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.

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

LEGAL PLAYER (League):

The above definitions are subject to change on a year-to-year bases, depending on the age requirement as defined by the SDABL.

ILLEGAL PLAYER (League):

ELIGIBLE PLAYER (League):

INELIGIBLE PLAYER (League) *:

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.

ELIGIBLE SUBSTITUTE (Lineup):

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:

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.

Any game in which a team is made to take a loss for the following reasons:

CONTACT POLICY (Preventing No-Show Forfeits):

There are five (10) significant changes for 2006 as follows:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Team managers are required to submit their team packets to the league by the 3^rd game of the season. Failure to do so will result in the 3^rd game (and any subsequent games until packets are submitted) being cancelled and considered as a forfeit loss.

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:

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:

The following policy explains the allowable player transfers between teams during an active season. This policy will be adhered to without exception:

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.

3.1 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (Contracts/Identity):

3.2 PLAYER ELIGIBILITY (Age):

A player is eligible to participate in an official League sanctioned game when they have reached the ages indicated for each League as follows:

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:

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):

3.4 ROSTER ELIGIBILITY (Multiple Team Participation/Signed Contracts):

Requirements are as follows:

Proof of Participation requires the following:

(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):

Procedures are as follows:

Results:

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.

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 #.

1. He has been listed on the web site roster.

2. 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.

SECTION 4 --- PROTESTS (Procedures/Grievances/Appeals)

4.1.1 Protest Procedures:

(Following the below procedures will ensure consideration):

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):

Fines and/or penalties may be levied against teams, managers, or players that have committed rules infractions.

The following list, which is neither an exclusive nor all-inclusive list, shall govern fine infractions not already covered:

The following list, which is neither an exclusive nor all-inclusive list, shall govern suspension infractions not already covered:

*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.

Note: A No Show Forfeit does not apply to forfeits that occur once the game has started

Umpires are officially authorized to work such a game upon request by the attending players under the following conditions:

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:

Bottom line: Either type of forfeit --- "Call In" or No-Show --- will now cost a minimum of $50.00.

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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.

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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.

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.

In the event that two (2) or more teams have equal Winning Percentages, then the Division Winner will be determined using the following method:

Bottom Line: Head-to-head competition is the prevailing method for determining a winner.

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.

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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:

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.

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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In addition to the NABA/Wilson A-1036, the following balls are just a few of those currently approved for use:

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.

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 4^th 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:

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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 (1^st) 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.

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 3^rd), 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 1^st 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 3^rd 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 1^st 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 3^rd 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 2^nd to retire R1, the 2^nd baseman throws to 1^st to retire the batter-runner. Double-play, R3 does not score. Since the 3^rd out was a "real" out, then the "hole" will become the first out in the following inning.

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.

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 from the umpire that he ask the opposing manager for "permission" to make corrections. ANY UMPIRE WHO ALLOWS THIS TO HAPPEN SHOULD BE REPORTED TO THE SDABL CHIEF UMPIRE AT THE EARLIEST OPPORTUNITY. This will create grounds for a protest and/or forfeit upon discovery.

11.6 OFFENSIVE SUBSTITUTES/SUBSTITUTIONS (Normal Circumstances):

Any runner who becomes injured enough to require removal from the game must be replaced at that time in the Offensive Lineup by an Eligible Substitute. If an Eligible Substitute is not available then the last recorded out may run for the injured player for that at-bat only to prevent an out from being recorded.

Example: Player reaches base and pulls his hamstring in the process and must be replaced. If there is no Eligible Substitute then the last recorded out may run to prevent that base-runner from being lost and result in having to take an out. THIS REQUIRES the injured player to be removed from the game permanently on Offense and Defense.

11.6.2 "COURTESY" RUNNERS: Not allowed for any reason.

The MLB Official Rules of baseball, Rule 6.07, applies to all substitutions and the batting order. That is, it is the manager’s responsibility, not the umpire’s, to ensure the proper batter is coming to the plate. The umpire is only responsible for "fixing/punishing" any violations pertaining to this when brought to his attention by the opposing manager. If an Ineligible Substitute, or any out-of-order batter, "slips through the cracks" for any particular at-bat because it has not been brought to the umpire’s attention by the opposing manager before the next pitch or play, then that player is "legal" for that particular at-bat.

REMINDER (Scorekeepers): Managers, if you have a scorekeeper for your team other than yourself or a team member---for instance, wife, girlfriend, mother, whomever --- and your scorekeeper becomes aware that the opposing team is either batting out of order, or is re-entering an ineligible substitute, the scorekeeper must inform you, the manager, that this is happening so that you may bring it to the umpire’s attention. According to the official rules of baseball, the umpire can only officially address the issue if either the manager or a member of his team (i.e., a player) brings such situations to his attention. (Although some umpires will in fact address the issue with any scorekeeper who alone brings these situations to his attention, the umpire is not obligated to do so. In fact, in doing so, the umpire runs the risk of having the opposing manager file a (justifiable) protest. SUGGESTION: Get directly involved in your role as a manager to prevent being "victimized" by these situations).

The number of Non-Runners allowed for each team in each division is as follows:

In the event that an incorrect runner is put into run for the Non-Runner---either inadvertently or purposely---this will not be ground for anything other than replacing the incorrect runner with the correct runner. (An "incorrect" runner for this situation is defined as any player who is currently in the Offensive Lineup, but who was not the last recorded out). This holds true even if the incorrect runner has advanced to a base beyond the base he originally acquired for the Non-Runner. That is, if the Non-Runner had gotten a single and was replaced at 1st by the incorrect runner, who has now advanced to 3rd by whatever means, the correct runner will simply replace the incorrect runner if the opposing manager brings it to the attention of the umpire. If an incorrect runner does end up scoring before an opposing manager has brought the issue up to the umpire, the run will still count.

REMINDER: If a non-runner is replaced by a pinch-runner ---either inadvertently or purposely---then the non-runner will be considered out of the Offensive Lineup and the pinch-runner will be considered in the Offensive Lineup pursuant to the Substitution Rule in Section 11.6 above.

NON-RUNNER/LAST-RECORDED-OUT SUBSTITUTIONS: When a Non-Runner has been replaced by the player who is the last-recorded-out and the Offensive Manager decides to make an immediate substitution, the manager may declare that he is substituting for the last-recorded-out player as opposed to the Non-Runner himself. This allows the manager to keep the Non-Runner in the Offensive Lineup. At the same time, it must be understood this substitution places the pinch-runner into the batting lineup and removes the last-recorded-out player being substituted for. All applicable Re-entry rules will apply to the removed player.

(Not related to the Offensive Re-Entry rule above).

• Any pitcher, once removed as pitcher, may be re-entered to pitch during the same inning or in a subsequent inning only once per game.

Reminder: Regardless of the situation, all pitchers must comply with Rule 3.05(b) of the Official Baseball Rules. That is, any pitcher must pitch to a batter until that batter completes his at-bat before he may be removed as pitcher. The only exception is if the pitcher becomes injured.

• If any pitcher is removed as pitcher with the intention of having him return as pitcher, he is not required to stay on the field to play another defensive position in order to return as pitcher.

NOTE: Any violation of this pitcher’s rule does not create a forfeit situation. The only consequence upon discovering that a player is pitching illegally will be to remove that player from the mound. He may, however, remain in the game and play another position.

Doubleheaders in all leagues can either be 9 or 7 innings. Typically, the first game is 9 innings and the second game 7.

The official start time of the second game will be 45 minutes after the completion of the first.

Both games of a Split Team doubleheader will be nine (9) innings.

SPECIAL NOTE: Both the Home and Visiting Team’s scorebooks (or copies) must be presented to the SDABL Protest Board upon request, if applicable. If there are any conflicts between the two books, as well as with the plate umpire’s own version of the score, the Home Team’s scorebook will be considered official. (The SDABL Protest Board, however, still retains the right to make a final decision based on the evidence presented).

Note 1: Since umpires may be subject to suspension for starting a game on a field that is unplayable, managers are encouraged to refrain from "pressuring" the umpires to start a game.

Note 2: If an umpire has started a game that (obviously) should not be started, then suspends play shortly thereafter for the (obvious) intention of merely collecting a game fee, managers should report this to the SDABL Chief Umpire immediately.

Note 3: If any game has been started but does not reach the 5^th inning to become an official game and is subsequently stopped because of rain, the umpires are required to return 50% (1/2) of the full game fee.

SPECIAL NOTE: The SDABL will make every reasonable attempt to reschedule rained out games.

Starting in the Spring 2006 SDABL season the NCAA "Force-Play Slide Rule" will go into effect. The purpose of this rule, as with the SDABL No Collision Rule below, is to prevent injury with respect to those plays that may encourage the "taking out" of a defensive player during a force and/or double-play situation. Basically, this rule dictates that the runner must slide directly into any base for the just mentioned situations. Simply being able to get just a hand on the base while a "body’s length away" for the purpose of breaking up a double-play will no longer be allowed. The rule in its entirety is as follows:

Exception --- A runner need not slide directly into a base as along as the runner slides or runs (while standing) in a direction away from the fielder to avoid making contact or altering the play/throw of the fielder.

NOTE 1: If a runner goes into a base standing up and does not make contact or alter the play of the defensive player, interference shall not be called.

NOTE 2: When the base runner slides beyond the base, but does not (1) make contact with or (2) alter the play of the defensive player, interference shall not be called.

NOTE 3: ‘Beyond the base" means any part of the offensive player’s body makes contact with or alters the play of the fielder beyond the base.

PENALTY for 1 -6 in (c) above:

NOTE 4: If the bases are loaded with no outs, a double-play attempt is made, and interference is called, all other runners must return to the bases the occupied at the time of the pitch.

NOTE 5: On a force play, with a two-man umpiring system, if the plate umpire does not have a potential play at the plate, he should move toward the base to observe the runner going into second or third base. In this situation, the base umpire must follow the throw and may not see the true effect of the lead runner’s actions.

A runner attempting to acquire a base/home MUST AVOID ANY DELIBERATE STAND-UP COLLISIONS WITH THE DEFENSIVE PLAYER FOR THE PURPOSE OF "JARRING" THE BALL LOOSE IF THAT PLAYER HAS POSSESSION OF THE BALL, OR "FORECEFULLY MOVING" THE DEFENSIVE PLAYER OUT OF THE WAY IF HE IS ABOUT TO RECEIVE THE THROWN BALL, OR THE INTENT TO INJURE (based on umpire judgment.). This rule also applies to DEFENSIVE PLAYERS, as seen below.

Note: Since no umpire can read a player’s mind in order to determine actual intent, "deliberate" must also be based on umpire judgment. And while any arguments presented to the umpire may in fact be sincere and well-intended, any aggressive "Q & A" directed towards the umpire may be met with a bit of skepticism. This is not an easy call to make, as history has shown.

To prevent "stand up" collisions between a runner and defensive player for the purpose of preventing injury. While it does apply to any plays at any base, its main focus has been to address plays at home between the runner and catcher. Basically, the intent of this rule is to eliminate the "Pete Rose/Ray Fosse" type of baseball played by professionals---who can obviously "afford" in the real sense of the word to play it this way. Recreational players, however, need to remain healthy so they can go to work on Monday morning.

The below photo-play examples are provided as a basis to help the umpire interpret violations of the SDABL No Collision Rule.  The first two examples are the "no-brainer" plays which definitely require "punishment."  The third example is a bit more problematic and falls under the "marginal" category, which requires the umpire to really think about his decision in order to achieve what is in the best interests of the players involved, as well as the game itself.  The fourth figure is an example of the way the game should be played.  A detailed discussion follows these photo-plays.

FIGURE 1.  Possession

Not a whole lot of interpretation involved with Figure 1.  The catcher clearly is in full possession of the ball and the runner's intent is pretty obvious.  Although this is "good, hard professional baseball," it is definitely a violation of the SDABL No Collision Rule.  If you ever witness this play, and regardless of whether the catcher (or any defensive player) was able to hold onto the ball, the runner should be called out and, in this case, ejected from the ball game.  A "no-brainer" for any umpire.

Note:  Even though this photo is obviously from a professional game, it serves as a good example of what a runner can't do in Adult Recreational baseball.

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FIGURE 2. --- About To Receive The Throw

The runner in Figure 2 is a victim of watching too many ESPN highlights (or replays of the Rose/Fosse incident).  Although difficult to see in Frame 1, the ball, having just been thrown by the 3rd baseman, has reached the grass cut-out just in front of the catcher.  Notice his excellent positioning.  He's put himself out of harm's way, yet has set himself up to be able to block the plate once he gets the ball.  At the same time, the runner does have access to the plate without the worry of being obstructed by the catcher.  What should also be noted here is that the runner (and I think this is a fair assumption, despite the time factor) is well aware of where the ball is and what is taking place.  That is, a close play, one that requires a slide.  (Even if the runner could argue that he didn't actually see the ball in front of him in Frame 1, he certainly was aware of a potential play for two reasons:  one, the ground ball had been fielded by the 3rd baseman, near enough for the runner to have seen it happening.  Two, the catcher, by his body language alone, is indicating that the throw is indeed headed in his direction.  So, no excuses by the runner here).

Unfortunately, as seen in Frame 1, the runner has (obviously) made a bad decision.  He has moved "inside," putting him on a collision course with the catcher.  That wouldn't be so bad---if he was intending to slide.  In fact, a good hard slide here---even into the catcher, and maybe especially into the catcher---would certainly be to his advantage.  Intimidating, to be sure---in a fair way---thereby increasing his chances of scoring.  And certainly removing his being cited for violating the No Collision Rule.  (Keep in mind that the "collision" part of this rule only involves stand-up collisions, not those collisions that result from a good, hard slide).

But it becomes obvious in the following frames what his real intention is---to "take out" the catcher in the hopes of knocking the ball free.  Again, a "no-brainer" call for the umpire.  The runner is out (regardless of whether or not the catcher was able to hold only the ball), the ball becomes "dead," and the runner (should be) ejected.

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FIGURE 3.  The "Bang-Bang" Play

The play shown in Figure 3 is an excellent example of good baseball gone, unfortunately, "bad" with reference to the No Collision Rule.  That is, this is one of those "marginal" cases that require some thought on the part of the umpire.

An important part missing from this example is the frame that precedes Frame 1 (where the collision actually occurs).  That is, it would show that the ball, the runner, and the catcher all came together at the same time---complicating the decision by the umpire as to whether or not he should cite the runner for violating the No Collision Rule.  Complicating it even further is the fact that the play takes place a good few feet up the line, making it arguable as to whether or not the runner should have been sliding at the point of impact in Frame 1.  (And consider this.  Had this play happened at 1st base as a result of an errant throw by, say, the shortstop, which pulls the 1st baseman up the line towards home and in the path of the batter-runner, the resulting collision would have most likely been ruled---and rightly so---as "incidental contact" by the umpire.  That is, neither the defensive player nor runner would have been in violation of any rule, general baseball or league specific.  Incidental contact is discussed in more detail below).

Because of the way the play developed, including the positioning of both players, coupled with no "obvious" intent on the part of the runner (as seen in Figures 1 and 2 above) a tough decision has to be made by the umpire.  (Actually, two decisions are always involved with these types of plays.  First, to decide whether or not the runner would be allowed to score if he did in fact do so.  Second, whether or not the runner should be ejected, regardless of the first decision).

To make it a bit easier, let's discuss the results of this actual play and the subsequent decisions by the umpires.

The catcher did in fact hold onto the ball, making the tagged runner out.  This alleviated the problem of having the umpire decide whether or not the contact was "incidental," thereby ruling the runner safe if he acquired home as a result of the ball being knocked loose.  At the same time (and assuming the ball had been knocked loose) this alleviated the problem of having the umpire determine that the runner was in violation of the No Collision Rule---a tough call, considering the aspects mentioned earlier (distance from the plate, etc.)---which would require the runner to be called out even though the ball was knocked loose.  Subsequently, this particular call would have "forced" the ejection issue.  That is, the SDABL No Collision Rule does not call for an automatic ejection for a violation.  Rather, that is left up to the umpire to decide whether or not the collision was flagrant enough to warrant an ejection.  And if an umpire does cite a runner for violating the No Collision Rule, it becomes a bit more difficult for him to justify not ejecting the runner as a result.  That is, the umpire may feel that, because of all the factors involved, coupled with the fact that, thankfully, nobody was hurt on the play, that the runner himself was a "victim" of bad luck during an otherwise good play.

For the above play, the umpire decided that no ejection was warranted, which resulted in the discussion with the defensive manager seen in the last frame.  Despite the fact that the runner had been called out (due to the tag by his catcher), the manager felt like the runner should have been ejected.  The umpires disagreed, instead deciding to give a warning to the runner---essentially putting all the players present "on notice."

Was this a good decision?  Probably.  Would they have been justified in ejecting the runner?  Again, probably.  That is, there would have been nothing wrong with "setting the bar low" with reference to the safety issue.  Maybe not the best decision in terms of the game itself.  But then, safety should take a priority, and anything the umpire can do to ensure this, the better off everybody becomes. In either case, a tough decision.

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FIGURE 4:  The way the game should be played

Steve Devan (00) of the San Diego Sting in possession of the ball (located in heal of glove) and tagging out an unknown runner.  Good baseball on the part of both players. (Of course, the real question is this: Did he make the tag before the runner’s foot touched the plate? Ooh, baby---close play, tough call!)

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The following discussion may be considered as "overkill." Perhaps. But those who have been around adult baseball for a long time know how controversial this rule has been since the beginning of adult baseball. Therefore, the detail below is an attempt to help clarify the rule, or at least present it in the way that umpires are taught to interpret/enforce it. And as we all know, any rule is only as good as those who enforce it, not on how well or even "badly" it was written by the authors.

Much of the discussion is a result of legitimate questions asked by managers and players about the No Collision Rule with respect to how it works, or rather, how it is "different" from the regular baseball rules having to do with Obstruction, Interference, and even "Incidental" contact. Hopefully, the below will clarify some of these issues.

This is not a "must slide" rule. That is, any ("legal") means used by the runner to avoid a "stand up" collision, such as running around a player, is encouraged. At the same time, if a player chooses to remain standing and a collision occurs, that player runs the risk of being cited for violating the No Collision rule even though there may not have been any "malicious intent." Umpire Judgment will always prevail. And since the umpires can’t be inside the mind of a player, and because the umpires have been instructed to enforce this rule for safety purposes, they have total discretion in determining if the "spirit" of this rule has been violated.

The SDABL does understand the desire to "play hard" and is certainly aware of the dangers of doing so that are inherent in playing the game itself. Still, while professional ball players can afford to play under the concept of "win at all costs," winning at "all costs" with reference to recreational ball approaches the absurd, since what’s usually at stake is simply a trophy or a T-shirt.

Unfortunately, there is a lot of "gray" area involved for umpires when attempting to enforce this rule according to the league’s wishes, since it is a kind of "aberration" specific to recreational ball. In particular, Official Baseball Rules come into play in terms of Obstruction and Interference. "Incidental Contact," though not an explicit Official Baseball Rule, must be considered as well. (See "Incidental Contact" below).

For instance, the official Obstruction Rule states that no defensive player may block a runner’s base path without either "having possession of" or is "about to receive" a thrown ball for the purpose of making a play. Simple enough. Though not explicitly stated, this wording certainly "implies" that a runner has the "right" to take out any defensive player who is blocking the base path illegally (i.e., obstructing). But the trouble starts with the following: What exactly does the rule mean by "about to receive?" Unfortunately, (for the player, anyway) the definition is subject to any given umpire’s interpretation on any given day. And since the rule itself states that "umpire judgment" will prevail then no judgment either way can be considered "wrong." (Player opinion notwithstanding, of course).

Generally speaking, no runner will ever be cited for violating the No Collision Rule if he slides---so long as the following doesn’t occur:

These four situations put the runner at risk of unsportsmanlike conduct and possible ejection, not to mention being cited for Interference.

Keep in mind that in accordance with the Official Baseball Rules, the defensive player has every right to be in the baseline so long as he has possession of, or is "about to receive," the ball. It is conceivable, of course, that Incidental Contact might come into play under these kinds of circumstances, particularly out on the bases as opposed to home. But, again, umpire judgment will prevail.

Also keep in mind that the defensive player is not without responsibility here. That is, if he is blocking the baseline illegally he is most definitely guilty of Obstruction---which means the runner will be awarded (at a minimum) the base he is attempting to acquire, regardless of whether or not he is put out. Not only that, but the defensive player runs the risk of being cited for violating the No Collision Rule if, in the umpire’s judgment, he caused any collision that may occur.

The runner should understand that actual contact with the defensive player is not required to cite the defensive player for Obstruction. As such, if the runner chooses to make deliberate contact with the offending defensive player for the purpose of "proving" his case, that runner is at risk of being ejected for violating the No Collision Rule---despite the fact that the runner will in fact be allowed to advance as a result of the Obstruction. It’s just that his substitute will now be the one running in his place.

RUNNER AT A DISADVANTAGE: It’s true that many runners are at a disadvantage when the ball is "somewhere" behind them. Therefore, a runner can’t be expected to know if a throw is "about to be received." For the most part, and aside from any vocal help he may be receiving from his teammates, the runner has to base his judgment on the "body language" of the defensive player at the base he is heading towards. This should not be an excuse, however, for "taking out" the defensive player. By the time a runner reaches the base/home, he should be somewhat "aware" of whether or not there is going to be a close play. If not, there’s no need to "take out" the defensive player who may be blocking his way. If the runner does sense the ball is about to arrive, however, he should be sliding---not only to ensure there is no stand-up collision, but also because that’s just good baseball.

As a defensive player, you do not have a "right" to half the base or half of home plate without possession of, or are not about to receive, the ball. That is, you can’t allow "limited" access to a base or home in anticipation of the play eventually developing there. If there is no play taking place, or a play is not imminent, the runner must have full access (or rather, all the access he desires) to the base and/or home. Period. You run the risk of an Obstruction call at the very least, and at most possible ejection for violating the No Collision Rule if a collision occurs.

Like just about everything else when it comes to most rules, "about to receive a throw" is (once again) based on umpire judgment. There is no specific rule in any baseball rulebook that defines "about to receive." There are, however, plenty of Casebook cases and other (subjective) guidelines offered. The below is the best than can be offered, despite the fact that both scenarios are arguable.

First of all, there is no explicit rule in any rulebook that defines Incidental Contact. It is merely a guideline offered, usually in casebooks, to umpires when dealing with that gray area during those situations in which neither an Obstruction or Interference should be called for the following reason When the location of a thrown ball has caused the defensive player attempting to catch it and the runner attempting to acquire a base draws both players together at the same point in space and time --- the proverbial "bang-bang" play. The point being that each player has the "right" to be where he is in his attempt to perform his job, so neither should be cited for any violation. (Umpire judgment, of course).

Example: A play we’ve all seen---batter hits a grounder to the shortstop, who fields but whose throw to 1^st is up the line towards home (and in the base path) of the on-coming batter-runner. Suddenly the ball, the 1^st baseman, and the batter-runner all meet at the same time---bang!---a collision occurs. Sometimes the runner recovers and acquires 1^st safely, sometimes not. In either case, there is no Obstruction or Interference violation on either player, since both were where they were supposed to be with reference to performing their jobs. Therefore, the collision is considered "incidental" to the play and whatever happens, happens.

Caution: Most plays adjudged as being "incidental contact" take place at 1^st base, as in the above example. This doesn’t mean that they don’t occur at any other base/home. They do. But, because most "bang-bang" plays at bases other than 1^st usually result in a slide by the runner (or at least it "should"), as opposed to his being able to "run through" 1^st base, which sets up the "acceptable" risk that a collision could occur with no violation on either player’s part. Therefore, any stand-up collisions that result at bases other than 1^st have an "excellent" chance of being ruled as a violation of the No Collision Rule, since sliding is not only an "option," but also because sliding just makes perfect sense.. Those situations, however, where there is stand-up contact between the bases (say, halfway or so) will most likely be treated as an Obstruction on the part of the defensive player. Basically/justifiably/historically, the runner will ("always")be given the benefit of the doubt out on the base path for obvious reasons --- unless, of course, it is obvious that the runner has made some kind of intentional/blatant move to cause the collision. (Most commonly seen during "run-downs"). Again, umpire judgment.

Simply this---eliminate it. That is, if the situation calls for a slide---then slide. If sliding is not an option---then go around. (Or, admittedly a "weak" option, "give yourself up" if being tagged out is imminent). Remember, the umpires have been asked to enforce this rule based on safety considerations---not on whether it is "good," baseball.

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The following tips are set forth in an attempt to assist you and help make the task of managing simpler and easier.

Using the following guidelines, we think you'll find managing a much easier task, which will give you more time to address the game itself.

The SDABL suggests you hold your practices at junior high schools or other facilities if permission can be arranged. (NOTE: Contact your League Commissioner for information about getting permission to use any high school field for practice. DO NOT USE ANY SCHOOL WITHOUT PERMISSION). At any facility though, rules governing soft toss (hitting against the fence) and throwing on the grass in front of dugouts, are not waived.  Further, we suggest taking only infield/outfield practice between games.  Yes, we realize that batting practice is what most players want to do, however, that activity is the hardest on a field.  It tears up the mound and the batter's box and creates an indirect soft toss action on the backstop (since use of a catcher during batting practice is rare).  If you really must take batting practice, please don't do it on a varsity field.

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