The SDABL is governed by Major League Baseball rules with the exceptions found in this pamphlet. This document attempts to clarify and simplify as many rules as possible. The intent is to eliminate loopholes so that any one team does not receive an unfair advantage over another. In the event an issue, matter, or circumstance has not been addressed herein, the SDABL reserves the right to resolve said occurrence in the best interest of the League as a whole, in the spirit of the game of Baseball, and with impartiality to all the participants.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN READING THIS RULEBOOK
Refer to the Highlights of 2006 Rule Changes below to get a quick overview of the new rules starting this spring season.
TABLE OF CONTENTS *DEFINITION OF TERMS *
LEGAL PLAYER (League): *
ILLEGAL PLAYER (League): *
ELIGIBLE PLAYER (League): *
INELIGIBLE PLAYER (League) *: *
REGISTERED PLAYER (Being Eligible to Participate): *
ELIGIBLE SUBSTITUTE (Lineup): *
INELIGIBLE SUBSTITUTE (Lineup): *
OFFENSIVE LINEUP (Being Officially "Placed" Into): *
ELIGIBLE OFFENSIVE PLAYER (Lineup): *
PROOF OF ELIGIBILITY: *
GAME FORFEIT: *
NO-SHOW FORFEITS: *
CONTACT POLICY (Preventing No-Show Forfeits): *
FORMER PROFESSIONAL PLAYER STATUS: *
HIGHLIGHTS OF 2006 RULE CHANGES *
SECTION 1 --- INTRODUCTION *
1.1 MISSION STATEMENT *
1.2 GOALS OF THE SDABL: *
1.3 DESCRIPTION OF LEAGUES: *
1.4 RULES WE PLAY BY: *
1.5 STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR: *
1.5.1 Player Conduct: *
1.5.2 Behavior Towards Umpires: *
SECTION 2 --- ORGANIZING YOUR TEAM & INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS *
2.1 TEAM RELATED INFORMATION: *
2.1.1 Team Placement: *
2.1.2 Team Roster: *
2.1.3 Dropped Teams: *
2.2 PLAYER ADDS/DROPS/TRANSFERS: *
2.2.1 Player Adds: *
2.2.2 Player Drops: *
2.2.3 Player Transfers: *
SECTION 3 --- ELIGIBILITY POLICIES *
3.1 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (Contracts/Identity): *
3.2 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (Age): *
3.3 LEAGUE ELIGIBILITY (Skill Level): *
3.3.1 College Players (Current/Former): *
3.3.2 Professional Players (Current/Former): *
3.4 ROSTER ELIGIBILITY (Multiple Team Participation/Signed Contracts): *
3.5 PLAYOFF ELIGIBILITY: *
3.6 INELIGIBLE PLAYERS (Consequences/Challenging/Protesting): *
3.6.1 Consequences (Also refer to Section 6.3): *
3.6.2 Challenging/Protesting Ineligible Players: *
3.7 PLAYER REGISTRATION POLICY *
3.7.1 Individual Player Registration for Regular Season Participation: *
3.7.2 Individual Player Registration for Play-Off Participation: *
SECTION 4 --- PROTESTS (Procedures/Grievances/Appeals) *
4.1 PROTESTS: *
4.1.1 Protest Procedures: *
4.1.2 Grievances and Appeals (of a protest decision): *
SECTION 5 --- FINES/PENALTIES/SUSPENSIONS *
5.1 FINES and PENALTIES: *
5.2 SUSPENSIONS*: *
SECTION 6 --- FORFEITS *
6.1 NO SHOW FORFEITS *
6.1.1 Defined: *
6.1.2 Consequences: *
6.1.3 League Sanctioned "Practice Games": *
6.2 CONTACT POLICY (Preventing No-Show Forfeits): *
6.3 CALL IN FORFEITS: *
6.3.1 Call In Forfeit Fine Policy: *
6.4 FORFEIT POLICY RESULTING IN TEAM REMOVAL: *
6.5 FORFEITS INVOLVING INELIGIBLE PLAYERS: *
SECTION 7 --- FEES/PAYMENTS (on the field) *
SECTION 8 --- ALL-STAR GAMES/LEAGUE PLAYOFFS/TOURNAMENTS *
8.1 ALL-STAR GAMES (Spring Leagues Only): *
8.2 LEAGUE PLAYOFFS: *
8.2.1 Playoff Policy: *
8.2.2 Playoff Eligibility for Individual Players: *
SECTION 9 --- FIELDS *
9.1 RESPECT FOR FIELDS: *
9.2 BASES and KEYS: *
SECTION 10 --- EQUIPMENT *
10.1 BASEBALLS *
10.2 BATS *
10.3 UNIFORMS: *
10.4 SHOES: *
10.5 HELMETS: *
SECTION 11 --- SDABL LOCAL PLAYING RULES *
11.1 GAME TIME/TIME LIMITS: *
11.2 EIGHT (8) PLAYER START RULE: *
11.2.1 Scoring Runs when there is a "Hole" in the Batting Order: *
11.3 NINE (9) PLAYER STARTS: *
11.4 LINEUP CARDS: *
11.5 OFFENSIVE LINEUP: *
11.6 OFFENSIVE SUBSTITUTES/SUBSTITUTIONS (Normal Circumstances): *
11.6.1 INJURED RUNNER SUBSTITUTION RULE: *
11.6.2 "COURTESY" RUNNERS: Not allowed for any reason. *
11.7 INJURY SUBSTITUTIONS FOR PREVENTING FORFEITS: *
11.8 EJECTIONS (Risk of Forfeits): *
11.9 OFFENSIVE STARTER RE-ENTRY RULE/BATTING ORDER (All Leagues): *
11.10 NON-RUNNER (NR): *
11.11 DEFENSIVE LINEUP and PITCHERS: *
11.11.1 Defensive Substitutions: *
11.11.2 Pitcher Re-Entry Rule: *
11.12 RUN RULE ("MERCY" RULE): *
11.13 DOUBLEHEADERS: *
11.13.1 SPLIT TEAM DOUBLEHEADERS: *
11.14 KEEPING SCORE: *
11.15 RAIN-OUT POLICY: *
11.16 FORCE-PLAY SLIDE RULE: *
11.17 NO COLLISION RULE *
11.17.1 Definition: *
11.17.2 Intent Of Rule: *
11.17.3 Consequences for violating this rule: *
APPENDIX 1 --- NO COLLISION RULE PHOTO PLAYS *
APPENDIX 2: DISCUSSION OF NO COLLISION RULE *
INTRODUCTION: *
CLARIFICATION OF RULE: *
"REAL" BASEBALL: *
GRAY AFFECTS THE BLUE: *
RUNNER GUIDELINES (To Avoid Violating the No Collision Rule): *
DEFENSE PLAYER GUIDELINES (To Avoid Violating the No Collision Rule): *
INCIDENTAL CONTACT: *
HOW TO DEAL WITH UMPIRE JUDGMENT: *
APPENDIX 3 --- MANAGING TIPS *
ORGANIZING: *
Working with Your League Commissioner: *
Managing Your Team: *
Practicing: *
APPENDIX 4--- "TEAM MOVEMENT" POLICY *
Any player who has reached his/her 18th birthday and who has signed/dated an SDABL contract.
Any player who fulfills one of the following additional requirements:
Any contracted player at least 18 years of age at the time of participation who is playing on any team in the 18+ Division.
Any contracted player at least 28 years of age any time during the calendar year who is playing on any team in the 28+ Division, or any younger age Division.
Any contracted player at least 38 years of age any time during the calendar year who is playing on any team in the 38+ Division, or any younger age Division.
Any contracted player at least 48 years of age any time during the calendar year who is playing on any team in the 48+ Division, or any younger age Division.
The above definitions are subject to change on a year-to-year bases, depending on the age requirement as defined by the SDABL.
·
Any player who has not reached his/her 18th birthday when participating on any team.·
Any player who does not have a signed/dated contract with the SDABL and who does not fulfill the requirements established under Legal Player above.Any Legal Player who has a signed/dated contract with the SDABL and who is listed on a team roster for which the contract applies and in accordance with any other applicable age and skill-level requirements contained under Section 3 in these rules.
Any Illegal Player as defined by the above.
Any player who does not meet the applicable age and skill-level requirements contained under Section 3 in these rules.
Any player who has signed an SDABL contract but who has provided misinformation pertaining to his Identity and/or age.
Any player who has signed multiple SDABL contracts with two different teams in the same league on the same day.
Any player who has signed multiple SDABL contracts with two different teams in two different skill levels within the same age group on either day.
Any player who has a signed SDABL contract but who is found playing on a team for which his contract does not apply.
Any team member who participates in any games while under suspension.
Any player who participates during the playoffs but who has not played the minimum number of regular season games required to allow the player to participate. (Section 3.5).
*Any games played by the team in which an Ineligible Player had participated are subject to forfeit.
REGISTERED PLAYER (Being Eligible to Participate):
Being a registered player is defined as (1) being listed on the team’s web site roster and (2) having a signed waiver card on file with the league that has been postmarked on or before the game in which the player begins to participate.
Any player listed on the lineup card who has not yet been officially "placed" into the Offensive lineup.
INELIGIBLE SUBSTITUTE (Lineup):
Any substitute player (i.e., an offensive non-starter) who has been officially "placed" into the Offensive lineup (for instance, as a pinch runner), then removed from the Offensive lineup (regardless of whether or not he actually has batted).
OFFENSIVE LINEUP (Being Officially "Placed" Into):
Any player who:
Is listed as an Offensive Starter on the lineup card (which becomes official once the first pitch of the game has been thrown).
Is listed as a Substitute on the lineup card and is subsequently placed into the Offensive Lineup once the game has started under the following conditions:
1) If a batter, he takes his place in the batter’s box (Official Baseball Rule 3.08(a)(2).
2) If a runner ("pinch), he takes the place of the runner he has replaced (Official Baseball Rule 3.08(a)(4).
ELIGIBLE OFFENSIVE PLAYER (Lineup):
Any player who is authorized to be placed into the Offensive Lineup in accordance with the above, including the details provided in Sections 11.5, 11.6, and 11.7.
The proper documents that must be provided by an individual player during any game when challenged as to his Identity or Age. (See Section 3 for details).
The proper documents that must be provided by a team manager (or appropriate team representative) to the league upon request that proves a particular individual is an official member of that team’s roster. (See Section 3 for details).
Any game in which a team is made to take a loss for the following reasons:
Use of an Illegal player.
Use of an Ineligible player.
Not having the minimum number of eight (8) players required to start a game at the scheduled game time. (See No-Show Forfeit immediately below). (Rules governing the removal of a team from participating in the league after a 4th forfeit (or 3 consecutive forfeits) during the spring season and a 3rd forfeit during the fall season apply here. See
Not being able to continue a game because the number of Eligible Offensive players available falls below the eight (8) required to continue playing.
Any game that cannot be rescheduled for any reason by the League due to any team’s inability to play the originally scheduled game for any reason. (The league reserves the right to make exceptions). (Rules governing the removal of a team from participating in the league after a 4th forfeit (or 3 consecutive forfeits) during the spring season and a 3rd forfeit during the fall season apply here. See
Section 6.4).Any team that allows a team member to participate in a game while the said player is under suspension.
A forfeit whereby any team fails to have the minimum of eight (8) players present at the scheduled game time.
A forfeit whereby any team fails to provide adequate notice of an inability to field a team in accordance with the "Contact Policy" definition below. (See Section 6.1 for details).
CONTACT POLICY (Preventing No-Show Forfeits):
A requirement whereby a team manager (or team appointed representative) must notify the League in the appropriate amount of time as set forth in Section 6.2 of an inability to field a team in order to prevent a No-Show Forfeit and having to pay both umpire fees for the scheduled game being cancelled.
FORMER PROFESSIONAL PLAYER STATUS:
Any player who has been released from a verifiable Minor or Major League professional baseball contract within the past six months, which subsequently requires him to play in highest level of ball offered by the SDABL. (Currently 18AAA)
Any player who has been released under a verifiable Major League (only) professional baseball contract at any point in time is required to play in the highest level of play within his appropriate age group. EXCEPTIONS: Players over the age of 48+.
(See Section 3.3.2 for details).
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HIGHLIGHTS OF 2006 RULE CHANGES
There are five (10) significant changes for 2006 as follows:
Current/Former Minor and Major League professional player restrictions reworded for clarification. (See
PLAYER REGISTRATION POLICY (Regular season and Play-Off Participation Requirements). See
FORFEIT POLICY RESULTING IN TEAM REMOVAL
CALL IN FORFEITS: A "Call In" forfeit is defined as any team that notifies the league previous to any regularly scheduled game of its inability to field enough players to play the regularly scheduled game. If the forfeiting team notifies the league in accordance with the stipulations listed in
CALL IN FORFEIT FINE POLICY: A team sited for a "Call In" forfeit only will be fined $50.00, payable to the league before the forfeiting team’s next regularly scheduled game. The team that had been scheduled to play against the forfeiting team will receive one dozen baseballs from the league as compensation for having not been able to play. See
NOTE: This fine does not apply to No-Show Forfeits as defined within these rules or any forfeit that may result once the game has started. Bottom line: Either type of forfeit --- "Call In" or No-Show --- will now cost a minimum of $50.00.
If only one umpire shows to work a game each team is required to pay that umpire $40.00. (Section 7).
INJURY RUNNER SUBSTITUTION RULE allows for the last recorded out to run for the injured player for that at-bat only to prevent an "out" from being recorded, but only if an Eligible Substitute (as defined within these) is not available. If an Eligible Substitute is available, he must replace the injured runner. Once an injured runner is removed from the game he may not re-enter the Offensive Lineup nor play Defense for the remainder of that game. See
"COURTESY" RUNNERS are still not allowed for any reason.
"FORCE-PLAY SLIDE RULE (See
"TEAM MOVEMENT" Policy (See
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The San Diego Adult Baseball League has become one of the world’s largest single city adult baseball programs, with roots dating back to 1986. The SDABL will always strive to provide a quality "stage" for all to act out their "Field of Dreams".
The SDABL is a team committed to working at maximum consciousness and integrity in order to provide our customers, both internal and external, the best available product and service. This will be accomplished by using the most current technologies available and performing our job with a positive, enthusiastic, and consistent effort. Fear and greed will not keep us from succeeding and we will look upon any failures as stepping stones to achieving our goal. Profitability will be fair and revenues will be shared within our community through contributions. We want for nothing more than the respect of our peers.
The SDABL plays under a common set of rules designed to organize amateur adult baseball into consistent, fairly run, and responsible adult baseball leagues. SDABL baseball is family oriented though competitive. The goal of the SDABL is to provide adults over the age of 18 with a fair, well organized and enjoyable amateur baseball program within the community. No arbitrary distinction or discrimination due to a potential player’s gender, race, color, religion, national origin, or disability shall be inferred or permitted.
Provide a well-organized and well-run League that is administered in a fair and impartial manner that keeps the player in mind and provides a forum for adults of all ages to play baseball, not softball; and Provide leagues that are designed to accommodate different ages and abilities to eliminate the fear of intimidation; and Create an organized and fun amateur baseball league for adults ages 18 and over.
The SDABL prides itself on its responsiveness to its players, managers and coaches and on its openness and availability to any adult who wishes to play baseball. If you feel it necessary to comment, ask a question, or bring a potential problem to either entities attention please feel free to do so at the following address, phone number, or email:
SAN DIEGO ADULT BASEBALL LEAGUE (SDABL)
8474 Commerce Ave.
San Diego, CA 92121
Telephone: (858) 292-7510
Leagueadmin@sdabl.com
Leagues are organized into different age groups with levels of competitive play and ability.
The 18 & Over Leagues (Elite, 18AAA, 18AA, or 18A) are for players’ age 18 or older and are organized into an 18 Elite or "AAA" League (advanced: the most competitive), an "AA" League (intermediate league), and a "A" League (recreational league).
The 28 & Over, 38 & Over and 48 & Over leagues (hereafter referred to as "28+", "38+" and "48+") are limited to players who meet the minimum age requirement for those leagues (28, 38 and 48, respectively) and then, as the league grows in size and number of teams, are organized by competitive play and ability into "AA" and "A" leagues. Players that are over 29, 39 or 48 may participate in an 18 & Over League.
All games are played under the rules of baseball as stated in the most recent Official Rules of Baseball published by the National Baseball Congress, Inc. with the exceptions, additions, or notations contained in this booklet. The SDABL Rules Committee also has access to, and frequently consults, The Case Book of the Official Playing Rules Committee of Major League Baseball, and the Handbooks of both the American and National League Umpires. For those managers and players who wish to become familiar with the Official Rules of Baseball, the SDABL recommends obtaining a copy of Make the Right Call, published by Triumph Books, Inc. 644 South Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60605. If unavailable, any publication of the Official Rules of Baseball as sanctioned by MLB will be sufficient.
As a team manager you represent your team to other teams and the SDABL. Be a responsible manager. If you have questions about rules, field locations, or other problems call your League President or Commissioner. They are there to help you during the season. Bring your Rulebook and Guidelines to games for reference before or during the game.
Read your Participant Contract, the SDABL Rulebook and Guidelines and any other material given to you. Become informed about how the SDABL works and keep updated so that you stay informed. The best way to help your team and have fun is to review all of the SDABL and Baseball rules and policies and be informed.
Alcohol, Drugs & Tobacco: ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND/OR DRUGS ARE SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITED ON HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUSES BY A VARIETY OF MUNICIPAL, COUNTY AND STATE LAWS. IN ADDITION, THE SDABL EXPRESSLY PROHIBITS ANY ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND/OR DRUGS IN THE VICINITY (INCLUDING PARKING LOTS) OF ANY FIELD USED BY THE SDABL SO AS TO AVOID ANY APPEARANCE OF VIOLATING THESE LAWS.
This applies to all managers, players, coaches, as well as friends, family members, or any fans attending the game.
Any manager or player found to be in violation of these rules will be suspended immediately for a minimum of two (2) games. Note: Managers, you are responsible for your players and any spectators in the stands who "belong" to your team. Additional sanctions may also be applied against any offender(s).
A second violation may result in expulsion from the SDABL, either individually or as a team.
Each manager must recognize their responsibility to the league and the perpetuity of it as to not cross the line where winning is more important than playing.
Be Responsible. Please notify all participants and spectators of this rule. Teams/managers are to police their fans, friends, family members or spectators for violations of league rules. Both team managers should attempt to persuade any person or persons participating in or watching the game and who are in violation of this section to leave the premises. Please note: Umpires have the authority from the SDABL to stop or forfeit games if there is a problem with drinking or drug use at any game or facility.
Be Aware. All school districts, city or county ordinances prohibit all or some forms of tobacco use (cigarettes, dip, chew, etc.) at a facility. It is very important to observe these rules wherever and whenever they may be in force. In those instances where tobacco use is not prohibited, please use courtesy, common sense, fire-safety awareness and sanitation in both the use and disposal of all tobacco products. No coach or incoming team wants to see cigarette butts and chew-spit tarnishing the field and dugouts. League Presidents may enforce penalties or prohibit use for repeated offenses.
1.5.2 Behavior Towards Umpires:
Umpires shall not to be physically or verbally abused. If you have a complaint about an umpire's call, explain it to him. If you are reasonable, he will be reasonable. If problems develop between you and an umpire, notify the League President and/or the SDABL Chief Umpire to provide with the umpire's name and number.
You should ask the plate umpire for his and his partner’s name before your game during the pre-game meeting. All umpires have been instructed to provide you with their names, per the SDABL Chief Umpire. If any umpire refuses to give his name, contact the Chief Umpire after your game, or any other league official.
PHYSICAL CONTACT WITH THE PERSON OF AN UMPIRE OR THEIR PERSONAL PROPERTY (i.e., automobile, equipment, etc.) IN ANY WAY IS FORBIDDEN BY BOTH SDABL AND OFFICIAL BASEBALL RULES AND WILL BE DEALT WITH BY A MINIMUM 3-GAME SUSPENSION, SEASON OR PERMANENT EXPULSION FROM THE SDABL.
Discussions with umpires concerning any aspect of the game are limited to the playing field. If any player or manager follows an umpire off the field he will be subject to suspension and expulsion from the SDABL. Remember that, as with players, no umpire is perfect. Some are better than others. It is your place as manager to deal with the umpires; keep your players away from them. If anybody is ejected, it should be you, not your players. Don’t, however, make a habit of being ejected. A manager ejected 3 times in a season may be subject to League sanctions.
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SECTION 2 --- ORGANIZING YOUR TEAM & INDIVIDUAL PLAYERS
Team managers are required to submit their team packets to the league by the 3rd game of the season. Failure to do so will result in the 3rd game (and any subsequent games until packets are submitted) being cancelled and considered as a forfeit loss.
The SDABL reserves the right to determine which league/division each team is best suited to play in.
Team placement may be based on, but not limited to, team ability, past performance, or the number of teams in each league, which may be necessary to maintain an even schedule in terms of the number of teams available.
SDABL leagues are designed for competition and recreation. Teams considered too strong or too weak for their respective leagues will be placed into the appropriate league.
Typically, League Champions must move up to the next highest level of play for the following season. The SDABL reserves the right to make a determination of what level of competition each team will compete to ensure the competitive balance of the league.
Teams finishing below .250 for two successive seasons may be moved to a lower level of play where they may be more competitive.
Teams finishing above .850 for two successive seasons may be moved to a higher league that offers more competition.
Each team must carry one (1) manager and at least ten (10) contracted players on its roster at all times to be eligible to compete in league games. There is no limit to the number of players on a team's roster.
Any individual contracts that contain incomplete information will make the individual player ineligible and any games in which he participates subject to forfeit if protested by another manager.
All managers should have their copies of their players' contracts with them during games to afford proof of player eligibility. Managers who cannot produce a team member’s signed contract when challenged by an opposing manager are subject to protest and subsequent investigation of the team’s roster by the league.
On occasion a team may have to be dropped from league play, due to either league suspension or the inability to field a team. The following policy will apply:
Teams dropped during the season are subject to loss of player fees and forfeit bond.
After notification to the League President that a team has dropped from the league, the team that is next scheduled to play the dropped team will receive a Forfeit Win.
The dropped team’s remaining games will be cancelled and their record becomes frozen after recording the forfeit loss.
Repeat offenders are subject to League sanctions.
The SDABL will attempt to reschedule games between those teams who were scheduled to play the dropped team.
2.2 PLAYER ADDS/DROPS/TRANSFERS:
A separate transaction is required for each player who is added, dropped or transferred. All transactions must be in writing and received by the League Commissioner or League Office to be valid. That is, no transactions will be considered official with a mere phone call. The following policy will apply for each case:
A player may be added after the season has started.
The added player's contract must be submitted to the League President no later than the day before the game in which the added player is to participate.
The added player's contact may be mailed to the League President. The envelope must be postmarked by midnight the night before a game for that player to be eligible.
Managers must notify the League President in writing if a player leaves the team.
The submitted document must specify the necessary information pertaining to the player and be submitted to the League President within 14 days after the player has been official dropped.
The following policy explains the allowable player transfers between teams during an active season. This policy will be adhered to without exception:
Transfers within the same league: Player may move from one team to another but must sit out one game for each transfer. NOTE: He must sit out the game that follows immediately after the date he officially declares a transfer/drop. If this "after" game becomes forfeit or rained out, the transfer player’s obligations to sit will have been fulfilled.
Transfers from one league to another:
a) Higher league to a lower league (in terms of level of play): Player must sit out one game before playing. The Transferred Player may not play at a higher level for the remainder of the season.
b) Lower league to a higher league (in terms of level of play): Player may play immediately after the transfer. Player may return to the lower league later that season, but must sit out one game and must remain in the lower league the rest of the season.
Note 1: Players transferring from a team that has folded to a potential playoff team are immediately eligible to play the next scheduled regular season game with that new team. Player eligibility for the playoffs shall remain applicable as set forth in Section 3.5 below.
Note 1: The first game of a doubleheader satisfies the one (1) game requirement for the cases noted above. A game won by forfeit also satisfies this one (1) game requirement.
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SECTION 3 --- ELIGIBILITY POLICIES
3.1 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (Contracts/Identity):
Every participating player must have a signed contract on file with the league that identifies the player by name and age.
Each manager should have a copy of this signed contract as well as an official team roster that lists the eligible member of his/her team. The manager should be able to produce signed contracts upon request.
Each eligible player must be playing in the league in which he qualifies with reference to age requirements and all other requirements as set form in each section below.
A player is eligible to participate in an official League sanctioned game when they have reached the ages indicated for each League as follows:
18 & Over --- Must be 18 at the time of contract signing and participation. No exceptions will be allowed.
28 & Over --- Must be 28 by the end of the calendar year.
38 & Over --- Must be 38 by end of the calendar year.
48 & Over --- Must be 48 by the end of the calendar year.
An older player may play in a younger league. A younger player may not play in an older league.
All managers must abide by their respective Leagues age restrictions. Each manager must recognize their responsibility to the league and the perpetuity of it as to not cross the line where winning is more important than playing. An opposing manager may at anytime have the right to question a player’s age. Each player must have proof of age/identity at every game. Each player must be able to present proof of age if requested by the opposing manager or umpire. Failure to do so will result in his not being allowed to play and/or his immediate removal from the game. (See Section 3.6.1 "Consequences" below).
3.3 LEAGUE ELIGIBILITY (Skill Level):
3.3.1 College Players (Current/Former):
Players who are currently active in university, collegiate, or JC baseball programs must play in the highest skill level available for their age group in the San Diego Adult Baseball Association.
To be exempt from having to play in the highest level offered, the following requirements must be met by the individual player:
Former Division I and II players --- must not have played for at last two (2) full seasons.
Former Division III players --- must not have played for at least one (1) full season.
Former JC or NAIA players --- must not have played for at least six (6) months.
IMPORTANT NOTE TO MANAGERS: Managers should be aware that NCAA Division I baseball rules. "NCAA Division I baseball rules," prohibit more than 3 Division I players from playing on the same off-season team. These players may be subject to losing their collegiate eligibility. So, please be aware of who your players are and their backgrounds. The National NABA office has the complete NCAA Compliance Regulations on file. If you are unsure or have any doubt, contact the SDABL President.
3.3.2 Professional Players (Current/Former):
Minor or Major League players who have been under verifiable professional baseball contracts within the last six months are only eligible to play in the Highest League being offered by the SDABL. (Currently 18AAA). Teams violating this rule will forfeit all games in which that player (or players) played even if the existence of a contract is discovered after the fact. Final resolution in such a situation is at the discretion of the SDABL Rules Committee.
Former Major League (only) players who were released from a verifiable professional baseball contract beyond the six month time period sited above are restricted to the highest level of play offered within their appropriate age group. A Major League player is one who may be found in the Baseball Encyclopedia. EXCEPTION: Players who are 48+ years old.
3.4 ROSTER ELIGIBILITY (Multiple Team Participation/Signed Contracts):
No player may play for two different teams in the same age group on the same day.
A player may play in two different skill levels provided they are played on two different days and within one skill level of each other. For example, Sat 18A and Sun 18AA is acceptable. Sat 18A and Sun 18AAA is not acceptable, etc. Also, Sun 18A and Sun 18AA is not acceptable.
Requirements are as follows:
A player must have a valid contract---signed and dated---on file with the SDABL for each league in which he plays and for each team in which he is a member.
All players should be prepared with a valid picture ID, or two pieces of non-photo ID such as a personal checkbook and a credit card, in the event a player's identity is questioned.
If a player’s age
We will require a player to participate in at least 7 games in the Spring Season to be eligible to participate in Spring Playoffs.
We will require a player to participate in at least 4 games in the Fall Season to be eligible for Fall Playoffs.
See
Proof of Participation requires the following:
A signed and dated team contract on file with the league.
A team scorebook that contains the name of each player who participated in each game and for the minimum amount of games required to become eligible for playoffs. (Be sure to include those players in the scorebook who may be defensive players only)! Weekly line up cards may be used as additional proof of participation. Note: Be sure to include all eligible roster players on the line up card, especially those who are used as substitutes and/or defensive players only)!
3.6 INELIGIBLE PLAYERS (Consequences/Challenging/Protesting):
(See the "Definition of Terms" section at the beginning of this rulebook for a detailed definition of an Ineligible Player).
3.6.1 Consequences (Also refer to Section 6.3):
The minimum consequence
The minimum consequence for the player
The SDABL Protest Committee will determine whether any additional consequences should be imposed on the offending team and/or offending player. Each situation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
3.6.2 Challenging/Protesting Ineligible Players:
Procedures are as follows:
The opposing manager must inform the game’s plate umpire that he wishes to challenge a player. (Or the manager must contact the League Commissioner, League President, or League Office by 6:00 PM of the following day).
The chief umpire is then obligated to request some form of identification from the challenged player, as follows:
1) If eligibility pertains to Age only, a photo ID (at a minimum) must be produced. The photo ID must contain a date of birth (DOB). If it does not, then a second official document must be produced (such as a copy of a birth certificate, etc.) that provides the DOB.
2) If eligibility pertains to Identity only, a photo ID should be produced. If a photo ID is not available, two non-photo pieces of identification (such as a bank book and credit card) will be acceptable so long as it proves the identity of the player.
Results:
If the challenged player produces a valid ID that confirms
If the challenged player cannot or will not produce valid identification
Even if a protest is filed with the plate umpire on the field, the protesting manager/team must contact the League Commissioner, President, or League Office by 6:00 PM of the following day. If this requirement is not met, the protest will not be considered---regardless of whether or not the player is subsequently found to be ineligible.
Ineligibility protests that are upheld will apply only to the game being protested. Any previous games in which the ineligible player may have participated are not subject to automatic forfeit. Additional consequences, if any, will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
3.7 PLAYER REGISTRATION POLICY
Registration is defined as having a signed waiver card on file with the league AND being listed on a team’s web site roster, which should include the individual player’s ID #.
3.7.1 Individual Player Registration for Regular Season Participation:
All Players must be registered on their respective team’s web site roster. That is, simply having just an assigned ID # does not qualify an individual player as being registered without also being listed on the web site roster.
The Cut Off date for being registered will be announced in a Newsletter for each specific season. (Typically by the end of March for the spring season and by the end of September for the fall season).
If an individual player fails to register by the announced registration date then said player will be considered as an Ineligible Player and any games he/she participates in after the cut off date will be subject to forfeit.
As long as a player has registered before the actual game time he will be considered as an Eligible Player at that point with the following stipulations:
He has been listed on the web site roster.
He has mailed in a signed waiver that is postmarked on the day of, or before, the game in which he participates.
NOTE: If it is discovered that neither the above two stipulations have been met then any games in which the player participated is subject to forfeit.
3.7.2 Individual Player Registration for Play-Off Participation:
All Players must be registered by the announced Cut Off date to be eligible to participate in season Play Off games.
This Cut Off date will allow for a minimum of seven (7) games of participation by the individual player, which is required for the spring season, and four (4) games of participation for the fall season with the same stipulations as defined in (1) and (2) in Section 3.7.1 above.
NOTE: Rainouts and forfeits will count towards the 7 games (spring) and 4 games (fall) required for play off participation so long as the player has registered prior to the particular rainout and/or forfeit --- unless the said rainout and/or forfeit game is subsequently played after the player has registered.
Example 1: John Smith was registered on March 12th. On Saturday March 11th his team’s game was rained out (or forfeited). John Smith will not receive credit for his having participated in that game --- unless that game does in fact get played sometime after March 12th. (See following example).
Example 2: John Smith was registered on March 12th. On Saturday March 11th his team’s game was rained out (or forfeited). The game is rescheduled on played on March 19th (and/or the rescheduled game was either rained out or forfeited yet again), John will receive credit for his having participated in this makeup game if he does in fact participate.
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SECTION 4 --- PROTESTS (Procedures/Grievances/Appeals)
For any protest (during a game) to be considered by the SDABL Protest Board, the protest must have been filed according to the Official Rules of Baseball, rule 4.19. (See rule and/or Item 3 below).
1) Judgment calls by umpires may not be protested.
2) Only specific rule violations, such as (suspected) rule misinterpretations or misapplication of the "consequences" as defined by a specific rule, may be protested.
3) The protest must be brought to the attention of the plate umpire before the next pitch to a batter, or before the next play (such as a pick-off attempt) in order to be considered. Exception: A manager/team has until 6:00 PM of the following day to protest an Ineligible Player in accordance with Section 3.6 above.
4.1.1 Protest Procedures:
(Following the below procedures will ensure consideration):
(During the game), inform the plate umpire you are protesting and specify what you are protesting. As described just above, this must be done before the next pitch to a batter or before the next attempted play in order for the protest to be considered.
The SDABL recommends you take copies of the Official Rules of Baseball and the SDABL Rulebook and Managers Guide to your games. Upon protesting, try to find the exact rule from the applicable book that applies to your protest. This is not required, however, though it may help you to argue your case.
For your own "protection," make the opposing manger and base umpire aware of your protest.
Be sure to make any and all appropriate notations in your scorebook, and have the plate umpire witness these notations, or make notations of his own.
(After the game), notify your League Commissioner, League President, or League Office by phone---by 6:00 PM of the following day---that you filed a protest during your game.
Write down and submit the details of your protest to the league. This is absolutely necessary in order for your protest to be considered. (Email is encouraged if it is available to you).
Posting a Bond: A $25.00 protest bond must be paid to the league at the time the protest is filed. In the event that the protest is upheld, the $25.00 bond will be refunded to the protesting manager/team. If the protest is denied, however, the manager/team will forfeit the protest bond. Exception: The bond requirement does not apply to any protest involving an Ineligible Player due to Age.
Expectations: When notifying your League Commissioner of a protest, do not expect him to handle and subsequently resolve the issue on Sunday night. Since the main concern of the SDABL is to ensure a fair and impartial hearing, time must be allowed to investigate the facts and to talk with all the principles involved, especially the umpires.
No Assurances: For any and all protests, the decision of the SDABL President, based on the findings of the SDABL Protest Board, are final. Even if it is held that the protest was valid with reference to a violation of either general baseball rules or an SDABL specific rule, this will not automatically result in the replaying of the protested game, or its continuation at the point it was protested, unless the SDABL President and Protest Board are convinced that the violation adversely affected the game and/or the protesting team’s chances of winning the game. Each situation will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Scorebooks and line up cards from both teams may be required to make a decision, so make sure you save all relevant material.
4.1.2 Grievances and Appeals (of a protest decision):
If a manager wishes to appeal any protest decisions handed down by the SDABL Protest Board, or any other rulings the manager may disagree with, a formally written request must be submitted.
Only one (1) appeal is allowed per incident.
All decisions made by the SDABL related to the appeal will be considered final.
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SECTION 5 --- FINES/PENALTIES/SUSPENSIONS
Fines and/or penalties may be levied against teams, managers, or players that have committed rules infractions.
All fines (and penalties) are to be paid by 5:00 p.m. two (2) days before the next scheduled game.
If a fine is not received, the manager or player involved is immediately ineligible to play the next game.
If a team fine is in effect, the game is forfeited.
If fines are not paid by 5:00 p.m. two (2) days before the game of the following week, managers, players and/or teams are subject to further league action.
All penalties will begin with the next scheduled game.
Rainouts and canceled games are not counted towards fulfillment of the penalty (i.e., if the next scheduled game results in a rain-out, cancellation, or postponement, the penalty carries forward to the next game and so on until it has been fully served).
The following list, which is neither an exclusive nor all-inclusive list, shall govern fine infractions not already covered:
Field neglect:
Preparedness
Game balls:
Losing league equipment
Failure by a manager to post or distribute League Newsletter and Official SDABL literature to team members who may not otherwise have access to this information
The following list, which is neither an exclusive nor all-inclusive list, shall govern suspension infractions not already covered:
Alcohol/Tobacco/Drugs:
Fighting:
Physical contact with an umpire:
Player Ejection:
Manager Ejections:
Managers may also be suspended
Throwing equipment to express displeasure
*The SDABL reserves the right to impose additional penalties, including but not limited to, fines, suspensions or expulsion of players, managers, and/or teams based upon the seriousness of any violation.
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Forfeits affect everyone involved, especially the opposing team who has showed up expecting a game, not to mention the umpires. Therefore, the league highly encourages every manager to make every effort to field a team each week. If a manager knows ahead of time that he will not be able to field a team, he should make every effort to provide the league with plenty of notice so as to prevent the opposing team and umpires from having to make an unnecessary trip to a field. (See
Section 6.2 Contact Policy below for details as well as Section 6.3).(See Contact Policy below,
Section 6.2, for related information)Any team that does not have a minimum of eight (8) players at the scheduled game time. No Grace Period.
Any team unable to field the minimum number of players that does not inform the League in accordance with the Contact Policy,
Note: A No Show Forfeit does not apply to forfeits that occur once the game has started
The forfeiting team will be required to pay full umpires fees to both umpires. If this cannot be accomplished out on the field, the League will compensate the umpires. The forfeiting team is then expected to reimburse the League by 5:00pm on the Thursday following the forfeited game. If not, the next weekend’s game will not be played and will be ruled a forfeit as well. Payment must then be made by the next following Thursday, or a 3rd forfeit will ensue, etc.
Spring Season: Upon being charged with a 4th No Show Forfeit (or 3 consecutive forfeits), the team will be suspended for the remainder of the Spring Season.
Fall Season: Upon being charged with a 3rd No Show Forfeit, the team will be suspended for the remainder of the Fall Season.
6.1.3 League Sanctioned "Practice Games":
Umpires are officially authorized to work such a game upon request by the attending players under the following conditions:
The forfeit is a result of at least one team not having at least the eight (8) players required to play at game time. (That is, a No-Show Forfeit).
There must be a minimum of sixteen (16) players total present.
The game must be played in a "serious" manner. (Umpire judgment will prevail).
The "practice" game will last for 2 hours or five (5) innings, whichever comes first.
If a forfeit occurs once the game has started, play will end immediately with no "practice" game allowed.
Umpire payment is not required on the field to play a "practice" game.
6.2 CONTACT POLICY (Preventing No-Show Forfeits):
The purpose here is to give the League, the umpires, and especially the opposing team advance notice of a team’s inability to attend its scheduled game. Please keep in mind that a team’s inability to attend also adversely affects its opponents, since that team loses a game as well. So, every effort should be made to field a team, even if it’s with a minimum number of players.
If the below procedure is not followed, the violating team will be charged with a No Show Forfeit. Keep in mind that after 4 such forfeits during the Spring Season and 3 during the Fall Season, the violating team will be suspended for the remainder of that particular season. Each No Show Forfeit also results in the violating team having to pay full umpire fees to both umpires.
The below procedures apply to either game (i.e., morning or afternoon) whereby a team knows it will not be able to field a minimum of eight (8) players:
1) The manager (or any team representative) must actually speak with his/her League Commissioner in person (simply leaving a phone message will not suffice) by 7:30pm of the previous evening to inform the Commissioner of the team’s inability to field a minimum of eight (8) players.
2) If you are unable to contact your League Commissioner in person, then you must call the Emergency Game Day Phone (619.851.6225) by 7:30pm of the previous evening. If no one answers, you must leave a detailed message to explain your circumstances and a callback number. (Important: If your message has been recorded on the Emergency Game Day Phone after 7:30pm, you have not met the Contact Policy requirements and will therefore be charged with a No Show Forfeit).
A "Call In" forfeit is defined as any team that notifies the league previous to any regularly scheduled game of its inability to field enough players to play the regularly scheduled game. If the forfeiting team notifies the league in accordance with the stipulations listed in Section 6.2 to prevent having to pay the umpires, the forfeiting team will still be charged with a forfeit in terms of possible removal from the league as defined in Section 6.4 below. Additional consequences for a "Call In" forfeit is defined immediately below.
6.3.1 Call In Forfeit Fine Policy:
Any team that is sited for a "Call In" forfeit (as defined by Section 6.3 above) will be required to pay a fine of $50.00 to the league. This fine must be paid before the forfeiting team’s next regularly scheduled game to prevent a subsequent forfeit. This fine does not apply to No-Show Forfeits as defined by Section 6.1 above.
The team that had been scheduled to play against the ("Call In" only) forfeiting team above will receive one dozen free baseballs from the league as compensation for their having not been able to play. This does not apply to any No-Show Forfeits as defined within these rules or any forfeit that may result once the game has been started.
Bottom line: Either type of forfeit --- "Call In" or No-Show --- will now cost a minimum of $50.00.
6.4 FORFEIT POLICY RESULTING IN TEAM REMOVAL:
A team will be removed from participating in the league after a 4th forfeit (or 3 consecutive forfeits) during the spring season and after a 3rd forfeit during the fall season as a result of a team being unable to field enough players (8 minimum) before any scheduled game. This applies to either a No-Show Forfeit as defined within these rules AND/OR any forfeit called in ahead of time regardless of whether or not it results in a No-Show Forfeit. NOTE: This does not apply to any games forfeited for any reason once a game has started (after the first pitch). The league reserves the right to make determinations for "special circumstances" on a case-by-case basis to determine if a team’s inability to play a regularly scheduled game warrants being counted against the forfeits allowed as defined above.
6.5 FORFEITS INVOLVING INELIGIBLE PLAYERS:
If a game has started and a (proven) ineligible player is participating, the game will be immediately forfeit upon discovery by the umpire. See "Definition of Terms" above for a definition of an Ineligible Player.
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SECTION 7 --- FEES/PAYMENTS (on the field)
The following procedures will be followed out on the field:
Each team pays one umpire before the start of the game.
The umpires have been instructed to not start a game until payment is made, unless official arrangements have been made ahead of time.
If one team only has 8 players at game time, both teams are required to pay the umpires since this is not a forfeit situation.
If there is a No-Show forfeit, the forfeiting team should pay at least one umpire fee at game time. (Encouraged, not required).
Returned checks written to umpires must be made good by cash, cashier's check or money order along with any bank charge. If your check bounces, the umpires may refuse to accept checks from your team in the future.
If only one umpire shows up for a game each team is required to pay that umpire $40.00.
In the event that a game is started and subsequently postponed due to rain, other field conditions, or for any reason whatsoever before it becomes official, the umpires will return 1/2 (50%) of the umpire fee to each team. Umpires are entitled to a full fee once the game is official. Completion of 5 innings is an official game, or 4 ½ if the home team is ahead, for either a 7 or 9-inning game.
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SECTION 8 --- ALL-STAR GAMES/LEAGUE PLAYOFFS/TOURNAMENTS
8.1 ALL-STAR GAMES (Spring Leagues Only):
We will schedule All-Star games for all of our leagues based on the number of teams in each league in any given season.
The SDABL will attempt to schedule the All-Star Games as mid-week night games, usually Wednesdays or Thursdays, played under the lights. Being chosen to the All-Star game is an honor and the players will be made to feel as such. Individual All-Star commemorative awards will be given to each player selected to be on the team. An MVP award will be given to the Most Valuable Player for each game. The SDABL Official Announcer and Scorekeeper will determine MVP awards.
Players and managers are chosen for the game based on their place in the standings as of the end of play two Sundays before the event -- the All-Star "cut-off" date. Managers of the first place teams in their division (National or American) will be the managers of their respective teams They may choose one (1) additional manager in their division to be their coach. Players are allotted based on a weighted scale. Teams higher up in the standing get more players than those farther down (see: All-Star Allotment Guidelines). Players from each team should be voted onto the All-Star team using the ballot similar to the example provided at the end of this booklet.
Manager Eligibility: Managers may play only if selected by the members of his team to play.
Reminders:
Equipment for the games is to be provided by each manager and coach. The SDABL league Office provides baseballs and umpires.
All players and managers on the All-Star rosters are to be in full team uniform for the game.
Attendance by non-All-Star players and managers is strongly encouraged to show league support. Additionally, all family members of the All-Stars will be encouraged to attend. This is a family-oriented league, and their attendance is important for the league's cohesiveness.
Every league within the SDABL will have a post-season playoff to determine an overall league champion. The playoff format and the number of teams allowed to participate for each specific league will be determined by a variety of factors, particularly with respect to the number of teams within a specific Division. The playoff format for each league will be announced prior to the start of the regular season. The SDABL reserves the right to alter the playoff format "in the spirit of fairness" and/or for any unforeseen events that may require altering the format. The SDABL will make every effort to create a playoff format that is impartial, fair, and competitive.
The Division Winner will be based on the final league standings with reference to each team’s win/loss record. If not all teams have played the same number of games, then a Winning Percentage will determine the division winner. That is, the number of wins divided by the total number of games played. (Forfeits will be counted as a win or loss). (Tied games will be counted as ½ a win and ½ a loss).
Example 1 (No Ties Involved): Team A has a record of 13-2, which results in a Winning Percentage of .866. Team B has a record of 14-3, which results in a Winning Percentage of .823. Even though Team B has more wins, its overall Winning Percentage is lower than Team A. Therefore, Team A is declared the division winner.
Example 2 (Ties Involved): Team A has a record of 7-7-3, which results in a Winning Percentage of .500. (8.5 wins divided by 17 total games played). Team B has a record of 6-5-5, which results in a Winning Percentage of .531. (8.5 wins divided by 16 total games played). Therefore, Team B is declared the division winner.
In the event that two (2) or more teams have equal Winning Percentages, then the Division Winner will be determined using the following method:
Head-to-head competition
Fewest runs allowed between the affected teams.
Best record within each team’s respective divisions, if applicable.
Least runs allowed for full season for all games. (If number of games recorded are equal).
Qualifying for Playoffs:
Beyond determining an absolute Division Winner as described above, qualifying for any Playoff Spot will be determined in the following manner in the event a three (3)-way tie where all three teams have beaten each other during the regular season. Two scenarios are involved. A Single Playoff spot and Two Playoff spots.
If all three (3) teams are in the running for a SINGLE playoff spot, then the following Tie-breaker system will be used:
We will calculate the runs allowed for those games played against each other for the three teams involved. We will then eliminate the team that allowed the most runs. Between the two remaining teams, the head-to-head winner during the regular season will determine the winner.
For Example: Team A allowed 10 runs. Team B allowed 11 runs, and Team C allowed 12 runs. Team B beat Team A head-to-head during the regular season. Therefore, Team C is eliminated and Team B is declared the winner and advances.
In the event two (2) teams allowed the same "highest" number of runs, we will use the head-to-head regular season winner to determine which team will go head-to-head with the third (3rd) team that allowed the fewest runs.
For Example: Team A allowed 10 runs, Team B allowed 11 runs, and Team C allowed 11 runs. Team C had beaten Team B during the regular season. Therefore, Team C will be matched head-to-head with Team A. Whichever team won the head-to-head during the regular season will be declared the winner.
If all three (3) teams are in the running for TWO (2) playoff spots, then:
The above scenario will still apply. The only difference, however, is that once the team that allowed the most runs has been eliminated, the remaining two (2) teams will use their regular season head-to-head outcome to determine the highest "seed," since both will be in the playoffs.
Bottom Line: Head-to-head competition is the prevailing method for determining a winner.
All regular season rules
A winner must be determined for each playoff game, so if there is a tie after the time limit has expired, the playoff game will continue until there is a winner.
Championship games will not have a time limit. A modified Run (Mercy) Rule will be announced prior to the playoffs.
Teams are responsible for paying the umpires and providing the baseballs for all Playoff Games.
The League will pay the umpires and provide baseballs for all Championship Games.
8.2.2 Playoff Eligibility for Individual Players:
Spring Season: A minimum of seven (7) games must have been played.
Fall Season: A minimum of four (4) games must have been played.
Regional and National tournament competition will be based solely on the decisions of the NABA National Tournament Rules Committee.
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Please keep in mind that the use of all high school fields is a privilege, not a right. That is, even though the SDABL pays for the use of high school fields, no high school administration or individual high school coach is obligated to allow us to use their fields. Therefore, in order to continue our privileges we must ensure that no field is abused or left in an unplayable condition after its use.
Keep the following in mind:
IMPORTANT: IF A FIELD IS WET, DO NOT HAUL DIRT OR ANY OTHER MATERIAL ON OR OFF A FIELD TO MAKE IT PLAYABLE. LOSS OF A FIELD’S USE TO THE LEAGUE DUE TO THE IMPROPER ACTIONS OF A TEAM OR TEAMS WILL RESULT IN SANCTIONS, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, SUSPENSION/EXPULSION OF THE OFFENDING PLAYERS/TEAMS, FINES, AND REIMBURSEMENT BY THE OFFENDING PLAYERS/TEAMS TO THE FIELD’S OWNER FOR DAMAGES.
If the field cannot be made ready by light raking, do not play on it.
Do not subject a wet field to footprints or heavy raking.
Accountability for Fields:
Teams and umpires are subject to suspension
Note: Requirements for field maintenance may vary from city to city depending on requirements from high school coaches and/or athletic directors, or the administrative policies of each particular high school.
Reminders:
All players and managers are reminded that pre-game stretching and throwing should be done on the outfield grass not on the infield or in front of the dugouts.
Hitting drills against any fence are prohibited because it damages chain link fences and jeopardizes player safety.
Do not pitch batting practice from in front of the mound
No climbing or jumping over fences to gain access to a field. If a field is locked and a team does not have the key, stay off the field.
Cutting locks or removing gates to get on a field or obtain field equipment is expressly prohibited. Any such actions shall result in a fine and subject that player/team to league suspension.
Stay off dugout roofs and back stops.
Special Note: Both managers of each team are responsible for verifying the field’s playing conditions. If one manager determines a field is not playable, but the opposing manager disagrees, the final decision will be left to the umpires present. If the umpires deem the field playable, but one or both managers do not, then the Emergency Game Day line should be called (619.851.6225) for advice. A league representative will be contacted to make the final decision.
All unplayable field conditions for any given day should be immediately reported to the league office by means of the Emergency Game day line. For those fields that may be unplayable in the future because of unsafe conditions of a perpetual nature, the league should be informed so corrective action may be taken.
Special Reminder: Players, managers and team are liable for the cost of damages to a field in addition to being subject to fines and suspension without refund.
In San Diego the SDABL makes every effort to assign an Official Field Custodian to every field. This person is responsible for ensuring access to each field and that bases are provided. If this does not occur, please call the Game Day Emergency Phone at (619) 851-6225.
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Each team is required to provide three brand new baseballs per game to the home plate umpire. The Official approved SDABL baseball is the NABA/Wilson A-1036, designed exclusively for the NABA. Teams may obtain additional Official NABA baseballs at a substantial discount from retail cost by contacting your league president.
In addition to the NABA/Wilson A-1036, the following balls are just a few of those currently approved for use:
Wilson: A1010-Pro, A1010-HS1, A1029+, and A1039+
Diamond: D1 (all models), DHS, DOLA
Rawlings RO, RO-A, RO-N, R-100
No rubber coated, plastic, youth league or obviously defective baseballs are allowed. Use of unapproved baseballs shall cause the ball(s) to be removed from the game and a $10.00 per ball fine imposed. Repeated use may result in further disciplinary action including, but not limited to, a fine and/or suspension of the manager or team.
All wood, aluminum, graphite, and ceramic bats are allowed for league play provided they conform to specifications described in rule 1.10(a) of the OFFICIAL BASEBALL RULES.
Aluminum, graphite and ceramic bats must have some time of grip attached. It does not have to be the original grip, but it must be one that is, in the umpire’s judgment, safe for use. Pine tar alone on any metal composite bats is not acceptable. WOOD BATS do not require any type of grip, and pine tar alone is acceptable.
Bats that have a "5" differential in weight vs. length are currently eligible. For example, a bat with a 32" length must weigh at least 27 ounces.
Bats with a "pebbled" or "golf-ball" finish on the barrel are prohibited.
The discovery of any unauthorized bats will result in a recorded out and ejection of the offending player.
Before a player invests in a "hi-tech" bat with such a finish they should check with the League President
Wood and metal bats are allowed for all leagues and divisions, with the exception of designated "Wood Bat" leagues, which do not allow metal composite bats to be used.
The required minimum uniform for a team consists of matching shirts with individual numbers, and matching hats. Additionally, all players must wear some type of baseball pants and shoes. No shorts, cutoffs, sweat pants, workout pants, or jeans are allowed. Any team not in the minimum uniform is subject to a $15.00 fine the first time. The second time the fine will be $30.00, and will be increased by $15.00 each time thereafter. Repeat offenders may also be subject to suspension or expulsion.
An average grace period (which must be approved by the League President) of 3 weeks from Opening Day is allowed for teams with uniforms on order that have not been received. The grace period shall also apply to new players joining the team during the season.
Uniforms: All teams must have full baseball uniforms consisting of caps, numbered jerseys, baseball pants, sanitary socks and stirrups. Each player’s uniform must be of similar design to his teammates uniforms. New teams will have until the 4th week of the season to obtain uniforms.
All umpires have been instructed to enforce the following minimum dress code before any player may participate:
It is not the umpires’ responsibility to ensure that any team and/or player’s dress is of a "uniform" color and/or style. This will not be cause to prevent a game from being played or cause for forfeit. These issues must be taken up with the league, not on the field.
Metal spikes, plastic and rubber cleats are approved for NABA games. Any player found to be wearing deliberately sharpened spikes would be subject to ejection and possible suspension from the league.
All batters must wear a protective helmet that has at least one earflap facing the pitcher. Players will not be allowed to run bases without a helmet.
All catchers must wear a protective helmet while playing their position. No catcher will be allowed to assume that position without protective headgear that is provided by his own team. The umpires will enforce this rule. There are no exceptions, waivers, or special circumstances.
Players not wearing a protective helmet will not be allowed to continue in the game until they have corrected the problem. If they are presently in the batting order, their removal will be governed under the rules for Offensive Substitution. If their removal occurs when their team has no eligible substitutes, the game will be forfeited.
CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 ARE ALLOWED IN THE DUGOUT and may serve as bat-boy/girl under the following conditions:
The child’s parent(s) and team manager accepts full responsibility for the child’s safety.
Any child 15-years-old or younger must wear a protective helmet at all times.
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SECTION 11 --- SDABL LOCAL PLAYING RULES
IMPORTANT: The umpires have been instructed to not allow any "deals" between managers when enforcing any rules, or to personally allow any "flexibility" with reference to enforcement. (For instance, umpires should not "turn their backs" to allow the managers to agree to add a player to the lineup card if said player had not been put on the lineup card prior to the first (1st) pitch of the game). Any violations should be reported to the League and/or Chief Umpire.
Game time is the scheduled start time, except for those situations beyond the control of either team or the umpire. For example, if no bases available, or the fields are locked, sprinklers turned on, etc. For any delays due to the latter situations, the umpires will announce the official start time established by the first pitch of the game.. IT IS THE MANAGER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THAT A START TIME HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED. The plate umpire for that game will be responsible for the time clock. Any game ending in a tie after the regulation time has expired will remain a tie in the standings.
All SDABL single games are nine (9) innings.
The second game of an SDABL doubleheader will be a seven (7)-inning game.
In the case of an SDABL "split team" doubleheader (games against two different teams), each game will be nine (9) innings.
In the event of darkness, rain, or other unforeseen event that does not allow the game to continue, the game will be considered official if 5 full innings have been played ( 4 ½ or any part thereof if the home team is ahead) for either a nine (9)-inning or seven (7)-inning game.
The umpires may suspend, cancel or call a game if, in their opinion, the safety of the players are compromised due to rain, darkness, or any other event that may require the game to be stopped.
No new inning shall begin after 3 hours and 15 minutes from the scheduled official start of a 9-inning game.
No new inning shall begin after 2 hours and 45 minutes from the scheduled official start of a 7-inning game.
Tie Games
A forfeited game
11.2 EIGHT (8) PLAYER START RULE:
Teams (one or both) may start and complete any game with only 8 players without penalty of forfeit.
All 8 players must be available at the scheduled game time to prevent a forfeit. NO GRACE PERIOD.
All games played and completed with only 8 members on a team will be considered legal.
The 9th spot in the batting order must be established as the "batting hole." This "hole" will count as an out until filled by an eligible player.
An "out" must be recorded throughout the game each time this "batting hole" comes up.
The team with only 8 players must always be able to bat all 8 players. If the batting order drops below 8 players, the game will become forfeit.
If the 9th player does show up at any point during the game, he may be immediately inserted into the 9th spot of the batting order if his team is at bat. If he shows up when his team is on defense, he may take the field only after the current opposing batter has completed his at-bat.
If only one team has 8 players present at game time, both teams are required to pay the umpires.
11.2.1 Scoring Runs when there is a "Hole" in the Batting Order:
This situation applies when the Batter just previous to the "Hole" comes up with 1 Out already recorded.
Whenever there is a "hole" in the batting order, that "hole" is counted as an automatic "out." That "out," however, will not take place until all play associated with the batter just previous to the "hole" has stopped. Therefore, this situation should be treated as if no "hole" actually existed. Subsequently, all runs should be scored as appropriate.
EXAMPLE 1: R3 (runner on 3rd), 1 out. The batter previous to the "hole" comes to the plate and hits a ground ball to the shortstop. R3 runs home, but the shortstop throws to 1st to retire the batter-runner. Since that is only the second out, R3 scores. And now that all play has stopped, the "hole" in the batting order is declared as the 3rd out.
Therefore, there are only two ways to prevent R3 from scoring in the above situation. First, the shortstop would need to throw the ball home to have R3 put out before scoring. Two, the 1st baseman, having put-out the batter at first as a result of the shortstop’s throw there, would have to subsequently throw home to put-out R3 before he scores.
The only other way to prevent a run from scoring for this type of situation would be to acquire a 3rd out before a run scores, such as a legitimate double-play.
EXAMPLE 2: R1, R3, 1 out. The batter previous to the "hole" comes to the plate and hits a ground ball to the shortstop. R3 runs home. Meantime, the shortstop throws to 2nd to retire R1, the 2nd baseman throws to 1st to retire the batter-runner. Double-play, R3 does not score. Since the 3rd out was a "real" out, then the "hole" will become the first out in the following inning.
"Holding back" players is not allowed.
The batting order must consist of all 9 players (or a minimum of 9 if there are more than 9 players present).
A team must always bat a minimum of 9 players throughout the course of the game if there are 9 (or more) eligible batters present.
All 9 players must play on defense.
If any player is lost for any reason---ejection, injury, or leaving of the premises for any reason, and the "hole" created in the batting spot must be counted as an "out" each time it comes up. Eliminating the "hole" in the batting order by "squeezing down" the order to the number of actual batters present is not allowed.
If only 9 players are present and at least 2 players are lost for the same reasons as above, putting the batting order below 8, this will be cause for immediate forfeit.
Lineup cards are to be clear and complete. Any exceptions must be corrected prior to the first pitch of the game.
The umpires have been instructed to check for the following information on each lineup card before the game can be started. It is the responsibility of each manager, however, not the umpire, to ensure this information is not only provided, but that it is correct. No corrections may be made once the first pitch of the game has been thrown.
Each team is required to provide a lineup card to both the plate umpire and the opposing team before the start of each game. No game will start until this is accomplished, and no names may be added once the game has started.
The lineup cards must list each player’s last names in full (minimum), his first initial, and his jersey number.
It should also contain the names of any Eligible Substitutes who are members of the team, regardless of whether or not they are present. It should also identify all Non-Runners affected.
Lineup cards should identify all Non-Runners.
Lineup cards should identify the player who is pitching.
Any player who arrives after the start of the game and who is not listed on the lineup card will not be allowed to play.
Any player who is participating in a game and is discovered to not have his name listed on the lineup card will be immediately removed from that game, regardless of whether or not he is a valid team member.
While managers are obviously eligible to play, the manager’s name must also be listed on the lineup card just like any other player.
Managers must notify the plate umpire and the opposing team of all offensive substitutions and pitching changes when they are made. NOTE: See Section 11.6 below for what to do about unannounced substitutions.
The umpires have been instructed to allow no exceptions to any of the above. That is, if a manager has forgotten to include a particular player or to designate his Non-Runners on his lineup card, this cannot be corrected once the first pitch has been thrown. In particular, the umpires have been instructed to not allow any "deals" between managers for allowing corrections to be made. In addition, no manager will be allowed to request f