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2017 OSCEOLA SENIOR SOFTBALL RULES
Allstate Insurance: Marcus Polk
Osceola Senior Softball League - Rules and Regulations - 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 - General Mission Statement
Section 2 - Board of Directors
Section 3 - Player-Members
Section 4 - Rosters
Section 5 - Teams
Section 6 - Schedule
Section 7 - Equipment
Section 8 - Playing Field
Section 9 - Pitching
Section I0 - Batting
Section 11 - Base Running
Section 12 - Fielding
Section 13 - The Game
Section 14 - Player Conduct
Section 15 - Umpiring
Section 16 - Other Rules, Not Covered
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Appendix A- Current List of Senior Bats
Appendix B- Softball Standards
Appendix C - Field Diagram (may be added)
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1. General Mission Statement
The Osceola Senior Softball Corporation, also known as The Osceola Senior Softball League (OSSL) is a recreational league with the goal to provide a healthy activity for local seniors 55 years and older, including getting exercise, having fun, and finding camaraderie with the underlying objective of avoiding injuries and staying safe. Players of all skill levels who wish to participate are welcome to join. We stress consideration, tolerance, and playing within one’s physical limitations while also welcoming a competitive drive and desire to win as long it is in balance with our overall mission.
2. Board of Directors
2.1 A Board of Directors shall govern the league consisting of 7 members of the league plus up to 4 alternates. The Board will be elected by the players in the league for a term of two years. The Board will elect, 1 member serving as Chairman, a vice-Chairman, a Recording Secretary, a Treasurer, and a Rules and Umpire Coordinator. Alternates will be selected by the Board to govern aspects of the League as required
2.2 The Board will make and modify regulations and enforcement procedures as needed, which may be submitted to the players for approval.
2.3 Alternates can participate in all meetings, but only vote if regular members are absent.
2.4 The following options can be used by the Board to replace a Board member if they leave before the end of the 2-year term: 1) choosing the candidate who had the next largest number of votes in the most recent election, 2) a Board decision to draft a current member who has the qualities needed and who can commit to the position, or 3) administer a new election soliciting candidates and putting the vote before the membership.
2.5 Board members who are playing on a team that is involved in a protest, dispute, or other decisions that may impact the game will not be involved in resolving the issue.
3. Player-Members
3.1 Players 55 and over can become members. Applicants who will be 55 in the current calendar year are eligible as well. Proof of age may be requested; a driver's license with date of birth will prove eligibility.
3.2 A yearly player fee will be assessed 1-2 months prior to Winter League play. For those playing in the Winter League the fee will include a uniform, the majority of the park fees contracted with the City of Kissimmee, and access to all non-league play for the next 12 months. Players joining 1-2 months prior to Winter League play and not playing in the league plus players joining after the teams for the Winter League have been chosen will be assessed a lesser fee when they join, good for a maximum of 12 months of non-league play.
3.3 Players will be informed via league website (www.55plussoftball.com), via email, or via announcements at the park when to sign up for the upcoming league play. Members who have not been able to get this information are responsible for contacting the league themselves to find out about the registration & deadlines.
3.3.1 Players must sign the Osceola Senior Softball Corporation waiver/registration form and pay the fees before being eligible to participate in league or non-league games. Visitors will be allowed to play for a few days without payment of fees or becoming a member.
3.3.2 In order to play in the Winter League a player must commit to play on the days scheduled. The registration form includes a section where the signee must list all future days he knows he will not be in attendance or estimate, in good faith, the number dates he may miss. The Board will determine if the number of days missed will affect his team too adversely to preclude him from playing league games.
3.4 For non-league play, players must arrive before 9 AM to play in games starting 9:20 to 9:30. Players can arrive up till 9:15 if they notify league representatives by 9AM (on Wednesdays batting practice takes place before the pickup game so that players must arrive by 9:30 or notify league representatives by 9:45 in order to play).
3.5 For league play, players should arrive by 8:30 to allow the managers time to prepare their lineups. Any player who arrives after the lineup cards have been handed in must be added to the end of the batting order. Any player who arrives after the start of a game and has been listed in the line-up must arrive before his turn at bat or an out will be recorded for that spot in the order.
4. Rosters
4.1 Non-League play - A Board member or member-volunteer chosen by the Board will be responsible for creating pick-up game teams. Teams will be created to be balanced and competitive, with the overall objective to have teams be made up of similarly skilled players who can field each positions
4.1.1 The following is a guide that can be used to determine # of teams given # of members signed up to play:
18 - 26 — 2 teams of 9, 10, 11, 12, or 1327 - 35 — 3 teams of 9. 10, 11, or 1236 -39 — choice of 4 teams of 9 or 10 OR 3 w/12 or 1340 - 48 — 4 teams w/ 10, 11, or 12 49 —— choice of 4 teams (3 w/12; 1 w/13) OR 5 (4 w/10; 1 w/9)50 - 59 — 5 teams of 10, 11, or 1260 - 78 — 6 teams of 10, 11, 12, or 134.2 League play - Each team will have no more than 13 players per roster and an attempt will be made to avoid teams with only 12 players per roster.
4.3 Players will be assigned to teams via a blank (w/o names) draw selected by volunteer managers or their representatives before the start of the season, approved by the Board.
4.3.1 The “draft” will only be scheduled once a Board approved target number of registered players has been reached so all teams will be selecting the same number of players (Ex: 91 for 7 teams of 13, 96 for 8 teams of 12, or 104 for 8 teams of 13).
registered players has been reached so all teams will be selecting the same number of players (Ex: 91 for 7 teams of 13, 96 for 8 teams of 12, or 104 for 8 teams of 13).4.3.2 With Board approval a one day per week player (currently Monday or Friday) may register and be paired up with another player available for the other day if they are of similar ability and can play similar positions. If registered as a “paired player,” only one of the players will be allowed to play in a game at one time. A lesser fee will be charged for such players [non-league fee + half the league fee + uniform expense].
4.3.3 The Board will attempt to set up the draft by ranking players according to value to a team factoring in batting skills, fielding skills. pitching skills, running ability, winning attitude or other softball-related asset or liability. All methods or factors, if considered to create a fairer and more competitive result, may be employed. Factors such as the number of days a player will miss in the season or chronic injury that diminishes a player's skill level may be used. A player “pairing” will be noted as well.
considered to create a fairer and more competitive result, may be employed. Factors such as the number of days a player will miss in the season or chronic injury that diminishes a player's skill level may be used. A player “pairing” will be noted as well.4.3.3.1 The Board may employ members who are knowledgeable of player-members to assist in the player rankings prior to league draft.
4.3.5 When selecting, each player’s “card” may display all pertinent information such as positions played/preferred, other positions played, # of dates unavailable, etc.
4.3.6 A fair order of selection for each round of the draft for each team will be chosen from various generally accepted methods.
4.3.7 Any League player may observe the selection of teams by the Board.
4.4 Players who join the league after the registration deadline will not be eligible to participate in the League unless the Board decides they can be used as replacement or pool players. Currently the Board has a “no replacement” policy once the season begins.
4.4.1 The Board may revisit this policy during the season if they feel replacement players are needed to preserve the integrity of the League. To change the policy mid-season a majority of managers must also approve.
5. Teams
5.1 Teams can play with 9 or more players in both League and non-league play.
5.2 Teams play with a maximum of 11 players on the field. In League play 12 or 13 players will be allotted to each team during League team selection process to account for probable injuries and player schedule conflicts.
5.3 If a team has more than 11 players, the manager is to rotate the defense positioning so that each player has the opportunity to play the field as much as any other team member.
5.3.1 With 12 players 7 of the 12 players will sit 1 inning; in 9 inning games 9 of 12 sit .
5.3.2 With 13 players in 7 inning games, 2 players sit out each inning, 1 inning per player with 1 player sitting twice. In 9 inning games with 13 players, 9 players sit once, 4 player sit twice.
5.3.3 In League play the same 7 players ARE allowed to sit out an inning in the second game as well even if they sat out an inning in the first game.
5.3.3 In League play with 13 players, a different player than the one who sat twice in the first game, will sit twice in the second game.
5.3.4 The "sit inning line-up" will be part of the line-up cards presented & exchanged with opposing manager and given to umpire at the pre-game meeting at home plate.
5.3.5 Changes to player rotations may be made for medical reasons but only after presenting this exception to umpire and opposing manager with manager’s approval. If the player then comes to bat, he must return to the field the next inning or else be removed from the game.
5.3.6 Any conflict between that inning's actual defensive alignment and the line-up listed on the line-up card, a player must be brought to the umpire's attention by the manager as an appeal during that inning. An upheld appeal constitutes a violation resulting in a loss of the following offensive inning with the defensive line-up while needing to be corrected immediately as well.
resulting in a loss of the following offensive inning with the defensive line-up while needing to be corrected immediately as well.5.4 If a player or players arrive after the game starts, they should be inserted into the lineup as the last batter regardless whether the team has batted through the lineup or not. If the tardy player causes the line-up to grow to 12 or 13 total a revised "sit inning line-up" must also be devised with changes available to umpire and opposing manager.
5.5 Teams may play with fewer than 11 players but must have at least 9 roster players or the game will be declared a forfeit.
5.5.1 If two opposing teams are both short of the nine players required for play, both teams will be credited with losses.
5.5.2 A team can only utilize players that were assigned to their team including replacement players if decided as per Sec. 4.4.
5.5.3 If a player is injured during play and cannot continue causing the team to drop below 11 players, the team will continue play with their remaining players. If the injury causes the team to drop below 9 players, the team will forfeit.
5.5.4 A player injured or becoming sick during a game may be removed from the batting order and replaced defensively; his place in the batting order will be skipped with no out recorded. The injured player may not re-enter the game. Notice must be given to the umpires and opposing team manager.
batting order and replaced defensively; his place in the batting order will be skipped with no out recorded. The injured player may not re-enter the game. Notice must be given to the umpires and opposing team manager.5.5.5 Any player leaving early due to personal circumstances will be treated the same as an injured player. Notice must be given to the umpire and opposing team manager prior to the game start, otherwise an out is recorded each time he was scheduled to bat.
5.5.6 An angry or disgruntled player leaving early will not be skipped in the batting order, and an out will be recorded each time he was scheduled to bat. Notice of his leaving must be given to the umpire and the opposing team manager (see Conduct sec. 14)
5.5.7 A player who leaves his team and does not return due to being upset or dissatisfied with manager or other team members, will be immediately suspended from the League for the rest of the season, after which the Board will meet to decide whether the suspension should be extended through the calendar year including all League and non-league activities.The suspended player has the right to appeal the suspension to the Board. He can request a review of his issues with the Board at the Board’s earliest convenience.
5.6 Team manager volunteers are to head up each team. Once selected and Board approved mgr. will select an assistant to be accountable for all duties in the manager's absence.
5.6.1 The method of choosing mangers will be decided each year by the current Board. Once sign-up registration for the Winter League is final the method should be selected so the manager can participate in the annual team selection. A Board member or Board approved surrogate can act as a surrogate manager until an official manager is selected.
5.6.2 Managerial duties include communicating necessary league information to the team; explaining league rules to team members so that they are understood and followed; ensuring each team member has an open line of communication with them so they can have issues dealt with in a timely manner; creating a line-up each game as well as a defensive alignment and 'sit inning' line-up; working or meeting with Board members on various team issues; meeting before each day's games with the umpires to exchange line-up cards and discuss ground rules; being team spokesperson when an umpire's call is being discussed; making the team aware of their daily duty to either set up the game's equipment or put it away (sec. 7.6); dividing the labor necessary to run the team between himself, assistant, or team members.
5.7 "Paired" players, who signed up to play only 1 day per week can only play on the day they committed to on their registration form.
6. Schedule
6.1 Non-league play takes place after conclusion of the League play (currently Monday and Fridays starting March/April) and continues through the year until the League begins. Currently non-league play also takes place every Wednesday year-round.
6.2 The Board will decide whether to modify OSSL Rules & Regulations to codify regulations for a Fall “Mini” League which has had tacit approval for the years 2015 & 2016 as an experimental League during the months of September & October.
6.3 League play will normally start as early as possible in January. The schedule and number of games to be played will be determined by the Board of Directors based on completing play within the time constraints written into the yearly contract between OSSL and City of Kissimmee Parks and Recreation Department. (currently end of March).
6.4 The schedule will be designed with the attempt to be balanced as to the number of times each team plays one another, plays on each field and is designated the home team.
6.5 League games canceled due to inclement weather or other reasons may or may not be rescheduled. Rescheduling by the Board must have the majority of managers’ approval.
6.6 Doubleheaders against the same team will be scheduled every Monday and Friday unless due to number of teams and/or schedule constraints, single games against 2 different teams is needed in order to ensure a balanced scheduled.
6.7 For League games the first games will start promptly at 9 AM and the second game will start no earlier than 10:15 & as late as necessary given the time each team’s first game ended.
6.7.2 If a team has less than 9 players at 9 AM, a 15 minute grace period will be allowed. If the 9th player does not arrive by 9: 15, the game will be forfeited. If the manager is told that a 9th player will be coming in time for the 2nd game, that player must arrive by 10:15 for the 2nd game or that game will be forfeited as well.
7. Equipment
7.1 Any fielding glove made for the game of baseball or softball may be used at any position except for a first baseman's mitt, which may be used only by the catcher or first baseman.
7.2 Batting gloves may be used while at bat or in the field.
7.3 Metal cleats are not permitted. A player found to be using metal cleats will be ejected from the game, unless the metal cleated shoes are immediately replaced.
7.4 All legal slo-pitch softball bats that have the USSSA approved label can be used by members of all ages. Players who are over 70 or will turn 70 in the calendar year can also use Senior Bats, which will have at least one of the following identifying labels: 1.21 BPF, Senior Softball logo or the words Senior Softball, or an SSUSA mark. A list of such bats (as of July 2015) can be found in Appendix A. This list can and may be amended as more senior bats come on the market. Bats on the list must have a strip of pink tape on the handle, which OSSL will supply. To those not "of age" these bats are considered illegal bats.
7.4.1 No titanium alloy bats are allowed.
7.4.2 Manufacturers markings on bats must be legible. No modified or painted bats are allowed in league or non-league play.
7.4.1 A player who enters the batter’s box with any illegal bats in sec. 7.4 may become the final out in the inning for his team (see sec. 10.8).
7.5 Balls must adhere to USSSA standards unless changed by OSSL Board (see Appendix B).
7.6 Equipment belonging to OSSL (balls, plates, scoreboard, clickers, & markers) must be brought to field and set up before the game and removed and stored away afterward by players using the equipment in each game. In non-league games the losing team is responsible for storing it. In League games the home team sets up the equipment and the visitors remove and store it.
8. Playing Field (see http://web.usssa.com/usssa/usssa-general/2016SPRulebook.pdf [page 4])
8.1 Distance from base to base will be 65' or 70' per current USSSA slowpitch regulations (currently using 70')
8.2 The batting area has both a home plate and a scoring plate.
8.2.1 The scoring plate will be the standard 5 sided plate (17” x 17”) located 8 feet from home plate on an extension of the first base foul line if 70’ bases are used or 7.5 feet if using 65’ base distances.The distance from third base to the scoring plate is approximately 65.4 or 70.5’.
8.2.2 Home plate is the rectangular wooden plate or mat 17” x 37” (standard plate plus an extension board and placed 6” from each batter’s boxes.
8.2.3 Batter boxes, if not drawn, are 3’ x 7’ (4’ forward from back corner of home plate, 3’ backward from back corner of home plate and 6” away from each side of home plate a
8.3 First base consists of a white base placed in fair territory and a colored safety base placed adjacent to it in foul territory. The batter-runner is to step on the colored base with the first baseman using the white base (exception to this in sec. 10.6)
8.4 Along the third base foul line, a commitment line will be marked 1/3 of the base distances from home plate - 23.33’ if using 70’ bases; 21.67 with 65’ bases - perpendicular to the third base foul line (currently using 25' from home, 45' from 3rd)
8.5 Along the first base foul line, a commitment line will be marked 10 feet from home plate and perpendicular to the first base foul line.
8.6 The distance between the pitching rubber and home plate will be 50 feet.
8.6.1 The pitchers box is defined as the width of the pitchers plate or rubber, plus 6 feet behind the pitching rubber (2’ X 6’).
8.7 An arc from the left field foul line to the right field foul line will be drawn so that all points from home plate to that line is 200 feet.
8.8 During live play first and third base coaches must remain inside coaching boxes if drawn. If not drawn coach must remain no closer than within 5 feet of the baseline nor past the outfield side of the base nor be more than halfway toward home plate.
9. Pitching
9.1 There will be no warm-up pitches at the start of any inning except the first inning unless umpire allows it as a courtesy during the time a batter is preparing but not ready to bat. Warm up pitches will be allowed if a relief pitcher is brought into pitch.. A maximum of 6 warm-up pitches are allowed.
9.2 A legally pitched ball must have a discernable arc and attain a height of at least 6 feet from the ground but no more than 12 feet from the ground between the pitcher and the batter. A pitched ball failing to meet these requirements is categorized as an illegal pitch, which the umpire will declare as soon as determinable. An illegal pitch that is taken by the batter will count as a ball. Swinging at an illegal pitch by the batter makes the pitch legal.
9.3 The pitcher must have at least one foot in the pitcher's box when releasing the ball. Failure to do so will result in an illegal pitch (see sec 8.7.1 for dimensions).
9.4 After the umpire signals "play ball" a pitch is live and a batted ball is 'in play' even if the fielders are not in position or the batter is not ready to swing.
9.5 Pitcher starts the count on each batter at 1 ball and 1 strike. Three strikes makes an out, four balls allows the batter to proceed to first base with a walk.
9.6 A legally pitched ball that strikes any part of the strike mat or home plate is a strike.
9.6.1 A legally pitched ball that does not strike any part of the strike mat or home plate first is a ball as are illegal pitches.
9.7 A pitching screen/net will be placed directly in front of the pitching rubber. It may be moved laterally so its closest edge is placed no further than the mid-point of the pitching rubber.
9.7.1 At the beginning of an inning the pitcher may move the pitching screen to accommodate his pitching preference. During an inning a new pitcher may adjust the position of the screen.
9.7.2 The pitching screen cannot be moved at any time by someone other than a pitcher. If a player intentionally knocks over the screen, all base runners will be awarded 2 bases. 9.7.3 After a pitcher releases the ball to the plate he must move completely behind the screen. Failure to do so is an infraction and may result in an umpire warning - either a pre-warning to make the pitcher aware he is not in full compliance or an official warning. After 1 official warning, any further violation will result in the pitcher not being able to finish the inning as a pitcher. If the pitcher returns in subsequent innings an additional violation results in being removed as a pitcher for the remainder of the game.
9.7.4 Pitchers are allowed to field balls but only if they’ve fully moved behind the screen at the time the ball is hit (see sec. 12.8 for infraction
9.8 A team may decide to intentionally walk a batter. To do so the pitcher or manager needs only to notify umpire rather than pitch.
9.8.1 A team may intentionally walk any batter once per game but that batter cannot be walked more than once. NOTE: given a pitcher can walk a batter intentionally yet make it appear unintentional, in actuality the rule shall be one walk, intentional or not, per batter
9.8.1.1 This rule only goes into effect when a batter declares to the umpire that having been walked before he will not accept a walk at his current at bat.
9.8.2 After an initial walk and batter notification to the umpire of refusal to accept a walk at the current at bat the batter will be allowed as many pitches as needed to put ball in play or strike out.
9.8.3 A pitcher who avoids the strike zone when pitching to a batter who has refused to accept a walk will be warned that he must comply and throw strikes as soon as the umpire determines an intentional attempt to avoid the strike zone. Warning will be followed by pitcher's removal for the inning if non-compliance continues.
9.8.3.1 If the pitcher resumes pitching in subsequent innings, additional non-compliance as per 9.8.5 above will result by removal as pitcher from game.
9.8.4 In extra innings all previous walks will be reset to zero with one-walk rule beginning anew.
9.8.5 In the second game of a doubleheader all previous walks in the first game will be reset to zero with a one-walk rule beginning anew.
10. Batting
10.1 Batting out of order is an appeal play by the defense. If an incorrect batter is discovered before he completes a turn at bat, the correct batter may take his/her proper place, assuming any accumulated balls and strikes. If the mistake is discovered after the incorrect batter has completed the turn at bat and before a pitch has been made to a succeeding batter, the batter who should have batted is called out. All base runners, if they have advanced, must return to the base occupied at the time the incorrect batter took a position in the batter’s box. The next batter is the player whose name follows that of the batter called out for failure to bat. This may even be carried over to the first batter of the next inning, if the appealed out was the third out. If the mistake was not discovered until a pitch is made to the next batter, the turn at bat of the incorrect batter is then legal. All bases advanced or runs scored are counted, the next following batter shall be the one whose name follows that of the incorrect batter who just finished a time at bat. No one is called out for failure to bat and players missing their turn at bat have lost that turn and do not bat again until reached in the regular batter rotation.
10.2 A batter must be completely within the batter’s box when he hits the ball or will be declared out. If box is not drawn a batter must remain within the dimensions described in sec. 8.2.3. A strike will be called if the batter leaves the batter’s box during a pitched ball he is taking.
10.3 Calls on illegally pitched balls may differ from one umpire to another but alll batter s(or their manager) may not argue the call. Batters or their manager may politely question the umpire’s perception of ball height, however whether the umpire gives an answer he considers satisfactory or not, batters must then adapt to the umpire’s interpretation of the zone (see sec 15 for possible conduct violations).
10.4 After reaching a count of two strikes a foul ball counts as the third strike and an out.
10.4.1 If a batted ball hits any part of the pitching screen it is a strike and does add to the strike count.
10.5 If a ground ball is hit along the first base line and strikes any part of the white base or travels over it, it is a fair ball; if the ball hits the colored base or travels over it, or lands in foul territory it is a foul ball. If a batted ball hits 3rd base or travels over it, it is a fair ball. Line drives or fly balls landing in foul territory are foul even if the ball passes third or first in fair territory.
10.6 The batter-runner may step on the white base after a base hit when turning toward second.
10.6.1 The batter-runner must step on the colored base if there is a throw to first for an attempted force out. If he steps on the white base he’ll be called out
10.7 The batter will be declared out if he steps on first base with a bat in hand.
10.8 A player who enters the batter’s box with an illegal bat (see sec.7.4),will become the inning ending out if the infraction is appealed to the umpire by the defensive team before next batter receives next pitch (See Appendix A for Illegal Bat list)
10.9 No bats are allowed outside the dugout except for bats of those waiting to bat. If a live ball strikes the bat of a member of that team that’s been left outside the dugout - on the ground (not including the batters bat) or leaning or hanging on a fence, the base runner closest to home will be declared out. If a live ball comes into contact with a bat left out by the defense, the runner closest to home will be awarded one base.
10.10 The player who follows the current batter in the lineup shall be on-deck (outside the dugout with bat in hand) at the time the pitcher is ready to pitch and the umpire indicates play has resumed. Failure to be in the on-deck area will constitute an infraction with an automatic out for the on-deck batter as the penalty.The out occurs after the current batter finishes his at-bat.
10.10.1 If the on-deck batter called for the infraction comes up with two outs then his is the third out and the inning will end. This is true even when the pticher purposefully walks the current batter so that the on-deck batter in violation is forced to come to bat. If the current batter makes the third out then the on-deck infraction is issued in the following inning and becomes the first out of that inning.
10.10.2 If, in the umpire's judgment, there is stalling by the current batter to afford the on deck batter extra time to get into the on deck area, an on-deck infraction can be issued along with the current batter being penalized with a called strike.
10.10.3 If there is a legitimate reason for why a batter is not on-deck, it must be communicated immediately to the umpire my the batter’s manager and then it is up to the umpire’s judgment if the infraction should still be issued or not.
10.11 There can be a maximum of two batters outside the dugout awaiting their turn at bat.
10.12 A batter will be called out if he attempts to bunt, uses a check swing to hit, chops down on a pitched ball, or makes any other attempt to deaden the ball to beat out a ground ball for an infield hit. A full swing is required.
11. Base Running
11.1 After the pitcher steps into the pitching box, all runners must be in contact with their base until the ball either is hit or passes home plate.
11.2 A base runner may safely overrun 2nd and 3rd base without danger of being tagged out as long as no intent is shown to advance to the next base. A runner may also run up to 3 feet wide of those bases to avoid a possible collision (note when running to second the runner should go wide to the right if a fielder from the right side covers or go wide to the left if a fielder from the left side covers).
11.2.1 If the runner "goes wide" he will be called out if he would have been out on a force play or would have been out on a tag play had he gone straight to the base.
11.2.2 If after a runner safely overruns 2nd or 3rd base he decides to advance to the next base he must first retouch the base he overran or he will be called out at the end of the play.
11.3 Sliding is not permitted into any base and will result in the runner being declared out. However "diving" back to a base (head-first) is allowed.
11.4 Runners are to avoid interfering with a fielder attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball. If it is determined by umpire that the interference kept the defense from a potential out the runner will be declared out. The umpire can declare the batter out as well if he believes the interference kept the defense from executing a double play.
11.4.1 A runner who runs into a fielder attempting a force play on 2nd or 3rd or causes the fielder to vacate his position on the base to avoid a collision can be called out for interference,
11.4.2 A runner who has already been forced out at second, third or home must not make contact with the fielder or impede his ability to make a throw in any manner. Whether intentional or accidental, this may be called for interference resulting with the runner who is going to the base the fielder was trying to throw to being declared out.
11.4.3 Runners who verbally interfere with fielders causing potential outs from being executed will be declared out and the ball called dead. All other runners return to the base last touched unless the umpire deems a runner or the batter would have been out if the play had been executed without interference, in which case 2 outs can be called. An example, shouting, "I have it" by a base runner.
11.5. A runner attempting to score must always touch the scoring plate. If he touches home plate he is automatically out even if he subsequently touches the scoring plate. After touching home plate the ball remains live and in play.
11.5.1 If running toward home a runner touches the ground on or past the third base commitment line, he must continue towards the Scoring Plate and cannot return to third base.
11.6 If a coach assists the baserunner by making contact for any reason while running the bases the runner will be declared out.
11.6.1 A coach not within the coach’s box per sec 8.9 risks an interference call if a umpire determines his improper position caused a fielder to misidentify him as part of the field of play thus causing an adverse result.
11.6.2 A coach not avoiding a fielder’s attempt to catch a foul pop may be called for interference as a runner would be.
11.7 A runner who mistakenly leaves his base thinking he was called out or there were 3 outs can be called out once the umpire determines he has abandoned his base by entering the dugout or team area or if he is tagged.
11.8 If with 2 strikes foul ball is hit and caught by a fielder, runners are allowed to tag up.
11.9 Any player having difficulty running the bases is allowed a replacement or courtesy runner upon approval from the umpire. This can occur at any base including at home plate.
11.9.1 Each team is allowed unlimited courtesy runners per inning but each courtesy runner may only run for 1 other player in an inning. If he runs for another player, he is declared out.
11.9.2 If a courtesy runner who has already run for another player attempts to run for a batter, the batter is automatically out as soon as a pitch is thrown with any batted ball being a dead ball and runners returning to their starting bases. If the violation occurs on the bases the out is recorded when the courtesy runner touches the base.
11.9.3 If a team bats around, the runner can run for the same player that he ran for originally.
11.9.4 When a batter runs for himself from home plate he must touch first base before a courtesy runner may replace him. If the batter does not touch first base before a courtesy runner replaces the batter will be declared out.
11.9.5 When running from home plate, a courtesy runner must take a position behind the catcher on the third base side of home plate and must not move toward first base until the batter makes contact with the pitched ball. Any movement of the runner's feet before the ball is hit is a violation of the rule and the batter will be declared out.
11.9.6 Once a courtesy runner for has replaced the batter or baserunner, he cannot be replaced by another courtesy runner unless being injured on the bases that inning.
11.9.7 The courtesy runner must be ready to replace the batter-runner or baserunner immediately after the previous play has ended. If the umpire and pitcher are ready for the next batter and the courtesy runner has not yet been requested the request may be denied.
11.9.8 If both the batter and the courtesy runner run upon the ball being hit, an out will be declared if the batter passes the first base commitment line.
11.9.9 Courtesy runners may be replaced by another courtesy runner only due to injury that forces runner from the game, after which he may not be used again as a courtesy runner for the remainder of the game.
11.9.10 Someone who has had a courtesy runner run for him can not then become a courtesy runner (except in subsequent innings with opposing manager’s approval).
11.9.11 If a courtesy runner is on base when he needs to be on-deck, the on-deck violation will NOT take effect. Instead he will be declared out as a base runner and come to the on-deck circle unless the out is the third out of the inning, in which case he will lead off the next inning.
11.10 Runners may not advance when a dead ball is called including when a return throw from
the catcher gets passed the pitcher.
12. Fielding
12.1 A team will have a maximum of 11 fielders: pitcher, catcher, first baseman, second baseman, shortstop, rover and 4 outfielders on the field.
12.2 Teams can have no more than 5 infielders (not including pitcher & catcher) and 4 outfielders.
12.3 Infielders must start each pitch off on the infield dirt and outfielders must be behind the outfield's 200 ft. line.
12.3.1 Outfielders must remain behind 200' line and infielders must not step onto the outfield grass until the pitched ball passes home plate. If an out is recorded from a put out or assist made by an outfielder or infielder, who in the judgment of the umpire, was not in the proper position at the time the ball was hit will become a 'dead ball' play with batter and all baserunners being awarded a base.
12.4 A first baseman must always use the white base when receiving a throw and may never use the colored base. Like other fielders he also may tag a baserunner or batter-runner.
12.5 A catcher or a fielder covering home must always use home plate when receiving a throw and cannot use the scoring plate nor tag a runner from 3rd base if he’s crossed the commitment line.
12.6 An obstruction occurs when the defensive player does not have possession of the bail or is not in the act of receiving the ball and impedes the running of baserunner or batter-runner.
12.6.1 A defensive player attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball cannot be called for obstruction.
12.6.2 If a defensive player obstructs the runner in his path to the next base the runner will be awarded that base and possibly further bases if the umpire determines the runner would have reached that base safely if unobstructed.
12.6.3 If verbal obstruction by the defense occurs that causes the batter-runner or base runner to alter his judgment in running the bases the ball remains live and in play. After the play is over, the umpire calls time, and decides whether to invoke the obstruction rule or whether the play stands as is. If obstruction is called, the remedy may be to void any out(s) incurred and allow all runners to advance to the base they would have reached. If the batter makes an out due to defensive obstruction. If the batter makes an out due to defensive obstruction, he may be awarded first base or more. An example is a catcher shouting "foul ball" when the batted ball is actually hit in fair territory causing runner to stay at base or batter to stay at home.
12.4 Infield Fly Rule is intended to prevent infielders from intentionally dropping a pop-up, or allowing it to fall, in order to force a double play or triple play. It is called with runners on 1st and 2nd or bases loaded and less than 2 outs if the umpire believes it to be a catchable ball by an infielder. The umpire shouts “infield fly, batter is out” as soon as determinable.
12.4.1 A related rule called the intentional drop rule applies even when second base is unoccupied, and applies even when the batted ball is a line drive or bloop to an infielder. The rule prevents a fielder from deliberately dropping a ball and thereby achieving a double or triple play. If an umpire invokes this rule, the drop is ruled a catch, the ball is dead, and no baserunner may advance. The rule is not invoked when a fielder plays a ball on a bounce that might have been caught on the fly.
12.6 A thrown ball that hits the pitcher’s screen net is a live ball.
12.7 After the 1st inning infielders and outfielders may not practice in between innings.
12.8 If a pitcher is not fully behind the pitching screen when the ball is struck and then fields the ball the batter will be awarded first base and all baserunners will move up a base
13. The Game
13.1 For non-league games only one game is played (see sec.3.4 for start time).
For League games the first game starts at 9AM with no inning to be started after 10:30. The second game will start 10:15 or later depending on the time each team’s first game ended. No inning may start after 12PM for the second game except when the game started after 10:45; then no inning is to be started 1 hour, 15 minutes after the start of the game.
13.2 When the teams are tied after seven innings, extra innings will be played and the game switches to a "1-pitch" game where 1 ball is a walk where 1 strike of any type is an out and 1 ball a walk. During each extra inning the player who was up last in the previous inning starts the inning at 2nd base. A courtesy runner may run for him. However, if the score is tied and (per sec 13.1) no additional innings may be started. The game will be recorded as a tie.
13.3 A five run limit per inning will be imposed to prevent runaway scoring. An inning will end upon the scoring of the fifth run by a team in that inning.
13.3.1 An exception to the five run rule is that if a team is trailing by more than 5 runs, the trailing team may continue to score runs until they equal the leading team's score.
13.3.2 This five run rule does not apply in the seventh inning or any succeeding innings.
13.4 In League games if a team is up by 15 or more runs after 4, 5, or 6 complete innings they'll be declared winner and the game ends as a "knockout".
13.5 A game called by the umpire, during regular season play, which can not be resumed within 30 minutes will be considered a regulation game if five or more innings have been played or if the top of the 4th inning has been completed with the home team leading.
13.6 If a team wants to issue a protest they need to verbally present the case directly to a Board member or indirectly to umpire who will notify a Board member. The manager then has one week to turn in a written protest with a $25 fee (refundable upon successful protest).
13.7 The Board should arrange to designate a non-playing Board member or League member to oversee the umpiring crew during League games in order to assist umpires with OSSL Rules and to help resolve conflicts when an umpire is at an impasse. Otherwise the umpire(s) will do their best to get assistance and/or decide on the best way to allow the game to procede.
14. Umpiring
14.1 Non-League
When there are no volunteer umpires available, umpires from each of the teams playing will be used. The managers together should decide whether 1 or 2 umpires will be used, and once been determined, each team in turn will be responsible for supplying the number needed each inning. When the game has 3 teams playing, the ’sitting’ team supplies the umpire(s). If only 2 teams are playing the umpire(s) can be supplied by the hitting team or by a player sitting out defensively. If supplied by the hitting team the last batters from the previous inning will be asked to umpire, and should comply if they have basic knowledge and capabilities.
14.2 League
Umpires will be hired by the Board for the Winter League (and Fall League) season. Umpires will be employed either to umpire the game as a home plate ump alone or as a team with one home plate ump and one base ump. Whether the League hires one or two per game is a choice that will be based on the projected budget and finances of the League at that time.
14.2.1 A sufficient number of back-up umpires shall also be selected to be available on a call-in basis when needed.
14.3 Once hired umpires should be given the training and resources they require. Pertinent sections of the Rules & Regulations will be distributed and a pre-season meeting will be conducted to ensure all umpires are aware of senior slow pitch softball rules in general and OSSL “house” rules in particular.
14.3.1 The umpire must learn specific OSSL “house rules” on issues concerning on-deck batters, pitching screens, commitment lines, 200’ line, courtesy running, base running, “senior bats”, et. al..
14.3.2 The overall objective of an umpire or umpire crew is to manage the game by resolving conflict, controlling the pace of play, ensuring proper player behavior, and maintaining field management.
14.4 When one umpire is used he will be responsible for all aspects of the game including calling balls and strikes, fair and foul balls, plays at each base & on the base paths, interpreting all rules including determining whether infractions or violations of the rules have been made by pitchers, batters, baserunners, and fielders.
14.4.1 If utilizing two umpires, the field or base umpire is responsible for plays at first and second base, and to call plays out or safe in the outfield. He is also responsible for overseeing base running and fielders to determine if any infractions have been made or rulings must be made, such as obstruction and/or interference. The base umpire can supersede the home plate umpire whenever his vantage point is deemed to be superior.
14.4.2 Whether using 1 or 2 umpires, the home plate umpire is responsible for calling “time” after the end of each play and calling for resumption of action by signaling or calling he either calls “time in”, “play ball” (“resume play” or 'time in’).
14.4.3 The home plate umpire is responsible for calling a pitched ball “illegal” as soon as it has been determined. He should refer to an illegal pitch by calling out no other words such as “flat” or “too high”
14.4.4 The home plate umpire is responsible for calling a batted ball "foul" as soon as it has been determined so batter and all fielders can hear the call and respond appropriately.
14.4.5 The home plate umpire is responsible for calling “dead ball” as soon as a dead ball situation has occurred.
14.4.6 The home plate umpire is responsible for calling “infield fly, batter’s out” as soon as determined, as well as related ruling of “intentional drop”.
14.5 Umpires will make calls so all players on the field of play can hear the call. The only time an umpire is required to make a silent call is when the home plate umpire is signaling that a ball is fair by pointing toward the field of play.
14.6 If an umpire believes he has missed call, or a manager appeals a call, the umpire who is responsible for the call may ask for assistance from the other umpire if he so desires. Asking for an appeal of a disputed call is not mandatory and the final determination of the call is to be made by the umpire who originally made the call.
14.6.1 If an umpire who believes he has missed the call does not have a second umpire to appeal to, if a matter of runner or batter being out or safe the call must be safe.
14.6.2 If a game appeal is made it must be made with the home plate umpire but also follow the regulation set forth in sec. 13.6
14.7 If the umpire needs assistance from the League he may do so if the League has been able to provide a non-playing Board member or League member who has been tasked with assisting umpires during game time. Otherwise he must make his best ruling and move on.
14.8 Umpire will meet with managers (or assistant managers) 5 minutes prior to start of game to review ground rules if deemed necessary and to receive and have managers exchange line-up cards, or discuss team-specific issues.
14.9 In the event of a disagreement with the umpire only the team manager or his assistant manager may approach the umpire to resolve the issue.
14.10 Any unacceptable behavior will be dealt with to the best of the umpire’s judgment using rules set forth in sec. 15, utilizing recourse such as verbal warnings, written warnings, and ejections.
15. Player Conduct
15.1 Players are expected to display civil and sportsmanlike conduct at all times. Behavior that is outside those expected boundaries may be noted and reported to Board by League members during non-league play and by the umpiring crew during League play. For the purposes of controlling problem behavior during League play misconduct can be grouped into 1) Unsportsmanlike Conduct, 2) Misbehavior Toward Umpires, and 3) Physical Misbehavior. 15.2. Unsportsmanlike Conduct can include arguing, yelling, taunting, profane or abusive language or gestures, malicious throwing of baseball equipment, displays of anger toward opposing team, or teammates, public displays that humiliate others, or any other behavior that may be considered uncivil. Unsportsmanlike behavior will be dealt with depending on the severity or excessiveness.
15.2.1 Consequences for unsportsmanlike conduct normally starts with a verbal warning, followed by an official written warning, which is then followed by either a second official warning or ejection.
15.2.2 A long history of unsportsmanlike conduct, including but is not limited to excessive arguing, complaining, abrasiveness, negativity, annoyance, or non-compliance whether with umpires, managers, or other players can also be cause for consequences from warnings to ejection to suspension from the league. It normally is behavior that on it’s own may not warrant an official / written consequence but behavior that, more likely, builds up over time and makes for an unpleasant environment that is antithetical to the League’s mission. Consequences are therefore more likely to be brought up to or by the Board rather than a field umpire.
15.3 Misconduct Toward Umpire is a special class of unsportsmanlike behavior which should result in more serious consequences. It includes any non-compliant, unruly, disorderly, insubordinate, impertinent, impudent, imprudent or impolite behavior toward umpire in reaction to the way a play of game has been called. It is a range of behavior from being quarrelsome and making comments to making physical contact.
15.3.1 Consequences for Misconduct Toward Umpire should start with either a single official warning followed by ejection OR by immediate ejection. All ejections due to misconduct toward umpires are to be followed up by the Board to determine if further action such as suspensions or bans are required.
15.4 Physical Misconduct is a range of behavior that includes actions that are physically threatening to physical contact, to physical contact creating harm. Physical misbehavior includes threats of physical harm such as threatening to fight, clenching one’s fist, threatening to use a weapon against someone, or throwing objects toward someone. Physical contact is contact with anyone present at park facilities including but not limited to bumping, punching, poking, pushing, kicking, biting, or scratching. Physical harm is any physical contact that results in injury to oneself or another.
15.4.1 Physical Misconduct will not be tolerated.The offender in these cases should be immediately ejected from the game. The incident will then be brought to the Board for further review and possible further action including suspension and bans.
15.5 Decisions whether to warn, officially warn, give a second warning, or eject are often highly subjective when it comes to misconduct. Umpires should be guided by whether such conduct is detrimental to the goals and mission of the League to provide a friendly, enjoyable environment for players AND the players’ friends and families.
15.6 Refusal to leave complex will result in forfeit of game for the ejected player's team.
15.7 Umpires will utilize their copy of line-up card to make a notation next to a player who has received a warning or ejection. Umpire will mark the card next to the player who committed behavioral infraction with a ‘W’ for a warning. 2W for a second warning and an ‘E’ for ejection. Card with such notation will be handed in to a Board Member after the games are completed.
16. Rules Not Covered
16.1 Any occurrence not covered above will be decided utilizing USSSA Rules :
http://web.usssa.com/usssa/usssa-general/2016SPRulebook.pdf
Approved by the Board of Directors this Day of ___________ 2017
___________________ ____________________
___________________ ____________________ ___________________
Dave Brown President Rick Arleo Treasurer Pete Edwards Alternate
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APPENDIX A
Senior Bats listed allowed only for those 69, who’ll be 70 in the calendar year or older.
SSUSA Approved Bats (updated July 2, 2015) Senior Softball-USA Approved Bat List.
All approved bats (1.21 BPF) manufactured before 2014 are allowed.
A.D. Starr - A.D. Starr - Nightmare
Boombah - Boombah Boss XRT Senior 1.21 (Model # SPBSS)
Combat Sports:: Centenarian 1.21 (Models: CENSR2-S, CENSR2-B, CENSR2-F)
Combat Wanted 1.21 (Models: WANSR1-S, WANSR1-B, WANSR1-F)
Combat Dirty 1.21
Combat Ambush 1.21
DeMarini Senior ONE Endload "Blue" (WTDXSNE-14)
DeMarini Senior ONE Balanced "White" (WTDXSNB-14)
DeMarini Senior ONE "Green" (WTDXSNS-13)
Dudley Lightning Legend Senior Slow-Pitch Softball Bat - Balanced (LLBSP)
Dudley Lightning Legend Senior Slow-Pitch Softball Bat - End-Loaded (LLESP)
Dudley Lightning Legend Senior Slow-Pitch Softball Bat - Advanced Player's Series - End-Loaded (LLESP12)
Easton BSR (SP14BSR)
Easton Salvo Senior Balanced (SP15SVSR)
EastonSalvo Senior Loaded (SP15SVSRL)
God's Sports Company - GSC P413 Senior
Louisville Slugger Hyper Z 1.21 (SBHZ16S)
Louisville Slugger Hyper Z Balanced (WTLHZS16B)
Miken Sports:
Miken Ultra II (MSU2)
Miken Ultra II Max - Tournament of Champions (ULTTOC)
Miken Ultra II Maxload (MSU2M)
Miken Ultra II Special Edition (SPU2P)
Miken Ultra II Mike Macenko Signature (MMULT2)
Miken Ultra II 2 Piece (SPU2S)
Miken Ultra II 2 Piece Maxload (SPU2M)
Miken Triad Blackout (SSBTRI)
Miken Triad Xtreme (FPTR10)
Miken Freak 750X (F75XMA)
Miken Freak Black Maxload (FRKBKA)
Miken 2015 Freak Black Maxload (FRKBKS)
Miken 4 the Fallen (4FATEU)
Miken Ultra II Advanced (MSUA)
Miken Ultra II Legacy (MSU2L)
Miken Ultra Special Edition (MSUSE)
Miken DC-41 Supermax (DEN41U)
Miken Filby KF-30 Supermax (FILB30)
Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax (IZZY2M)
Miken Freak Black Maxload (FRKBKU)
Miken Freak Classic(FRKCLU)
Miken Psycho Balanced (SYCHBU)
Miken Triad 4 The Fallen Balanced (S4FALU)
Reebok Melee Legend
Reebok Barrage
WorthToxic Titan (SBTXXX)
WorthToxic XXX Reload (SBXXXR)
Worth454 (SBRHA)
WorthSick 454 Resmondo Endload (SBSRU)
Worth 2 Legit (FPLGC)
Worth Legit Balanced (SB43S, SBL5S, SBL5U)
Worth Launch 510 (WSRSB, WSRRH)
Worth Dennis Rulli / Jeff Hall
APPENDIX B
Softballs from USSSA Rulebook
Sec. 3 A. THE OFFICIAL BALL to be used shall be of a spherical design with a smooth surface. The center or core of the ball shall be of a material and design tra- ditionally used to make softballs or other materials or design as approved by the USSSA. The cover shall be of horsehide, cowhide or other material approved by the USSSA and shall be cemented to the core and stitched with cotton, linen or nylon or any other material approved by the USSSA. A molded cover ball or a molded ball without a separate cover, or a multiple layer core design or multiple material core design, may be approved by the discretion of the USSSA on a case by case basis. The thread shall be in either flat seam or concealed stitch type which gives a flat surface. The stitch color must be blue. The internal composition of the core and the material of the cover must be clearly printed on the ball and the words “Official Slow Pitch Softball” must be clearly printed on the ball. Note: The performance of a softball by reducing the temperature below that of game conditions is unsportsmanlike conduct.
B. In addition to standard brand identification, balls may have additional decora- tive graphics that cover, in combination with all other graphics, not more than 40% of the surface of the ball. Such graphics may not be brand identification, advertising or words.
1. Size and weight: The completed 12” ball shall have a circumference of 12” +/- 1/8” and
weigh 6.4 ounces +/- 0.2 oz. The seam shall have not less than 88 stitches in each cover, or 88 simulated stitches in molded cover balls. The completed 11” ball shall be 11” +/- 1/8” in circumference and weigh 5.85 ounces +/- 0.2 ounces and shall be proportional to the 12” ball.
2. Name, Logo, COR, and Compression 12” Balls
a. There shall be no COR or compression information written on the ball, marketing materials or packaging. Manufacturers may have their name and logo in any color.
b. 12” Classic M Ball:
i.shall have an optic yellow cover ii.shall have “USSSA CLASSIC M” in 1/8” letters the USSSA logo with a 1-1/8” diameter; iii.shall have lettering and logo in blue color and such lettering and logo shall be applied to be indelible; iv.shall have a COR of 40 or less under the ASTM test used under the USSSA Softball Ball License Agreement and shall have a compression of not more than 410 pounds under the ASTM test used under the USSSA Softball Ball License Agreement. c. 12” Stadium M Ball:
i.shall have an optic yellow cover ii.shall have “USSSASTADIUM” in 1/8” letters and the USSSA logo with a 1-1/8” diameter iii.shall have lettering and logo in gray color and such lettering and logo shall be applied to be indelible iv.shall have a COR of 47 or less under the ASTM test used under the USSSA Softball Ball License Agreement and shall be used only in the Men’s Major Program d.12” Classic Plus Ball: i.shall have an optic yellow cover ii.shall have “USSSA Classic Plus “ in 1/8” letters and the USSSA logo with a 7/8” diameter iii.shall have lettering and logo in red and the stitching shall be blue and logo shall be applied to be indelible. iv.shall have a COR up to .52 or less under the ASTM test used under the USSSA Softball License Agreement and shall have a compression between 375 and 225 pounds in weather between 40 degrees and 100 degrees under the ASTM test used under the USSSA Softball Ball License Agreement. C. Altered balls and the potential of a ball being altered and those suspected of altering, owning or using an altered ball (or determined to have altered, owned or used an Altered Ball) shall be viewed as falling under the same rules in place above for Altered Bats in Rule 2 Section 1 above.
[The Rules of Play, Season 2016 were copied from a Dec. 27 email entitled "Final Revison". However, after these 17 sections you will find a "revision-in-process" that attempts to re-organize, clarify, & modify this version with additions, deletions, and changes with thegoal to make the rules of the game as current, complete, enforceable and accurate as possible. Until this version is board-approved the version that is immediately below is in force.]
APPENDIX C
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[The following are Rules from 2016 & may no longer be valid, while the rewritten draft (above) has never been finalized still needing editing & approval by the Board]
Osceola Senior Softball League
Rules of Play
Season 2016
Rules and Regulations Table of Contents
Section 1 .....................General Statement
Section 2 Board of Directors
Board of DirectorsSection 3 Players
PlayersSection 4 Rosters
RostersSection 5 ...........................Equipment
Section 6 Schedule
ScheduleSection 7 Teams
TeamsSection 8 Playing Field
Playing FieldSection 9 Pitching
PitchingSection I0 Batting
BattingSection 11 Base Running
Section 11.1 First Base
First BaseSection 11.2 Second & Third Base
Second & Third BaseSection 11.3 Home Plate
Home PlateSection 11.4 Third Base Commitment Line
Third Base Commitment LineSection 11.S Base Running
Base RunningSection 11.6 Courtesy Runners
Courtesy RunnersSection 12 The Game
The GameSection 13 Player Conduct
Player ConductSection 14 Loss of Player
Loss of PlayerSection 15 Umpires
UmpiresSection 16 Sitting of players during games
Sitting of players during gamesSection 17 .....................other rules not covered above
1. General Statement
The Osceola Senior Softball Corporation, also known as The Osceola Senior Softball League is a recreational league with the objective of having fun and avoiding injuries, while playing a game we all enjoy. Players should participate in the offense and defense as much as their physical condition will allow. We are not all class A players, so please be considerate of those with lesser skills.
2. Board of Directors
2.1 A Board of Directors shall govern the league consisting of five members, and one alternate of the league. This Board will be elected by the players in the league for a term of two years, with one member serving as the President of the Corporation (Chairman), one as Recording Secretary, one as Treasurer, one as Rules and Umpire coordinator. Alternates will be selected by the Board to govern aspects of the League as required.
2.2 The Board will make rules and enforcement procedures, which may be submitted to the players for approval.
2.3 The Alternate can participate in all meetings, but can only vote if a regular member is absent.
3. Players
3.1 Eligibility: Players must be 55 years old or older to play in our league. A player is considered 55 in the calendar year in which his 55111 birthday will occur. Proof of age may be requested, a driver's license with date of birth will prove eligibility.
3.2 A yearly player fee will be assessed during the month prior to league play. For those playing in the winter league, an additional fee will be paid to the city of Kissimmee. Players joining the league after the winter season ends, will be assessed the player fee when they join.
3.3 Each player will be contacted prior to the winter season to sign up for the upcoming league play.
3.4 Players must sign the Osceola Senior Softball Corporation waiver form and pay the fees before being eligible to participate in a scheduled game.
4. Rosters
4.1 Each team will have no more than 14 players on the roster.
4.2 Players will be assigned to teams by a blank draw by the Board of Directors before the start of the season. The Board will attempt to balance the skill level of the teams as equally as possible, taking into account Batting Skills, fielding skills. Pitching skills and running ability.
4.3 Any League player may observe the selection of teams by the Board of Directors.
4.4 Players who join the league after play commences will not be eligible to participate in the league tournament.
4.5 Board members who are on a team involved in a protest or dispute will not have a vote in solving said protest.
5. Equipment
5.1 Any fielding glove made for the game of baseball or softball may be used at any position, except for a first baseman's mitt, which may be used only by the catcher and first base positions.
5.2 Batting gloves may be used while at bat or in the field.
5.3 Metal cleats are not permitted. A player found to be using metal cleats will be ejected from the game, unless the metal cleated shoes are immediately replaced.
SA Bats: All legal slo-pitch softball bats must have the USSSA approved label and can be used by all ages except the following:
Miken Ultra II, Synergy, Worth 510, Combat Senior Gear All 3), Reebok Melee.
This list can and may be amended as more senior bats come on the market.
The above listed bats must have a Strip of Pink Tape on the handle, (see Dave Brown) and may be used only by those players who are in the calendar year of their 70th birthday or older.
5.5 No titanium alloy bats are allowed.
5.6 Manufacturers markings on bats are to be legible. No modified or painted bats will be allowed for use in league or summer play.
5.7 Bat Penalty: A player who enters the batter’s box with an illegal bat will become the final out in the inning for the offensive team. This offense must be appealed to the umpire only up to the time that the next batter gets up to bat.
6. Schedule
6.1 League play will normally start as early as possible in January. The schedule and amount of games to be played will be determined by the Board of Directors based on completing League play prior to March 16, and upon the number of teams in the League.
6.2 Games cancelled due to inclement weather or other reasons mayor may not be rescheduled.
6.3 Double headers will be scheduled on each Monday and Friday. Players should arrive by 8:30 to allow the managers to prepare their lineups. The first game will start promptly at 9 AM, and no inning shall be started after 10:30. If a team has less than 9 players at 9 AM, a 15 minute grace period will be allowed. If the 9th player does not arrive by 9: 15, the game will be forfeited. Any player showing up after the start of a game will be the last batter in the batting order. If he bats anywhere else in the order he will be the 3rd out for the inning. He will then be the first batter in the next inning.
The second game will start at 10:30 or as close thereto as permitted by the length of the first game. The time limit on the second game is one (1) hour after the start time.
6.4 No inning of the first game will start after 10:30.
6.5 The schedule will designate the home team as equally as possible.
7. Teams
7.1 A team will consist of eleven fielders: a Pitcher, Catcher, First Baseman, Second Baseman, Shortstop, and a rover (when manpower permits) and four outfielders; however, all players in attendance must bat.
7.2 Teams may play shorthanded, but must have at least 9 players from its roster or suffer a forfeit.
7.3 If two opposing teams are both short of the nine players required for play, both teams will be credited with two losses.
7.4 A team can only utilize players that were assigned to their team.
7.5 A team with more than 11 players, the manager is to rotate the players defensively equally, so that each player has the opportunity to play as much as possible. Exceptions to player rotations will be made for medical reasons and are to be agreed on by both managers
7.6 If the player or players arrive after the game starts, they can be inserted into the lineup as the last batter or (batters) regardless whether the team has batted around in the lineup or not.
7.7 If a player is injured during play and cannot continue and the team drops below 11 players, the team will continue play with their remaining players. No replacement players will be assigned. If the injury causes the team to drop below 9 players, the team will forfeit.
8. The Playing Field
8.1 First Base: A white base will be placed in fair territory and a colored Safety Base will be placed adjacent to it in foul territory. The runner going to First base on an infield ground ball must step on the colored base only. On outfield hits the runner can step on either bag.
8.2 A Scoring Plate will be located eight feet from home plate on an extension of the first base foul line.
If the runner fails to touch Scoring plate he will be counted as an out. A player touching the regular home plate then going to the scoring plate will also be counted as an out.
8.3 Along the third base foul line. A Commitment Line will be marked approximately 25 feet from home plate, and perpendicular to the third base foul line. Once a player passes the commitment line he must proceed to the home plate.
8.4 Along the first base foul line, a Commitment Line will be marked 10 feet from home plate and perpendicular to the first base foul line.
8.5 At home plate, a Strike Zone shall be a combined Home Plate and Extension Board measuring 20" wide X 34" long.
9. Pitching
9.1 A legally pitched ball must attain a height of at least six feet from the ground (clear the top of the Screen), but not more than twelve feet from the ground between the pitcher and the batter. A Pitched ball failing to meet these requirements will be an illegal pitch, which the umpire will declare while the ball is still in the air. The umpire will call an illegal pitch a ball. The pitch must have a discernable arc on its flight between the pitcher and home plate.
a) When a pitcher releases the ball to the plate he must position his body behind the net. Failure to do so will constitute a warning by the umpire. Second warning will be an automatic ball to the batter.9.2 Swinging at an illegal pitch by the batter makes the pitch legal.
9.3 The pitcher must have at least one foot in the pitcher's box when releasing the ball. Failure to do so will result in an illegal pitch. The pitchers box is defined as the width of the pitchers plate, plus 6 feet behind the pitching rubber. (6' X 6')
9.4 The pitcher must present the ball to the batter before delivering a pitch. Failure to do so will result in an illegal pitch.
a) There will be no warmup pitches at the start of any inning except the first inning the pitcher is going to pitch.b) After the Umpire signals PLAY BALL, if a batter is in the batter’s box and a pitch is made a batted ball will be considered to be in play, even if the fielders are not in position 9.5 At the beginning of an inning the pitcher may move the screen to accommodate his pitching preference. During an inning a new picture may adjust the position of the screen.
9.5 Pitching Screen. Pitching Screen cannot be moved at any time by a player. If a player intentionally knocks over the screen, all base runners will be awarded 2 bases. If a batted ball hits any part of the screen it is a dead ball and counts as a strike to the batter Similar to a foul ball. Note; this rule to be reviewed in January 2014.
A thrown ball that hits the net is a live ball.
10. Batting
10.1 Each batter will start his turn at bat with a count of one ball and one strike. Three strikes makes an out, four balls allows the batter to have a walk and proceed to first base.
10.2 Any part of a legally pitched ball that strikes any part of the strike mat or home plate is a strike. (Legally pitched balls (height) may differ somewhat with each Umpire, no continued complaint by either team will be allowed.
10.3 Any legally pitched ball that does not strike any part of the strike mat or home plate is a ball. Illegal pitches are called balls.
10.4 If a ball is hit along the first base line and strikes any part of the white base it is a fair ball: If the ball hit's the colored base only, it is a foul ball.
10.5 After reaching a count of two strikes, the batter is no longer allowed a courtesy foul ball if a player hits a foul ball with two strikes, he is out.
10.6 A player who enters the batter’s box with an illegal bat, will become the inning ending out. This offense can be appealed to the umpire up to the time the next batter steps up to bat.
10.7 After the pitcher steps into the pitching box, all runners must be in contact with their base until the ball is either hit or passes over home plate.
10.8 The Batter/runner may use the white base on an apparent base hit in which the runner has the option to advance beyond first base.
10.9 If a defensive player obstructs the runner in his path to first base, the runner will be awarded first base. An obstruction occurs only in the event the defensive player does not have possession of the bail or is not in the act of receiving the ball.
10.10 The batter will be declared out if he steps on first base with a bat in hand.
10.11 Bats are to be kept in the dugout. If Bat warming devices are used they may be outside of the dugout beyond first base if they are hung three feet above the ground. If a live ball makes contact with a bat left out on the ground (not including the batters bat), by the offense, the base runner closest to home will be declared out.
10.12 I f a live ball comes into contact left out by the defense, the runner closest to home will be awarded one base.
10.13 The next batter in the lineup shall be positioned in the on deck area before the first pitch is made to the batter (there can be two batters at the On Deck circle). Failure to be in the on deck area will constitute an automatic out for the on deck batter. If this is the third out of the inning the inning ends.
a) Stalling by the due up batter to afford the on deck batter extra time to get into the on deck area will be constitute a called strike on the batter. (Umpires judgement)11(section 11 Base Running and 11.1 not included?)
11.2 Second & Third Base11.2.1 A base runner may safely overrun second and third base without danger of being tagged out, if no intent is shown to advance to the next base.
11.2.2 Sliding is not permitted and will cause the runner to be declared out.
However, "DIVING" back to a base when returning to a base already made is allowed. 11.2.3 To avoid colliding with a defensive player, the runner may run around the base. In the opinion of the umpire the runner is to be declared safe if the throw is beaten or out if the throw beats him.
11.2.4 A collision with the defensive player caused by the runner may result in the runner being called out depending on the circumstances as determined by the umpire.
11.2.5 If a runner makes an attempt to avoid a collision with a defensive player but a collision still occurs because the defensive player went into the path of the runner, the runner will not be called out. (Umpires discretion)
11.3 Home Plate11.3.1 The runner, in an attempt to score must always touch the Scoring Plate, if he touches the regular home plate, he is automatically out and the ball remains live and in play.
11.3.2 The defensive team must always touch home plate or the strike zone mat to put a runner out.
11.3.3 If an attempt is made to tag the runner, the runner as automatically safe and is allowed to score.
11.4 Third Base Commitment Line11.4.1 If a runner touches the ground on or past this line, the runner must continue towards the Scoring Plate, and cannot return to third base.
11.4.2 Once a runner touches the ground on or past the Commitment Line, he can be put out only by a defensive player tagging home plate.
11.5 Base Running (is this supposed to be 11.0?)
11.5.1 Runner Interference: If a runner. who has been forced out at second, third or home, makes any physical contact with the fielder, raises his arms his head, or blocks the straight line throw to another base, whether intentional or accidental, the other runner will also be called out for interference.
11.5.2 Runners that verbally interfere with fielders will be declared out and all other runners will return to the base last touched.
11.6 If a coach in the opinion of the Umpire assists the baserunner by making contact for any reason while running the bases the runner will be declared out.
11.6 Courtesy Runners
11.6.1 When a player is unable to run, a courtesy runner may be used from any base, including home plate. The courtesy runner must be in place before the first pitch to next batter; in this case, the courtesy runner will not be allowed.
a. If a player does not want a runner he cannot be forced to use one)11.6.2 Each team is allowed unlimited courtesy runners per inning.
11.6.3 A player may be a courtesy runner only once per inning. If he runs for another player, he is declared out. However, if a team bats around, the runner can run for the same player that he ran for originally. At home plate, if a courtesy runner who has already run for another player attempts to run for a batter, he is automatically out as soon as a pitch is thrown, any batted ball is dead, and all other runners will return to their starting bases. The violation occurs on the bases, when the courtesy runner touches a base: he is declared out and removed from the base.
11.6.4 A courtesy runner for a player already on a base takes the place of the player upon stepping on the base to be occupied and cannot be replaced.
11.6.5 When a batter runs for himself from home plate, he must touch first base before a courtesy runner may replace him. If the batter does not touch first base before a courtesy runner replaces him, the batter will be declared out.
11.6.6 When running from home plate, a courtesy runner must take a position behind the catcher on the third base side of home plate and must not move until the batter makes contact with the pitched ball. Any movement of the runner's feet before the ball is hit or hits the ground is a violation of the rule and the batter will be declared out.
11.6.7 If both the batter and the courtesy runner run upon the ball being hit, an out will be declared if the batter passes the Commitment Line along the first base foul line.
11.6.8 Courtesy runners may be replaced only upon injury, in which case the injured courtesy runner may not be used again as a courtesy runner during the remainder of the game.
11.6.9 If a courtesy runner is on base when his time to bat occurs, he will be declared out as a base runner and come to bat unless the out is the third out of the inning, in which case he will lead off the next inning.
11.6.10 when a batter, who requires a courtesy runner in an inning, comes to bat again in that inning, the same courtesy may be used again.
12. The Game
12.1 A five run limit per inning will be imposed to prevent runaway scoring. An inning will end upon the scoring of the fifth run by a team in that inning.
12.2 An exception to the five run rule is that if a team is trailing by more than 5 runs, the trailing team may continue to score runs until they equal the leading team's score.
12.3 This five run rule does not apply in the seventh inning or any succeeding innings.
(12.4 to 12.8 are missing from this version though included in previous web version and included in the current "in-process" version in section 13 found found beneath this version )
13. Conduct
13.1 Unsportsmanlike including prolonged arguing, profane or abusive language or gestures, any threating of physical harm, malicious throwing of a bat, ball, glove or other object, or physical contact with an umpire or another player, including punching, poking, pushing, kicking, biting, scratching, etc.. The offender will be ejected from the game and not be allowed to play for the next three (3) games. A review of the incident by the Board can cause the violator to be suspended from the league. Refusal to leave the field will result in a forfeit by the offending player's team.
1. First offence verbal warning.2. Second Offence expulsion from the game and the next two games.3. Third offence will require a Board decision to either expel the player for the remaining season’s games or expulsion from the League for the season of the occurrence and/or from the League entirely with forfeiture of all Leagues Fees paid. 13.1.2 Physical contact with another player, umpire, official or spectator will result in immediate suspension from the league. Board will meet at their earliest convenience to determine length of suspension. Possibility of permanent suspension will be determined by the Board.
13.1.3 Refusal to leave complex will result in forfeit of game for the ejected player's team.
13.2 Verbal interference is not allowed by either the offensive or defensive team. If done by the offensive team, the ball will be dead and the batter will be declared out. All base runners will return to their starting base. An example, shouting, "I have it" by a base runner.
13.3 In the case of verbal interference by the defense, the ball remains live and in play. After the play is over, the umpire will call time out, and make a judgment as to whether the play stands as is or voiding any out(s) incurred and allowing all runners to advance one base. If the batter makes an out due to defensive interference, he may be awarded first base and the out cancelled. An example may be. Shouting "foul ball" when the batted ball is actually hit in fair territory.
13.4 Repeated verbal interference may result in ejection of the player from the game and complex. (Ex. I got it, screaming as the player tries to field the ball etc.)
Violation of player conduct rules will result in expulsion.
•For first Offence: expulsion from game and from the complex.•For second offense: expulsion from game plus an additional game.•For third offense: Expulsion from that game and the next three games. •Players who are expelled from a game must leave the ComplexOf face further sanctions.
14 Loss of Player
14.1 A player injured or becoming sick during a game may be removed from the batting order and replaced defensively; his place in the batting order will be skipped with no out recorded. The injured player may not reenter the game. Notice must be given to the umpires and opposing team manager.
14.2 Any player leaving early due to personal circumstances will be given the same consideration as an injured player. Notice must be given to the umpire and opposing team manager prior to the game start.
14.3 An angry or disgruntled player leaving early will Not Be Skipped in the batting order, and an out will be recorded each time he was scheduled to bat. Notice of his leaving must be given to the umpire and the opposing team manager.
14.4 A player who tells his team manager or a Member of the Board, that he is quitting the team and will not return will be immediately suspended from the League for the rest of the calendar year. This is to include all League activities including Summer Play also.
14.4.1 The suspended player has the right to appeal the suspension to the Board. He can request a review of the incident with the Board which will be at the Boards earliest convenience.
15. Umpires
15.1 If there are no Umpires available the following procedure will be followed. If there are an uneven number of teams the nonplaying team will supply Umpires. If the League consists of an even number of teams, the offensive team will provide the umpires. The last batter in the previous inning will umpire at home plate, and the next to last batter the previous inning will umpire in the field.
15.2 When one umpire is used he will be provided for each game. The home plate umpire is responsible for calling balls and strikes, fair and foul balls, plays at home plate and plays at third base. For a foul ball, the umpire is to call "Foul Ball" and point to foul territory. For a fair ball the umpire shall/does not make a call, he only points in fair territory.
If the opportunity to utilize two certified umpires becomes available in the future. The base umpire is responsible for plays at first and second base, and he is to ensure that base runners touch every base, but he makes no call unless a defensive player appeals the play. If a player appeals a call, he must appeal to the umpire who made the call. If the umpire saw the play, he would call "out" otherwise "safe". In the event of a disagreement with the umpire. ONLY THE TEAM MANAGER OR HIS ASSISTANT may approach the umpire to resolve the issue.
NOTE: If we are using one paid umpire, and we will only have one umpire making all calls. In which case any reference to a base or second umpire in the following section does not apply
15.3 If an umpire believes he has missed call, or a player appeals a call, that umpire may ask for assistance from the other umpire if he so desires. Asking for an appeal of a disputed call, is not mandatory that the umpire has to grant one.
15.4 The home plate umpire is responsible to call the infield fly rule.
16 Sitting of players during a game.
16.1 All players must sit one inning of a game when there are more than Eleven (11) players in the lineup. No player shall sit more than one inning in one game.
16.2 Lineups submitted to the opposing Coach and Umpire, must contain the inning the players must sit. The opposing Manager shall note what inning the opposing team’s players must sit.
16.3 The sitting of players in the first game must continue in the continuing order the second game.
NO PLAYER WILL SIT MORE THAN ONE INNING IN ANY GAME.
IF A VIOLATION OF THE RULE IS BROUGHT TO THE UMPIRES ATTENTION,
AN AUTOMATIC OUT WILL BE RECORDED FOR THE NEXT INNING.
17 Rules Not Covered
17.1 Any occurrence not covered the above will be decided by the USSSA rule book.
Approved by the Board of Directors this Day of December 27, 2015
_____________________ ____________________
Dave Brown Gene Mitchell Rick Arleo
Pete Edwards Al Cialella Joey Ruiz
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