

a) The ball is not playable outside the established limits of the playing field, except for rule 8. (e) (v). 

b) The ball is put into play when the pitcher has the ball and is within 8 feet of the pitcher’s “box”, and the umpire calls “Play Ball”.

c) The ball is in play after a ball or a strike is called (including a 4th ball or a 3rd strike) except in the following cases:

i)   The ball touches the batter or the bat.

ii) “Illegal pitch” is declared.

iii) “No pitch” is declared.

iv) The third strike is a foul ball.

d) Calling time between pitches:

i)   The ball remains in play until the umpire calls “TIME”, which should be done when the ball is held by a player in the infield area and, in the opinion of the umpire, all play has ceased.

ii) When a base runner legally leads off after a pitch passes home plate and while the pitcher has possession of the ball within eight feet of the pitcher’s “box”, the runner must immediately attempt to steal the next base or return to his base, otherwise, if no play is made, the umpire should call and signal “TIME”. If no runner is leading off, the umpire need only signal “TIME”. In either case, “TIME” is only called if in the opinion of the umpire, all play has ceased.

e) Bases awarded when a batted ball leaves the playing area by :

i) When a fielded ball is overthrown out of the playing area by either:

1) Entering the dugout as defined in RULE 3 (Definitions)

2) Hitting any part of the netting down the third base line

each base runner is awarded 2 bases as follows:

a) If a first throw by an infielder, 2 bases from their position at the time of the pitch.

b) If a throw by an outfielder or the result of any succeeding play or attempted play, 2 bases from the last base touched when the ball left the thrower’s hand.

ii) When a fielder loses possession of the ball (such as on an attempted tag play or the catcher fails to hold on to a pitched ball) and the ball then enters the dead ball area, all runners are awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the ball entered the dead ball area. (NOTE: Refer to rule 7 (g) (iv) for runners occupying 3rd base)

iii) When a legally hit fair ball bounds out of the playing area, the ball is dead and all base runners are awarded 2 bases from the base they occupied at the time of the pitch. This includes a ball which bounds out of play after contacting a fielder attempting to make a play.

iv) When a fielder intentionally causes a legally batted ball to leave the playing area, the umpire shall award all runners a minimum of three bases.

v)  When a legally played ball is carried by the fielder out of the playing area, the ball is live and play should continue

f)   Holleuffer Right Field Fence Rule : 
The fence in right field is always in play.

(i) Should a batted ball get trapped in the fence, pass under or through a hole in the fence, it will be ruled a ground rule double. 

(ii) Should a batted ball bounce off one of the poles, or the fence itself, and subsequently leave the field of play (notwithstanding RULE 8 e) iv),  it will be ruled a ground rule double as per RULE 8 e) iii.

(iii) Should a batted ball go over the fence, it shall be declared a home run.

Effect (i-ii): the ball is dead, the batter and all base runners are awarded two bases from where they were at the time of the pitch. 

9. PLAYER CONDUCT:

a) Only a coach or his designate can speak with the umpires in case of a disputed call.

b) The following are grounds for ejection from a game:

i)   Profane or abusive language.

ii) Visible displays of temper (throwing objects).

iii) Intentional and violent collision with an opposing player.

iv) Fighting.

v) Continued arguing over an umpire’s judgment call.

c) All ejections will result in an automatic game suspension for that player’s next game and will also result in a review by the executive committee for possible further disciplinary action. 

e) No smoking is allowed within the field of play, dugouts or anywhere within the area that is determined to be the field of play. This applies to all players from any team at anytime or anyone who is umpiring.

10. SCOREKEEPING POLICY:

a) Should the home team score enough runs in the last inning of a game to win the game, only those runs necessary to win the game will be counted. The batter in question will be credited with a “single” and as many R.B.I.s as necessary to win the game.

b) League Standings:

i)   Teams will be awarded two points for a win, one point for a tie for the purposes of the league standings.

ii) A team will have points deducted in the standings:

 1) If the team forfeits a game (1 point).

 2) If the team fails to provide the required number of umpires as required by the schedule. The points will be deducted, in the following manner, if the required numbers of umpires have not reported by the completion of the first inning:

One umpire missing - 1 point deducted
Two umpires missing - 2 points deducted

Note: All games must be started on time. Both coaches should make note of points deducted on their game score sheet. 

iii) At the end of the regular season, ties in the league standings will be broken as follows: 

1)  Greater number of wins 

2) Fewest losses 

3) Best record between tied teams 

4) Best record in own division 

5) Coin toss 

c) Individual stats from a game which is defaulted will be counted to the last complete half inning, provided that the visiting team has completed five innings. Otherwise, the teams will be credited with a win and a loss, respectively but no individual stats will be counted. 

11. PLAYOFFS:

First Round :

Best 2 of 3 :    1^st Division 1 vs 7^th Division 2

                                    1^st Division 2 vs 7^th Division 1

                                    2^nd Division 1 vs 6^th Division 2

                                    2^nd Division 2 vs 6^th Division 1

(In each series, the higher seeded team gets 2 home games)

         Four winners advance

          Round Robin:3^rd Division 1 vs 3^rd, 4^th, 5^th Division 2

                                4^th Division 1 vs 3^rd, 4^th, 5^th Division 2

                                5^th Division 1 vs 3^rd, 4^th, 5^th Division 2

(In every game, the higher seeded team is the home team; in the games where teams of equal seeds play, the team with the higher seed at the end of the regular season will be the home team).

The top 4 teams advance

Tie breakers (ONLY to determine who advances and who does not, NOT to determine relative placement):

2 teams tied:    1 game sudden death (highest seeded team at the end of the regular season is home team)

3 teams tied, 2 spots open: Team with highest seed at the end of the regular season advances, other two play one game sudden death

3 teams tied, 1 spot open: 2^nd and 3^rd regular season play one game, winner plays 1^st regular season one game sudden death.

4 teams tied, 3 spots open: Teams with the two highest seeds at the end of the regular season advance, then use the 2 team tie breaker for the last spot.

4 teams tied, 2 spots open: 1^st vs 4^th regular season, 2^nd vs 3^rd regular season, winners advance.

5 teams tied, 4 spots open: Teams with the three highest seeds at the end of the regular season advance(s), then use 2 team tie breaker for the last spot.

5 teams tied, 3 spots open: Teams with the 2 highest seeds at the end of the regular season advance, then use 3 team/1 spot open tiebreaker for the last spot.

6 teams tied: Highest 3 regular season teams advance, then use 3-way tie-breaker for last spot.

Second Round:

Teams are seeded 1 through 8 based on regular season records, and we proceed with 1/8, 2/7, 3/6, 4/5; all best 2 out of 3.

Third Round:

         Again, remaining teams are seeded 1 through 4 based on regular season performance, and we proceed with 1/4, 2/3; all best 2 out of 3)

Finals:

            Best 3 out of 5.

a) All playoff games interrupted by lights, weather, etc… are deemed to be completed games, going back to the score of the end of the last completed inning, provided at least five full innings have been completed. A game must not end in a tie and will be continued until there is a winner or the game will be suspended and completed at next available time slot. 

b)    No team can be scheduled to play more than 3 games in 3 consecutive nights.

c) Warm up- Infield and outfield warm ups are allowed and are at the discretion of the umpire.

12. PROTESTS:
(applicable to playoff games only)

A protested game can result when there is a difference of opinion on the field between the protesting team and the umpire regarding the application or interpretation of the rules.

Effect: A protest, not involving an umpire’s judgment, must be made on the field immediately, and before any succeeding pitch is delivered. The game assumes the status of a suspended game until the protest is either allowed or disallowed.

a) Conditions governing acceptance of protests during the playing of a game.

i) An umpire’s judgment as to whether a batted ball was fair or foul, a pitched ball was a ball or a strike, a base runner was safe or out, or with regard to any other situation wholly within the umpire’s scope to make decisions, is

ii) Based on alleged misinterpretation or application of the playing rules by an umpire, a protest should be accepted for consideration and decision.

iii) The intention to protest a rule interpretation must be made known by the Coach, or his designate, to the umpire immediately and before the next pitch is made to the batter. The protesting coach must make note of the exact conditions prevailing on the field at the time of the protest. These conditions should be attested to by the umpires. (Refer to KMSPL “Protest Form”)

iv) The formal protest form should be completed and contain the following, and be attested to by the umpires and the other coach:

 1) The date, time and place of the game.
 2) Names of the umpires.
 3) The rule or rules over which the protest is being filed.
 4) The decision and/or conditions surrounding the cause for the protest.
 5) The essential facts involved in the matter of the protest.

iv) THE DECISION MADE ON A PROTESTED GAME MAY RESULT IN: 

 1) The protest being found invalid. The game score stands as played. 

 2) The protest being allowed. The game is resumed at the point of protest as a suspended game the protest being allowed. The game is forfeited in favor of the team not at fault.

13. Disabled Players:

Note: Temporary or Permanent replacement players are not considered league Members, they are always considered as spares.

a)  REGULAR SEASON

Temporary Replacement Players

i)   When a team will have for a period of at least two weeks, two or more players disabled through injury or illness, the coach must apply for a “Temporary Replacement.”  A formal request should be made through the “spare coordinator”.

If the request is accepted:

1) A “Temporary Replacement” will be assigned having the same rating as the average of the ratings of the disabled players. There is no regard as to playing position, or defensive or offensive ability. 

2) The request is good for a minimum of two weeks or until one of the disabled players can return, whichever is greater.

3) None of the disabled players can return to active play during the first two weeks of assigned replacement. Prior to returning as an active player, clearance must be obtained by the “spare coordinator”.

Permanent Replacement

ii) If an injury or illness precludes a player from returning for the remainder of the season or begin the playoffs, a “Permanent Replacement” player will be assigned having the same overall rating, or as close as possible. A “Permanent Replacement” is made on rating alone, with no regard as to playing position, or defensive or offensive ability. 

b)  PLAYOFFS

All teams must start with a full roster of 14 players. Should a team not field a full roster of 14 players for a playoff game, suspensions and sanctions can be levied on the offending player and coach: 

Player Replacements Playoffs:

Each Coach will have a choice of the process he personally wishes to use for replacing players on his team during the playoffs. He must declare his preference at the Pre-Playoff Coaches Meeting.

OPTION 1 –   His individual player calls the hotline directly. The player is thus responsible, and penalties will be levied upon him, if necessary.

The spare coordinator will then call for spares, with NO variation in the prescribed order.

OPTION 2 --      The Coach (or his designate) calls the hotline. The Coach/designate is thus responsible, and penalties will be levied upon him, if necessary (unless the player failed to notify him – in that case, the player is responsible).

The Coach now has the choice of any player available, equal to or lower than the player to be replaced.

When the Spare Coordinator is doing the calling (OPTION 1), the procedures will be –

            First:                 equal rating

            Second:            +.25

            Third:                -.25

            Fourth :             +.5

            Fifth :                -.5

And so on up to a maximum variance of +/- 2.0. No replacement will be made with a player of a more than +2.0 variance; however, a coach may ask for a replacement with more than a -2.0 variance.

There will be no waiting for responses (same as regular season).

Spares of equal rating will get called first.

A master list will be provided all coaches prior to the playoffs of all players and their ratings, including spares.

If a player shows up after 5 full innings have been completed, he is considered to have missed without being replaced, and the Executive will review the situation to see if sanctions are warranted.

Players becoming disabled during the playoffs cannot be replaced with a permanent replacement, but the temporary replacement provision is in effect.

14. Field Conditions: 

The fitness of the ground – from the beginning of the game shall be decided by the umpires. If the field must be altered in order to play, then it shall be deemed unplayable. After the game has been started, the plate umpire shall be the sole judge as to whether the game shall continue. 

a) The umpire has the responsibility to call the game at any time because of rain, lightning, darkness or any other cause which may put the players or umpires at risk.

b) No game will start later than 30 minutes after the scheduled start time.

c) At the request of the Town of Kirkland, the playing field must not be altered in any way, unless done by the chalet ATTENDANT. This includes raking, bailing water, etc.

Effect: The umpire will cancel the game and award the other team the win. In the case of players from both teams altering the playing field, both teams will have one point deducted in the standings and the game will not be re-scheduled.

15. SPARES:

When a team requires a spare player(s), the “spare coordinator” must be contacted no later than 24 hours prior to the start time of the game requiring the spare(s). The “spare coordinator” will be the league Treasurer unless otherwise advised.

16. DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE

Objective: 

To review all “incidents” brought forth to the Committee, by the executive in a timely manner. Any and all verdicts should be done with a sense of fairness, calmness, and without prejudice in order to preserve the over all KMSPL objective.

Discipline Committee Members – 4 Members

1. Umpire and Chief Executive Member shall act as the Sponsor of the Committee and as such will only vote in the case of a tie.

2. One selected league member chosen by the Executive shall act as Chairman of this Committee and will be responsible for calling meetings when necessary, choosing (with executive approval) two other league members to complete the Committee, and advising the executive of any disciplinary action.

3. Quorum will be reached when the three of the above are present 

4. The Executive must turn over ALL matters to the discipline committee for review, follow-up, and disciplinary recommendation as required. These matters can be incidents on the field or off the field, and can be for conduct unbecoming a League member(s) that hinders, hurts, or does not benefit the overall betterment of the League or its objectives.  

Basic Guidelines for the Discipline Committee (Please refer to the Incident Guidelines official document as adopted on November 9th, 2009)

Disciplinary Guidelines and Code of Conduct

17. THREE STRIKE RULE

Definition:

After 3 disciplinary incidents with any KMSPL member, at the recommendation of the Discipline Committee and the Executive combined will be expelled from the League. 

What constitutes a Strike?

A strike is any additional suspensions, beyond the automatic 1 game suspension from the League, for conduct unbecoming, or an act that risks injury to another member of the league.
A strike is also, any written warning to a member, from the executive, for conduct unbecoming that does not warrant a suspension.

How will the 3 Strike Rule be administered?

When a player is given a strike it will be communicated to the player and his coach by the executive in a timely manner by phone and followed up in writing. A copy will be placed on file with the executive.

If a player reaches Strike 2, a warning letter will be sent to the player, copied to the coach, and a copy will be placed on file with the executive. The player will be warned that he is playing with zero tolerance.

Repeat offenders (extreme cases) may be sent a letter stating that they will be starting the next season with a zero tolerance. That is to say that the player will commence the upcoming season starting at Strike 2. A copy of this letter will remain on file with the executive.

It is also important to understand that all suspensions may result with the player losing his “member in good status” record. 

When a player is called out on the 3 Strike rule, he will be informed by phone, and followed up with a letter from the Executive. All outstanding money will be re-imbursed to that player in a timely manner. 

Breaking the park curfew:

Any member of the KMSPL reported in writing by Kirkland Public Security or by the Executive as being at the park after the official park curfew of 11:30 P.M. will be issued the following penalties and suspensions in accordance with the 3 Strike rule. 

1st offense – Strike 1, and 1 game 
2nd offense – Strike 2, and 3 games 
3rd offense – Strike 3 ( Player will be expelled for life from playing in the KMSPL)