OFFICIAL

2023-2024
RULES OF
BASEBALL
 OFFICIAL

2023-2024
RULES OF
BASEBALL
THIS IS THE WBSC OFFICIAL RULES
OF BASEBALL, PUBLISHED BY THE
WORLD BASEBALL SOFTBALL
CONFEDERATION (WBSC). ITS
APPLICATION IS COMPULSORY IN
ALL WBSC COMPETITIONS.

ANY REFERENCE IN THESE WBSC OFFICIAL

RULES OF BASEBALL TO “HE,” “HIM” OR “HIS”
SHALL BE DEEMED TO BE A REFERENCE TO
“SHE,” “HER” OR “HERS,” AS THE CASE MAY BE,
WHEN THE PERSON IS A FEMALE.
 2023-2024 | WBSC OFFICIAL RULES OF BASEBALL

INDEX
7.10 No Game 45
7.11 Forfeited Game 45
7.12 Protested Game 46
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 9
7.13 Fight Rule 47
RULE 1 OBJECTIVES 10
RULE 8 BALL IN PLAY 48
RULE 2 PLAYING FIELD 10
8.1 Live Ball 48
2.1 Infield and Outfield Dimensions 10 8.2 Immediate Dead Ball - Runners Return 50
2.2 Home Plate 12 8.3 Delayed Dead Ball - Runners Return or Advance 51
2.3 First, Second and Third Bases 12 8.4 Immediate Dead Ball - Runners Advance 52
2.4 Pitcher’s Rubber 12 8.5 Calling Time and Dead Balls 53
2.5 Pitcher’s Mound 12 8.6 Unsportsmanlike Conduct 54
2.6 The Catcher’s Box, the Batters’ Box, etc. 12
RULE 9 BATTING 55
RULE 3 EQUIPMENT 13
9.1 Batting Order 55
3.1 The Ball 13 9.2 A Batter 55
3.2 The Bat 13 9.3 Designated Hitter 55
3.3 Players Uniforms 14 9.4 The Batter’s Box 58
3.4 Gloves 15 9.5 The Batter’s Box Rule 58
3.5 Protective Equipment 16 9.6 A Ball 59
3.6 Equipment on the Field 17 9.7 Batter Illegal Action 60
9.8 Illegally Batted Ball 61
RULE 4 GAME PERSONNEL 17
9.9 Batting Out of Turn 61
4.1 Umpires 17
9.10 Catcher Interference 63
4.2 Field Manager 18
9.11 When Batter or Batter-Runner is Out 63
4.3 Coaches 19
RULE 10 BASE RUNNING 65
RULE 5 PRE-GAME PROCEDURES 19
10.1 Legal Order of Bases 65
5.1 Field Condition 19
10.2 Batter Becomes Base Runner 66
5.2 Pre-game Practice 20
10.3 Entitled to Bases or Occupying a Base 68
5.3 Pre-game Meeting 21
10.4 Advancing Bases 69
5.4 Ground Rules 21
10.5 Dead Balls 71
5.5 Exchange of Line-up Cards 21
10.6 Force Play-Slide Rule (Sliding to Bases on Double Play Attempts) 73
5.6 Security 22
10.7 When Runners are Out 74
CHAPTER 2 GLOSSARY 23
RULE 11 APPEAL PLAYS 77
RULE 6 DEFINITION OF TERMS 24 11.1 When Runners are Out on Appeals 77
CHAPTER 3 BASEBALL RULES 37 11.2 Effect of Preceding Runner’s Failure to Touch a Base 80
11.3 Retiring the Side 80
RULE 7 GAME: BEGINNING AND ENDING 38
7.1 Starting the Game 38 RULE 12 INTERFERENCE, OBSTRUCTION AND CATCHER COLLISIONS 80
7.2 Positions of the Offensive Team 38 12.1 Batter or Runner Interference 80
7.3 Team Offensive Interference 38 12.2 Fielder Right of Way 83
7.4 Base Coaches 39 12.3 Unintentional Interference 83
7.5 Positions of the Defensive Team 39 12.4 Spectator Interference 84
7.6 Substitutions 40 12.5 Umpire or Coach Interference 85
7.7 Regulation Game 42 12.6 Interference with Squeeze Play or Steal of Home 85
7.8 Halted Game (Suspended, Postponed, and Tie Games) 44 12.7 Obstruction 85
7.9 Tie Game 45 12.8 Collision Rule 88

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RULE 13 PITCHING 90 18.3 Earned Runs and Allowed Runs 139

18.4 Substitution of Pitchers and Runs Allowed 142
13.1 Pitching Positions 90
13.2 Legal Pitching Positions 90 RULE 19 STATISTICS 146
13.3 Windup Position - Set Position 90 19.1 Responsibilities 146
13.4 Warm-Up Pitches 92 19.2 Preparation of Reports 147
13.5 Pitch Clock 92 19.3 Games Played 151
13.6 Pitching Violations (Prohibitions) 94 19.4 Extra Games 151
13.7 Throwing to the Bases 96 19.5 Individual Awards 152
13.8 Effect of Removing Pivot Foot from Plate 97 19.6 Averages 152
13.9 Ambidextrous Pitchers 97 19.7 Minimum Requirements to Qualify for Individual Prizes 153
13.10 Balks 97
19.8 Recording Cumulative Records 155
13.11 Removing Pitcher 100
APPENDIX 1 WBSC BASEBALL WORLD CUPS 156
RULE 14 THE UMPIRE 104
A1 BASEBALL RULES 157
14.1 Umpire Authority 104
14.2 Appeal of Umpire Decisions 105 A1.1 Designated Hitter 157
14.3 Umpire Position 106 A1.2 Innings 157
14.4 Reporting 107 A1.3 Protective Equipment 157
14.5 General Instructions to Umpires 108 A1.4 Run Difference 157
A1.5 Exceptions to the WBSC Official Rules of Baseball 160
CHAPTER 4 SCORING 110 A1.6 Suspended Games 161
RULE 15 OFFICIAL SCORER 111 A1.7 Bat Regulations 162
A1.8 Pitch Count Limits at WBSC World Cups 164
15.1 Scoring Director 111
15.2 Scorer 111 A2 SCORING RULES 169
15.3 Game Over 113 A2.1 Forfeited Games 169
15.4 Reports 114 A2.2 Winning Pitcher 169
RULE 16 BATTING RECORD 115 A2.3 Pitchers Earned Run Average Coefficient 169
A2.4 Minimum Plate Appearance Coefficient 169
16.1 Batter Out of Turn 115
A2.5 Minimum Inning Pitched Coefficient 169
16.2 Hits 115
16.3 Extra Base Hits 117 A3 OTHER MATTERS 170
16.4 Games Ended by Hit 119 A3.1 Electronic Devices 170
16.5 The Sacrifices 120
A3.2 Smoking or Smokeless Tobacco 170
16.6 Runs Batted In (RBI) 121
16.7 Stolen Bases and Caught Stealing 122 APPENDIX 2 UMPIRE VIDEO REVIEW PROTOCOL & REGULATION 171
16.8 Bases on Balls 125 B1 GENERAL GUIDELINES 172
16.9 Strikeouts 126
B2 REVIEWABLE CALLS FOR MANAGERS CHALLENGE 172
RULE 17 FIELDING RECORD 126
B2.1 Base Running 172
17.1 Putouts 126 B2.2 Catch/No Catch Play 172
17.2 Assists 128 B2.3 Fair/Foul 173
17.3 Errors 130 B2.4 Force Plays 173
17.4 Double Plays and Triple Plays 134 B2.5 Hit by Pitch 173
17.5 Wild Pitches and Passed Balls 135 B2.6 Potential Home Run 173
B2.7 Collision Rule 173
RULE 18 PITCHING RECORD 136
B2.8 Non-Home Run Boundary 173
18.1 Work of the Pitchers 136
B2.9 Slide Rule 174
18.2 Pitchers’ Decision 136
B2.10 Tag Plays 174

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B3 REVIEWABLE CALLS BY CREW CHIEF INITIATIVE 175

B3.1 Challenge Protocol 175
B3.2 General Guidelines 176
B3.3 Challenge of a Reviewable Play by Both Managers 177
B3.4 Effect of Video Review Result on Post-Play Decision by Manager 180
B3.5 Specificity of the Challenge 180
B3.6 Irrevocable and Final 181
B3.7 Standard for Changing a Call 181
B3.8 Correcting an Incorrect Call 182
B3.9 Placement of Runners 182
B3.10 Base Running 184
B3.11 Hit by Pitch 184
B3.12 Collisions at Home Plate 185
B3.13 Plays NOT Reviewable 185

APPENDIX 3 GAME MANAGEMENT CLOCKS REGULATION 186

C1 PITCH CLOCK 187

C2 COACH / MANAGER PITCHER’S VISIT CLOCK 188
C3
C4
PITCHING CHANGE CLOCK
BETWEEN INNING CLOCK
189
190 CHAPTER
01.
C5 CLOCK INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS 191
C5.1 Placement of Game Management Clocks 191

APPENDIX 4 DIAGRAM 193

D1
D1.1
PLAYING FIELD
For U-15 and above
194
194
INTRODUCTION
D1.2 For U-15 and above (Metric) 195
D1.3 For U-12 Category 196
D1.4 For U-12 Category (Metric) 197

D2 HOME PLATE & BASES 198

D2.1 For U-15 and above 198
D2.2 For U-15 and above (Metric) 199
D2.3 For U-12 Category 200
D2.4 For U-12 Category (Metric) 201

D3 PITCHING MOUND 202

D3.1 For U-15 and above 202
D3.2 For U-15 and above (Metric) 203
D3.3 For U-12 Category 204
D3.4 For U-12 Category (Metric) 205

D4 FIELDERS GLOVE 206

D5 STRIKE ZONE 207

APPENDIX 5 CROSS REFERENCE 208

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 2023-2024 | WBSC OFFICIAL RULES OF BASEBALL

RULE 1. OBJECTIVES WBSC BASEBALL

WORLD CUPS OFFICIAL U-12 U-15 U-18 U-23 WOMEN’S
FIELD DIMENSIONS
1.1 The offensive team’s objective is to have its batter’s become
Distance between bases 75 ft (22.86 m) 90 ft (27.43 m)
runners and its runners advance to home plate.
Distance from home plate
51 ft (15.54 m) 60 ft 6” (18.43 m)
1.2 The defensive team’s objective is to prevent players from becoming to pitcher plate
runners and to prevent their advancement around the bases.
Distance from home plate
97 ft 5”(29.70 m) 127.3 ft 3/8” (38.79 m)
to second base
1.3 When a batter becomes a runner and touches all bases legally, that
Distance from home plate
individual shall score one run for his team. 25 ft (7.62 m) 60 ft (18.29 m)
to backstop

Exception: A run does not score if a runner touches home plate Distance from home plate
15.4 ft (4.70 m) 37 ft (11.27 m)
while the third out is made. to next batter’s box

Three-foot lane 35 ft (10.66 m) 45 ft (13.71 m)

1.4 The objective of each team is to win by scoring more runs than the
opposing team. min. 275 ft
Distance from home plate (83.82 m)
220 ft (67 m) 325 ft (99 m)
to left and right field fence max. 290 ft
1.5 The winner of the game is the team which has scored more runs in (88.40 m)
accordance with the rules at the end of the game.
min. 340 ft
Distance from home plate 400 ft (103.63 m)
270 ft (82.30 m)
to centre field fence (121.90 m) max. 360 ft

RULE 2. PLAYING FIELD

(109.73 m)

min. 3.5 ft
min. 3.5 ft (1.06 m)
Outfield fence height 6 ft (1.83 m) (1.06 m)
max. 6 ft (1.83 m)
max. 6 ft (1.83 m)
2.1 INFIELD AND OUTFIELD DIMENSIONS
Radius 74 ft (22.55 m) 95 ft (28.95 m)
2.1.1 The infield shall be a 90-foot square (27.43 m2). The measurement
Pitching mound height 6” (0.15 m) 10” (0.25 m)
to first and third bases is to the back edge of each base and the
apex or back point of home plate. Pitching mound diameter 14 ft (4.27 m) 18 ft (5.48 m)

2.1.2 The outfield shall be the area between two foul lines formed by 3 ft (0.91 m) 4 ft (1.22 m)
Batter’s box dimensions x x
extending two side of the square. The distance from the apex of
6 ft (1.82 m) 6 ft (1.83 m)
home plate to the nearest fence, stand or other obstruction on
fair territory shall be 275 feet (83.82 m) or more to each foul pole. Home plate circle diameter 20.22 ft (6.16 m) 26 ft (7.92 m)
The distance to both right and left centre field should be 375 feet
Pitcher plate dimensions 6”x 2 ft (0.15 m x 0.60 m)
(114.30 m), 400 feet (121.92 m) to straightaway centre field. The
foul poles should be painted a fluorescent yellow. Bases dimensions 15”x 15”x5” (0.38 m x 0.38 m x 0.12 m)

2.1.3 The following field dimensions shall be used for the WBSC Baseball Coach’s box dimensions
4 ft x 8 ft
10 ft x 20 ft (3 m x 6 m)
World Cups as specified below: (1.21 m x 2.43 m)

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 2023-2024 | WBSC OFFICIAL RULES OF BASEBALL

2.2 HOME PLATE

Home plate shall be marked by a five-sided slab of whitened
RULE 3. EQUIPMENT
rubber or similar material. One edge is 17 inches (0.43 m) long, two
are 8.5 inches (0.21 m) and two are 12 inches (0.3 m). It shall be set
3.1 THE BALL
in the ground so that the two 12-inch (0.3 m) edges coincide with
The ball shall be a sphere formed by yarn wound around a small
the diamond lines extending to home plate from first base and
core of cork, rubber, or similar material, covered with two strips of
third base and with the 17-inch (0.43 m) edge facing the pitcher.
white horsehide or cowhide, tightly stitched together. It shall weigh
The top edges of home plate shall be bevelled, and the base shall
not less than 5 ounces (0.14 kg) and not more than 5 1/4 ounces
be fixed in the ground level with the ground surface.
(0.15 kg) and measure no less than 9 inches (0.22 m) and no more
than 9 1/4 inches (0.24 m) in circumference.
2.3 FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD BASES
First, second and third base shall be white canvas bags, or rubber No player, coach or manager shall discolour or damage the ball by
covered bags, securely attached to the ground. The bags shall be rubbing it with soil, rosin, licorice, sandpaper, emery paper or any
15 inches square (0.38 m2) filled with soft material minimum of 3 other foreign substance.
inches (0.07 m) and not more than 5 inches (0.12 m). The first and
third base bags shall be entirely within the infield. The second base Penalty: The Umpire will remove the ball and the offender from the
bag shall be centred on second base. game. In addition, the offender will be suspended automatically for
10 games.
2.4 PITCHER’S RUBBER
The pitcher’s rubber is a rectangular whitened rubber slab. 24 3.2 THE BAT
inches (0.6 m) by 6 inches (0.15 m), set in the ground with the
nearest edge at a distance of 60 feet 6 inches (18.44 m) from the 3.2.1 The bat shall be made of wood or of other materials as it complies
back point of home plate. with the WBSC specifications as written in this rule.

2.5 PITCHER’S MOUND 3.2.1.1 It shall be a smooth, rounded stick with a constant radius at
The top of the pitcher’s rubber must be 10 inches (0.25 m) above any point.
the top surface of home plate. The 10-inch (0.25 m) height can be
measured easily using a line level. There should be a gradual slope 3.2.1.2 There must be a direct line from the centre of the knob to the
of 1 inch (0.03 m) per foot from a point 6 inches (0.15 m) in front of centre of the large end.
the pitcher’s rubber to a point 6 feet (1.83 m) toward home plate.
From this point the mound should slope and blend into the grade 3.2.1.3 The knob and the end plug, if any, must be firmly attached.
of the rest of the playing surface.
3.2.1.4 The bat shall not be more than 42 inches (1.06 m) of length.
Note: Portable pitcher’s mound are legal.
3.2.1.5 The diameter of a bat shall not be more than 2 5/8 inches
2.6 THE CATCHER’S BOX, THE BATTERS’ BOX, ETC. (0.06 m), nor less than 2 1/4 inches (0.05 m).
The catcher’s box, batters’ box, coaches’ boxes and the three foot
batter runners’ lane shall be laid out before the start of the game 3.2.1.6 The bat handle may be covered or treated with any material
in accordance with the Appendix 4. All lines must be marked with or substance to improve the grip but must not exceed more
chalk or nonburning white material and must be 2 to 3 inches than 18 inches (0.45 m) from its end. Any such material or
(0.05 m – 0.07 m) wide. substance that exceeds the 18-inch (0.45 m) limit shall be
cause for the bat to be removed from the game.

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 2023-2024 | WBSC OFFICIAL RULES OF BASEBALL

Note: An illegal bat must be removed. Any bat that has been 3.3.5 Polished metal or glass buttons are not allowed on a uniform. If a
altered shall be removed from play. pitcher wears a helmet, it must have a nonglossy finish.
If the Umpire discovers that the bat does not conform to Rule
3.2.1.6 above until a time or after which the bat has been used in 3.3.6 Any part of an undershirt exposed to view shall be of the same
play, it shall not be grounds for declaring the batter out or ejected solid colour other than white. Sleeve lengths may vary for
from the game. everyone, but each player must wear sleeves of approximately the
same length (torn or ragged sleeves are not allowed). Compression
Penalty: If a batter entering the batter’s box is discovered with an type sleeves, if worn by a pitcher, must be covered by an
illegal bat or is discovered having used an illegal bat prior to the undershirt, or worn on both arms.
next player entering the batter’s box, the plate Umpire has to warn
the manager of the offensive team in case it would be the first 3.3.7 A player or coach may wear a jacket under the uniform top if it is
violation. At the second violation the manager of the team will be the same colour as the team’s undershirts. Only a pitcher may wear
ejected from the game. a jacket as an outer garment while as a base runner. When worn,
it is to be buttoned or zipped. A pitcher may wear a jacket under
3.2.2 The players can only use one-piece wooden bats that are included the uniform top while batting. No other player is permitted to wear
in the Official WBSC approved wood bat list published in the a jacket as the outer garment while serving as a base runner or a
current year. defensive player.

3.2.3 Use of composite bats is prohibited (composite bats refer to 3.3.8 When coaching the bases, the uniform game jersey must be worn.
wood bats wrapped with fiberglass or other components or a If a team jacket or wind shirt is worn, it must include the team’s
combination of pieces rather than one solid piece of wood- these official logo and be consistent with the team’s uniform colour and
bats are not permitted to be used. apparel. If both coaches opt to wear a jacket, the jackets must be
uniform. At all other times, coaches are allowed to wear a team
3.3 PLAYERS UNIFORMS issued jacket or wind shirt.

3.3.1 The uniforms of all participating players, coaches and manager of 3.3.9 No player whose uniform does not conform to that of his
the team shall be of the same colour and style. teammates shall be permitted to participate in a game.

3.3.2 It is required that each team have two sets of uniform jerseys of 3.3.10 No player shall attach to his uniform tape or other material of
contrasting colours. It is the responsibility of the visiting team to different colour from his uniform.
wear a contrasting uniform colour to the jersey worn by the home
team. It is recommended that both teams wear the full pregame or 3.4 GLOVES
regular game uniforms when entering the playing field.
3.4.1 The catcher may wear a glove or mitt of any dimension.
3.3.3 All uniforms must include numbers on the back of the shirt. These
numbers shall be at least 6 inches (0.15 m) in height. 3.4.2 The first baseman’s glove or mitt must not be more than 13 inches
(0.33 m) long or 8 inches (0.2 m) wide. The webbing shall not be
3.3.4 Except for the standard shoe plate or toe plate, no player shall constructed to form a net type of trap. The length measurement of
attach anything to the sole or heel of the shoe. Shoes with pointed any glove or mitt shall be from the bottom edge or heel straight up
metal spikes like golf or track shoes, shall not be allowed. across the palm. The width measurement for the first baseman’s
mitt shall be from the centre of the base section between the
thumb and the first finger to the outside edge of the little finger.

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The crotch area for the first baseman’s mitt shall not exceed 5 3.6 EQUIPMENT ON THE FIELD
inches (0.12 m) in length, 4 1/2 inches (0.11 m) in width at the top No Equipment shall be left lying on the field, either in fair territory
and 3 1/2 inches (0.08 m) at the base. or foul territory.

3.4.3 Every player except the catcher and first baseman is restricted
to the use of a fielder’s glove not more than 13 inches (0.33 m) RULE 4. GAME PERSONNEL
long and not more than 8 inches (0.2 m) wide. For the fielder’s
glove the measurement shall be from the base of the inside seam
of the first finger to the outside edge of the little finger. These 4.1 UMPIRES
measurements shall not exceed 5 3/4 inches (0.14 m) in width at Umpire responsibilities before the game shall be:
the top and 3 1/2 inches (0.08 m) at the base.
4.1.1 Require strict observance of all rules governing the game and
3.4.4 The pitcher’s glove may not be white or grey, exclusive of piping equipment of players.
nor, in the judgement of the Umpire, be distracting in any way.
4.1.2 Be sure that all playing lines are clearly marked in accordance with
3.4.4.1 No pitcher shall attach to his glove any foreign material of a the rules.
colour different from the glove.
4.1.3 Receive from the home team or Local Organising Committee
3.4.4.2 The Umpire shall remove from the game any glove that (LOC) a supply of regulation baseballs. The Umpires shall inspect
violates Rule 3.4.4, either on his own initiative or at the the baseballs and ensure that they are properly rubbed so that the
recommendation of another Umpire or upon complaint of the gloss is removed. The Umpires shall be the sole judge of the balls
opposing manager that the Umpire agrees has merit. to be used in the game.

3.5 PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 4.1.4 Make sure that the home team or LOC have at least one dozen
regulation baseballs in reserve if needed.
3.5.1 Double ear flap helmets are mandatory for the hitters and base
runners, and it is also recommended that base coaches wear the 4.1.5 The plate Umpire should have at least two baseballs in his
skull caps. For catchers including warm-up and bullpen catchers possession and make sure that there is a supply to replenish if
wearing protective gear is required. needed. Such balls shall be put in play when:

Note: The skull caps for coaches is not required, only 4.1.5.1 A ball has been batted out of the playing field or into the
recommended. spectator area.

3.5.2 All catchers must wear a protective helmet and face mask while 4.1.5.2 A ball has become discoloured or unfit for further use.
catching.
4.1.5.3 The pitcher requests a new ball.
3.5.3 All bat/ball boys shall wear a double ear flap protective helmet.
4.1.5.4 A ball has been thrown into the stands.
3.5.4 Single ear flap is acceptable for the U-23, Premier 12 and Olympics.
Note: The Umpire should not give a new ball to the pitcher or
3.5.5 Elbow pads. A player is permitted to wear one elbow protection player until all play has ended and the previously play is dead.
pad that does not exceed 10 inches (0.25 m) in length, as After a thrown ball or batted ball goes out of the playing
measured when the pad is lying flat. field, play will not be resumed until the runners have reached

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their respective bases to which they are entitled. After a 4.2.3 The field manager shall be the only person allowed to argue,
home run has been hit out of the playing area, the Umpire challenge, or protest an Umpire’s call.
shall not deliver a new ball to the pitcher or the catcher until
the batter that hit the home run has crossed the plate. 4.2.4 If a manager has been ejected or leaves the field, he shall
designate a coach or player as his substitute, and that substitute
4.1.6 Umpires will make sure that an official rosin bag is placed on the manager shall have the same responsibilities and duty of the
ground behind the pitcher’s rubber prior to the start of each game. manager.

4.1.7 Before the start of the game, the Umpires shall check the condition 4.2.5 If the manager fails or refuses to designate his substitute before
of the field. leaving, the crew chief shall designate a team member as the
substitute manager.
4.1.8 The home plate Umpire shall order the playing field lights turned
on whenever in his opinion darkness makes further play dangerous. 4.3 COACHES

4.1.9 Umpires will attempt to have them turned on at the top of an 4.3.1 The coaches under the field manager shall be persons appointed
inning to be fair to both teams, if possible. by the federation or team to assist the field manager in
responsibilities with the team’s conduct during competition
Note: Consideration will be given by the Umpire to have the lights play and off the field, observance of the WBSC Official Rules
turned on to begin an inning where possible. of Baseball and deference to the Umpire and Technical
Commissioners.
Note: All delegation and federation personnel with field, dugout
and clubhouse credentials should follow all World Baseball Softball 4.3.2 An assistant coach is a person who assists the manager. The
Confederation (WBSC) rules and regulations and leave the assistant coach is ineligible to compete as a player. Assistant
playing field sixty (60) minutes prior to the scheduled game time. coaches may not leave their position, dugout, or bullpen area to
Not following these rules shall result in that person losing their appeal any play on the field.
respective credential privileges and the federation being disciplined
by the WBSC. 4.3.3 At no time will a coach or team delegate be allowed to argue,
challenge, or protest an Umpire’s call on the field. All on field issues
4.2 FIELD MANAGER concerned with arguments, challenges and protested calls shall not
be handled by coaches unless appointed by an ejected manager or
4.2.1 The field manager is the person appointed by the federation or non-present manager.
team and confirmed at the Tournament Technical Meeting or by
the league, and he is responsible for the team’s actions on and off
the field. This person will also represent the team in the technical
meeting and communications with the Umpires, Technical RULE 5. PRE-GAME PROCEDURES
Commissioners, and the opposing team.
5.1 FIELD CONDITION
4.2.2 The manager may advise the crew chief that he has delegated
The home team or for a tournament the Technical Commissioners
specific duties prescribed by the rules to a player or coach, and
shall decide whether a game is delayed because of unsatisfactory
any action of such designated representative shall be official.
conditions of weather or playing field.
The manager will always be responsible for his team’s conduct,
observance of the rules and deference to the Umpires, Technical Should bad weather or unfit conditions prevail during a game,
Commissioners, and all event staff. the crew chief may consult with the Technical Commissioners

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to determine suspension, resumption, or termination of play. In 5.2.6.3 U-18, U-23, Women’s Baseball World Cups and Premier12
case of lightning, the Technical Commissioners and crew chief will - 40 minutes home team BP
consult with any lightning guidelines from the LOC or league. - 40 minutes visiting team BP
- 10 minutes home team infield
The Umpires shall not call the game until at least 30 minutes after - 10 minutes visiting team infield
they have suspended play. If it is a tournament game, the Technical
Commissioners will determine when to suspend or cancel a game. 5.3 PRE-GAME MEETING

5.2 PRE-GAME PRACTICE 5.3.1 Ten minutes before the scheduled starting time, the plate Umpire
will conduct the pregame meeting with the representatives of the
5.2.1 If batting practice is scheduled and the field is deemed playable two teams
by the Technical Commissioners, the visiting team must be allowed
a minimum of 40 minutes of batting practice on the game field, 5.3.2 The Plate Umpire will receive from the home team and visiting
assuming satisfactory weather and field conditions. team their respective batting orders in triplicate. The Umpire will
make sure that the copies are identical, keep one copy, give one
5.2.2 A pitching screen must be provided by the LOC or home team. copy to the opposing manager, and give one copy to the Technical
Commissioners. The Umpire now is officially in charge of the game,
5.2.3 It is recommended that the LOC or home team provide a batting and the line-ups are official.
cage.
5.3.3 The plate Umpire will then go over the ground rules and any rules
5.2.4 It is recommended that a screen 8 feet (2.44 m) high and 6 feet questions asked by the managers.
(1.83 m) wide be provided for the first base area during batting
practice. 5.4 GROUND RULES
A local ground rule may be adopted where unusual conditions
5.2.5 Each bullpen must be provided with a minimum of two mounds prevail if agreeable with the visiting team. No ground rule shall
with regulation pitching rubbers and home plates and be in good conflict with the official playing rules. Whenever the teams do
condition for pregame warmup for the visiting team. not agree, ground rules shall be determined by the Umpires. It is
recommended that ground rules be posted in each dugout.
5.2.6 Pre-Game Rundown:
5.5 EXCHANGE OF LINE-UP CARDS
5.2.6.1 U-12 Baseball World Cup Unless the home team or LOC have given previous notice that the
- 20 minutes home team BP game has been postponed or delayed in starting the Umpires will
- 20 minutes visiting team BP enter the playing field ten minutes before the scheduled time for
- 10 minutes home team infield the game to begin and will proceed directly to home plate. Both
- 10 minutes visiting team infield opposing managers will also be at the home plate meeting. In
sequence:
5.2.6.2 U-15 Baseball World Cup
- 30 minutes home team BP 5.5.1 First, the home manager shall give his batting order to the plate
- 30 minutes visiting team BP Umpire in triplicate.
- 10 minutes home team infield
- 10 minutes visiting team infield 5.5.2 Second, the visiting manager shall give his batting order to the
plate Umpire in triplicate.

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5.5.3 The line-up shall include the name, uniform number, and field
position of each player in the starting line-up plus the pitcher.
If, a designated hitter (DH) is to be used, the line-up card shall
designate which hitter is to be the designated hitter. All other
potential substitute players should also be listed, but the failure to
list a player shall not make that player ineligible to enter the game.

5.6 SECURITY
The responsibility for crowd control rests with the Home Team or
Local Organising Committee (LOC). No person shall be allowed
on the playing field during a game except players and coaches in
uniform, managers, news photographers authorised by the home
team or WBSC, Umpires, police officers and other employees of
the home team or WBSC or the LOC. Profanity, racial comments or
other intimidating actions directed at officials, players coaches or
other team representatives will not be tolerated. Individuals making

CHAPTER
such remarks may be removed from the site of competition.
The home team or LOC shall provide police protection sufficient

02.
to preserve order. If a person, or persons enter the playing field
during a game or interfere in any way with the play, the visiting
team may refuse to play until the field is cleared.
If the field is not cleared in a reasonable amount of time,
approximately 15 minutes after the team’s refusal to play, the crew
GLOSSARY
chief may forfeit the game.

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RULE 6. DEFINITION OF TERMS 6.12 BULLPEN: An area in foul territory or outside the playing field
where substitute pitchers and catchers and other players warmup.
It must have two regulation mounds and home plate. Facilities
should be the same for both teams. Pitchers should warmup in the
designated area not on the playing field.
6.1 APPEAL: The act of a manager, coach or player claiming a violation
of the rules by the opposing team.
6.13 BUNT: A batted ball not swung at, but intentionally met with the
bat and tapped slowly within the infield. If the attempt to bunt
6.2 BALK: An illegal act by the pitcher with runners on base. Penalty is
results in a foul ball that is not legally caught, it is a strike.
all runners advance one base.
6.14 CALLED GAME: A game in which for any reason the Umpire in chief
6.3 BALL: A pitch that does not enter the strike zone in flight. If the
terminates play.
pitch touches the ground and bounces through the strike zone it is
a “ball.”
6.15 CATCH: A ball in flight, is caught, when a fielder has held the
ball long enough to show complete control. If a fielder makes a
6.4 BASE: One of four points that must be touched by a runner in
catch but drops the ball when he is attempting a throw, it is still
order to score a run. More usually applied to the canvas bags
considered a catch. If the fielder ends up with secure possession
except for the rubber home plate.
of the ball even if it has been touched or juggled by another fielder
as long as it has not touched a member of the offensive team, or
6.5 BASE COACH: A team member or a coach in uniform who is
Umpire. This is considered a catch. It is not a catch if the fielder is
stationed in the coach’s box at first and third.
touching dead ball territory when he makes the catch.
6.6 BASE ON BALLS: Is an award of first base granted to the batter
6.16 CATCHER: The fielder who takes his defensive position back of
who while at bat receives four pitches outside the strike zone. Also
home plate.
awarded when the opposing manager signals to the home plate
Umpire for an intentional walk.
6.17 CATCHER’S BOX: It is the area where the catcher shall stand until
the pitcher delivers the pitch.
6.7 BATTER: The offensive player positioned in the batter’s box.

6.18 COACH: A team member in uniform appointed by the manager to

6.8 BATTER-RUNNER: A term that identifies the offensive player who
perform such duties as the manager may designate, such as but
has just finished his turn at bat and has either been put out or
not limited to acting as a base coach.
reached base safely before the play ends.
6.19 DEAD BALL: A ball out of play. A dead ball stops the game, and no
6.9 BATTER’S BOX: The area where the batter is positioned for his turn
plays can happen or take place until the Umpire resumes the game.
at bat.
6.20 DEFENCE OR DEFENSE: The team or any player of the team on the
6.10 BATTERY: The term used when referring to the pitcher and the
field.
catcher.
6.21 DESIGNATED HITTER: The designated hitter is a player who bats
6.11 BENCH OR DUGOUT: The area reserved for each team personnel in
in place of the pitcher. The designated hitter does not play in the
proper uniform involved in the game.
field. The designated hitter can also be the Pitcher/Designated
Hitter (P/DH) and stay as a DH if removed from the mound. He can

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also stay as the pitcher if he is pinch hit for. See Rule 9.3 over fair territory. A batted ball that hits the pitcher’s rubber and
rebounds untouched to foul territory between first and home or
6.22 DISQUALIFIED PLAYER: A player who no longer is eligible to third and home is a foul ball.
participate in the game but has not been ejected. For example,
injured player, or substituted player. Note: A fair fly must be judged according to the relative position of
the ball and the foul line and not as to whether the fielder is on a
6.23 DOUBLE PLAY: A play by the defence in which two offensive fair or foul ground at the time the ball is first touched.
players are put out as a result of continuous action, providing there
is no error between putouts. 6.26.5 Touches a base in fair territory unless previously touched by a
fielder or runner while the ball was in foul territory.
6.23.1 A force double play is one in which both putouts are force plays.
6.26.6 Passes out of the playing field in flight while over fair territory.
6.23.2 A reverse double play is one in which the first out is a force play
and the second out is made on a runner for whom the force is Note: If a batted ball hits the top of the fence while in fair territory
removed by reason of the first out. and then bounces over the fence, it is a home run.

Example: Runner on first base, one out. Batter grounds to first 6.27 FAIR TERRITORY: The part of the playing field within and including
baseman who steps on the bag (one out) and throws to second the first and third base lines from home plate to the bottom of the
baseman or shortstop for the second out (tag Play). playing field fence and perpendicularly upwards. Both foul lines are
in fair territory.
Bases loaded, no outs. Batter grounds to third baseman who steps
on the bag (one out) then throws to catcher for the second out
6.28 FIELDER: Is any defensive player.
(tag play).
6.29 FIELDER’S CHOICE: The act of a fielder who, in playing a fair
6.24 DOUBLEHEADER: Two regularly scheduled or rescheduled games,
ground ball, attempts to or does retire another base runner rather
played in immediate succession.
than throwing to first base to put out the batter-runner.
6.25 EJECTION: The immediate removal of a player, manager, or team
6.30 FLAGRANT COLLISION: A collision between a base runner and a
personnel from any further participation from the current game.
fielder in which the runner maliciously attempts to dislodge the
The game officials have the authority to eject a player, manager, or
ball.
team personnel for misconduct or unsportsmanlike action.
6.31 FLY BALL: A batted ball that goes high in the air directly off the bat.
6.26 FAIR BALL: A fair ball is a legally batted ball that:

6.32 FORCE PLAY: A play in which a runner legally loses the right to
6.26.1 Settles on fair ground between home plate and first base or
occupy a base by reason of the batter becoming a runner.
between home plate and third base.
Note: On a dropped third strike, when the batter is not entitled
6.26.2 Is on or over fair ground when bounding to the outfield past first
to run to first base, any advancing runner must be tagged to be
or third base.
declared out.
6.26.3 First falls on fair ground on or beyond first or third base.
6.33 FORFEITED GAME: A game declared ended and awarded to the
offended team by the Umpire in chief.
6.26.4 First touches a player, Umpire, or any piece of equipment while

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6.34 FOUL BALL: A foul ball is a legally batted ball that: 6.40 ILLEGAL: Anything contrary to these rules.

6.34.1 Settles on foul ground between home plate and first base or 6.41 ILLEGAL BAT: A bat that has been tampered with in such a way to
between home plate and third base. improve the distance factor or cause an unusual reaction on the
baseball.
6.34.2 Bounds past first or third base over foul ground.
6.41 ILLEGAL PITCH: A pitch delivered to the batter without the
6.34.3 First falls on foul ground beyond first or third base. pitcher’s pivot foot in contact with the pitcher’s rubber or the
pitcher making a quick pitch. With runners on base, it is a balk.
6.34.4 While on or over foul ground, touches an Umpire, a player, or any
object other than the playing surface. 6.42 ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL: A ball hit by the batter with one or both
feet on the ground and entirely outside the batter’s box, or a ball
6.34.5 Hits the batter in the batter’s box or hits the dirt or home plate and hit with an illegal bat.
then hits the batter or the bat, which is in the hand or hands of the
batter, while in the batter’s box. 6.43 IN FLIGHT: Any batted, thrown, or pitched ball that has not
touched the ground or some object other than a player.
6.34.6 Hits the pitcher’s rubber and rebounds into foul territory between
home plate and first or third base, without touching a fielder. 6.44 INFIELD: That area within the 90-foot square (27.43 m2) bounded
by home plate, first, second and third bases.
Note: A foul fly shall be judged according to the relative position of
the ball and the foul line, including the foul pole, and not whether 6.45 INFIELD FLY: A fair fly ball (not including a line drive or an
the fielder is on foul or fair territory at the time he touches the ball. attempted bunt) which can be caught by an infielder with
ordinary effort, when first and second, or first, second and third
6.35 FOUL TERRITORY: That part of the playing field outside the first bases are occupied, before two are out. The pitcher, catcher or
and third base lines extended to the fence and perpendicularly any outfielders who are in the infield on the said play, shall be
upwards. considered infielders for the purpose of this rule.
The ball is alive, and runners may advance at the risk of the ball
6.36 FOUL TIP: A batted ball that goes sharp and directly from the bat
being caught, or they can retouch and advance after the ball is
to the catcher and is caught legally by the catcher. It is a strike,
touched, the same as on any fly ball. If the hit becomes a foul ball,
and the ball is in play.
it is treated the same as any foul.
6.37 GROUND BALL: A batted ball that rolls or bounces close to the When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an Infield Fly, the
ground. Umpire shall immediately declare “Infield Fly” for the benefit of the
runners. If the ball is near the baselines, the Umpire shall declare
6.38 HALF SWING: An attempt by the batter to stop the forward motion “Infield Fly, If Fair.”
of the bat while swinging, which puts the batter in jeopardy of
If a declared Infield Fly is allowed to fall untouched to the ground,
a strike being called. The half swing shall be called a strike if the
and bounces foul before passing first or third base, it is a foul ball.
barrel head of the bat passes the batter’s front hip. This does not
If a declared Infield Fly falls untouched to the ground outside the
apply to a bunt attempt when the batter pulls the bat back.
baseline, and bounces fair before passing first or third base, it is an
Infield Fly.
6.39 HOME TEAM: The team on whose field the game is played. If
the game is played on neutral grounds, the home team shall be
determined by mutual agreement.

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Comment: If interference is called during an Infield Fly, the ball 6.52 MANAGER: The manager is a person appointed by the team to be
remains alive until it is determined whether the ball is fair or foul. If responsible for the team’s actions on the field, and to represent the
fair, both the runner who interfered with the fielder and the batter team in communications with the Umpire and the opposing team.
are out. If foul, even if caught, the runner is out, and the batter
returns to bat. 6.53 MISCONDUCT: It is any act of dishonesty, unsportsmanlike conduct
or unprofessional behaviour that discredits the game.
6.46 INFIELDER: Fielders (usually four) who are positioned in the infield
area. 6.54 OBSTRUCTION: Is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession
of the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the
6.47 INNING: That portion of a game within which the teams alternate progress of any runner. See specific rule sections for action to be
on offence and defence and in which there are three putouts for taken.
each team. Each team’s time at bat is a half-inning.
6.55 OFFENCE OR OFFENSE: The team at bat.
6.48 INTERFERENCE: An act that hinders or prevents a player from
making a play. The following are the most prevalent: 6.56 OFFICIAL SCORER: See Chapter 5

6.48.1 Offensive Interference is an act by the team at bat which interferes 6.57 ORDINARY EFFORT: Is the effort that a fielder of average skill at
with, impedes, hinders, or confuses any fielder attempting to make a position in that league or classification should exhibit on a play,
a play. with consideration given to the condition of the field and weather
conditions.
6.48.2 Defensive Interference is an act by a fielder (usually the catcher)
that hinders or prevents a batter from hitting a pitch. 6.58 OUT: A declaration by the Umpire that a player who is trying for a
base is not entitled to that base.
6.48.3 Umpire’s Interference occurs when a plate Umpire hinders,
impedes, or prevents a catcher’s throw attempting to prevent a 6.59 OUTFIELDER: Fielders (usually three) who occupy positions most
stolen base or retire a runner on a pick off play. Also, when a fair distant from home plate between the infielders and the outfield
ball touches an Umpire in fair territory before passing a fielder, fence.
other than the pitcher.
6.60 OVERSLIDE: Is the act of an offensive player when his slide to a
6.48.4 Spectator Interference occurs when a spectator or an object base, other than when advancing from home to first base, is with
thrown by a spectator, hinders a player’s attempt to make a play such momentum that he loses contact with the base.
on a live ball, by going onto the playing field, or reaching out of the
stands and over the playing field. 6.61 PICKOFF: When a pitcher or catcher throws to a base between
pitches in an attempt to retire a runner who is either leading off or
6.49 LEGAL: Everything in accordance with these rules. about to begin stealing the next base, or to keep a runner close to
the base.
6.50 LIVE BALL: After the pitcher engages the rubber with possession
of the ball and the batter has assumed his position in the batter’s 6.62 PINCH HITTER: An eligible substitute player who is not listed in the
box, the Umpire calls, or signals “Play.” line-up and bats for a player listed in the line-up.

6.51 LINE DRIVE: A batted ball that goes sharp and direct from the bat 6.63 PINCH RUNNER: An eligible substitute player who is not listed in
to a fielder without touching the ground. the line-up and runs for a player listed in the line-up.

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6.64 PITCH: The ball delivered by the pitcher to the batter while in team is losing by ten (10) or more runs after having batted at least
contact with the pitcher’s rubber. in seven (7) innings, the game is ended at that point.

6.65 PITCHER: The fielder designated to deliver the pitch to the batter. Exception: If the last batter in a game hits a home run out of
the playing field, the batter-runner and all runners on base are
6.66 PITCHER’S PIVOT FOOT: The foot in contact with the pitching permitted to score, in accordance with the base running rules, and
rubber when the pitcher is in the act of delivering the ball. the game ends when the batter-runner touches home plate.

Note: For a right-handed pitcher the right foot is the pivot foot. Approved Ruling: The batter hits a home run out of the playing
For a left-handed pitcher the left foot is the pivot foot. field to win the game in the last half of the seventh inning or an
extra inning but is called out for passing a preceding runner. The
Some portion of the pitcher’s pivot foot must be in contact with
game ends immediately when the winning run is scored, unless
the pitching rubber for the pitch to be legal.
there are two outs and the winning run has not yet reached home
plate when the runner passes another, in which case the inning
6.67 PLAY: The order given by the Umpire to begin the game or resume
is over and only those runs that scored before the runner passes
play.
another shall count.
6.68 QUICK PITCH: An illegal pitch made with the obvious intent to
6.72 RUN DOWN: The act of the defence in an attempt to put out a
catch the batter off balance.
runner between bases.
6.69 RETOUCH: Is the act of a runner in returning to a base as legally
6.73 RUNNER: An offensive player who is advancing to, returning to, or
required.
touching a base.
6.70 RUN: Is the score made by an offensive player who advances from
6.74 SAFE: Is a declaration by the Umpire that a runner is entitled to the
batter to runner and touches first, second, third and home plate in
base for which he is trying.
that order.
6.75 SET POSITION: Is one of the two legal pitching positions. Usually
6.71 RUN DIFFERENCE RULE: The rule by which a game ends at a point
used with runners on base.
if a team is losing by a certain amount of runs.
Note: With a runner or runners on base, a pitcher will be presumed
6.71.1 U-12:
to be pitching from the set position if he stands with his pivot foot
If a team is losing by fifteen (15) or more runs after having batted
in contact with and parallel to the pitcher’s plate, and his other
at least in four (4) innings the game is ended at that point. If a
foot in front of the pitcher’s plate, unless he notifies the Umpire
team is losing by ten (10) or more runs after having batted at least
that he will be pitching from the windup position under such
five (5) innings, the game is ended at that point.
circumstances prior to the beginning of an at bat. A pitcher will be
permitted to notify the Umpire that he is pitching from the windup
6.71.2 U-15, U-18, U-23 & WOMEN’S:
position within an at bat only in the following events:
If a team is losing by ten (10) or more runs after having batted at
least in five (5) innings, the game is ended at that point. a. A substitution by the offensive team.
b. Immediately upon the advancement of one or more runners.
6.71.3 PREMIER12:
For example, after one or more base runners advance but
If a team is losing by fifteen (15) or more runs after having batted
before the delivery of the next pitch.
at least in five (5) innings, the game is ended at that point. If a

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6.76 SQUEEZE PLAY: A play whereby a team, with a runner on third 6.78 STRIKE ZONE: The area over home plate from the bottom of the
base, attempts to score that runner by means of a bunt. kneecaps to the midpoint between the top of the shoulders and
the top of the uniform pants. The strike zone shall be determined
6.77 STRIKE: A legal pitch when called by the Umpire. A strike is: from the batter’s stance as the batter is prepared to swing at a
pitched ball. See Diagram in Appendix 4.
6.77.1 A legal pitch struck at by the batter without the ball touching the bat.
6.79 SUBSTITUTE: A substitute is an eligible roster player who is not
6.77.2 A legal pitch that enters the strike zone (See Appendix 4 for the one of the players listed on the line-up card and has not been
diagram) in flight and is not struck at. withdrawn or disqualified.

Note: The plate Umpire should determine if the pitch is a strike in 6.80 SUSPENDED GAME: A game that is stopped because of weather,
relationship to the batter’s normal position as the pitch crosses curfew, or other reason. To be completed at a later date.
home plate. Any part of the ball passing over any part of the plate,
from the bottom of the kneecaps to the midpoint between the top 6.81 TAG: A tag is the action of a fielder in touching a base with his
of the shoulders and the top of the uniform pants, is a strike. The body while holding the ball, or with his hand or glove, or touching
pitch should be judged to be a strike or a ball as it crosses home a runner with the ball, or with his hand or glove holding the
plate, not where it is caught by the catcher. ball (not including hanging laces alone), while holding the ball
securely and firmly in his hand or glove. It is not a tag, however,
If a pitched ball strikes the ground in front of the batter and the
if simultaneously or immediately following his touching a base or
batter swings at it, the ball is in play if hit and a strike if missed.
touching a runner, the fielder drops the ball. In establishing the
validity of the tag, the fielder shall hold the ball long enough to
6.77.3 A legal pitch that becomes a foul not caught on the fly when the
prove that he has complete control of the ball. If the fielder has
batter has fewer than two strikes.
made a tag and drops the ball while in the act of making a throw
following the tag, the tag shall be adjudged to have been made.
6.77.4 An attempt to bunt the ball that results in a foul not legally caught.
6.82 THROW: A throw is the act of propelling the ball with the hand and
6.77.5 A legal pitch that is in the strike zone and that touches the batter,
arm to a given objective and is to be distinguished, always, from
regardless of whether he swings or not (the ball is immediately
the pitch.
dead, the pitch is a strike, no runners may advance, and the batter
is not awarded first base).
6.83 TIE GAME: Is a regulation game which is called when each team
has the same number of runs.
6.77.6 A foul tip.
6.84 TIME: The interruption of play by any Umpire, calling or signalling
6.77.7 After the offensive warning and the batter fails to take a position in
the ball dead.
the batter’s box immediately after ordered by the Umpire and the
20 second limit expires.
6.85 TIME OF PITCH: The time of pitch shall be determined when:

6.77.8 Awarded if the batter deliberately steps back in the box or swings
6.85.1 In the windup position, when the pitcher makes any movement
in such a manner to attempt to create catcher’s interference. If the
connected with the delivery to the plate.
swing hits the catcher or the mitt, the batter will be called out. All
base runners shall return to the base occupied at the time of the
6.85.2 In the set position, when the pitcher begins his natural movement
pitch.
associated with the pitcher’s delivery of the ball after the pitcher
has come set with both hands together in front of his body.

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6.86 TOUCH: To touch a player or Umpire is to touch any part of his

body, or any uniform or equipment worn by him, but not any
jewellery, worn by a player.

6.87 TRIPLE PLAY: A continuous play by the defence in which three

players are put out without an error between the putouts.

6.88 WILD PITCH: Is one so high, so low, or so wide of the plate that it
cannot be handled with ordinary effort by the catcher.

6.89 WINDUP: One of two legal pitching positions, usually made with no
runners on base.

CHAPTER
03.
BASEBALL
RULES

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RULE 7. GAME: BEGINNING AND ENDING 7.3.2 If it is unintentional interference, the ball remains alive and in
play. It is unintentional interference if a base coach, bat person,
photographer or any other field attendant tries to evade the ball
and it touches that individual or if it touches that person without
The game begins when all the defensive players have taken their defensive
that person being aware the ball was coming.
positions on the field pf play. The first batter of the offensive team shall
take his position in the batter’s box, the Umpire in chief shall call “PLAY”
7.3.3 It is not interference if the player is going outside the playing field
The ball is alive and in play and remains alive until the Umpire calls “Time” during a play, and the spectator interferes with a possible catch in
or the ball becomes dead. the stands or over a fence.

7.1 STARTING THE GAME 7.4 BASE COACHES

The game begins when the home plate Umpire (chief Umpire) calls
“Play.” After the Umpire calls “Play” the ball is alive and in play. 7.4.1 The team at bat shall station two base coaches in uniform on the
field during its time at bat who occupies the coach’s box at first or
7.2 POSITIONS OF THE OFFENSIVE TEAM third base to direct the batter or runner.
The offensive team shall:
7.4.2 Base coaches must remain within the coach’s box. At the time of
7.2.1 Follow the batting order submitted by the manager, throughout the pitch, the base coach may not be closer to the foul line than
the game unless a player is substituted for another. the inside edge of the coaches’ box and no closer to home plate
than the front edge of the box. A coach may leave the coach’s box
7.2.2 The first batter in each inning after the first inning shall be the to signal the player to slide or advance or return to a base as long
player whose name follows that of the last player who legally as the individual does not interfere with the play.
completed his turn at bat in the previous inning.
Penalty: Upon complaint by the opposing manager, the Umpire
7.3 TEAM OFFENSIVE INTERFERENCE shall strictly enforce the rule. The Umpire shall warn the coach and
If there is interference with a live ball (thrown or batted) by anyone instruct him to return to the box. If the coach does not return to
other than players, coaches or Umpires, the Umpires shall rule as the box, they shall be removed from the game.
to whether the act is intentional or unintentional.
7.5 POSITIONS OF THE DEFENSIVE TEAM
7.3.1 If it is intentional, the ball is declared dead immediately when it At the start of or during a game, all defensive players except the
is interfered with, and the Umpire shall award the offended team catcher must be in fair territory when the ball is put in play.
appropriately that in his opinion would have resulted had the
interference not taken place. 7.5.1 The catcher must stand with both feet within the lines of the
catcher’s box until the pitcher releases the ball.
7.3.1.1 It is intentional if a coach, player, bat person, photographer,
or other home field person fields, kicks or pushes a ball, Penalty: Balk. All runners awarded one base.
regardless of motive.
7.5.2 The pitcher must be in a legal position while delivering the ball to
7.3.1.2 The Umpire shall declare intentional interference and take the batter.
any action required to rectify the interference, whether it is
an out, extra bases, if a spectator intentionally reaches out 7.5.3 Any fielder may position himself anywhere in fair territory, except
of the stands or goes onto the playing field. The ball is dead the pitcher and the catcher.
immediately.

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7.6 SUBSTITUTIONS 7.6.5 If two or more substitute players of the defensive team enter
the game simultaneously, to avoid any confusion the manager
7.6.1 Each team shall always have nine eligible players in the game. immediately shall designate to the Umpire-in-chief the position of
each in the team’s batting order. If this is not done immediately, the
7.6.2 Any pitcher named may be replaced after the first opposing batter Umpire shall place them in the batting order.
(or the batter’s substitute) has been put out or has advanced to
first base or the side has been retired. In case of injury or illness, Note: When the pitcher is not the designated hitter, moving the
a pitcher may be replaced immediately. If the pitcher is replaced, pitcher to a defensive position and bringing in only one new
the substitute pitcher shall pitch to the batter then at bat, or any substitute player does not constitute multiple substitution for
substitute batter, until such batter is put out or reaches first base, the purpose of batting-order changes. The pitcher moved to the
or until the offensive team is put out, unless the substitute pitcher defensive position must bat in the spot of the defensive player
sustains injury or illness which, in the Umpire-in-chief’s judgment, replaced and the new pitcher must bat in the DH position.
incapacitates him for further play as a pitcher.
If a double switch is being made, the manager or coach shall first
notify the plate Umpire. The Umpire-in-chief must be informed of
Note: When a pitcher is removed as a pitcher but remains in the
the multiple substitutions and interchanged batting order before
game, the pitcher will not be allowed to assume a position other
the manager calls for a new pitcher (regardless of whether the
than a pitcher more than once in the same inning.
manager or coach announces the double-switch before crossing
A substitute becomes a player when he has been reported to the the foul line). Signalling or motioning to the bullpen is to be
Umpire-in chief and the new player is written into the Umpire-in- considered an official substitution for the new pitcher. It is not
chief’s line-up card. permissible for the manager to go to the mound, call for a new
pitcher, and then inform the Umpire of multiple substitutions with
If a pitcher is brought into the game but has not faced one batter
the intention of interchanging the batting order.
(or retired the side) when the game is stopped for weather, such
pitcher may, but is not required to, continue pitching when the
7.6.6 A base runner shall not be replaced by another player whose name
game is resumed.
appears or has appeared in the batting order for that game.
No player removed for a substitute before the suspension of play
may return to the line-up when the game is resumed. Note: This rule is intended to eliminate the practice of using so-
called courtesy runners. No player in the game shall be permitted
7.6.3 Any player other than the pitcher or designated hitter may to act as a courtesy runner for a teammate. No player who has
be substituted for at any time when the ball is dead, and the been in the game and has been taken out for a substitute shall
substituted player must take the place of the replaced player in the return as a courtesy runner. Any player not in the line-up, if used as
team’s batting order. a runner, shall be considered as a substitute player.

Note: If the pitcher is removed from the game as a pitcher but 7.6.7 After having been notified or confirmed by the manager or
will remain in the game and bat for the DH, that change must be another coach in uniform of the team making the substitution,
announced at the time the pitcher is removed. the Umpire shall record any substitutions on the line-up card
and then announce immediately or cause to be announced any
7.6.4 The designated hitter may enter the game on defence once but substitutions. Should there be no announcement of substitution,
must bat in the original position in the line-up. The pitcher must the substitute becomes a legal player when:
then bat in the position vacated by the player leaving the game.
See Designated Hitter Rule 9.3. 7.6.7.1 A runner takes the place of another base runner.

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7.6.7.2 A pitcher engages the pitcher’s rubber. 7.7.1.1 Because the home team does not need its half of the
seventh inning or only a fraction of it.
7.6.7.3 A fielder reaches the position usually occupied by the
fielder being replaced and play commences; or 7.7.1.2 Because the Umpire in chief calls the game.

7.6.7.4 A batter enters the batter’s box. 7.7.2 If the score is tied after seven (7) or nine (9) innings play shall
continue until:
Note: Any play made by, or on, any of the above-mentioned
unreported substitutes shall be legal. There is no penalty. 7.7.2.1 The visiting team has scored more total runs than the home
team at the end of a completed inning.
7.6.8 If a player substitutes for an injured teammate, other than the
pitcher, the individual shall be allowed five warm-up throws. 7.7.2.2 The home team scores the winning run in an uncompleted
inning.
7.6.9 A withdrawn player may sit on the bench, warm up pitchers, and
act as a base coach. If a substitute enters the game in place of a 7.7.3 If a game is called, it is a regulation game:
player-manager, the manager may thereafter go to the coaching
lines at his discretion. 7.7.3.1 If four (4) innings for seven (7) inning-game and five (5)
innings for nine (9) inning-game have been completed.
7.6.10 A player once removed from a game shall not re-enter that game.
If a player who has been substituted for attempts to re-enter, 7.7.3.2 If the home team has scored more runs in four or four and a
or re-enters, the game in any capacity, the Umpire-in-chief shall fraction half innings than the visiting team has scored in five
direct the player’s manager to remove such player from the game completed half-innings.
immediately upon noticing the player’s presence or upon being
informed of the player’s improper presence by another Umpire or 7.7.3.3 If the home team scores one or more runs in its half of the
by either manager. If such direction to remove the substituted for fifth inning to tie the score.
player occurs before play commences with the player improperly
in the game, then the substitute player may enter the game. If such 7.7.4 If a regulation game is called with the score tied, it shall become a
direction to remove the substituted-for player occurs after play has suspended game.
commenced with the substituted-for player in the game, then the
substitute player shall be deemed to have been removed from the 7.7.5 If a game is postponed or otherwise called before it has become
game (in addition to the removal of the substituted-for player) and a regulation game, the Umpire in chief shall declare it “No Game,”
shall not enter the game. unless the game is called pursuant to Rule 7.8, which shall be a
suspended game at any time after it starts.
Note: Any play that occurs while a player appears in a game after
having been substituted for shall count. If, in an Umpire’s judgment, 7.7.6 The score of a regulation game is the total number of runs scored
the player re-entered the game knowing that he had been by each team at the moment the game ends.
removed, the Umpire may eject the manager.
7.7.6.1 The game ends when the visiting completes its half of the
7.7 REGULATION GAME seventh inning if the home team is ahead.

7.7.1 A regulation game consists of seven (7) or nine (9) innings, unless 7.7.6.2 The game ends when the seventh inning is completed if the
extended because of a tie score, or shortened visiting team is ahead.

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7.7.6.3 If the home team scores the winning run in its half of the 7.8.2. A suspended game shall be resumed at the exact point of
seventh inning (or its half of an extra inning after a tie), the suspension of the original game. The completion of a suspended
game ends immediately when the winning run is scored. game is a continuation of the original game. The line-up and
batting order of both teams shall be the same as the line-up and
7.7.7 A called game ends at the moment the Umpire terminates play, batting order at the moment of suspension. Any player may be
unless it becomes a suspended game pursuant to Rule 7.8. replaced by a player who had not been in the game prior to the
suspension. No player removed before the suspension may be
Comment: Please see the Appendix 1. For the U-12 games are six returned to the line-up.
(6) innings.
7.9 TIE GAME
7.8 HALTED GAME (SUSPENDED, POSTPONED, AND TIE GAMES) A regulation tie game shall be declared by the Umpire in chief:

7.8.1 A game shall become a suspended game that must be completed 7.9.1 If the score is tied when play is terminated after five or more equal
at a future date if the game is terminated for any of the following innings.
reasons:
7.9.2 If the team that went to bat second is at bat when play is
7.8.1.1 A curfew imposed by law. terminated and has scored during the uncompleted inning the
same number of runs as the other team.
7.8.1.2 A time limit permissible under Federation rules.
Any regulation game called by the Umpire with the score tied shall
be declared a “tie” game.
7.8.1.3 Light failure, malfunction of, or unintentional operator
error in, a mechanical or field device or equipment under
Note: All individual and team averages from a tie game shall be
the control of the home team (e.g., a tarpaulin, or water
incorporated into the official playing record.
sprinklers).
7.10 NO GAME
7.8.1.4 Darkness, when a law prevents the lights from being turned
The Umpire shall declare “No Game” if play is terminated before
on.
five innings have been completed.
7.8.1.5 Weather, if a regulation game is called while an inning is
Exception: If the home team is at bat in the bottom of the fifth
in progress and before the inning is completed, and the
inning and ties the game before the completion of that inning, the
visiting team has scored one or more runs to take the lead,
Umpire shall declare the game legally tied.
and the home team has not retaken the lead.
If the home team has scored more runs or is leading after four and
7.8.1.6 It is a regulation game that is called with the score tied. a half innings, the Umpire shall award the game to the home team
and it will be counted as a legal game.
7.8.1.7 The game has not become a regulation game (4 1/2 innings
with the home team ahead, or 5 innings with the visiting 7.11 FORFEITED GAME
team ahead or tied). A game shall be forfeited only as a last resort in favour of the team
not at fault in the following cases:
No game called because of a curfew, weather, a time limit, or with
a tied score shall be a suspended game unless it has progressed 7.11.1 If a team refuses to take the field within five minutes after the
far enough to have been a regulation game. Umpire has called “Play,” unless the delay is unavoidable.

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7.11.2 If, after the game has started, one team refuses to play. 7.12.4 If the protest is upheld and could have had a bearing on the
outcome of the game, then the game is replayed from the point of
7.11.3 If a team employs manoeuvres or methods to obviously delay or the protest.
shorten the game.
7.12.5 Once a manager is ejected, he may not protest a game situation. If
7.11.4 After the Umpire has warned a team, that team wilfully continues a protest is to be lodged, it must be done by the substitute for the
to violate any rules of the game. manager.

7.11.5 A team fails to obey within a reasonable time the Umpire’s order Example: With one out and runners on second and third bases,
for removal of a player from the game. the batter hits a fair fly ball that was caught. The runner on third
tagged up after the catch but the player on second did not. The
7.11.6 A game shall be forfeited to the opposing team when a team in runner on third had crossed home plate before the ball was played
unable or refuses to put nine players on the field. at second base for the third out. The Umpire did not allow the
run to score. The question whether the runners left their bases
7.11.7 If both teams are equally at fault and the situation is so out of before the catch and whether the play at second base was made
control that the game cannot be safely continued, or if neither before the player on third crossed home plate are solely matters of
team has enough players available to continue the game, a double judgement and may not be protested.
forfeit will be declared.
7.13 FIGHT RULE
7.12 PROTESTED GAME The World Baseball and Softball Confederation (WBSC) has no
For regular season games, each National Federation should adopt tolerance for physical abuse or fighting at its tournaments. The
a procedure for protesting a game when a manager claims that an WBSC fight rule penalises any team members (players, coaches,
Umpire’s decision is in violation of these rules. No protest shall be manager, or team personnel), for fighting whether it is before,
permitted on a judgement call by an Umpire. during or after a game has been played. The team manager and
its coaches must know that they are responsible for the actions of
7.12.1 Any protest by the manager of a team must be made at the time their players.
of the play that caused the protest and before any play is resumed.
The penalties for this rule will be enforced by the Tournament
If the game ends in a protestable decision, the offended team has
Technical Commission in consultation with the Technical Director
until all infielders have left fair territory and the catcher has cleared
and the Umpire Director. Suspended players, coaches, manager, or
the dirt circle to voice its protest intentions. All protests must be
any team personnel, will be prohibited from any communication
made to the Umpire-in-chief.
or contact, direct or indirect, with the team, coaches, manager, or
bench personnel from the start of the game to the completion of
7.12.2 When a manager claims that an Umpire’s decision violated WBSC
the game, including all extra innings.
rules, the Umpire-in-chief must allow the manager the right to file
a protest; announce to each manager, to the Official Scorer and
7.13.1 Fighting – Any physical abuse of an opponent, including attempting
the public address announcer that the game is being played under
to strike with the arms, hands, legs, feet, or any equipment in a
protest. Lastly, the Umpire must record the game situation at the
combative manner or intentionally spitting at an opponent.
time of protest.
7.13.2 Physical abuse of Game Officials or Umpires – Any threat of
7.12.3 No part of the game will be allowed to be replayed, even if the
physical intimidation or harm to include pushing, shoving, contact,
protest is upheld, if the play in question did not affect the outcome
kicking dirt on an Umpire or Technical Commissioner, spitting,
of the game.
spraying, throwing at or attempting to make physical contact.

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7.13.3 Team personnel leaving position – Any team personnel leaving 8.1.2 If a fair hit ball passes by all infielders or it is touched by a fielder
their position to potentially participate in a verbal or physical and then touches a runner or an Umpire, the ball is in play and the
confrontation, or a fight shall include players, coaches, manager, runner is not out. If said ball should touch the runner or Umpire
and team personnel. while still in flight, it shall be considered a ground ball. It cannot be
caught as a fly ball.
The position is determined by where the individual is located at
the time a confrontation takes place. For example, dugout, bullpen, 8.1.3 If a fielder, after making a legal catch, steps or falls into any dead
coaching box, on base, at bat, or a defensive position. ball area, the ball is dead and each runner shall advance one base,
without liability to be put out, from his last legally touched base at
Penalty: These are considered a WBSC “A” Level infractions. the time the fielder entered such dead ball area.
Fighting is subject to a suspension of a minimum of 3 games and
up to two (2) years, and a minimum penalty of $2,000 USD. 8.1.4 A fielder is considered not to have fallen and the ball is live if the
individual is held from falling or stepping into a dugout or dead
Note: If a bench clearing fight develops, Umpires should stay clear ball area by game personnel or spectators.
and let coaches, managers, and other players break up the fight.
Umpires should attempt to identify all offenders and consult with 8.1.5 If the fielder makes a legal catch and goes through or over any
their crew as to what action they deem necessary. fence or into a dead ball area, the ball is dead even if the fielder
lands feet first. The batter is out and, if not the third out of an
inning, runner or runners advance one base from the last legally
occupied base.
RULE 8. BALL IN PLAY
8.1.6 If a detached batting helmet accidentally is hit with a live ball, the
ball remains in play.
8.1 LIVE BALL
The ball is alive and in play after the Umpire calls “Play.” The ball 8.1.7 If the live ball should come apart in a game, it is in play until the
is alive and in play until for legal cause, or at the Umpires call of action is completed.
“Time” suspending play, the ball becomes dead. While the ball is
dead, no player may be put out, no bases may be run and no runs 8.1.8 If a thrown or batted ball that remains in live ball territory
may be scored, except that runners may advance one or more accidentally hits a spectator, authorised on field personnel or
bases as the result of acts that occurred while the ball was alive animal, the ball is live.
(such as, but not limited to, a balk, an overthrow, interference, a
home run, or other fair hit out of the playing field). Note: If a pitched ball strikes a bird in flight or other animal on the
playing field, the pitch is nullified, and play shall be resumed with
Note: Umpires must not permit the unnecessary calling of “Time” the previous count.
by players and coaches when it is an obvious tactic to delay the
game. 8.1.9 If a fair hit ball touches an Umpire after it passes a fielder other
than the pitcher, or is touched by a fielder, including the pitcher,
The Umpire shall not call time until a play has been completed.
the ball is in play.
8.1.1 If a thrown ball accidentally strikes a coach in foul territory, or a
8.1.10 A batted ball that strikes a power line, tree limb or other overhead
pitched or thrown ball strikes an Umpire, the ball remains in play.
object in the field of play remains live, unless it is in the local
ground rules.

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8.2 IMMEDIATE DEAD BALL - RUNNERS RETURN be convinced that the ball passed through, or by, the infielder and
The ball becomes dead and base runners return when: that no other infielder had a chance to make a play on the ball.

8.2.1 A foul ball is hit that is not caught. Runners return and the Umpire Penalty: The ball is dead, and the runner hit by the batted ball
shall not put the ball in play until all runners have retouched their is declared out. The batter is awarded first base with a single.
bases. Remaining runners advance if forced.

8.2.2 A ball is illegally batted. 8.2.6 A fair ball touches an Umpire before touching a fielder and before
passing a fielder other than the pitcher.
8.2.3 A coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball.
Penalty: The ball is dead, and the batter is awarded first base with
8.2.4 If a batter swings and misses a pitch and carries the bat all the way a single. Runners advance if forced.
around and, in the Umpire’s judgement, unintentionally hits the
catcher or the ball behind him on the backswing, it shall be called a Note: If a fair ball touches an Umpire after having passed a fielder
strike only (not interference). The ball is dead, and no runner shall other than the pitcher, or having been touched by a fielder,
advance on the play. including the pitcher, the ball is in play.

8.2.4.1 If the follow through hits the catcher and occurs in a situation 8.2.7 Interference is called on another runner.
where the batter normally would become a runner because
of a third strike not held by the catcher, the ball shall be dead, Note: If the Umpire declares the batter, batter-runner or a runner
and the batter declared out. No runner may advance. out for offensive interference, all other runners shall return to the
last base that was legally attained at the time of the interference.
8.2.4.2 If the catcher is in the act of making a throw to retire a
runner and the batter is in the batter’s box and his normal 8.2.8 If any runner intentionally interferes with a batted or thrown ball
follow through unintentionally strikes the catcher or the ball with a helmet or other personal equipment, the ball is dead, the
while the catcher is in the act of throwing, “Time” is called, runner is out, and any runner in advance of the interference shall
and runners return (unless the catcher’s initial throw directly return to the base last occupied at the time of interference. The
retires the runner). batter-runner is awarded first base.

8.2.5 A fair ball touches a runner in fair territory before touching any 8.2.9 If a fielder reaches into a dugout, bullpen or dead ball area to catch
infielder including the pitcher or an Umpire and before passing an a foul fly ball and an opponent interferes with the attempted catch,
infielder (other than the pitcher) who has a chance to make a play the batter shall be declared out and no runners shall advance.
on the ball. The runner who is touched by the fair ball is out, and
no other runner may advance or score, except when forced. 8.3 DELAYED DEAD BALL - RUNNERS RETURN OR ADVANCE
The ball becomes dead, and runners advance one base or return to
Note: If a fair ball goes through or by an infielder and touches a their bases without the liability to be put out when:
runner immediately in back of him or touches the runner after
having been deflected by any fielder including the pitcher, the 8.3.1 The plate Umpire interferes with the catcher’s throw attempting to
Umpire shall not declare the runner out for being touched by a prevent a stolen base or retire a runner on a pick off play, runners
batted ball. This refers to a ball that passes through the infielder’s may not advance.
legs, or by his immediate vicinity, and strikes the runner directly
behind the infielder. In making such a decision, the Umpire must

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Note: The interference is disregarded if the catcher’s throw retires 8.5 CALLING TIME AND DEAD BALLS
the runner.
8.5.1 When an Umpire suspends play, he shall call “Time.” At the Umpire
8.3.2 The batter interferes with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by in chief’s call of “Play,” the suspension is lifted and play resumes.
stepping out of the batter’s box or making any other movement Between the call of “Time” and the call of “Play” the ball is dead.
that hinders the catcher’s play at home base.
8.5.2 The ball becomes dead when an Umpire calls “Time.” The Umpire
Penalty: Batter is out. Unless the runner attempting to advance in chief shall call “Time”:
is put out, or if runner trying to score is called out for batter’s
interference. 8.5.2.1 When in his judgement weather, darkness or similar
conditions make immediate further play impossible.
8.4 IMMEDIATE DEAD BALL - RUNNERS ADVANCE
The ball becomes dead and base runners advance one base 8.5.2.2 When light failure makes it difficult or impossible for the
without liability to be put out when: Umpires to follow the play.

8.4.1 A legal pitch hits a runner trying to score. 8.5.2.3 When an accident incapacitates a player or an Umpire.

Exception: Any legal pitch hits a runner trying to score, immediate 8.5.2.4 If an accident to a runner is such to prevent him from
dead ball, base runners advance if they were stealing with the proceeding to a base to which he is entitled, as on a home
pitch. If they were not stealing, all base runners remain at the base run hit out of the playing field, or an award of one or more
they occupied at the time of the pitch. bases, a substitute runner shall be permitted to complete
the play.
8.4.2 A pitched ball touches a batter or any part of his clothing while in
the legal batting position. Runners if forced advance. This does not 8.5.2.5 When a manager requests “Time” for a substitution, or for a
include any jewellery. conference with one of his players.

8.4.3 A spectator or any other individual intentionally interferes with 8.5.2.6 When an Umpire wishes to examine the ball, to consult with
any thrown or batted ball. The ball is dead at the moment of either manager, or for any similar reason.
interference and the Umpire shall impose penalties as to nullify
that act of interference. 8.5.2.7 When a fielder, after catching a fly ball, steps or falls into
any out of play area. All other runners shall advance one
8.4.4 A pitched ball lodges in the Umpire or catcher’s equipment other base, without liability to be put out, from his last legally
than the catcher’s glove and remains out of play, or goes over, occupied base at the time the fielder entered such out of
through or wedges in the field padding or fence. play area.

8.4.5 When a fielder, after making a legal catch, steps or falls into any 8.5.2.8 When an Umpire orders a player or any other person
out of play area. Ball is dead and all other runners advance one removed from the playing field.
base from their last legally occupied base at the time the fielder
entered out of play area. 8.5.2.9 Except in the cases stated in Rules 8.5.2.2 and 8.5.2.3, no
Umpire shall call “Time” while a play is in progress.

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8.5.2.10 A player or Umpire is injured. If injury occurs during a live

ball, time shall not be called until no further advance or
RULE 9. BATTING
putout is possible. If a player is injured and cannot proceed
to the awarded base, a substitute runner may be used to
9.1 BATTING ORDER
complete the play.
9.1.1 Each player of the side at bat shall become a batter and must
8.5.2.11 An unusual circumstance interferes with the normal progress
take a position within the batter’s box in the order that the name
of the game. Such as, spectators running on the field, animal,
appears in the team’s batting order.
ball, or other object on the field.
After the ball is dead, play shall be resumed when the pitcher 9.1.2 The batting order will be followed throughout the game unless a
takes his place on the pitcher’s plate with a new ball or the player is substituted for another. In that case the substitute will
same ball in his possession and the plate Umpire calls “Play.” take the place of the replaced player in the batting order.
The plate Umpire shall call “Play” as soon as the pitcher takes
his place on the rubber with the ball in his possession. 9.1.3 The first batter in each inning after the first inning will be the
player whose name follows that of the last player who legally
8.6 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT completed his time at bat in the preceding inning.
No manager, player, coach, or team personnel shall at any time:
9.2 A BATTER
8.6.1 Incite or attempt to incite, by word, sign or actions that dispute An offensive player who enters the batter’s box with the intention
an Umpire’s decision and potentially incites a demonstration by of aiding their team to score runs. They continue to be a batter
spectators. until they are declared out by the Umpire or become a batter-
runner.
8.6.2 Call “Time” or employ any other words or phrase or commit any
act while the ball is in play for the purpose of trying to make the 9.3 DESIGNATED HITTER
pitcher commit a balk. The designated hitter (DH) is a player designated to bat for the
starting pitcher and all subsequent pitchers.
Penalty: The offender will be removed from the game and will
Basic principles:
leave the playing field. If a balk is committed, it will be disregarded.
9.3.1 A hitter may be designated to bat for the starting pitcher and
8.6.3 Use language which will in any manner refer to or reflect upon
all subsequent pitchers in any game without otherwise affecting
opposing players, an Umpire, or any spectator.
the status of the pitcher(s) in the game. A DH for the pitcher, if
any, must be selected prior to the game and must be included
8.6.4 Make intentional contact with any Umpire in any manner.
in the starting line-up cards presented to the Umpire-in-chief.
If a manager lists 10 players in the team’s line-up card, but fails
8.6.5 Take a position in the batter’s line of vision, and with deliberate
to indicate one as the DH, and an Umpire or either manager (or
intent act in a manner to distract the batter.
designee of either manager who presents the team’s line-up card)
notices the error, the Umpire-in-chief shall direct the manager who
had made the omission to designate which of the nine players,
other than the pitcher, will be the DH. It is important for the
Umpire-in-chief and representatives from both teams verify that
the line-ups presented at the pregame meeting are correct.

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9.3.2 The DH named in the starting line-up must come to bat at least 9.3.11.1 The listed player who has not assumed a position on defence
one time, unless the opposing team changes pitchers or the DH is the DH, if the team has taken the field on defence; or
becomes ill or injured before the player’s spot in the line-up comes
to bat. 9.3.11.2 If the team has not yet taken the field on defence, the
manager of that team shall indicate which player should have
9.3.3 It is not mandatory that a team designate a hitter for the pitcher. been listed as the DH.
If the starting pitcher is listed in the batting order, the pitcher
automatically becomes the DH. In this case, the pitcher is to be 9.3.12 Once a DH assumes a position on defence other than pitcher (i.e.,
considered as two players, both the pitcher and DH (P/DH) and becoming the P/DH), such move will terminate the DH role for that
can be substituted for as such team for the remainder of that game.

9.3.4 Pinch-hitters for a DH may be used. Any substitute hitter for a DH 9.3.13 A substitute for the DH need not be announced until it is the DH’s
becomes the DH. A replaced DH (including a P/DH who has been turn to bat.
replaced as DH) shall not re-enter the game in any other capacity.
9.3.14 If a player on defence goes to the mound (i.e., replaces the
9.3.5 The DH may be used on defence, continuing to bat in the same pitcher), this move will terminate the DH’s role for that team for
position in the batting order, but the pitcher must then bat in the the remainder of the game. The DH may assume the defensive
place of the substituted defensive player, unless more than one player’s position in the field.
substitution is made, and the manager then must designate their
spots in the batting order. Note: When the P/DH is replaced as the DH, the individual may
remain in the game as a pitcher. However, the P/DH cannot
9.3.6 A runner may be substituted for the DH and the runner assumes afterward move to a defensive position and cannot return as the
the role of DH. A DH may not pinch-run. DH. Once a player leaves the offensive line-up they cannot return.
If a game pitcher is switched from the mound to a defensive
9.3.7 A DH is “locked” into the batting order. No multiple substitutions
position, this will terminate the DH’s role for the rest of the game.
may be made that will alter the batting order of the DH.
The pitcher just removed from the mound may bat in the DH’s
spot in the batting order; or if more than one defensive change
9.3.8 Once the game pitcher is switched from the mound to a position
is made, the pitcher (not a P/DH) may bat in place of any one of
on defence, such a move will terminate the DH role for that team
the substituted players (manager will designate the place in the
for the remainder of that game.
batting order to the Umpire). The player may return as a pitcher
once unless the pitcher was removed as pitcher on a second
9.3.9 Once a pinch-hitter bats for any player in the batting order and
trip during the same inning or after the third charged defensive
then enters the game to pitch, such a move will terminate the DH
conference involving a manager or coach.
role for that team for the remainder of the game.
At the time of a pitching change, the manager shall indicate to
9.3.10 The game pitcher may pinch-hit or pinch-run only for the DH and the plate Umpire the playing status of the removed player. Once
become the P/DH. the manager has reached the dugout, the manager may not move
the replaced pitcher (or P/DH) to a defensive position or have the
9.3.11 If a manager lists 10 players in his team’s line-up card, but fails replaced pitcher remain as DH.
to indicate one as the DH and the opposing manager brings the
failure to list a DH to the attention of the Umpire in chief after the
game starts, then:

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Example: Home team relief pitcher Jones pitched the top of the position to perform other duties not directly connected with
ninth inning. He was not playing as a P/DH. For the top of the the calling of plays.
tenth inning, Jones moved to first base and relief pitcher Smith
entered the game as the pitcher. Jones was placed in the eighth 9.5.1.8 If the pitcher leaves the mound.
spot in the order where the first baseman Carter was hitting, and
Smith was slotted into the third spot for the DH Anderson. 9.5.1.9 On a three-ball count that the batter thinks the pitch was a
ball.
9.4 THE BATTER’S BOX
9.5.1.10 On a checked swing.
9.4.1 The batter shall take his position in the batter’s box promptly when
it is his time at bat. 9.5.1.11 On a bunt attempt.

9.4.2 The batter shall not leave his position in the batter’s box after the Penalty: A delay of the game caused by the failure of the batter to
pitcher comes to Set Position or starts his windup. keep one foot in the batter’s box between pitches will result in the
ball being declared dead and a strike awarded against the batter.
Penalty: If the pitcher pitches, the Umpire shall call “Ball” or The plate Umpire shall call and signal “DEAD BALL,” point to the
“Strike,” as the case may be. batter’s box and say “BATTER’S BOX VIOLATION,” awarding a strike
on the batter and giving the new count.
9.5 THE BATTER’S BOX RULE
This rule is designed to speed up play by controlling the actions of 9.5.2 The batter may leave the batter’s box and the dirt area when time
the batter between pitches. is granted for the purpose of:

9.5.1 The batter must keep one foot in the batter’s box between pitches. 9.5.2.1 Making a substitution.
Failure to keep one foot in the batter’s box shall result in a strike
being called on the batter. The batter may only step out of the 9.5.2.2 An offensive conference.
batter’s box with both feet in the following circumstances:
9.5.2.3 A defensive conference.
9.5.1.1 When the ball is hit.
9.5.2.4 An Injury or potential injury
9.5.1.2 On a swing, provided it is the momentum of the swing that
takes him out of the batter’s box. 9.6 A BALL
A ball is:
9.5.1.3 If forced out of the batter’s box to a valid pitch.
9.6.1 A pitched ball at which the batter does not strike, and which does
9.5.1.4 On a wild pitch or passed ball. not enter the strike zone on the fly.

9.5.1.5 On an attempted play at the plate or by the catcher on an 9.6.2 Called by the Umpire when the pitcher makes an illegal pitch or
advancing runner or by any player. a quick return pitch with the bases unoccupied unless the batter
safely reaches base.
9.5.1.6 If the catcher is attempting to make a play (i.e. pop fly).
9.6.3 Called by the Umpire when the pitcher takes the signal from an
9.5.1.7 If time has been called, or the plate Umpire leaves his illegal position.

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9.6.4 Called by the Umpire when the pitcher fails to begin his pitching interference, and that runner is out, not the batter. Any other
motion within 20 seconds in violation of the clock rule. runners on the base at the time may advance as the ruling is that
there is no actual interference if a runner is retired. In that case
9.7 BATTER ILLEGAL ACTION play proceeds just as if no violation had been called.
A batter is out for illegal action when:
If a batter strikes at a ball and misses and swings so hard he
carries the bat all the way around and, in the Umpire’s judgement,
9.7.1 A ball hit, fair or foul, by the batter when either one or both
unintentionally hits the catcher or the ball in back of him on the
batter’s feet are upon the ground entirely outside the lines of the
backswing, it shall be called a strike only (not interference). The
batter’s box or when touching home plate; or
ball will be dead, however, and no runner shall advance on the play.
9.7.2 A ball is hit with a bat that is an illegal bat. A bat that, in the
9.8 ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL
Umpire’s judgement has been altered or tampered with
A ball hit, fair or foul, by the batter when either one or both of the
batter’s feet are upon the ground entirely outside the lines of the
Comment: A batter shall be deemed to have used or attempted to
batter’s box, or a ball hit with an illegal bat.
use an illegal bat if he brings such a bat into the batter’s box.
No advancement on the bases will be allowed (except Note: If the pitch is swung at and missed, a strike shall be called.
advancements that are not caused by the use of an illegal bat, e.g.,
stolen base, balk, wild pitch, passed ball) and any out or outs made Penalty: The batter is out.
during a play shall stand. In addition to being called out, the player
shall be ejected from the game. 9.9 BATTING OUT OF TURN

9.7.3 He steps from one batter’s box to the other while the pitcher is in 9.9.1 A batter shall be called out, on appeal, when he fails to bat in his
position ready to pitch. proper turn, and another batter completes a time at bat in his
place.
9.7.4 He interferes with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by stepping
out of the batter’s box or making any other movement that hinders 9.9.2 The proper batter may take his place in the batter’s box at any
the catcher’s play at home base. time before the improper batter becomes a runner or is put out,
and any balls and strikes shall be counted in the proper batter’s
9.7.5 He throws his bat into fair or foul territory and hits a catcher time at bat.
(including the catcher’s glove) and the catcher was attempting to
catch a pitch with a runner(s) on base and/or the pitch was a third 9.9.3 When an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out, and
strike. the defensive team appeals to the Umpire before the first pitch
to the next batter of either team, or before any play or attempted
Exception: to Rule 9.7.4 and Rule 9.7.5 play, the Umpire shall (1) declare the proper batter out; and (2)
nullify any advance or score made because of a ball batted by
If the batter interferes with the catcher, the plate Umpire shall call
the improper batter or because of the improper batter’s advance
“interference.” The batter is out and the ball is dead. No player
to first base on a hit, an error, a base on balls, a hit batter or
may advance on such interference (offensive interference) and all
otherwise.
runners must return to the last base that was, in the judgement of
the Umpire, legally touched at the time of the interference.
9.9.4 If a runner advances, while the improper batter is at bat, on a
If, however, the catcher makes a play and the runner attempting stolen base, balk, wild pitch or passed ball, such advance is legal.
to advance is put out, it is to be assumed there was no actual

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9.9.5 When an improper batter becomes a runner or is put out, and a 9.10 CATCHER INTERFERENCE
pitch is made to the next batter of either team before an appeal is The batter becomes a runner and is entitled to first base without
made, the improper batter thereby becomes the proper batter, and liability to be put out (provided he advances to and touches first
the results of his time at bat become legal. base) when the catcher or any fielder interferes with him. If a play
follows the interference, the manager of the offence may choose
9.9.6 When the proper batter is called out because he has failed to bat to decline the interference penalty and accept the result of the
in the proper turn, the next batter shall be the batter whose name play. Such action shall be made immediately at the end of the play.
follows that of the proper batter thus called out. However, if the batter reaches first base on a hit, an error, a base on
balls, a hit batsman, or otherwise, and all other runners advance at
9.9.7 When an improper batter becomes a proper batter because no least one base, the play stands, and the interference is disregarded.
appeal is made before the next pitch, the next batter shall be the
batter whose name follows that of such legalised improper batter. Example: Plays the manager might elect to take the play:
The instant an improper batter’s actions are legalised, the batting Runner on second base. Catcher interferes with the batter. As he
order picks up with the name following that of the legalised bunts the ball fairly sending runner to third base. The manager
improper batter. may rather have runner on third base with an out on the play than
have runners on second and first.
Note: The Umpire shall not direct the attention of any person
Runner on third, one out, batter hits a fly ball to the outfield that
to the presence in the batter’s box of an improper batter. This
the runner scores, but catcher’s interference was called. The
rule is designed to require constant vigilance by the players and
offensive manager may elect to take the run and have batter called
managers of both teams.
out or have the runner remain at third and batter awarded first
There are two fundamentals to keep in mind: base.
- When a player bats out of turn, the proper batter is the player
Any runner attempting to steal on a catcher’s interference with the
called out.
batter’s swing shall be awarded the base the runner is attempting
- If an improper batter bats and reaches base or is out and no
to reach. If a runner is not attempting to steal on the catcher’s
appeal is made before a pitch to the next batter, or before any
interference, the runner is not entitled to the next base, unless he is
play or attempted play, the improper batter is considered to have
forced to advance because of the batter being awarded first base.
batted in proper turn and establishes the order that is to follow.
If there is catcher’s interference on a squeeze play or a steal of
Example: home, the batter is awarded first base, the run scores and all other
runners advance one base on the balk created by the interference.
Play 1: Runners on first and third. Charles bats in place of Baker.
Charles grounds to short; runner forced at second; Charles beats
9.11 WHEN BATTER OR BATTER-RUNNER IS OUT
relay to firs; runner on third scores. An appeal is made.
A batter is out when:
Ruling: Baker is declared out. Runners return to first and third.
Charles is next batter. 9.11.1 His fair or foul fly ball (other than a foul tip) is legally caught by a
fielder.
Play 2: Runners on first and third. Charles bats in place of Baker.
Charles grounds to short; runner forced at second; Charles is out at
9.11.2 The catcher catches a called, swinging or foul tip third strike.
first for double play; runner on third scores. An appeal is made.
Ruling: Baker is declared out. Runners return to first and third. 9.11.3 Three strikes are called, and first base is occupied with less than
Charles is next batter. two out.

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9.11.4 After a third strike or after he hits a fair ball, he or first base is 9.11.12 An infielder intentionally drops a fair fly ball or line drive with first,
tagged before he touches first base. first and second, first and third, or first, second and third base
occupied before two are out.
9.11.5 After hitting or bunting a fair ball, his bat hits the ball a second time
in fair territory. The ball is dead, and no runners may advance. If he Approved Ruling: In this situation, the batter is not out if the
drops his bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory, and in infielder permits the ball to drop untouched to the ground, except
the Umpire’s judgement, there was no intention to interfere with the when the Infield Fly rule applies.
course of the ball, the ball is live and in play. If the batter is in a legal
position in the batter’s box, and , in the judgement of the Umpire, 9.11.13 A preceding runner who, in the Umpire’s judgement, intentionally
there was no intent to interfere with the course of the ball, a batted interfere with a fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball or
ball that strikes the batter or his bat will be ruled a foul ball. to throw a ball in an attempt to complete any play.

9.11.6 He bunts foul on third strike Note: The ball is declared dead, and runners must return to the
base that was occupied at the time of the pitch.
9.11.7 Swings at a third strike and misses and the ball touches any part
of the batter’s body or not swung at, and the pitched ball hits the 9.11.14 With two out, a runner on third base, and two strikes on the batter,
batter while the pitch is in the strike zone. the runner attempts to steal home on a legal pitch and the ball
touches the runner in the batter’s strike zone the Umpire will call
9.11.8 Has a foot completely outside the lines of the batter’s box and “Strike Three,” the batter is out and the run does not count. Before
touching the ground. two are out, the Umpire shall call “Strike Three,” the ball is dead,
and the run counts.
9.11.9 His fair ball touches him before touching a fielder.
9.11.15 A member of his team (other than a runner) hinders a fielder’s
9.11.10 After hitting or bunting a ball that continues to move over foul attempt to catch or field a batted ball.
territory, he intentionally deflects the course of the ball in any
manner while running to first base.

9.11.11 In running the last half of the distance from home plate to first RULE 10. BASE RUNNING
base, while the ball is being fielded to first base, he runs outside
(to the right of) the three-foot lane, or inside (to the left of) the
foul line, and in the Umpire’s judgement in so doing interferes with Base running happens once the batter safely reaches first base. Base
the fielder taking the throw at first base. Exception: he may run runners then attempt to advance to second base, third base, then finally
outside (to the right of) the three-foot lane or inside (to the left of) score at home plate before there are three outs.
the foul line to avoid a fielder attempting to field a batted ball.
10.1 LEGAL ORDER OF BASES
Comment: The lines marking the three-foot lane are a part of that The runner must touch each base in legal order (first, second, third
lane and a batter-runner is required to have both feet within the and home) and, when obliged to return while the ball is in play,
three-foot lane or on the lines marking the lane. The batter-runner must retouch the base or bases in reverse order.
is permitted to exit the three-foot lane by means of a step, stride,
reach or slide in the immediate vicinity of first base for the sole Penalty: For failure to touch a base while advancing or returning.
purpose of touching first base. The runner is out if the fielder touches him with the ball in his
hands before returning to each untouched base. If the base missed

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was one to which the runner was forced, the runner is out when awarded first base. If the batter swings at such a pitch after two
tagged or if the ball is held by a fielder on any base the runner strikes, the ball cannot be caught.
failed to touch (including home plate).
10.2.4 A fair ball, after having passed a fielder other than the pitcher, or
A base runner after reaching a base legally, cannot run the bases in
after having been touched by a fielder, including the pitcher, shall
reverse order to either confuse the fielders or to make a travesty of
touch an Umpire or runner on fair territory.
the game. A runner violating this rule is out.
If a runner is in a run down between bases and the following 10.2.5 A fair ball passes over a fence or into the stands at a distance from
runner occupies the same base that the first runner has left, the home plate of 250 feet (76.2 m) or more. Such hit entitles the
second runner cannot be put out while occupying said base. If the batter to a home run when he shall have touched all bases legally.
first runner, however, returns safely to the base last touched and A fair fly ball that passes out of the playing field at a point less
both runners are then occupying the same base, the second runner than 250 feet (76.2 m) from home plate shall entitle the batter to
is out, if touched with the ball and there is no force. advance to second base only.

Note: No runner shall advance on an interference play called on 10.2.6 A fair ball, after touching the ground, bounds into the stands,
another runner. A runner is considered to occupy a base until he or passes through, over or under a fence, or through or under
legally has reached and touched the next base. a scoreboard, or through or under shrubbery, or vines on the
fence, in which case the batter and the runners shall be entitled to
The failure of a preceding runner to touch or retouch a base (and
advance two bases.
who is therefore declared out) shall not affect the status of a
following runner who touches each base in proper order, except
10.2.7 Any fair ball which, either before or after touching the ground,
that, after two are out, a following runner cannot score a run when
passes through or under a fence, or through or under a
a preceding runner is declared out for failing to touch a base.
scoreboard, or through any opening in the fence or scoreboard, or
through or under shrubbery, or vines on the fence, or which sticks
10.2 BATTER BECOMES BASE RUNNER
in a fence or scoreboard, in which case the batter and the runners
The batter becomes a base runner:
shall be entitles to two bases.
10.2.1 Immediately after the individual makes a fair hit.
10.2.8 Any bounding fair ball is deflected by the fielder into the stands,
or over or under a fence on fair or foul territory, in which case the
Note: If the batter hits a pitch that touches the ground first, the
batter and all runners shall be entitled to advance two bases.
following action shall be the same as if hit the ball in flight.
10.2.9 Any fair fly ball is deflected by the fielder into the stands, or over
10.2.2 The third strike called by the Umpire is not caught, providing:
the fence into foul territory, in which case the batter shall be
- First base is unoccupied.
entitled to advance to second base. If it is deflected into the stands
- First base is occupied with two out.
or over the fence in fair territory, the batter shall be entitled to a
home run. However, should such a fair fly ball be deflected at a
Note: A batter who does not realise his situation on a third strike
point less than 250 feet (76.2 m) from home plate, the batter shall
not caught , and who is not in the process of running to first base,
be entitled to two bases only.
shall be declared out once he leaves the dirt circle surrounding
home plate.
The batter becomes a runner and is entitled to first base without the
liability to be put out (provided he advances to and touches first base):
10.2.3 If the pitch touches the ground and bounces through the strike
zone it is a “ball.” If such a pitch touches the batter he shall be

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10.2.10 After four balls have been called by the Umpire or if awarded an 10.4 ADVANCING BASES
intentional base on balls. In advancing, a runner shall touch first, second, third and home
base in order. If forced to return, he shall retouch all bases in
10.2.11 When hit by a pitched ball at which the individual is not attempting reverse order.
to strike the ball is immediately dead.
If a runner is forced to advance because the batter becomes a
runner and two runners are touching a base to which the following
10.2.11.1 A batter may not make a movement to intentionally get
runner is forced, the following runner is entitled to the base and
hit by the pitch, no matter where the pitch is. He must also
the preceding runner shall be out when tagged or when a fielder
avoid being hit whenever possible, unless the pitch is within
has the ball and touches the base to which that preceding runner
the batter’s box occupied by the batter. If the batter ‘s
is forced.
reaction is determined to be intentional, then:
- If the ball is in the strike zone when it touches the batter, or if Each runner, other than the batter, may without liability to be put
the batter moves to intentionally get hit by the pitch, it shall out, advance one base when:
be called a strike and the batter is not awarded first base.
- If the ball is within the batter’s box occupied by the batter 10.4.1 There is a balk.
and the batter makes no movement to intentionally get hit
by the pitch, the batter is awarded first base. 10.4.2 The batter’s advance without liability to be put out forces the
runner to vacate his base, or when the batter hits a fair ball that
10.2.11.2 If the pitch is ball four, the batter will be awarded first base touches another runner or the Umpire before the ball has been
and credited for being hit by the pitch (the ball is dead). touched by, or has passed a fielder, if the runner is forced to
advance.
10.2.12 If any defensive player interferes with the batter’s swing or
prevents the individual from striking at a pitched ball. 10.4.3 A fielder, after catching a fly ball, steps or falls into any out of play
area. When a fielder, after having made a legal catch, steps or falls
10.2.13 A fair ball touches an Umpire or a runner on fair territory before into any out of play area, the ball is dead and each runner shall
touching a fielder. advance one base, without the liability to be put out, from his last
legally occupied base at the time the fielder entered out of play
Note: If a fair ball touches an Umpire after having passed a fielder area.
other than the pitcher, or having touched a fielder, including the
pitcher, the ball is in play. 10.4.4 A spectator or any other individual intentionally interferes with any
thrown or batted ball.
10.3 ENTITLED TO BASES OR OCCUPYING A BASE
10.4.5 While the runner is attempting to steal a base, the batter is
10.3.1 A runner acquires the right to an unoccupied base when he interfered with by the catcher or any other fielder.
touches it before he is put out. He is then entitled to it until he is
put out or forced to vacate it for another runner legally entitled to 10.4.6 A fielder deliberately touches a pitched ball with his cap, mask
that base. or any part of his uniform detached from its proper place on his
person. The ball is in play, and the award is made from the position
10.3.2 Two runners may not occupy a base, but if, while the ball is alive, of the runner at the time the ball was touched.
two runners are touching a base, the following runner shall be out
when tagged and the preceding runner is entitled to the base, 10.4.7 Each runner including the batter-runner may, without liability to be
unless Rule 10.4 applies. put out, advance:

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10.4.7.1 To home plate, scoring a run, if a fair ball goes out of the in awarding such bases, shall be governed by the position
playing field in flight and he touches all the bases legally. Or of the runners at the time the ball was pitched. In all other
if a fair ball which, in the Umpire’s judgement, would have cases the Umpire shall be governed by the position of the
gone out of the playing field in flight, is deflected by the act runners at the time the wild throw was made.
of a fielder in throwing his glove, cap, or any article of his
clothing. Note: In certain circumstances it is impossible to award a
runner two bases. For example: Runner on first. Batter hits a
10.4.7.2 Three bases, if a fielder deliberately touches a fair ball with fly to short right. Runner holds up between first and second
his cap, mask or any part of his uniform detached from its and batter comes around first and pulls up behind him. Ball
proper place. The ball is in play and the batter may advance falls safely. Outfielder, in throwing to first base, throws the
to home plate at his own risk. ball into the stands.

10.4.7.3 Three bases, if a fielder deliberately throws his glove at and Ruling: Since no runner, when the ball is dead, may
touches a fair ball. The ball is in play and the batter may advance beyond the base to which he is entitled, the runner
advance to home plate at his own risk. originally on first base goes to third base and the batter
runner is held at second base.
10.4.7.4 Two bases, if a fielder deliberately touches a thrown ball
with his cap, mask or any part of his uniform detached from 10.4.7.8 One base, if a pitched ball to the batter or thrown by the
its proper place. The ball is in play. pitcher from his position on the pitcher’s plate to a base to
catch a runner, goes into the stands or a bench or through
10.4.7.5 Two bases, if a fielder deliberately throws his glove at and or over a fence or backstop. The ball is dead.
touches a thrown ball. The ball is in play.
Approved Ruling: When a wild pitch or a passed ball goes
Note: The Umpire must rule that the thrown glove or through or by the catcher or deflects off the catcher and
detached cap, mask has touched the ball. There is no goes directly out of play, the award is one base. If, however,
penalty if the ball is NOT touched. the pitched or thrown ball goes through the catcher or
the fielder but remains in play and the catcher or fielder
There is no penalty if the glove of the fielder is knock off by
inadvertently deflects it to the stands or dugout or other
the force of a batted or thrown ball, or if his glove flies off
area in dead ball territory, the award is two base from the
his hand in an obvious effort to make a legitimate catch.
position of the runners at the time of the pitch or throw.
10.4.7.6 Two bases, if a fair ball bounces or is deflected into the
10.5 DEAD BALLS
stands outside the first or third base foul lines. Or if goes
The ball becomes dead, and runners advance one base, or return
through or under a field fence, a scoreboard, shrubbery,
to their bases, without liability to be put out, when:
or vines on the fence or if it sticks in the fence, shrubbery,
scoreboard, or vines.
10.5.1 A pitched ball touches a batter, or his clothing, while in his legal
batting position, runners, if forced, advance
10.4.7.7 Two bases when, with no spectators on the playing field,
a thrown ball goes into the stands or into a bench or
10.5.2 The plate Umpire interferes with the catcher’s throw attempting to
over, through, under a field fence or a slanting part of the
prevent a stolen base or retire a runner on a pick-off play, runners
screen above the backstop or stays in the meshes of a
may not advance.
wire screen protecting spectators. The ball is dead. When
such wild throw is the first play by an infielder, the Umpire,

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Note: The interference will be disregarded if the catcher’s throw Comment: If a foul tip hits the Umpire and is caught by a fielder on
retires the runner. the rebound, the ball is “dead” and the batter cannot be called out.
The same shall apply where such foul tip lodges in the Umpire’s
While the ball is dead no player may be put out, no bases may be
mask or other paraphernalia.
run and no runs may be scored, except that runners may advance
one or more bases as the result of acts which occurred while the If a third strike (not a foul tip) passes the catcher and hits an
ball was alive (such as, but not limited to a balk, an overthrow, Umpire, the ball is in play. If that ball rebounds and is caught by a
interference, or a homerun or other fair ball hit out of the playing fielder before it touches the ground, the batter is not out on such a
field). catch, but the ball remains in play and the batter may be retired at
first base or touched with the ball for the out.
Umpire Interference can also happen when an Umpire interferes
with a catcher returning the ball to the pitcher. If a pitched ball lodges in the Umpire’s or catcher’s mask or
paraphernalia, and remains out of play, on the third strike or fourth
10.5.3 A balk is committed, runners advance. ball, then the batter is entitled to first base and all runners advance
one base. If the count on the batter is less than three balls, runners
10.5.4 A ball is illegally batted; runners return. advance one base.
If a ball is intentionally placed inside a player’s uniform (e.g., a
10.5.5 A foul ball is not caught, in which case runners return to their
pants pocket) for the purpose of deceiving a base runner, the
bases. The plate Umpire will not put the ball in play until all runners
Umpire shall call “Time.” The Umpire will place all runners at least
have retouched their bases.
one base (or more if warranted, in the Umpire’s judgement, to
nullify the action of the ball being put out of play), from the base
10.5.6 A fair ball touches a runner or an Umpire on fair territory before
they originally occupied.
it touches an infielder including the pitcher or touches an Umpire
before it has passed an infielder other than the pitcher, runners
10.5.8 Any legal pitch touches a runner trying to score, runners advance.
advance, if they are forced.
If a fair ball goes through, or by, an infielder and no other infielder 10.6 FORCE PLAY-SLIDE RULE
has a chance to make a play on the ball and the ball touches a (SLIDING TO BASES ON DOUBLE PLAY ATTEMPTS)
runner immediately behind the infielder that the ball went through, If a runner does not engage in a bona fide slide, and initiates (or
or by, the ball is in play and the Umpire shall not declare the attempts to make) contact with the fielder for the purpose of
runner out. If a fair ball touches a runner after being deflected by breaking up a double play, he should be called for interference
an infielder, the ball is in play and the Umpire shall not declare the under this rule. A “bona fide slide” for purposes of this rule occurs
runner out. when the runner:

Comment: If a fair ball touches an Umpire working in the infield 10.6.1 Begins his slide (i.e., makes contact with the ground) before
after it has gone past, or over, the pitcher, it is a dead ball. If a reaching the base.
batted ball is deflected by a fielder in fair territory and hits a runner
or an Umpire while still in flight and then caught by an infielder it 10.6.2 Is able and attempts to reach the base with his hand or foot.
shall not be a catch, but the ball shall remain in play.
10.6.3 Is able and attempts to remain on the base (except home plate)
10.5.7 A pitched ball lodges in the catcher’s mask or paraphernalia, or in after completion of the slide.
or against the Umpire’s body, mask, or paraphernalia, and remains
out of play, runners advance one base. 10.6.4 Slides within reach of the base without changing his pathway for
the purpose of initiating contact with a fielder.

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A runner who engages in a “bona fide slide” shall not be called 10.7.5 He fails to retouch his base after a fair or foul ball is legally caught
for interference under this rule. Even in cases where the runner before he, or his base, is tagged by a fielder. He shall not be called
makes contact with the fielder as a consequence of a permissible out for failure to retouch his base after the first following pitch, or
slide. In addition, interference shall not be called where a any play or attempted play. This is an appeal play.
runner’s contact with the fielder was caused by the fielder being
positioned in (or moving into) the runner’s legal pathway to the 10.7.6 He or the next base is tagged before he touches the next base,
base. after he has been forced to advance by reason of the batter
becoming a runner. However, if a following runner is put out on
Notwithstanding the above, a slide shall not be a “bona fide slide”
a force play, the force is removed as soon as the runner touches
if a runner engages in a “roll block,” or intentionally initiates (or
the base to which he is forced to advance, and if he overslides
attempts to initiate) contact with the fielder by elevating and
or overruns the base, the runner must be tagged to be put out.
kicking his leg above the fielder’s knee or throwing his arm or his
However, if the forced runner, after touching the next base, retreats
upper body.
for any reason towards the base he had last occupied, the force
If the Umpire determines that the runner violated this rule, the play is reinstated, and he can again be put out if the defence tags
Umpire shall declare both the runner and batter-runner out. Note, the base to which he is forced.
however, that if the runner has already been put out then the
runner on whom the defence was attempting to make a play shall Play: Runner on first and three balls on the batter. Runner steals on
be declared out. the next pitch, which is ball four, but after having touched second,
he overslides or overruns that base. Catcher’s throw catches him
Note: Runners cannot advance, and runs do not score. before he can return.

10.7 WHEN RUNNERS ARE OUT Ruling: Runner is out. Force is removed.
Any runner is out when:
Comment: Oversliding and overrunning situations arise at bases
10.7.1 In running to a base, he runs more than 3 feet (0.91 m) away from other than first base. For instance, before two are out, and runners
his base path to avoid being tagged unless his action is to avoid on first and second, or first, second and third, the ball is hit to an
interference with a fielder fielding a batted ball. A runner’s base infielder who tries for the double play. The runner on first beats the
path is established when the tag attempt occurs and is a straight throw to second base but overslides the base. The relay throw is
line from the runner to the base he is attempting to reach safely. made to first base and the batter runner is out. The first baseman,
seeing the runner at second base off the bag, makes the return
10.7.2 After touching first base, he leaves the base path, obviously throw to second and the runner is tagged off the base. Meanwhile
abandoning his effort to touch the next base. runners have crossed the plate. Is this a force play? Was the force
removed when the batter runner was out at first base? Do the runs
10.7.3 He intentionally interferes with a thrown ball or hinders a fielder that crossed the plate during this play and before the third out was
attempting to make a play on a batted ball. made when the runner was tagged at second, count?
The runs score. It is not a force play. It is a tag play.
10.7.4 He is tagged, when the ball is alive, while off his base.
10.7.7 He is touched by a fair ball in fair territory before the ball has gone
Exception: A batter-runner cannot be tagged out after
through or by an infielder and no other infielder has a chance to
overrunning or over-sliding first base if he returns immediately to
make a play on the ball. The ball is dead, and no runner may score,
the base. Makes no attempt to advance to the next base.
nor runners advance, except runners forced to advance.

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Exception: If a runner is touching his base when hit by an Infield 10.7.14 A coach, touches or holds a runner, physically assists the runner in
Fly, he is not out, although the batter is out. If a runner is touched returning to or leaving a base.
by an Infield Fly when he is not touching his base, and before the
ball has gone through, or by an infielder and no other infielder has 10.7.15 While third base is occupied, the third base coach runs in the
a chance to make a play on the ball, both the runner and batter direction of home plate on or near the base line while a fielder is
are out. Regardless of whether a runner is touching his base or not making or trying to make a play and thereby draws a throw to
when touched by an Infield Fly before the ball has gone through or home plate. The base runner on third shall be declared out for the
by an infielder and no other infielder has a chance to make a play coach’s interference.
on the ball, the ball is dead and no runner may score, nor runners
advance, except runners forced to advance. 10.7.16 A batter runner throws the bat, which interferes with a defensive
player making a play.
10.7.8 He attempts to score on a play in which the batter interferes
with the play at home base before two are out. With two out, the 10.7.17 The runner deliberately knocks the ball from the fielder’s hand. The
interference puts the batter out and no score counts. ball is immediately dead.

10.7.9 He passes a preceding runner before that runner is out. 10.7.18 A batter or any other runner who has just been put out interferes
with a play being made on a runner.
10.7.10 After he has acquired legal possession of a base, he runs the
bases in reverse order for the purpose of confusing the defence or
making a travesty of the game. The Umpire shall immediately call
“Time” and declare the runner out. RULE 11. APPEAL PLAYS
10.7.11 He fails to return at once to first base after overrunning or
oversliding that base. If he attempts to run to second, he is out
11.1 WHEN RUNNERS ARE OUT ON APPEALS
when tagged. If, after overrunning or oversliding first base he
A runner shall be called out on appeals that occur because of a
starts toward the dugout, or toward his position, and fails to return
base running error when:
to first base at once, he is out, on appeal, when he or the base is
tagged.
11.1.1 The base runner does not retouch the base before a fielder tags
the runner or the base after a fair or foul fly ball is touched in
10.7.12 In running or sliding to home plate, he fails to touch home plate
making a legal catch.
and makes no attempt to return to the plate, when a fielder holds
the ball in his hand, while touching home base, and appeals to the
11.1.2 With the ball in play, while advancing or returning to a base, he
Umpire for the decision.
fails to touch each base in order before he, or a missed base is
tagged.
Note: This rule applies only when the runner is on his way to the
bench and the catcher would be required to chase him. It does
Approved Ruling:
not apply to the ordinary play when a runner misses the plate and
then immediately makes an effort to touch the plate before being
11.1.3 No runner may return to touch a missed base after a following
tagged. In that case, the runner must be tagged.
runner has scored.
10.7.13 A play is being made on him and a member of his team (other than
a runner) hinders a fielder’s attempt to field a thrown ball.

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11.1.4 When the ball is dead, no runner may return to touch a missed 11.1.9 The defensive team receives only one chance on an appeal. In the
base or one he has left after he has advanced to and touched a case of multiple appeals, if the defence errs during its first appeal
base beyond the missed base. attempt or any base runner advances, the defence loses its right to
appeal any runner at any base.
Play: A batter hits the ball out of the park or a ground rule double
and misses first base (ball is dead) he may return to first base 11.1.10 If the offensive team initiates a play before the next pitch, the
to correct his mistake before he touches second. If he touches defensive team does not lose its right to appeal.
second, he may not return to first and if defensive team appeals,
he is declared out at first. Example: Two outs. R2 misses third base on his way to home plate.
Batter-runner stops at first base. If the defensive team appeals at
Batter hits the ball to shortstop who throws wild into the stands.
third base and is successful, that is the third out and no runs score.
Ball is dead. Batter runner misses first base but is awarded second
Batter-runner knows this so he takes off for second base before
base on the overthrow. Even though the Umpire has awarded the
the defensive teams appeals. If the defensive team makes a play
runner second base, the runner must touch first base before he
on him and retires him, they still have the opportunity to appeal R2
proceeds to second base. These are appeal plays.
missing third base.
11.1.5 The runner starts from a position behind the base in order to get a
11.1.11 If there is possibly more than one runner involved in an appeal at a
running start, whether on a pitch or tagging up for a fly ball.
base, the defensive team must declare on which runner the appeal
is being made. If the defensive team fails to identify which runner,
11.1.6 He fails to touch home plate and makes no attempt to return to
the Umpire should give no signal. If the appeal is made on the
that base, and home plate is tagged.
improper runner, the Umpire shall give the safe sign and no further
Any appeal under this rule must be made before the next pitch, appeal shall be allowed at that base.
or any play or attempted play. If the violation occurs during a play
which ends a half inning, the appeal must be made before the 11.1.12 If there are two or more appeals during a play, which could make a
defensive team leaves the field. For the purpose of identifying left total of “four outs” in an inning, the defensive team may choose to
the field, the pitcher and all infielders have left fair territory and the take any out it desires.
catcher has left his position.
11.1.13 If there are two outs before the appeal on a runner, the appeal
11.1.7 The procedure for a base running appeal play is as follows: becoming the third out, no runners following the appealed out
shall score. If the appeal is a force out, no runners preceding or
11.1.7.1 A live ball is returned to the base. following the appealed out shall score.

11.1.7.2 If the ball is dead, the pitcher must receive a ball from the 11.1.14 It is not a balk for a pitcher, while in contact with the rubber (does
Umpire and then take a position on the pitcher’s rubber. not step back) to throw to an unoccupied base for the purpose of
After the Umpire calls “PLAY” the pitcher may legally step making an appeal play.
back off the rubber and return the ball to the base and the
fielder may tag the runner or the base. Comment: An appeal should be clearly intended as an appeal,
either by a verbal request by the player or an act that unmistakably
11.1.8 An appeal is not to be interpreted as a play or an attempted indicates an appeal to the Umpire. A player inadvertently stepping
play. Exception: if the pitcher balks on an appeal attempt, it is on the base with a ball in his hand, would not constitute an appeal.
considered a play. Time is not out when an appeal is being made.

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11.2 EFFECT OF PRECEDING RUNNER’S FAILURE TO TOUCH A BASE or adding to the difficulty of making the play. Such runner will be
Unless two are out, the status of a following runner is not affected declared out for the interference of his teammate or teammates.
by a preceding runner’s failure to touch or retouch a base. If, upon
appeal, the preceding runner is the third out, no runners following 12.1.5 Any batter or runner who has just been put out, or any runner who
him shall score. If such third out is the result of a force play, neither has just scored, hinders, or impedes any following play being made
preceding nor following runners shall score. on a runner. Such runner will be declared out for the interference
of his teammate.
11.3 RETIRING THE SIDE
When three offensive players are legally put out, that team takes 12.1.6 If, in the judgement of the Umpire, a base runner wilfully and
the field and the opposing team becomes the offensive team. deliberately interferes with a batted ball or a fielder in the act
of fielding a batted ball with the obvious intent to break up a
double play, the ball is dead. The Umpire shall call the runner out
for interference and also call out the batter-runner because of
RULE 12. INTERFERENCE, OBSTRUCTION the action of his teammate. In no event may bases be run or runs
AND CATCHER COLLISIONS scored because of such action by a runner.

12.1.7 If, in the judgement of the Umpire, a batter-runner wilfully and

deliberately interferes with a batted ball or a fielder in the act of
12.1 BATTER OR RUNNER INTERFERENCE fielding a batted ball with the obvious intent to break up a double
It is interference by a batter or a runner when: play, the ball is dead. The Umpire shall call the batter-runner out
for interference and shall call out the runner who had advanced
12.1.1 After a third strike that is not caught by the catcher, the batter- closest to home plate regardless of where the double play might
runner clearly hinders the catcher in his attempt to field the ball. have been possible. In no event may bases be run because of such
Such batter-runner is out, the ball is dead, and all other runners interference.
return to the bases they occupied at the time of pitch. If a pitch
that is not caught remains in the vicinity of home plate and it is 12.1.8 In the judgement of the Umpire, the base coach at third base, or
inadvertently deflected by the batter or Umpire, the ball is dead first base, by touching or holding the runner, physically assists him
and the runners return to the bases they occupied at the time of in returning to or leaving third base or first base.
the pitch (but if the pitch was strike three, the batter is out).
12.1.9 With a runner on third base, the base coach leaves his box and
Comment: If the pitched ball deflects off the catcher or Umpire runs in the direction of home plate or near the baseline while a
and subsequently touches the batter-runner, it is not considered fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball, and
interference unless, in the judgement of the Umpire, the batter- thereby draws a throw to home plate.
runner clearly hinders the catcher in his attempt to field the ball.
12.1.10 He fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted
12.1.2 He intentionally deflects the course of a foul ball in any manner. ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball, provided that
if two or more fielders attempt to field a batted ball, and the
12.1.3 Before two are out and a runner on third base, the batter hinders a runner comes in contact with one or more of them, the Umpire
fielder in making a play at home base, the runner is out. shall determine which fielder is entitled to the benefit of this
rule, and shall not declare the runner out for coming in contact
12.1.4 Any member or members of the offensive team stand or gather with a fielder other than the one the Umpire determines to be
around any base to which a runner is advancing, to confuse, hinder entitled to field such a ball. The Umpire shall call the runner

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out. If the third out occurs because a runner is declared out for penalty shall be applied: With less than two out, the Umpire shall declare
interference on a foul batted ball, the batter-runner is considered both the runner and batter-runner out. With two out, the Umpire shall
to have completed his at bat, and the first batter up the following declare the batter out.
inning will be the player who follows him in the batting order (if
If, in a run-down between third base and home plate, the succeeding
there are less than two outs, the batter will complete his at-bat).
runner has advanced and is standing on third base when the runner in a
If the batter-runner is adjudged not to have hindered a fielder
run-down is called out for offensive interference, the Umpire shall send the
attempting to make a play on a batted ball, and if the base
runner standing on third base back to second base.
runner’s interference is adjudged not to be intentional, the batter-
runner shall be awarded first base. This same principle applies if there is a run-down between second and
third base and the following runner has reached second (the reasoning
12.1.11 A fair ball touches him in fair territory before touching a fielder. is that no runner shall advance on an interference play and a runner
If a ball goes through, or by, an infielder, and touches a runner is considered to occupy a base until he legally has reached the next
immediately back of him, or touches the runner after having been succeeding base).
deflected by a fielder, the Umpire shall not declare the runner out for
being touched by a batted ball. In making such decision the Umpire 12.2 FIELDER RIGHT OF WAY
must be convinced that the ball passed through, or by, the fielder, The players, coaches, or any member of a team at bat must vacate
and that no other infielder had the opportunity to make a play on any space or area (including both dugouts or bullpens) needed
the ball. If, in the judgement of the Umpire, the runner deliberately by a fielder who is attempting to field a batted or thrown ball. If a
and intentionally kicks such a batted ball on which the infielder has member of the team at bat (other than a runner) hinders a fielder’s
missed a play, then the runner shall be called out for interference. attempt to catch or field a batted ball, the ball is dead, the batter
is declared out and all runners return to the bases occupied at
PENALTY FOR INTERFERENCE the time of the pitch. If a member of the team at bat (other than
a runner) hinders a fielder’s attempt to field a thrown ball, the
The runner is out and the ball is dead.
ball is dead, the runner on whom the play is being made shall be
If the Umpire declares the batter, batter-runner, or a runner out for declared out and all runners return to the last legally occupied
interference, all other runners shall return to the last base that was in the base at the time of the interference.
judgement of the Umpire, legally touched at the time of the interference,
unless otherwise provided by these rules. 12.3 UNINTENTIONAL INTERFERENCE
In case of unintentional interference with play by any person
In the event the batter-runner has not reached first base, all runners shall
authorised to be on the playing field (except members of the
return to the base last occupied at the time of the pitch, provided, however,
team at bat who are participating in the game, or a base coach,
if during an intervening play at the plate with less than two outs a runner
any of whom interfere with a fielder attempting to field a batted
scores, and then the batter-runner is called out for interference outside the
or thrown ball, or an Umpire) the ball is alive and in play. If the
three-foot lane, the runner is safe, and the run shall count.
interference is intentional, the ball shall be dead at the moment of
the interference and the Umpire shall impose such penalties as in
Comment: A runner who is adjudged to have hindered a fielder who is
his opinion will nullify the act of interference.
attempting to make a play on a batted ball is out whether it was intentional
or not. The question of intentional or unintentional interference shall be
decided based on the person’s action. For example: a bat boy,
If, however, the runner has contact with a legally occupied base when
ball attendant, policeman, etc., who tries to avoid being touched
he hinders the fielder, he shall not be called out unless, in the Umpire’s
by a thrown or batted ball but still is touched by the ball would
judgement, such hindrance, whether it occurs on fair or foul territory, is
be considered unintentional interference. If, however, he picks up
intentional. If the Umpire declares the hindrance intentional, the following
the ball, catches it, or touches the ball by intentionally pushing

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or kicking at the ball, this act would be considered intentional runner is permitted to score. This might not be the case if the fly
interference. ball was a short distance from home plate.

Play: Batter hits ball to third baseman, who fields the ball but 12.5 UMPIRE OR COACH INTERFERENCE
throws it wild past the first baseman. The first base coach falls Umpire interference occurs when a plate Umpire hinders, impedes,
to the ground in trying to avoid being hit by the ball. The first or prevents a catcher’s throw attempting to prevent a stolen base
baseman going to retrieve the ball runs into the coach. The batter- or retire a runner on a pick-off play.
runner finally ends up on third base. Whether the Umpire should
call interference on the part of the coach is up to the judgment of Note: Ball is dead. Runners may not advance.
the Umpire and if the Umpire felt that the coach did all he could to
Another is when a fair ball touches an Umpire on fair territory
avoid interfering with the play, no interference need be called. If, in
before passing a fielder.
the judgement of the Umpire, the coach was attempting to make it
appear that he was trying not to interfere, the Umpire should rule
Note: Ball is dead. Batter-runner is awarded first, all other runners
interference.
advance if they are forced.
12.4 SPECTATOR INTERFERENCE Umpire interference may also occur when an Umpire interferes
When there is spectator interference with any thrown or batted with a catcher returning the ball to the pitcher.
ball, the ball shall be dead at the moment of interference and the
Umpire shall impose such penalties as in his opinion will nullify the Note: Ball is dead. Runners may not advance.
act of interference.
If a coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball, the runner is
out. Any other runners must return to the last base touched.
Penalty: If spectator interference clearly prevents a fielder from
catching a fly ball, the Umpire shall declare the batter out. If a thrown ball or pitched ball strikes an Umpire, the ball is in play
and the base runner or runners are entitled to advance at their
Comment: If a spectator reaches over, under, or through a barrier own risk.
and touching a ball in play or interfering with a fielder trying
If a thrown ball hits a base coach in foul territory, the ball is in play.
to make a play. Batter and runners shall be placed where in the
Umpire’s judgement they would have been had the interference
12.6 INTERFERENCE WITH SQUEEZE PLAY OR STEAL OF HOME
not occurred.
If the catcher interferes on a squeeze play or a steal of home, that
No interference will be called when a fielder reaches over a fence, is if the catcher does not have possession of the ball or touches
railing or into the stands to catch a ball. He does so at his own risk. the batter or his bat, the pitcher shall be charged with a balk, the
However, should a spectator reach out on the playing field side of batter shall be awarded first base on the interference and the ball
the fence, railing and clearly prevents the fielder from catching the is dead.
ball, then the batter will be called out for spectator interference.
12.7 OBSTRUCTION
Example: Runner on third base, one out and a batter hits a fly ball Obstruction is the act of a fielder who, while not in possession of
deep to the outfield (fair or foul). Spectator clearly interferes with the ball and not in the act of fielding the ball, impedes the progress
the outfielder attempting to catch the fly ball. Umpire calls the of any runner. If a fielder is about to receive a thrown ball and if the
batter out for spectator interference. Ball is dead at the time of the ball is in flight directly toward and near enough to the fielder so he
call. Umpire decides that because of the distance the ball was hit, must occupy his position to receive the ball he may be considered
the runner on third base would have scored after the catch if the “in the act of fielding the ball.” It is entirely up to the judgement
fielder had caught the ball which was interfered with, therefore, the of the Umpire as to whether a fielder is in the act of fielding a ball.

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After a fielder has made an attempt to field the ball and missed, Any preceding runners, forced to advance by the award of bases
he can no longer be in the “act of fielding” the ball. For example: as the penalty for obstruction, shall advance without liability to be
an infielder dives at a ground ball and the ball passes him and he put out.
continues to lie on the ground and delays or impedes the progress
of the runner, he very likely has obstructed the runner. Exception: If the batter-runner is obstructed before first base (a
form of Type A Obstruction) after he has hit a fly ball, and that fly
There are two types of obstruction. These types are commonly
ball is legally caught by a fielder, the play shall proceed with no
referred to as Type A Obstruction and Type B Obstruction.
reference to the obstruction. In this situation, the obstruction on
the batter-runner has no impact on the batter-runner’s ability to
TYPE A OBSTRUCTION
advance on the bases because the batted ball was caught.
Type A Obstruction occurs when the defence is making a play
on the runner who was obstructed or when the batter-runner is
Comment: When a play is being made on an obstructed runner,
obstructed before first base.
the Umpire shall signal obstruction in the same manner that he
That is the rule definition of obstruction. However, to better calls “Time,” with both hands overhead. The ball is immediately
understand the rule we have to know what is meant by “not in dead when this signal is given. However, should a thrown ball be in
possession of the ball” and “in the act of fielding the ball.” flight before the obstruction is called by the Umpire, the runners
are to be awarded such bases on wild throws as they would have
What is the definition of “in the act of fielding the ball”? The
been awarded had not obstruction occurred. On a play where the
Umpire must know what is a legal attempt at fielding the ball. The
runner was trapped between second and third and obstructed by
definition is a legitimate effort by a fielder to retire a runner. What
the third baseman going into third while the throw is in flight from
is a legitimate effort? Reasonable and ordinary effort. For example,
the shortstop, if such throw goes into the dugout the obstructed
if a fielder mishandles a ground ball but it is within a step and a
runner is to be awarded home base. Any other runners on base in
reach, then he is considered to be making a play.
this situation would also be awarded two bases from the base they
Some common examples of Type A Obstruction are: last legally touched before obstruction was called.

12.7.1 The batter-runner is obstructed before reaching first base on a TYPE B OBSTRUCTION
ground ball to an infielder. Type B Obstruction is when the runner is obstructed while NO
PLAY is being made on that runner.
12.7.2 A runner is obstructed while in a rundown.
Some common examples of Type B Obstruction are:
12.7.3 A runner is obstructed as a fielder is throwing to a base in an
12.7.4 The batter-runner is obstructed (usually by the first baseman, but
attempt to retire that runner (including a pickoff attempt or a
it could be another fielder) after rounding first base on a hit to the
stolen base attempt).
outfield.
When Type A obstruction occurs, the Umpire shall call or signal
“OBSTRUCTION.” 12.7.5 A runner is held or pushed by a fielder after a missed or wild throw
gets past that fielder.
If a play is being made on the obstructed runner, or if the batter-
runner is obstructed before he touches first base, the ball is dead
12.7.6 A runner is forced to change course or direction because a fielder
and all runners shall advance, without liability to be put out, to the
(while not in possession of the ball or in the act of making a play)
bases they would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgement, if there
is standing in his way.
had been no obstruction. The obstructed runner shall be awarded
at least one base beyond the base he had last legally touched
before the obstruction.

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12.7.7 The batter-runner is obstructed before first base on a base hit to the runner have reached the plate without colliding) or
the outfield. unavoidable (the runner’s path to the plate was blocked).
When Type B obstruction occurs, the Umpire should point at the
12.8.1.2 Whether the runner was attempting to reach the plate or
offence and vocalise ”That’s Obstruction.” The play shall proceed
attempting to dislodge the ball from the fielder. Contact
until no further action is possible. If a subsequent play is made
above the waist shall be judged by the Umpire as an attempt
on a previously obstructed runner and that runner is tagged out
to dislodge the ball from the fielder.
before he has reached the base that he would have reached had
the obstruction not occurred, the Umpire shall call “Time” at the
12.8.1.3 Whether the runner was using flagrant contact to maliciously
moment that the obstructed runner is tagged out. The Umpire will
dislodge the ball.
impose any penalties that will nullify the obstruction, awarding the
obstructed runner the base that he would have reached had the
Penalty: If the runner attempted to dislodge the ball,
obstruction not occurred. The Umpire may consider many factors
the runner shall be declared out even if the fielder loses
in determining where to place an obstructed runner. The position
possession of the ball. The ball is dead and all other base
of the ball when the obstruction occurred, the position of the
runners shall return to the last base touched at the time of
runner when the obstruction occurred, the speed of the runner
the interference.
at the time of the obstruction and after the obstruction occurred.
Also, if the base coach is holding the runner. The umpiring crew If the fielder blocks the path of the base runner to the plate,
may consult with one another to reasonably determine where the the runner may make contact, slide into, or collide with a
runners should be placed in order to nullify the obstruction. fielder as long as the runner is making a legitimate attempt to
reach the plate.
Comment: When the ball is not dead on obstruction and an
If the flagrant or malicious contact by the runner was before
obstructed runner advances beyond the base which, in the
the runner’s touching the plate, the runner shall be declared
Umpire’s judgement, he would have been awarded because of
out and ejected from the game. The ball is dead immediately.
being obstructed, he does so at his own peril and may be tagged
All other base runners shall return to the base they occupied
out. This is a judgement call.
at the time of the interference.
Note: The catcher, without the ball in his possession, has no right to
12.8.1.4 If the contact was after a preceding runner had touched
block the pathway of the runner attempting to score. The base line
home plate, the preceding runner will be ruled safe, the ball
belongs to the runner and the catcher should be there only when he
becomes dead immediately and all other base runners will
is fielding a ball or when he already has the ball in his possession.
return to the base they had last touched prior to the contact.
12.8 COLLISION RULE
12.8.1.5 If the runner is safe and the collision is malicious, the runner
The WBSC is concerned about unnecessary and violent collisions
shall be ruled safe and ejected from the game.
primarily with the catcher at home plate, and with infielders at
all bases. The intent of this rule is to encourage base runners and
12.8.2 If the defensive player blocks the plate or base line clearly without
defensive players to avoid such collisions whenever possible.
possession of the ball, obstruction shall be called. The Umpire
shall point and call, “That’s Obstruction.” The Umpire shall let the
12.8.1 When there is a collision between a runner and a fielder who
play continue until all play has ceased, call time, and award any
clearly is in possession of the ball, the Umpire shall judge:
bases that are justified per WBSC Official Rules of Baseball. The
obstructed runner is awarded at least one base beyond the base
12.8.1.1 Whether the collision by the runner was avoidable (could
last touched legally before the obstruction.

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12.8.2.1 If the base runner collides flagrantly, the runner shall be When a pitcher holds the ball with both hands in front of his body,
declared safe on the obstruction, but will be ejected from the with his pivot foot in contact with the pitcher’s plate and his other
game. The ball is dead. foot free, he will be considered in the Windup Position.

12.8.2.2 If the runner’s path to the base is blocked and all stipulations Comment: In the Windup Position, a pitcher is permitted to have
above are fulfilled, it is considered unavoidable contact. his “free” foot on the rubber, in front of the rubber, behind the
rubber or off the side of the rubber. From the Windup Position, the
pitcher may:
- deliver the ball to the batter, or
RULE 13. PITCHING - step and throw to a base in an attempt to pick-off a runner, or
- disengage the rubber (if he does, he must drop his hand to his
sides).
13.1 PITCHING POSITIONS
In disengaging the rubber, the pitcher must step off with his pivot
There are two legal pitching positions. The wind-up and the set
foot and not his free foot first. He may not go into a set or stretch
position. Either one can be used at any time.
position—if he does it is a balk.
13.2 LEGAL PITCHING POSITIONS
13.3.2 THE SET POSITION
Pitchers must take signs from the catcher while in contact with the
Set Position shall be indicated by the pitcher when he stands
pitcher’s plate.
facing the batter with the pivot foot in contact with, and the other
foot in front of, the pitcher’s plate, holding the ball in both hands
Comment: Pitchers may disengage the rubber after taking their
in front of his body and coming to a complete stop. From such Set
signs but may not step quickly onto the rubber and pitch. This
Position, he may:
may be judged a quick pitch by the Umpire. When the pitcher
a) deliver the ball to the batter
disengages the rubber, he must drop his hands to his sides.
b) throw to a base or step backward off the pitcher’s plate with his
Pitchers will not be allowed to disengage the rubber after taking
pivot foot.
each sign. The pitcher cannot take a second step toward home
plate with either foot or otherwise reset his pivot foot in his Before assuming Set Position, the pitcher may elect to make any
delivery of the pitch. If there is a runner, or runners, on base it is a natural preliminary motion such as that known as “the stretch.” But
balk, if the bases are unoccupied, it should be treated as an illegal if he so elects, he shall come to Set Position before delivering the
pitch. ball to the batter. After assuming Set Position, any natural motion
associated with his delivery of the ball to the batter commits him
13.3 WINDUP POSITION - SET POSITION to the pitch without alteration or interruption.
Before coming to a set position, the pitcher shall have one hand on
13.3.1 WINDUP POSITION
his side; from this position he shall go to his set position as defined
The pitcher shall stand facing the batter, his pivot foot in contact
in Rule 13.3.2 (b) without interruption and in one continuous
with the pitcher’s plate and the other foot free. He shall not raise
motion.
either foot from the ground, except that in his actual delivery of
the ball to the batter, he may take one step backward, and one The pitcher, following his stretch, must (a) hold the ball in both
step forward with his free foot. From this position any natural hands in front of his body and (b) come to a complete stop. This
movement associated with his delivery of the ball to the batter must be enforced. Umpires should watch this closely, where the
commits him to the pitch without interruption or alteration. pitcher fails to make a complete “stop” called for in the rules, the
Umpire should immediately call a “Balk.”

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Comment: With no runners on base, the pitcher is not required to 13.5.2 Pitch clocks will be visible from the field of play and dugouts.
come to a complete stop when using the Set Position. If, however,
in the Umpire’s judgment, a pitcher delivers the ball in a deliberate 13.5.3 The pitch clock will be in effect ONLY with NO runners on base for
effort to catch the batter off guard, this delivery shall be deemed the entire game, including any extra innings.
a quick pitch, which the penalty is a ball. With a runner or runners
on base, a pitcher will be presumed to be pitching from the Set 13.5.4 It will be activated when the pitcher receives the ball on the mound
Position if he stands with his pivot foot parallel and in contact to area.
the pitcher’s plate, and his other foot in front of the pitcher’s plate,
unless he notifies the Umpire that he will be pitching from the 13.5.5 Once the 20 second clock has started, the batter has 10 seconds
Windup Position under such circumstances prior to the beginning of to enter the batter’s box.
an at-bat. A pitcher will be permitted to notify the Umpire that he is
pitching from the Windup Position within an at-bat only in the event 13.5.6 The batter must keep one foot in the batter’s box between pitches.
of (i) a substitution by the offensive team; or (ii) immediately upon Failure to keep one foot in the batter’s box shall result in a strike
the advancement of one or more runners (i.e., after one or more being called on the batter. The batter may only step out of the
base runners advance but before the delivery of the next pitch). batter’s box with both feet in the following circumstances:

13.4 WARM-UP PITCHES 13.5.6.1 When the ball is hit.

The pitcher is allowed to warm up at the beginning of each inning.
He can throw as many as eight warm up pitches provided they are 13.5.6.2 On a swing, provided it is the momentum of the swing that
within the allotted time allowed for in between inning. The catcher takes them out of the batter’s box.
will be instructed to throw the ball to second base with thirty
seconds left on the clock. 13.5.6.3 If forced out of the batter’s box to a valid pitch.

Penalty: For the first offence by that pitcher, they will be warned. 13.5.6.4 On a wild pitch.
Any subsequent violation by that pitcher, will be penalised with a
ball awarded to the batter. 13.5.6.5 On an attempted play at the plate or by the catcher on an
advancing runner or by any player.
For a relief pitcher entering the game, must complete and may not
exceed eight warm up pitches within the time. The catcher will be
13.5.6.6 If the catcher is attempting to make a play (i.e. pop fly).
instructed no more throws with fifteen seconds left on the clock.
13.5.6.7 If time has been called, or the plate Umpire leaves his
Penalty: For the first offence by that pitcher, they will be warned.
position to perform other duties not directly connected
Any subsequent violation by the same team will be penalised with
with the calling of plays.
a ball awarded to the next batter of the inning.
13.5.6.8 If the pitcher leaves the mound.
13.5 PITCH CLOCK
The implementation of game management clocks supports the
13.5.6.9 On a three-ball count that the batter thinks the pitch was a
efforts to maintain a reasonable pace of game, helping to create a
ball.
better experience for fans in the stadium and viewers around the
globe.
13.5.6.10 On a check swing.

13.5.1 The pitch clock will be set at twenty seconds.

13.5.6.11 On a bunt attempt.

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13.5.7 When the Umpire indicated “PLAY BALL”, after the batter leaves Exception: In cold weather, the Umpire may announce to both
the batter’s box as a result of one of the exceptions listed above, teams that it is allowed for the pitcher to blow on his hand, on or
the Umpire shall do so once all play has ceased, and the batter is in off the rubber.
or near the batter’s box, the pitcher has possession of the ball on
the mound, or the catcher is in a position to return the ball to the Penalty: the Umpire will remove the ball from play and issue a
pitcher. The Umpire shall signal for the clock to begin. This includes warning to the pitcher. Any subsequent violation shall be called a
a foul ball, a dead ball or “TIME” being called, even if the batter ball.
does not leave the batter’s box.
13.6.5 Rub the ball on his glove, person, or clothing. Expectorate on the
13.5.8 A pitcher stepping off the rubber will not stop the clock unless the ball, either hand or glove. Apply any foreign substance of any kind
Umpire grants the pitcher time. to the ball. Deface the ball in any manner. Have on his person, or in
his possession, any foreign substance.
13.5.9 If either the pitcher or batter is granted time by the Umpire with
five or more seconds showing on the clock, the player in question Penalty: Eject the pitcher from the game. If in the judgement of
will not get a reset of the full 20 seconds. The clock will be the Umpire the pitcher did not intend to alter the characteristics of
restarted when the Home Plate Umpire signals “PLAY BALL.” the baseball, then the Umpire MAY, at the Umpire’s discretion, warn
the pitcher in lieu of ejecting him from the game. If the pitcher
13.6 PITCHING VIOLATIONS (PROHIBITIONS) persists in violating this rule, the Umpire shall eject the pitcher
The pitcher shall not: from the game.

13.6.1 Make an illegal pitch or quick pitch with no one on base. 13.6.6 Intentionally delay the game by throwing the ball to players other
than the catcher when the batter is in the batter’s box and is ready
Penalty: Call a Ball unless the batter reaches first base. to hit. Except in an attempt to retire a runner.

13.6.2 Intentionally or unintentionally drop the ball while in contact with 13.6.7 Intentionally throw at the batter. If in the Umpire’s judgement it
the pitcher’s plate (rubber). was intentional, the Umpire may:

Penalty: With no one on base, if the ball drops or slips out of the 13.6.7.1 Eject the pitcher, or the pitcher and manager from the
pitcher’s hand, intentionally or accidentally, it is a no pitch if the game.
ball does NOT cross the foul line. If it does cross the foul line, it is a
ball. If there is a runner or runners on base and the ball is dropped, 13.6.7.2 May warn the pitcher and the manager of both teams that
it is a balk. another such pitch will result in the immediate ejection of
that pitcher or a replacement pitcher and the manager.
13.6.3 Delay the game at any time. The pitcher has 20 seconds with no
If, in the Umpire’s judgement, both teams may be officially
runners on base.
warned prior to the game or at any time during the game.
Penalty: After a warning for each pitcher, a ball will be called each
Comment: No one, manager, coach or team personnel may
time the rule is violated.
come on the playing field to argue a warning issued by the
Umpires. To throw at a batter’s head is unsportsmanlike and
13.6.4 Go to the mouth while in contact with the pitcher’s plate or in the
dangerous. It is condemned by everyone. Umpires should
18-foot (5.49 m) circle surrounding the pitcher’s plate. The pitcher
act without hesitation in enforcing this rule.
must clearly wipe the fingers of his pitching hand dry before
touching the ball or the pitcher’s plate.

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13.6.8 Pitch both right-handed and left-handed to the same batter during 13.8 EFFECT OF REMOVING PIVOT FOOT FROM PLATE
a plate appearance. (See Rule 13.9 Ambidextrous Pitcher). If the pitcher removes his pivot foot from contact with the pitcher’s
plate by stepping backward with that foot, he thereby becomes an
13.6.9 Take the signs from the catcher with the pivot foot not touching infielder and if he makes a wild throw from that position, it shall be
the pitcher’s plate. If a pitcher changes pitching hands during a considered the same as a wild throw by any other infielder.
batter’s time at bat, the Umpire will:
13.9 AMBIDEXTROUS PITCHERS
13.6.9.1 Call a balk if a runner(s) is on base. A pitcher must indicate visually to the plate Umpire, the batter and
any runners the hand with which he intends to pitch, which may
13.6.9.2 Call a ball for an illegal pitch if no runner is on base. be done by wearing his glove on the other hand while touching
the pitcher’s plate. The pitcher is not permitted to pitch with the
13.6.9.3 Warn the pitcher. other hand until the batter is retired, the batter becomes a runner,
the inning ends, the batter is substituted for by a pinch-hitter or
13.6.9.4 Eject the pitcher if the violation is repeated. the pitcher incurs an injury. In the event a pitcher switches pitching
hands during an at-bat because he has suffered an injury, the
Note: If a pinch hitter replaces a batter during an at bat, the pitcher may not, for the remainder of the game, pitch with the
pitcher may change pitching hands. hand from which he has switched. The pitcher shall not be given
the opportunity to throw any preparatory pitches after switching
If the batter is a switch hitter, an ambidextrous pitcher must
pitching hands. Any change of pitching hands must be indicated
declare which hand he will pitch to the batter.
clearly to the plate Umpire.
13.6.10 A pitcher is not allowed to jump or push forward off the pitcher’s
13.10 BALKS
plate with his pivot foot and then bring his foot to the ground and
A balk is an illegal act by the pitcher with a runner(s) on base.
make a second push-off prior to delivering the pitch.
All runners advance one base. Exception: if after the balk, the
batter reaches base due to a hit, error, base on balls, hit batter
Penalty: This is an illegal pitch and shall be called a balk with
or otherwise, and all runners advance at least one base, the play
runners on base.
stands and the balk is ignored.
Note: A pitcher is not in violation if he pushes off the pitcher’s If there is a runner or runners, a balk shall be called for the
plate with the pivot foot and maintains contact with the ground following action by a pitcher:
with the pivot foot without a second push-off from the ground.
13.10.1 While touching the pitcher’s plate, any feinting motion without
13.7 THROWING TO THE BASES completing the throw toward the batter or toward first or third base.
At any time during the pitcher’s preliminary movements and until
his natural pitching motion commits him to pitch, he may throw to 13.10.2 When, before throwing to any base from a pitching position, the
any base, provided he steps directly to such base before making pitcher feints a throw to a base and, without breaking contact with
the throw. the rubber, throws to another base.

Comment: The pitcher must step ahead of the throw. A snap throw 13.10.3 While in a pitching position, throw to any base in an attempt to
followed by the step directly toward the base is a BALK. retire a runner without first stepping directly toward such base; or
throw or feint a throw toward any base when it is not an attempt
to retire a runner or prevent the runner from advancing.

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13.10.4 The pitcher, while touching the pitcher’s rubber, must step toward with any part of the body such as the pitcher habitually uses in the
the base, preceding or simultaneous with any move toward that delivery.
base. The pitcher is committed, upon raising the lead leg, to throw
to the base being faced to second base or to the plate. When Note: If the pitcher, with a runner on base, stops or hesitates the
throwing or feinting a throw to a base not being faced, the pitcher delivery because the batter steps out of the box, holds up a hand
must step immediately, directly and gain ground toward that base. or uses any other action as if calling time, it shall not be a balk. The
rule has been violated by both the batter and the pitcher, and the
Note: If the pitcher throws to the first or third baseman who is Umpire shall call “Time” and begin the play anew.
playing off the base, a balk shall not be called if the fielder moves
toward the occupied base in an attempt to retire the runner. 13.10.14 The pitcher takes either hand off the ball after having taken a
stretch or set position unless making a pitch or throwing to any
13.10.5 The “spin” or “open” move to second base is legal if the pitcher base.
raises the lead leg and immediately, with a continuous motion,
steps directly toward second base. The pitcher need not throw. Note: The pitcher may momentarily adjust the ball in the glove
and separate the hands if it is prior to assuming a legal pitching
13.10.6 The pitcher shall step “ahead of the throw.” A snap throw followed position.
by a step directly toward the base is a balk.
13.10.15 The pitcher pitches while the catcher is not in the catcher’s box.
13.10.7 The pitcher may not prematurely flex either leg before stepping The catcher must have at least one foot within the catcher’s box
directly and throwing to first base. until the pitcher begins the pitching motion; Note: This is an illegal
pitch with no runners on base.
13.10.8 The jump-turn move is legal if the pitcher’s free foot steps toward
and gains ground to the base that the ball is being thrown. 13.10.16 The pitcher delivers the pitch from the set position without coming
Otherwise, a balk shall be called. to a complete and discernible stop, or the pitcher comes to more
than one stop from the set position (see Article 13.3.2 Comment);
13.10.9 Stepping toward second base without completing the throw is Note: With the bases unoccupied, the pitcher does not need to
legal if the base is occupied by a runner or there is an attempt to come to a complete and discernible stop.
retire a runner.
13.10.17 From the set position, if the entire free foot or any part of the
13.10.10 Making an illegal pitch, such as a quick pitch. stride leg breaks the plane of the back edge of the pitcher’s rubber
and the pitcher does not throw or feint a motion to second base or
Note: If a runner on third base breaks for home plate, the pitcher pitch to home plate.
may speed up the delivery but must continue to use a normal
pitching sequence and arm action. 13.10.18 When the pitcher makes a natural pitching motion while not
touching the pitcher’s rubber.
13.10.11 Unnecessarily delaying the game.
Note:
13.10.12 While not in possession of the ball, the pitcher stands with either
a. If the balk immediately is followed by a pitch that permits the
foot or both feet on any part of the dirt area (circle) of the mound
batter and each runner to advance a minimum of one base, the
during a hidden-ball play attempt.
balk is ignored, and the ball remains live. Example: The batter and
all runner(s) advance when a wild pitch is either ball four or strike
13.10.13 Failing to throw to the batter immediately after making any motion
three.

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b. If a balk immediately is followed by a wild throw by the pitcher to 13.11.1.1 A free trip is a defensive charged conference involving a
a base that permits a runner(s) to advance to or beyond the base manager, coach, or bench personnel in which the pitcher is
to which that runner is entitled. The Umpire will call the balk in not removed.
the usual manner but shall not call “Time” until all play has ceased
(runners have stopped trying to advance and/or a fielder is in 13.11.1.2 The manager cannot circumvent this rule by asking a
possession of the ball in the infield). player to act for him, and neither can the manager or his
representative leave the bench or dugout and approach
Note: After a balk that is followed by a base hit or a wild throw to
the base lines to confer with the pitcher for the purpose of
a base or the plate, a runner who misses the first base to which
evading this rule.
the runner is advancing and who, before the next pitch, is called
out on appeal, shall be contemplated as having advanced one
13.11.1.3 If a manager holds a defensive conference with a
base for the purpose of this rule.
defensive player, it shall be considered a charged defensive
c. If only the runner advances to or beyond the base to which he conference whether the player goes to the mound or not.
is entitled because of a wild pitch after a balk, the balk is still
acknowledged. 13.11.1.4 Unused free trips to the mound during the first nine innings
in a nine inning game, or seven in a seven inning game may
Note: A runner(s) may advance beyond the base that is entitled at
not be used during any extra innings.
the runner’s own risk.
When a balk occurs, the pitch is nullified, and the batter will
13.11.1.5 For the purpose of identifying trips to the mound on a
resume the at-bat with the count that existed unless:
batter, a player becomes the batter as soon as the previous
d. The wild pitch was ball four on which all runners (including the batter reaches base or is put out. The new batter does not
batter-runner) advanced one base. have to enter the batter’s box to be considered the batter.
e. The wild pitch was strike three on which the batter and all other
13.11.1.6 In a situation where a player is bleeding, a decision to
runners advanced one base. In both situations (a) and (b) above,
substitute for the player must be made within 10 minutes
play proceeds without reference to the balk, because all runners
from the time play is stopped. A substitute player must
(including the batter-runner) advanced one base on the pitch
begin warming up immediately when the blood rule is in
after the balk.
effect.
Note: If the balk is followed by a wild pitch that allows a runner
to attempt to go beyond the base that he would have been 13.11.1.7 During a free trip or a time out to allow a substitution
awarded because of the balk, the runner advances at his own for the pitcher, a defensive player may warm up another
risk; he is either safe or out as a result of the play. The balk is still defensive player, provided it does not delay the game.
“acknowledged” as it relates to the batter, and he will resume the The player warming up must be in the current line-up and
at-bat with the count that existed when the balk occurred. remain in fair territory during the charged conference or
timeout. For example, a bullpen catcher is not allowed to
13.11 REMOVING PITCHER participate in this type of warm-up.
The conditions for removal of the pitcher are as follows:
13.11.1.8 The plate Umpire shall record on the line-up card each free
13.11.1 A manager is allowed to be involved in a maximum of 3 free trips trip and the inning in which it occurred.
plus one extra free trip for every three innings in the event of an
extra inning game. 13.11.2 If a manager, coach or his nonplaying representative goes to the
mound a second time in the inning to talk to the same pitcher, or if

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a manager, coach or non-playing representative has already been 13.11.4 The trip to the mound (which may include a conference with the
involved in 3 of the defensive charged conferences during regulation infielders) begins when the manager crosses the foul line and
play, the pitcher must be removed from the pitcher’s position for the shall be concluded when the manager leaves the dirt circle, or the
remainder of the game. The coach is to indicate the relief pitcher to pitcher begins his eight warm-up pitches.
an Umpire immediately after crossing the foul line.
13.11.5 A pitcher who is removed from the pitching position but remains
Note: If, after one trip to the same pitcher in the same inning, or in the game as a defensive player may return to the mound only
three free trips in a game, the coach goes to the plate Umpire to once.
announce a pitching change (does not go to the mound), a second
trip shall be charged (when the change is recorded on the official 13.11.6 When the game pitcher crosses the foul line on the way to the
line-up card). If moved to a defensive position, the pitcher shall not mound to start an inning, he shall pitch to the first batter until
return to pitch. such batter is put out or reaches base, unless a pinch hitter is
substituted or the batter or the pitcher sustains an injury or illness,
13.11.3 A manager may not make a second trip to the mound in the which incapacitates him from continuing.
same inning with the same batter at bat. However, if a pinch hitter
A manager or coach is deemed to have concluded his visit to the
is substituted, the manager may make a second trip but must
mound when he leaves the 18-foot (5.49 m) circle surrounding the
remove the pitcher.
pitcher’s rubber.
13.11.3.1 In this pinch-hitter situation, a relief pitcher, having just been
Comment: If the manager or coach goes to the catcher or
brought into pitch, may not be removed from the game
infielder and that player then goes to the mound or the pitcher
before pitching completely to one batter or the side has
comes to him at his position before there is an intervening play (a
been retired.
pitch or other play) that will be treated the same as the manager,
coach or bench personnel going to the mound. Any attempt to
13.11.3.2 If the manager previously has used the allowed free
circumvent this rule by the manager or coach bench personnel
trips and mistakenly is allowed to go to the mound for a
by going to the catcher or any infielder and then that player
conference, the pitcher shall be removed from the position
going to the mound to talk with the pitcher will constitute a trip
after the batter completes the turn at bat. The pitcher may
to the mound. If the coach goes to the mound and removes a
not re-enter the game as a pitcher.
pitcher and then the manager goes to the mound to talk with the
new pitcher, that will constitute one trip to that new pitcher that
13.11.3.3 If the manager starts to the mound for a second trip with
inning.
the same batter at bat in the same inning, the Umpire shall
warn that this act is not permitted. If the manager continues A manager or coach shall not be considered to have finished his
to the mound, the manager shall be ejected and the pitcher visit to the mound if he temporarily leaved the 18-foot (5.49 m)
must complete pitching to the batter; when the batter’s circle surrounding the pitcher’s runner for purposes of notifying
turn is completed, the pitcher shall be removed from the the Umpire that a double switch or substitution is being made. In
game. The manager should be warned of the impending a case where a manager has made his first trip to the mound and
removal so that another pitcher can start warming up. The then returns the second time to the mound in the same inning with
substitute pitcher shall be permitted the eight preparatory the same pitcher in a game and the same batter at bat, after being
pitches unless circumstances justify additional pitches. warned by the Umpire that he cannot return to the mound, the
manager will be removed from the game and the pitcher will be
Note: If the Umpire originally fails to recognise that the required to pitch to that batter until he is retired or gets on base.
manager is making a second trip during the same batter,
the manager shall not be penalised.

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After the batter is retired, or becomes a runner, then that pitcher Note: Umpire jurisdiction regarding personal confrontations and
must be removed from the game. The manager should be notified unsportsmanlike conduct directed toward them begins when the
that his pitcher will be removed from the game after he pitches to Umpires enter the game site and ends when the Umpires have left
one hitter, so he can have a substitute pitcher warmed up. In such the game site.
an occurrence, the substitute pitcher will be allowed as much time
to warm up as the Umpire deems necessary. 14.2 APPEAL OF UMPIRE DECISIONS

For the purpose of this rule, replacing the pitcher will be

14.2.1 Any Umpire’s decision which involves judgment, such as, but not
considered one trip to that pitcher that inning, regardless of
limited to, whether a batted ball is fair or foul, whether a pitch
whether the manager or coach chooses to go to the mound, or
is a strike or a ball, or whether a runner is safe or out, is final. No
whether the pitcher remains in the game at a different position on
player, manager, coach, or team personnel may object to any such
defence.
judgment. Players leaving their position in the field or on base, or
managers or coaches leaving the bench or coaches box to argue
balls and strikes will not be permitted. They will be warned if they
RULE 14. THE UMPIRE start for the plate to protest, but if they continue, they will be
ejected immediately from the game.

14.2.2 If there is reasonable doubt that any Umpire’s decision may

Game officials are referred to as Umpires. There is an Umpire in chief (plate
conflict with the rules, the manager may appeal the decision and
Umpire) and one, two, three or five field Umpires.
ask that a correct ruling be made. Such appeal shall be made only
to the Umpire who made the protested call.
14.1 UMPIRE AUTHORITY
Each Umpire has the following authority:
14.2.3 If a decision is appealed, the Umpire making the decision may ask
another Umpire for information before making a final ruling. No
14.1.1 To order a player, manager, coach, or team personnel to do or
Umpire shall criticise or interfere with another Umpire’s decision,
refrain from doing anything that affects the administering of these
unless asked. However, if there is a misinterpretation of a rule,
rules and to enforce prescribed penalties.
it should be brought to the attention of the Umpire-in-chief. If
the Umpire’s change a call that has been made, then they have
14.1.2 To rule on any point not specifically covered in these rules.
the authority to take all steps that they may deem necessary, in
their discretion, to eliminate the results and consequences of the
14.1.3 To disqualify any player, manager, coach, or team personnel for
earlier call that they are reversing, including placing runners where
objecting to decisions or for unsportsmanlike conduct or language
they think those runners would have been after the play, had the
and to eject such disqualified person from the playing field. If a
ultimate call been made as the initial call, disregarding interference
player is disqualified while a play is in progress, the disqualification
or obstruction that may have occurred on the play. Failures of
shall not take effect until there is no further action is possible in
runners to tag up based upon the initial call on the field, runners
that play.
passing other runners or missing bases, all in the discretion of
the Umpires. Correction of a missed ball-strike count shall not be
14.1.4 To disqualify, at his discretion from the playing field, any person
permitted after a pitch is thrown to a following batter, or in the
whose duties permit his presence on the field, such as ground crew
case of the final batter of an inning or game, after all infielders of
members, photographers, newsmen, broadcasting crew members,
the defensive team leave fair territory.
and any spectator or other person not authorised to be on the
playing field.

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Note: The defensive team may request the plate Umpire to ask 14.3.1.8 If a time limit has been set, announce the fact and the time
his partner for help on a half swing when the plate Umpire call a set before the game starts.
pitch a ball. But not when the pitch is called a strike. Appeals on
a half swing must be made before the next pitch or any play or 14.3.1.9 Inform the Official Scorer of the official batting order, and
attempted play. Baserunners must be alert to the possibility that any changes in the line-ups and batting order, on request.
the base Umpire on appeal from the plate Umpire may reverse the
call of a ball to the call of strike, in which the runner is in jeopardy 14.3.1.10 Announce any special ground rules, at his discretion.
of being thrown out by the catcher’s throw. Also, the catcher must
be alert in a base stealing situation if a ball call is reversed to a 14.3.1.11 Eject a player, manager, coach or team member.
strike by the base Umpire upon appeal from the plate Umpire. The
ball is in play on appeal on a half swing. 14.3.2 A field Umpire may take any position on the playing field he thinks
best suited to make impending decisions on the bases. His duties
14.2.4 No Umpire may be replaced during a game unless he is injured or shall be to:
becomes ill.
14.3.2.1 Make all decisions on the bases except those specifically
14.2.5 If there are two or more Umpires, one shall be designated Umpire- reserved to the Umpire in chief.
in-chief and the other field Umpires.
14.3.2.2 Take concurrent jurisdiction with the Umpire in chief in
14.3 UMPIRE POSITION calling “Time,” balks, illegal pitches, or defacement or
discolouration of the ball by any player.
14.3.1 The Umpire in chief shall stand behind the catcher. He is called the
plate Umpire. His duties shall be to: 14.3.2.3 Aid the Umpire in chief in every manner in enforcing
the rules, and excepting the power to forfeit the game,
14.3.1.1 Take full charge of, and be responsible for, the proper shall have equal authority with the Umpire in chief in
conduct of the game. administering and enforcing the rules and maintaining
discipline.
14.3.1.2 Call and count balls and strikes.
14.3.3 If different decisions should be made on one play by different
14.3.1.3 Call and declare fair balls and fouls except those commonly Umpires, the Umpire in chief shall call all the Umpires into
called by field Umpires. consultation, the Umpire in chief (unless another Umpire may have
been designated by the League) shall determine which decision
14.3.1.4 Make all decisions on the batter. shall prevail, based on which Umpire was in the best position and
which decision was most likely correct. Play shall proceed as if only
14.3.1.5 Make all decisions except those commonly reserved for the the final decision had been made.
field Umpires.
14.4 REPORTING
14.3.1.6 Decide when a game shall be forfeited. The Umpire shall report to the Federation, League or WBSC
office within twelve hours after the end of a game all violations
14.3.1.7 Have the lights turned on when necessary for safety of rules and other incidents worthy of comment, including the
reasons. Whenever possible, this should be done at the disqualification of any trainer, manager, coach or player, and the
beginning of an inning. reason therefor.

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When any trainer, manager, coach, or player is disqualified for a If not sure, ask one of your associates. Do not carry this to
flagrant offence such as the use of obscene or indecent language, extremes, be alert and get your own plays. The first requisite is to
or an assault upon an Umpire, trainer, manager, coach or player, get decisions correctly. If in doubt don’t hesitate to consult your
the Umpire shall forward full particulars to the Federation, League associate. Umpire dignity is important but never as important as
office within four hours after the end of the game. “being right.”
Most important rule for Umpires is always
14.5 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO UMPIRES
Umpires, on the field, should not indulge in conversation with “BE IN POSITION TO SEE EVERY PLAY.”
players. Keep out of the coaching box and do not talk to the coach
Even though your decision may be 100% right, players still
on duty.
question it if they feel you were not in a spot to see the play clearly
Keep your uniform in good condition. Be active and alert on the and definitely.
field.
Finally, be courteous, impartial and firm, and so compel respect
Always be courteous to team officials, avoid visiting team locker from all.
rooms and dugouts.
When you enter a ballpark, your sole duty is to Umpire a ball game
as the representative of baseball.
Keep the game moving. A ball game is often helped by energetic
and earnest work of the Umpires. You are the only official
representative of baseball on the ball field. It is often a trying
position which requires the exercise of much patience and good
judgment, but do not forget that the first essential in working out
of a bad situation is to keep your own temper and self-control.
You no doubt are going to make mistakes, but never attempt to
“even up” after having made one. Make all decisions as you see
them and forget which is the home or visiting teams.
Keep your eye on the ball while it is in play. It is more important
to know just where a fly ball fell, or a thrown ball finished up,
than whether or not a runner missed a base. Do not call the plays
too quickly or turn away too fast when a fielder is throwing to
complete a double play. Watch out for dropped balls after you
have called a player out.
Do not come running with your arm up or down, denoting “out”
or “safe.” Wait until the play is completed before making any arm
motion.
Each Umpire team should work out a simple set of signals, so the
proper Umpire can always right a manifestly wrong decision when
convinced he has made an error. If sure you got the play correctly,
do not be stampeded by players’ appeals to “ask the other man.”

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RULE 15. OFFICIAL SCORER

15.1 SCORING DIRECTOR

The WBSC will appoint a Scoring Director in each competition,
who will designate an Official Scorer and up to two assistant
scorers for each game of the tournament.

15.2 SCORER
The Official Scorer shall have the exclusive and sole authority to
make and record all decisions that refer to the official scoring
rules that involve a decision based on his or her judgment, such
as whether a batter’s advance to first base is for a hit or for an
error. The Official Scorer is an official representative of the WBSC,
and has the right and deserves the respect, consideration and
dignity proper to his position, he will have the full protection of the

CHAPTER WBSC and its bodies. The Official Scorer shall inform the Scoring
Director about any offence, aggression or attempted aggression

04.
received from any manager, coach, player, employee, director
or representative of a team, in the course of or because of the
exercise of their duties and functions as Official Scorer.

SCORING The Official Scorer, in order to ensure the optimal performance

of his tasks, will perform functions and observe the game from a
suitable location and according to his position and responsibilities.
The Official Scorer must inform his decisions through the channels
and means established by the WBSC in a timely manner.

15.2.1 The Official Scorer shall record all of the actions of a game and his
decisions in accordance with the WBSC Official Rules of Baseball
and the WBSC Scoring Manual.

15.2.1.1 The Official Scorer shall record on the official score sheet the
name of each player and his position or positions assumed
during the game, in the order in which the player batted, or
could have batted if the game did not end before the player
completed his turn.

15.2.1.2 When a player has not switched positions with another

player but is placed in a different place than his position
for reasons of defensive strategies for a given batter of the
opposing team (defensive shift), the Official Scorer will not
record this movement as a new defensive position.

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15.2.1.3 The Official Scorer shall note on the official score sheet, any 15.2.2.2 The WBSC in conjunction with the Scoring Director of the
player who enters the game as a substitute batter or runner, competition, after analysing the arguments and evidence
whether or not the player continues in the game after that. presented, may request the Official Scorer to change a
decision if it is concluded that the decision of the Official
15.2.1.4 The Official Scorer must include the name of any substitute Scorer has been erroneous. After this procedure no
player announced but replaced by another substitute player decision will be changed.
before entering the game. Any subsequent substitute shall be
recorded as a substitute batter or runner for the player he is 15.2.2.3 The WBSC through the Scoring Director may request to
replacing. change any decision of an Official Scorer that contradicts
these WBSC Official Rules of Baseball and will take
15.2.1.5 The Official Scorer must check the score sheet, for this whatever action is necessary with the aim of correcting
he must verify that the sum of the total times at bat of a any statistics that need amendment as a result of such an
team, sacrifice bunts, sacrifice flies, bases on balls received, incorrectly noted decision.
batters hit by pitches, batters awarded first base because
of interference or obstruction, is equal to the sum of the 15.2.3 The Official Scorer must immediately notify the Technical
total runs scored, runners left on base and outs made by the Commissioner or the head of the Umpires of the game if the teams
opposing team minus runners placed on base by application change from offence to defence or vice versa, before making three
of the tie-break rule. outs, or continue playing after the third out.

15.2.2 The Official Scorer must write down all the actions of the game at 15.2.4 The Official Scorer shall not call the attention of the Umpires or
the time they happen in the game, with respect to the decisions any member of the teams, due to the fact that a batter is batting
related to the judgement will have up to a maximum of fifteen (15) out of turn.
minutes at the conclusion or suspension of the game to make any
modification. No appraisal decision can be changed later, unless 15.3 GAME OVER
the Official Scorer requests it to the Scoring Director and the latter,
evaluating the reasons and arguments presented, authorises it. 15.3.1 When a regulation game is called, the Official Scorer shall include
all individual and team records up to the time the game ends as
The Official Scorer will not be authorised or able to make a
stated in WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 7.7, 7.8 and 7.9.
decision that is in conflict with the WBSC Official Rules of Baseball
and shall conform strictly to what is indicated in the official scoring If the game ends in a tie, the Official Scorer will not credit a
rules. The Official Scorer will not make any decision that is in winning or losing pitcher.
conflict with the decision of an Umpire, however, he will have the
authority to decide on any point that is not specified in the WBSC 15.3.2 When a game ends by run difference according to what is
Official Rules of Baseball. established in the WBSC Official Rules of Baseball the game will
be a regulation game and the Official Scorer must include all the
15.2.2.1 A player or team may request the WBSC to review a individual and team record.
judgement decision made by an Official Scorer in a game in
which such player or team participated. 15.3.2.1 When a game ends on run difference, the Official Scorer
must apply all considerations set forth in the WBSC
The request must be made through a written notification or Official Rules of Baseball regarding the winning run and
by any electronic means established by the WBSC within 12 the value of hits.
hours after the conclusion of such game.

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15.3.3 If the game is suspended or played under protest, the Official

Scorer shall make a note of the exact situation of the game at
RULE 16. BATTING RECORD
the time of the protest or suspension, including the score (runs
by each team), the number of outs, the position of the runners
16.1 BATTER OUT OF TURN
on base, the count of balls and strikes of the batter, the line-up of
When a batter does not appear to bat in his proper turn, and
each team and the players that have been substituted from the
another batter in the batting order completes the turn in his place,
game of both teams.
it is an out-of-turn batter and the opposing team has the right to
This aspect is very important since, if a suspended or protested appeal.
game is to be resumed, it must continue in exactly the same
When a player bats out of turn and is put out, and as a result of
situation as it existed at the time of the suspension, that is, if a
an appeal play by the opposing team before a pitch is made, the
protested game is ordered to be played again from the time of
proper batter is declared out, the Official Scorer shall score the
the protest, the game must resume with exactly the situation that
proper batter with a time at bat, and the putout and any assist are
existed just before the protested play.
credited to the fielders who made the putout during the action.
15.3.4 When a regulation game is forfeited, the Official Scorer will include If an improper batter becomes a runner as a result of an appeal
all individual and team statistics up to the time of the forfeit. If play by the opposing team before a pitch is made, the proper
a game is forfeited prior to being a regulation game, the Official batter is called out for missing his turn at bat, the Official Scorer
Scorer will not include any individual or team statistics but will only shall score the proper batter who was due to bat, a time at bat and
record and report the reason for the forfeiture. credit the catcher with a putout, and ignore all the actions which
occurred after the improper batter reached first base.
15.3.4.1 If the winning team by forfeit has the lead at the time of
If more than one batter bats out of turn consecutively, the Official
forfeit, the Official Scorer shall credit as the winning and
Scorer shall record all plays exactly as they occur, ignoring the turn
losing pitchers the pitchers who would have qualified if the
at bat of the player(s) who failed to bat in the correct order and
game had been called at the time of forfeiture.
score their turns as a Lost Turn.
15.3.4.2 If the winning team by forfeit is losing or if the game is tied The Official Scorer will never alert the Umpires or any member of
at the time of the forfeit, the Official Scorer shall not credit a either team if a player is batting out of turn.
winning or losing pitcher.
16.2 HITS
15.4 REPORTS A hit is a statistic credited to a batter when said batter reaches a
After each game, including forfeited and/or protested games, base without errors and safely as outlined in these WBSC Official
the Official Scorer, based on the provisions of these WBSC Rules of Baseball.
Official Rules of Baseball and the technical regulations of each
tournament, will make the respective report using the formats 16.2.1 The Official Scorer shall credit the batter with a hit when:
established by the WBSC, which will be delivered to the Scoring
Director of the competition. 16.2.1.1 The batter reaches first base or a subsequent base with a
fair ball which remains on the playing field, or hits the fence
The Official Scorer will likewise send the report of any suspended
before being touched by a fielder, or passes over the fence
game after it has been completed, or after it becomes an official
game because it could not be completed.
16.2.1.2 The batter reaches first base by hitting a fair zone ball with
such force or so slowly that any fielder attempting to make
a play on it has no opportunity to do so.

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The Official Scorer shall credit a hit if the fielder touching the first base to which he is advancing and is
attempting to catch the ball is unable to make the play, called out on appeal.
even though such fielder deflects the ball and prevents
another fielder from making a play that could put out the 16.2.2.3 When an infielder catches a batted ball and puts out a
batter-runner or another runner. preceding runner who is attempting to advance a base or
return to his original base, or could have been put out with
16.2.1.3 The batter reaches first base safely by hitting a fair ball ordinary effort except for a fielding error.
which gives an irregular bounce that a fielder cannot catch
it with ordinary effort; or it touches the pitcher’s plate or 16.2.2.4 A fielder fails in his attempt to put out a preceding runner
any other base (including home) before it is touched by and in the Official Scorer’s judgment the batter-runner
a fielder and rebounds in such a way that a fielder cannot could have been put out at first base. It will not apply if the
catch it with ordinary effort. fielder merely looks or feints toward another base before
attempting to make the out at first base.
16.2.1.4 The batter reaches first base safely by hitting a fair
ball that has not been touched by a fielder and is in 16.2.2.5 A runner is called out for interfering with a fielder
fair territory when it reaches the outfield, unless in the attempting to catch a batted ball, unless in the judgement
judgment of the Official Scorer it could have been caught of the Official Scorer the batter-runner would have been
with ordinary effort. safe had the interference not occurred.
In all actions listed in WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule
16.2.1.5 A fair ball that has not been touched by a fielder touches a
16.2.2, the batter will be credited with one time At Bat, but
runner or Umpire, unless the runner is called out for being
not a hit.
touched by an infield fly in which case the Official Scorer
shall not credit a hit.
16.3 EXTRA BASE HITS

16.2.1.6 A defensive fielder attempts unsuccessfully to put out

16.3.1 The Official Scorer may score a hit as a one base hit, two base
a preceding runner and, in the judgment of the Official
hit, three base hit, or four base hits (home run), when it is not the
Scorer, the batter-runner would not have been put out at
result of an error or an out. In the following way:
first base with ordinary effort.
16.3.1.1 It is a one base hit if the batter stops at first base, it is a two
16.2.1.7 A fielder makes an exceptional fielding play of a batted
base hit if the batter stops at second base, it is a three-base
ball and such play is unsuccessful in putting out the batter
hit if the batter stops at third base, it is a home run if the
or a base runner.
batter touches all the bases and scores.
In any situation the Official Scorer should always give the
batter the benefit of the doubt. 16.3.1.2 When, with one or more runners on base, the batter
advances more than one base on a hit and the defending
16.2.2 The Official Scorer shall not credit a hit to the batter when: team attempts to put out a preceding runner, the Official
Scorer shall determine whether the batter legitimately
16.2.2.1 A runner is forced out by a batted ball, or would have been earned a two-base hit or a three-base hit or if the batter
forced out except for a fielding error. advanced beyond first base on a fielder’s choice.
The Official Scorer shall not credit the batter with a three-
16.2.2.2 After the batter hits the ball, a runner who is required to
base hit when a preceding runner is put out at home, or
advance because the batter becomes a runner, misses
might have been put out but for an error.

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The Official Scorer shall not credit the batter with a two- 16.3.3 When the batter, after making a safe hit, overruns second or third
base hit when a preceding runner trying to advance from base and is out trying to return, the Official Scorer will credit him
first base is put out at third base, or would have been put with a safe hit to the value of the last base touched by him.
out but for an error.
If the batter-runner overruns or attempts to run past second base
The Official Scorer, except as noted above, shall not after reaching that base and attempts to return and is put out, the
determine the value of hits by the number of bases Official Scorer shall credit him with a two-base hit.
advanced by a preceding runner. A batter may deserve a
If the batter-runner overruns third base after reaching that base
two-base hit even though a preceding runner advanced one
and then attempts to return and is put out, the Official Scorer shall
or no bases, likewise the batter may deserve a one-base
credit him with a three-base hit.
hit even though he reaches second base and the preceding
runner advances two bases.
16.3.4 When the batter-runner is awarded two bases, three bases, or a
home run in accordance with the provisions set forth in WBSC
16.3.1.3 To clarify what is stated in this rule, the following examples
Official Rules of Baseball (Rule 10.4.7.1 through 10.4.7.5), the Official
are indicated:
Scorer, as the case may be, shall credit a two-base hit, a three-base
hit, or a home run.
Example: With a runner on first base, the batter hits a base
hit to the right fielder who tries unsuccessfully to throw out
16.3.5 When the batter, after making a safe hit, is called out on appeal
the runner on third base, on the throw the batter reaches
for missing a base, the last base he safely touched shall determine
second base. The Official Scorer shall credit the batter with
whether the Official Scorer shall credit him with a one base hit, a
a one base hit.
two-base hit, or a three-base hit.
With a runner on second base, the batter hits a fly ball, the
If the batter-runner is called out by missing home, the Official
runner waits to see if the ball is caught and when it lands,
Scorer shall credit him with a three-base hit. If the batter-runner is
he advances only to third base, the batter-runner reaches
called out for missing third base, the Official Scorer shall credit him
second base. The Official Scorer shall credit a two-base hit
with a two-base hit. If the batter-runner is called out for missing
to the batter.
second base, the Official Scorer shall credit him with a one-base
With a runner on third base, the batter hits a fly ball into hit. If the batter-runner is called out for not touching first base, the
the outfield, the runner steps forward, but runs back to tag Official Scorer must credit him with an At Bat, but not with a hit.
up thinking the ball will be caught. The ball falls safe, but
the runner cannot score although the batter has reached 16.4 GAMES ENDED BY HIT
second base. The Official Scorer shall credit a two-base hit
to the batter. 16.4.1 When the batter ends a game with a safe hit that drives in as many
runs as are necessary to give his team the win, the Official Scorer
16.3.2 When the batter attempts to get a two-base hit or a three-base hit shall credit him with a hit of as many bases that are advanced
through a slide, he must hold the last base to which he advances. by the runner who scored the winning run and only if the batter
covered as many bases as the runner advanced who scored the
If the batter-runner slides when passing the base and is out before
winning run.
returning safely to the base, he shall be credited with as many
bases as he has reached safely. This rule shall apply even if the batter-runner is theoretically
entitled to more bases for having been awarded an automatic
If the batter-runner slides past second base and is out, the Official
extra base hit in accordance with the provisions in WBSC Official
Scorer shall credit him with a one-base hit; if he slides past third base
Baseball Rule 10.4.7.
and is put out, the Official Scorer shall credit him with a two-base hit.

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16.4.2 The Official Scorer shall credit the batter with a base touched The Official Scorer shall give the batter the benefit of the doubt
during the normal course of a play, even if the winning run has when assessing that a batter sacrificed his time At Bat with the
scored moments before on the same play. intention of advancing a runner or runners.
When the runner is out, or would have been put out except for
Example: The game is tied in the bottom of the seventh inning, the
a fielding error, while he is attempting to advance one base on a
home team has a runner on second base, and the batter bats a hit
bunt, a sacrifice bunt shall not be scored and the Official Scorer
into the outfield. The runner scores after the batter-runner touched
shall charge the batter with a time At Bat.
first base and continued toward second base, but just before the
batter-runner touched second base. If the batter-runner reaches
16.5.2 SACRIFICE FLY
second base, the Official Scorer shall credit him with a two-base hit.
The Official Scorer shall score a sacrifice fly when with less than two
out, the batter hits a fly ball or a line drive played by an outfielder
16.4.3 When the batter ends a game by hitting a home run out of the
or an infielder in the outfield or who is running towards that area
playing field, he and all runners on base are entitled to score.
regardless of whether they are either in fair or foul territory and:
16.5 THE SACRIFICES
16.5.2.1 The ball is caught and a runner scores.
The Official Scorer in accordance with what is indicated in these
WBSC Official Rules of Baseball may credit the batter with two
16.5.2.2 The ball is dropped and a runner scores and in the
types of sacrifices, by a bunt or fly ball. No time At Bat should be
judgment of the Official Scorer the runner could have
charged to the batter for either of these plays.
scored had the catch been made.
16.5.1 SACRIFICE BUNT The Official Scorer shall score a sacrifice fly even if another
The Official Scorer shall credit the batter with a sacrifice bunt runner is out in a force play after the batter became a
when, with less than two outs, the batter advances one or more runner.
runners with a bunt and is put out at first base, or would have been
put out except for a fielding error. If in the judgment of the Official 16.6 RUNS BATTED IN (RBI)
Scorer the batter hit the ball solely with the intention of getting An RBI is a statistic credited to the batter when his batting action
a hit and not sacrificing his own chance of reaching first base for allows his team to score one or more runs.
the purpose of advancing a runner or runners, he shall charge the
batter one time At Bat. 16.6.1 The Official Scorer shall credit the batter with one RBI for every
run that scores:
In order to determine that it was a sacrifice bunt, in addition to
what is indicated in these WBSC Official Rules of Baseball, the
16.6.1.1 not assisted by an error, and as part of a play initiated by
Official Scorer must consider all the circumstances that occurred
a hit by the batter, a sacrifice bunt, a sacrifice fly, an infield
at the time of the plate appearance, such as the inning, the number
out, or a fielder’s choice.
of outs, and the score of the teams.
A sacrifice bunt shall be credited to the batter when, with less 16.6.1.2 when the bases are loaded and the batter becomes a runner
than two outs, a fielder catches a bunt and fails without error to on a base on balls, hit by a pitched ball, interference or
attempt to put out a preceding runner advancing one base. If in obstruction.
the judgment of the Official Scorer an ordinary effort would not
have served to put out the batter or a runner, he shall score a hit 16.6.1.3 when, with less than two out, an error is made on a play on
and not a sacrifice bunt. which a runner would normally score from third base.

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16.6.2 The Official Scorer shall not credit an RBI to the batter when: Scorer shall score, in addition to the stolen base, an error to
the catcher.
16.6.2.1 The batter hits a ground ball for a forced double play or a
reverse forced double play. 16.7.1.4 A runner attempting to steal a base is picked off base and
avoids being put out on a run-down play and advances to
16.6.2.2 A fielder is charged with an error because he did not catch the next base without the aid of an error.
a throw at first base that would have completed a forced
If another runner also advances on the play, both runners
double play.
shall be credited with a stolen base.
16.6.3 The Official Scorer must determine whether he credits a batter If a runner advances a base while another runner who
with an RBI when a fielder holds the ball or throws to a wrong attempted to steal a base avoids being put out in a run-
base. Usually if the runner keeps running, the Official Scorer should down play and returns safely to the base he originally
credit an RBI, however if the runner stops and then restarts when occupied without the aid of an error, the Official Scorer shall
he notices the misplay, the Official Scorer should credit the run as credit a stolen base to the advanced runner.
scored on a fielder’s choice.
16.7.2 The Official Scorer shall not credit a stolen base when:
16.7 STOLEN BASES AND CAUGHT STEALING
16.7.2.1 A double or triple steal is attempted, and a runner is
16.7.1 A stolen base is a statistic credited to a runner when he advances thrown out before reaching the base he attempted to steal.
one base without the aid of a hit, a put out, an error, a force out, a No other runner shall be credited with a stolen base.
fielder’s choice, a wild pitch, a passed ball, or a balk.
16.7.2.2 A runner is put out after oversliding a base, while he is
The Official Scorer shall credit a stolen base when:
attempting either to return to that base, or to advance to
the next base.
16.7.1.1 A runner leaves for the next base before the pitcher delivers
the ball.
16.7.2.3 A runner advances because of the defensive team’s
indifference to prevent such advance which will be scored
16.7.1.2 A runner leaves for the next base before the pitcher delivers
as a fielder’s choice. The Official Scorer shall consider,
the ball and the pitch results in what commonly is scored as
in judging that it is an indifference of the defence the
a wild pitch or a passed ball.
following aspects:
The Official Scorer shall credit the runner with a stolen - The inning and the score of the game.
base and shall disregard the misplay, unless the stealing - The attitude of the fielders to keep the runner close to
runner advances an additional base, or another runner also the base he was occupying.
advances an extra base. In this case, the Official Scorer, - If the pitcher had made attempts to turn to the base
in addition to the stolen base, shall score a wild pitch or a occupied by the runner.
passed ball. - If the fielder who normally covers the base to which the
runner made any movement, makes no attempts to cover
16.7.1.3 A runner attempts to steal a base and the catcher makes or catch a throw to such base.
a bad throw trying to prevent the stolen base. The Official - If the defending team had a strategic reason not to
Scorer shall not record an error unless that bad throw allows impede the runner’s advance.
the stealing runner to advance an additional base or allow - Whether the defending team is inadmissibly attempting to
another runner to advance. In this situation, the Official deny the runner credit for the stolen base.

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16.7.2.4 To clarify the above, the following examples are presented: throw and a caught stealing charged to the runner.

Example: In the top of the seventh inning, with the home 16.7.5 The Official Scorer shall not score a caught stealing when:
team winning by 9 runs, the visiting team’s batter reaches
first base. The runner tries to steal second base and the 16.7.5.1 As a result of a possible wild pitch or passed ball, a runner
catcher after receiving the pitch does not make the throw, is put out attempting to advance, In this instance the
nor do the players defending second base make an attempt runner would not have been credited with a stolen base
to cover second base. The Official Scorer can judge that had he arrived safely.
there was indifference from the defence.
16.7.5.2 A runner is awarded an extra base because of an
With a runner on first and third base, the Official Scorer
obstruction or when a runner is called out for interference
should normally credit a stolen base when the runner on
by the batter.
first advances to second base, if in his judgment the play
was no attempted on the said runner to prevent the runner
16.8 BASES ON BALLS
from third base scoring on the play to second base.
The Official Scorer may conclude that the defending team 16.8.1 The Official Scorer shall credit a base on balls to a batter awarded
impermissibly is trying to deny a runner credit for a stolen first base, who during his time At Bat receives four pitched balls
base, if the defensive team fails to defend the advance of a outside the strike zone.
runner who is close to equalling and beat a record or lead a
stat. 16.8.1.1 When the fourth pitch outside the strike zone (ball)
touches the batter, the Official Scorer shall record it as a
16.7.3 A caught stealing is a statistic recorded on a runner who was put batter hit by the pitch.
out or would have been put out had an error not been made when
said runner attempts to steal a base. A caught stealing should be 16.8.1.2 When a batter who received a base on balls is called out
credited to the catcher or pitcher who contributes in making a for refusing to advance to first base, the Official Scorer
runner out, or would have been out, if an error had not occurred in shall not credit the base on balls and charge him with a
an attempt to steal a base. time At Bat.

16.7.4 The Official Scorer shall also note that a runner was caught stealing 16.8.1.3 The Official Scorer shall record an intentional base on balls
when: when a batter is awarded first base because the defensive
team’s manager so indicates to the Umpire-in-chief his
16.7.4.1 He is caught off base and attempts to advance to the next intention not to pitch to a batter for strategic reasons or
base. Any movement or feint the runner makes towards the when the pitcher makes no attempt to throw the last pitch
next base will be considered an attempt to advance. to the batter into the strike zone, but purposely throws the
ball outside.
16.7.4.2 Goes over the base when sliding in his attempt to steal the
base and he’s tagged out. 16.8.2 The Official Scorer shall follow the procedure set forth in these
WBSC Official Rules of Baseball when more than one pitcher is
16.7.4.3 A runner attempting to steal a base is safe because a involved in awarding a base on balls (Rule 18.4.2.3), or when a
throw has been missed. In which case an assist will be substitute batter enters the game with a count already on the
credited to the player who made the throw, an error replaced batter and receives a base on balls (Rule 18.4.2.1).
charged to the fielder who missed or did not catch the

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16.9 STRIKEOUTS 17.1.2.2 Catches a batted or thrown ball and touches a base to put
out a batter or runner, even if he does so on an appeal play.
16.9.1 A Strikeout is a statistic credited to a pitcher and charged to a
batter when the Umpire-in-chief calls three strikes on the batter. 17.1.2.3 Tags a runner when he is off the base to which he is legally
entitled.
16.9.2 The Official Scorer shall record a strikeout when a batter:
17.1.3 The Official Scorer shall credit an automatic out to the catcher
16.9.2.1 Is called out on a third strike caught by the catcher. when a batter is called out for:

16.9.2.2 Is called out for a third strike not caught by the catcher 17.1.3.1 Being called out on strikes.
when there is a runner on first base with less than two out.
17.1.3.2 An Illegally batted ball.
16.9.2.3 Becomes a runner because a third strike is not caught.
17.1.3.3 Bunting the ball foul on the third strike, except when such
16.9.2.4 Bunts foul on a third strike, unless such bunt results in a bunt on the third strike is caught by any fielder.
foul fly caught by any fielder in foul territory. In this case
the Official Scorer will not record the strikeout and will 17.1.3.4 Having been touched by a ball hit by him.
credit the fielder who caught the ball with an out.
17.1.3.5 Having interfered with the catcher.
16.9.3 When the batter leaves the game with two strikes on his count and
the substitute batter completes the strikeout, the Official Scorer 17.1.3.6 Not batting in his own turn. See Rule 16.1 – Batter out of turn.
shall record the strikeout and time at bat for the first batter. If the
substitute batter completes the turn in any other way, including a 17.1.3.7 Refusing to touch first base after receiving a base on
walk, the Official Scorer shall record the action to the substitute balls, being hit by a pitch, or being awarded first base for
batter. interference of the catcher.

17.1.3.8 The Official Scorer shall also credit an automatic out to the

RULE 17. FIELDING RECORD catcher when a runner is called out for refusing to advance
from third base to home.

17.1.4 The Official Scorer shall credit an automatic out on the following
17.1 PUTOUTS
plays, for which he shall not credit an assist except as specified in
these WBSC Official Rules of Baseball:
17.1.1 An out is one of the three game actions necessary to end the turn
of the offensive team. The Official Scorer shall credit an out made
17.1.4.1 When the batter is called out for an infield fly that is not
by a fielder, whose action causes the batter-runner or a runner to
caught, the Official Scorer shall credit the out to the player of
be removed.
the defence who in his judgment may have made the catch.
17.1.2 The Official Scorer shall credit an out to each fielder who:
17.1.4.2 When a runner is called out for being touched by a batted
ball from in fair territory (including an infield fly), the Official
17.1.2.1 Catches a ball that is in the air, whether it is in fair or foul
Scorer shall credit the out to the player closest to the ball.
territory.

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17.1.4.3 When a runner is called out for running outside of the 3-foot should appreciate that to deflect means to stop,
(0.91 m) line to avoid being tagged, the Official Scorer shall slow down or change the direction of the ball and
credit the out to the fielder that the runner evaded. thereby effectively assist in putting out the batter
or a runner.
17.1.4.4 When a runner is called out for passing another runner, the 17.2.2.1.2 Only one assist and no more shall be credited to
Official Scorer shall credit the out to the nearest fielder at the each fielder who throws or deflects the ball on a
point where the pass occurred. run-down play, which results in an out or could
have been out unless for a later error.
17.1.4.5 When a runner is called out for running the bases in reverse 17.2.2.1.3 If an out results from an appeal within the natural
order, the Official Scorer shall credit the out to the fielder who course of the play, the Official Scorer shall credit
is covering the base from which the runner started his run. an assist to each fielder who participated in the
play and whose action allowed the out to be made,
17.1.4.6 When a runner is called out for interfering with a fielder, the except to the fielder making the out.
Official Scorer shall credit the out to the fielder with whom 17.2.2.1.4 If an out is made from an appeal play after the
the runner interfered, unless the fielder was in the act of previous play has ended and is initiated by the
throwing the ball when the interference occurred. In this case, pitcher throwing to a fielder, the Official Scorer
the Official Scorer will credit the out to the fielder towards shall credit the pitcher and him alone with an assist.
whom the throw was directed and will also credit an assist to
the fielder whose throw was interfered with. 17.2.2.2 Throws or deflects a ball during a play that results in a runner
being called out for interference or running off the line.
17.1.4.7 When a batter-runner is called out for interference by a
preceding runner, as stated in Rule 12.1.5, the Official Scorer 17.2.3 The Official Scorer shall not credit an assist to:
shall credit the out to the first baseman. If the interfered
fielder was in the act of throwing the ball, the Official Scorer 17.2.3.1 The pitcher for a strikeout, unless the pitcher fielded a third
will also credit him with an assist. The Official Scorer will strike that was not caught by the catcher and makes a throw
credit only one assist on that or any other play under the that results in an out or could have been out unless for a
provisions of these WBSC Official Rules of Baseball. later error.

17.2 ASSISTS 17.2.3.2 The pitcher when, after a legal pitch received by the catcher,
a runner is put out, the catcher catches a runner off base,
17.2.1 An assist is a statistic credited to a fielder whose action throws out a runner attempting to steal a base or tags a
contributes to a batter-runner or runner being put out. runner who tries to score.

17.2.2 The Official Scorer shall credit an assist to each defending player 17.2.3.3 A fielder whose wild throw allows a runner to advance,
who: even if that runner is subsequently put out as a result of a
continuous play.
17.2.2.1 Throws or deflects a batted or thrown ball in such a way as
A play that follows a bad play, whether an error or not, is a
to produce an out, or that could have been out but was not
new play and the player committing the bad play will not be
due to a subsequent error by another fielder.
credited with an assist unless he participates in the new play.
17.2.2.1.1 Simple ineffective contact with the ball should
Example: A batted ball is caught by the second baseman
not be considered as an assist. The Official Scorer
who throws to first base to put out the batter.

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His throw is off target and cannot be caught by the first 17.3.2.5 As an outfielder misses a batted fly ball that falls to the
baseman. Due to the bad throw, the batter-runner tries to ground, and in the judgment of the Official Scorer a fielder
advance to second base but is put out after the catcher in that position making ordinary effort would have caught
recovered the ball and threw it to the shortstop who made the ball.
the out. The Official Scorer must only credit an out to the
shortstop and an assist to the catcher. 17.3.2.6 Catches a thrown ball or a batted ground ball in time to
make the batter-runner out and does not touch first base
17.3 ERRORS or the batter-runner.

17.3.1 An error is a statistic that will be charged to a fielder whose bad 17.3.2.7 Catches a thrown or batted ball in time to put out any
action on a play benefits the offensive team. runner on a force play and fails to touch the base or the
runner.
17.3.1.1 Slow handling of the ball by a fielder that does not involve
mechanical misplay shall not be interpreted as an error. 17.3.2.8 Makes a bad throw to prevent a runner from advancing
and that bad throw allows the runner to advance one or
Example: A fielder cleanly fields a groundball but does not more bases beyond those he would have reached if the
throw to first base in time to put batter out. bad throw had not occurred.

17.3.1.2 It is not necessary for a fielder to touch the ball to be 17.3.2.9 Makes a bad throw that allows a runner to reach a base
charged with an error. safely and in the judgment of the Official Scorer a good
throw would have put out the runner, unless the bad throw
17.3.2 The Official Scorer shall credit an error to a fielder when he: was made to avoid a stolen base.

17.3.2.1 Makes a bad play such as dropping, missing or not 17.3.2.10 Throws the ball so low, high or wide, or that bounces on
catching the ball or making a bad throw in such a way that the ground and a runner who could be out reaches one
the bad play prolongs the presence at bat of the batter, or more bases as a result of that bad throw, the Official
prolongs the presence of a runner on base, or allows a Scorer will charge an error to the player who made the
runner to advance one or more bases. bad throw.

17.3.2.2 Drops a fly ball in foul territory that prolongs the presence 17.3.2.11 Makes a throw that bounces irregularly, hits a base or the
at bat of the batter, even though he later reaches first base pitcher’s plate, or touches a runner, fielder, or Umpire, and
or is put out. the action allows one or more runners to advance.
The Official Scorer will charge an error to the fielder whose
17.3.2.3 Lets a batted groundball pass between his legs or drops a
throw was good and well directed, even if it appears to be
fly ball without being touched, but in the Official Scorer’s
an unfair decision.
judgment the fielder could have caught the ball with
ordinary effort and made the out.
Example: An outfielder makes an accurate throw to
second base, but it hits the base and bounces back
17.3.2.4 As an infielder lets a batted ground ball pass either side
into the outfield area and allows a runner or runners to
of the infield, and in the judgment of the Official Scorer a
advance, as each base that a runner advances must be
fielder in that position making ordinary effort would have
justified.
caught the ball and retired the batter or another runner.

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17.3.2.12 Fails to stop or attempt to stop an accurate throw that 17.3.4.1 The Official Scorer shall not charge an error to the pitcher
allows a runner or runners to advance, provided there is who fails to cover first base on a play in which the batter-
reason to make the throw. If said throw is made towards runner safely reaches first base.
second base, the Official Scorer will determine which
fielder should have covered such base, second base or 17.3.4.2 The Official Scorer shall not charge an error to a fielder who
shortstop, for which he must charge the error to the erroneously throws to a wrong base.
negligent fielder.
17.3.5 The Official Scorer shall not charge an error:
If in the opinion of the Official Scorer there was no reason
to make the throw, the error should be charged to the
17.3.5.1 To the catcher when, after receiving the pitch, he makes a
fielder who made the throw.
misthrow attempting to prevent a runner from stealing a
base, unless the misthrow allows the runner attempting to
17.3.2.13 Induces another fielder to make an error. For example, by
steal to advance one or more bases beyond the initial base
colliding with another fielder he hinders his teammate from
he was attempting to steal, or allows another runner or
catching a batted ball. The Official Scorer shall charge an
runners to advance one or more bases.
error to the defending player who interfered and exempt
the hindered player from the error.
17.3.5.2 To a fielder who makes a bad throw attempting to put out a
runner, and in the judgment of the Official Scorer the runner
17.3.3 The Official Scorer will charge only one error on a bad throw,
would not have been put out with a perfect throw (ordinary
regardless of the number of bases advanced by one or more
effort), unless the bad throw allows any runner to advance
runners.
further than the base that he would have reached if there
had been no bad throw.
17.3.3.1 When an Umpire awards the batter, or a runner or runners
one or more bases because of interference or obstruction,
17.3.5.3 To a fielder who makes a bad throw with the intent to
the Official Scorer shall charge an error to the fielder who
complete a double play or triple play, unless the bad throw
committed it, regardless of how many bases the batter, or
allows any runner to advance beyond the base he would
runner or runners have advanced.
have reached had the bad throw not occurred.
If the Official Scorer considers that the obstruction does
When a fielder fails to catch a thrown ball, which would
not change the play, he will not charge the error to the
otherwise have completed a double play or triple play, the
fielder who committed it.
Official Scorer shall charge an error to the fielder who did
not catch the ball and credit an assist to the fielder who
17.3.4 The Official Scorer shall not record mental or judgmental errors as
made the throw.
errors, unless determined in these WBSC Official Rules of Baseball.
A mental error by a player in defence that causes a bad play or
17.3.5.4 To a fielder when, after failing to catch a batted ground
leads to a physical error, such as throwing the ball into the stands
ball, or after dropping a batted fly ball or line drive, or
or throwing or letting it roll to the mound, thinking there are three
a thrown ball, he recovers the ball in time to force out a
outs and thereby allowing one runner or more runners advance,
runner at any base.
will not be considered a mental error for the purposes of this rule.
Therefore, the Official Scorer will charge an error to the fielder who
17.3.5.5 To a fielder who deliberately prolongs a time at bat of a
makes such a mistake.
batter with a runner on third base and with less than two
outs, and drops a batted ball in foul territory with the intent
that that runner not score a run after the catch.

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17.3.5.6 A wild pitch or a passed ball is scored. 17.4.1.2 If the double or triple play is the result of “preceding runner
interference”, the Official Scorer shall not credit a grounded
17.3.5.7 When the batter is awarded first base for a base on balls, into double play to the batter. See WBSC Official Rules of
for being hit by a pitch, or for a wild pitch or passed ball. Baseball Rule 19.2.1.16.
(See Rule 17.5).
17.4.1.3 The Official Scorer will credit a participation in a double
17.3.5.8 When a runner or runners advance as a result of a wild play or triple play in the case of a forced double play, or a
pitch, a passed ball or a balk. reverse double play.

17.3.5.8.1 When the fourth called ball is a wild pitch or 17.4.2 The Official Scorer shall record the batter with a grounded into
passed ball and: double play when with less than two outs, with one or more
- The batter-runner advances one base beyond runners forced, there is a batted ball grounded to the infield that
first base. causes two or three outs on the forced runners or would have if
- Any runner forced to advance due to a base on there had not been an error on the play.
balls advances more than one base.
- A runner who is not forced to advance, advances 17.5 WILD PITCHES AND PASSED BALLS
one or more extra bases. In this case, the Official
Scorer shall note the base on balls to the batter 17.5.1 The Official Scorer shall charge the pitcher with a wild pitch when:
and the wild pitch or passed ball to justify the
advancement of the runner or runners. 17.5.1.1 A legally pitched ball is so high, or so low, or so far off the
plate that the catcher cannot catch or stop it with ordinary
17.3.5.8.2 When the catcher recovers the ball after a wild effort, thereby allowing a runner or runners to advance.
pitch or passed ball on the third strike and puts
out the batter-runner by tagging him or with a 17.5.1.2 A legally pitched ball touches the ground or home plate
throw to first base and another runner or runners before reaching the catcher and cannot be caught by the
advance on the play. In this situation, the Official catcher, allowing a runner or runners to advance.
Scorer will record the strikeout, putout, and
assists, if any, and justify advancing the other 17.5.1.3 The third strike is a wild pitch that cannot be caught by the
runner or runners on a fielder’s choice. catcher and allows the batter-runner to reach first base. The
Official Scorer will score a strikeout and a wild pitch.
17.4 DOUBLE PLAYS AND TRIPLE PLAYS
17.5.2 The Official Scorer shall charge a passed ball to the catcher when:
17.4.1 The Official Scorer shall credit participation in a double play or
triple play to each fielder who makes an out or an assist when 17.5.2.1 He fails to catch or control a legally thrown ball that could
two or three players are put out, between the moment a pitch is have been caught or controlled with ordinary effort, thereby
thrown and the moment that the ball becomes dead or is again allowing one or more runners to advance.
in the possession of the pitcher in his pitching position, unless an
error or bad play occurs between the outs. 17.5.2.2 The third strike is a pitch not controlled by the catcher who
could have caught it with ordinary effort and allows the
17.4.1.1 The Official Scorer shall also credit a double play or triple batter-runner to reach first base. The Official Scorer will
play, if after the ball is in possession of the pitcher an appeal score a strikeout and a passed ball.
play is made resulting in an additional out.

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17.5.3 The Official Scorer shall not charge a wild pitch or passed ball if The Official Scorer must also consider the following:
the defending team makes an out before any runner advances.
18.2.1.1 Whenever the score is tied, the game becomes a new
Example: With a runner on first base a pitch touches the ground game with respect to determining the winning pitcher.
and the catcher cannot catch it, but the catcher manages to
recover the ball and throws to second base in time to throw out 18.2.1.2 When the opposing team ties or takes the lead, all
the runner. In this case the Official Scorer will not charge the pitchers who participated in the game up to that point
pitcher with a wild pitch. and were removed are excluded from being credited with
the win.
With a runner on first base the catcher fails to catch a pitch that
the Official Scorer judged could have been caught. The catcher
18.2.1.3 If the pitcher against whom the opposing team tied or
manages to recover the ball and throws to second base in time to
took the lead continues to pitch, and his team regains the
put the runner out. The Official Scorer will not charge the catcher
lead and holds it until the end of the game, that pitcher
with a passed ball.
shall be credited with the win.
In both examples the Official Scorer will record the advance of any
other runner as a fielder’s choice. 18.2.1.4 A starting pitcher to claim the win in the game must
pitch at least the minimum of inning as specified in the
Appendix A2.2:

RULE 18. PITCHING RECORD 18.2.1.5 When a starting pitcher is eligible for the win but does
not pitch the minimum required innings, the Official
Scorer shall credit the winning pitcher to the relief
18.1 WORK OF THE PITCHERS pitcher, if there was only one. If more relief pitchers have
The Official Scorer for the purposes of these WBSC Official Rules participated, the Official Scorer will credit the one who, in
of Baseball must take into consideration the following: his opinion, was the most effective in obtaining the win.
- Starting Pitcher: is the pitcher who throws the first pitch to the
leadoff batters in both line-ups.
- Relief Pitcher: is a pitcher who enters the game after the starting 18.2.1.6 To credit the win to a relief pitcher, he must pitch at
pitcher is removed for any reason (injury, ineffectiveness, ejection least one complete inning, or be the pitcher when a
or strategy). fundamental and crucial out is made for the development
and result of the game.
18.2 PITCHERS’ DECISION
The Official Scorer shall credit in each game a winning pitcher, a 18.2.1.7 The first relief pitcher who pitches effectively may not
losing pitcher and, if applicable, credit a pitcher with a save. necessarily be credited with the win. The Official Scorer
must credit the victory to the relief pitcher who, in his
18.2.1 WINNING PITCHER: opinion, was the most effective.
Obviously, he must belong to the winning team of the game and - The Official Scorer in determining the most effective
the Official Scorer will credit as the winning pitcher the one who relief pitcher must consider the number of runs and
was in the game (pitching) when his team takes the lead on the earned runs allowed, runners placed on base by each
scoreboard, or during the offensive inning in which said pitcher relief pitcher and the game situation at the time of each
is removed from the game, and his team does not lose such relief pitcher’s appearance.
advantage.

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- If two or more relief pitchers were similarly effective, 18.2.3.4 Meets one of these conditions:
the Official Scorer should assume that the first relief - He enters the game with a lead of no more than three
pitcher to participate in the game is the winner. runs and pitches at least one inning;
- He enters the game, regardless of the count, when the
18.2.1.8 The Official Scorer shall not credit as the winning pitcher the possible tying run is on base or is one of the first two
relief pitcher who had a brief and ineffective appearance, batters he faces (is the batter at bat, or is the batter in
and at least one subsequent relief pitcher pitches effectively the on-deck circle); or
to help maintain his team’s lead. In such a case, the Official - He pitches at least:
Scorer shall credit the subsequent relief pitcher who, in his - Three innings in a game scheduled on nine innings; or
judgment, was more effective with the win. - Two innings in a game scheduled on seven or six innings,
only if the game lasts at least 5 innings.
The Official Scorer shall consider the appearance of a
relief pitcher to be brief and ineffective when he pitches
18.2.4 THE OFFICIAL SCORER WILL ACCREDIT:
less than one inning and, in his performance, allows the
opposing team to score two or more runs, even if those
18.2.4.1 A COMPLETE GAME to the pitcher who starts and ends
runs are recorded to the previous pitcher’s statistics.
the game, that is, who pitches all the innings that his team
has on defence without the participation of a relief pitcher.
18.2.2 LOSING PITCHER:
Undoubtedly, he must belong to the losing team of the game
18.2.4.2 A SHUTOUT to the pitcher who pitches a complete game
and the Official Scorer will credit as the losing pitcher the pitcher
and does not allow any runs to be scored. As he pitched
responsible for allowing the run that gives the opposing team the
for every out of the game and did not allow a run, he must
lead that it maintains until the end of the game.
also be the winning pitcher.
The Official Scorer must also keep in mind the following: - The Official Scorer shall not credit any pitcher with a
shutout who does not pitch the entire game, unless he
18.2.2.1 Each time the score is tied the game becomes a new game goes in to pitch with no out, before the opposing team
with respect to determining the losing pitcher. has scored a run in the first inning, ends said inning and
pitches the remainder of the game without allowing any
18.2.2.2 A pitcher must have all runs scored by runners he has left runs.
on base recorded, regardless of whether the runs were - When two or more pitchers combine to pitch a scoreless
scored when a subsequent pitcher is pitching, except for game, all pitchers will receive credit for participating
considerations set forth in these WBSC Official Rules of in a combined shutout and it shall be indicated in the
Baseball Rule 18.4.1. competition statistics.

18.2.3 SAVED GAME (RELIEF PITCHERS): 18.3 EARNED RUNS AND ALLOWED RUNS
The Official Scorer shall credit a relief pitcher with a save when his
team wins the game and: 18.3.1 The Official Scorer shall record an earned run when the opposing
team scores a run that is the responsibility of the pitcher, i.e., each
18.2.3.1 He is the pitcher who finishes said game. time a runner scores a run assisted by a hit, walk, batter hit by a
pitch, stolen base, sacrifice bunt or fly, putout, fielder’s choice,
18.2.3.2 He is not the winning pitcher. balk, wild pitch (including a wild pitch on a third strike), before
the defending team has had an opportunity to retire the offensive
18.2.3.3 He pitched at least one-third of an inning (one out). team.

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For purposes of determining whether or not a run is earned, fielder and the Official Scorer credited the fielder
an intentional walk will be interpreted in the same manner as with an error for such fault.
any other walk; a wild pitch or a balk is a pitcher’s responsibility
therefore like walks it contributes in exactly the same way for an Example: Pitcher 1 retires the first two batters of
earned run. the inning; Batter C hits a ball into foul territory
and the Official Scorer records an error by a
Example: Pitcher 1 puts out Batter A, Batter B hits a three-base player on defence who was able to catch the ball
hit (triple), with Batter C at bat, the pitcher balks, and the runner with ordinary effort and failed to do so prolonging
(Batter B) scores. The pitcher puts out Batter C and Batter D to the batter’s turn. Batter C hits a home run and the
end the inning. pitcher gets the next batter out.
The offensive team scored a run, which is recorded as earned by The offensive team scored a run, which was
Pitcher 1 because it was scored due to the balk. unearned for Pitcher 1, as the defence’s error
extended Batter C’s turn, which should have been
18.3.2 The Official Scorer to determine earned runs shall reconstruct the third out of the inning.
the inning without passed balls or errors (excluding catcher’s
interference). When the Official Scorer credits a fielder with an 18.3.3.1.3 For defensive interference or obstruction
error, the pitcher will always be given the benefit of the doubt with
When a batter is awarded first base on catcher’s
respect to determining what base or bases a runner or runners
interference and scores, the run will not count as an
would have reached on a play without errors.
earned run. However, the Official Scorer in this case
The Official Scorer shall recognise that an error by the pitcher will will not assume that such batter would have been
be treated the same as an error by another fielder. out in the absence of defensive interference, since
he did not have the opportunity to complete the
18.3.3 THE OFFICIAL SCORER SHALL NOT RECORD AN EARNED RUN WHEN: at-bat and it is unknown how it would have ended.

18.3.3.1 A batter-runner reaches first base as follows: Example: Pitcher 1 gets the first two batters
out, Batter C is awarded first base on catcher’s
18.3.3.1.1 For an error of a player to the defence. interference, Batter D hits a home run, and then
Batter E is the third out of the inning.
Example: Pitcher 1 retires the first two batters of
The offensive team scored two runs, of which only
the inning; Batter C reaches first base on an error
one will be credited as earned for Pitcher 1, that
by a fielder, Batter D hits a home run, and then
of Batter D who hit the home run, as the Official
the pitcher puts out the next batter.
Scorer cannot assume that Batter C would have
The offensive team scored two runs. The run been put out to end the innings if there was no
scored by Batter C is unearned because he interference.
reached first base on an error. The run scored by
Batter D is unearned because Batter C should 18.3.3.2 A run is scored by a runner whose time on bases was
have been the third out of the inning. prolonged by an error and who could have been put out on
the play without the error.
18.3.3.1.2 For a hit or other play after his time at bat was
prolonging by a foul fly that was not caught by a Example: With one out, Batter B reaches first base on a
safe hit; Batter C grounds the ball to the second baseman

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who attempts to throw out Batter B but throws the ball The Official Scorer shall charge each pitcher for the number
wild. An error is scored by the Official Scorer for the of runners he put on base, rather than charging each runner
misplay and for allowing the runner to advance. Batter D individually.
grounds out at first base and both runners advance one
base. Batter E get a safe hit, Batter B scores, and Batter C Example 1: Pitcher 1 allows a hit by Batter A and is then relieved by
advances to third. Batter F is the last out of the inning. Pitcher 2. Batter B grounds out and Batter A advances to second
base; Batter C strikes out and is the second out. Batter D hits
The offensive team scored a run, which is not earned due
safely and Batter A scores. The following batters are put out and
to the error of the defence which prolonged the life on
the inning ends.
base of Batter B as he should have been out.
The run scored must be charged to Pitcher 1.
18.3.3.3 A run was scored as a runner advanced one or more
bases on an error, passed ball, defensive interference, or Example 2: Pitcher 1 hits Batter A with a pitch and is then relieved
obstruction and in the judgment of the Official Scorer that by Pitcher 2. Batter B hits a ground ball to the infield that allows
run would not have been scored without the aid of the the defence to put out Batter A. Batter C grounds out and Batter
misplay. B advances to second base. Batter D hits a two-base hit (double)
and Batter B scores.
Example: Pitcher 1 retires the first batter of the inning,
The run scored must be charged to Pitcher 1.
Batter B reaches first base on a hit. Batter C hits a two-base
hit (double) and Batter B advances to third base. Batter D is
Example 3: Pitcher 1 throws a walk to Batter A and is relieved
the second out by strikeout. During the at bat of the Batter
by Pitcher 2. Batter B hits a two-base hit (double) and Batter A
E, the catcher incurs a passed ball and Batter B scores a
advances to third base. Batter C grounds to second base, Batter A
run. Batter E is subsequently out and the inning ends.
is out at home plate and Batter B advances to third base. Batter D
The offensive team scored a run, which cannot be credited is the second out of the inning on a fly ball and all runners remain
as an earned run to Pitcher 1 as Batter B would not have where they are. Batter E gets a safe hit and Batter B scores. Batter
scored without the aid of the passed ball. F is the third out of the inning.
The run scored must be charged to Pitcher 1.
18.4 SUBSTITUTION OF PITCHERS AND RUNS ALLOWED

Example 4: Pitcher 1 allows a hit by Batter A and is relieved by

18.4.1 When pitchers are changed during an inning, the Official Scorer
Pitcher 2. Batter B is hit with a pitch, Batter A advances to second
shall not record to the relief pitcher any runs (earned or unearned)
base. Batter C hits a fly ball and is out. During Batter D’s at bat,
scored by a runner who was on base at the time he came in to
Batter A is caught off base for the second out of the inning. Batter
pitch, nor any runs scored by any runner who reached base on a
D hits a three-base hit (triple) and Batter B scores. Batter E is the
fielder’s choice in which the defence put out a runner left on base
third out of the inning.
by the previous pitcher.
The run scored by Batter B will be credited to Pitcher 2.
When a pitcher leaves runners on base and is relieved, he shall be
responsible for as many runs subsequently scored as the number
Example 5: Pitcher 1 hits Batter A with a pitch and is relieved by
of runners he left on base when he left the game, unless such
Pitcher 2. Batter B gets a hit and Pitcher 2 is relieved by Pitcher 3.
runners are put out without the action of the batter. For example,
Batter C hits a ground ball to the infield and Batter A is out at third
caught stealing, caught off base, or called out for interference
base. Batter D also hits a ground ball to the infield and Batter B
when the batter-runner does not reach first base on the play.
is out. Batter E hits a home run and three runs are scored (Batter

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C, Batter D and Batter E). The next batter is the third out of the conflict with what is indicated in WBSC Official Baseball
inning. Rule 18.4.1.
The Official Scorer shall record one run to Pitcher 1, one run to
18.4.2.3 If when the pitcher is changed the batter’s count is:
Pitcher 2 and one run to Pitcher 3.
- 2 balls, 2 strikes
- 1 ball, 2 strikes
Example 6: Pitcher 1 allows a two-base hit (double) by Batter A
- 1 ball, 1 strike
and is relieved by Pitcher 2. Batter B is walked. Batter C is hit with
- 1 ball, 0 strike
a pitch. Batter D hits a ground ball to the infield and the defence
- 0 ball, 2 strikes
puts Batter An out at home plate. Batter E hits a two-base hit
- 0 ball, 1 strike
(double) and Batter B and Batter C score on the run. The following
batters are put out and the inning ends.
the Official Scorer shall credit that batter and his action to
The Official Scorer shall award one run to Pitcher 1 and one run to the relief pitcher.
Pitcher 2.
18.4.3 When a pitching change is made during an inning, the relief pitcher
Example 7: Pitcher 1 throws a walk to Batter A and is relieved by will not benefit from previous out opportunities that have not been
Pitcher 2. Pitcher 2 allows a hit by Batter B and on the play Batter taken when determining earned runs.
A attempts to reach third base and is put out. Batter B advanced
to second base on the throw. Batter C hits a three-base hit (triple) 18.4.3.1 The intent is to credit each relief pitcher with earned runs
and Batter B scores. The following batters strike out and the inning for which they are solely responsible.
ends.
18.4.3.2 In some situations, runs recorded as earned for the relief
The run scored must be charged to Pitcher 2.
pitcher may be charged as unearned runs for the team.
18.4.2 A relief pitcher shall not be liable when the first batter he faces
Example 1: After two outs, Pitcher 1 allows Batter A to
reaches first base by four balls, if such batter has a lead in balls
walk. Batter B reaches first base on an error by a defensive
and strikes when the substitution is made.
player. Pitcher 2 enters the game as a relief pitcher. Batter
C hits a home run, scoring all runners. Batter D is the third
18.4.2.1 If when the pitcher’s substitution is made the batter’s count
out of the inning.
is:
- 2 balls, 0 strike The Official Scorer will credit two unearned runs to Pitcher
- 2 balls, 1 strike 1, one earned run to Pitcher 2 and three unearned runs for
- 3 balls, 0 strike the team, as the inning should have ended when the error
- 3 balls, 1 strike was made.
- 3 balls, 2 strikes
Example 2: After two outs, Pitcher 1 hits Batter A with
and the batter receives a walk, the Official Scorer shall a pitch followed by Batter B who gets a safe hit, and is
credit that batter and the base on balls to the previous then relieved by Pitcher 2. Batter C reaches first base on
pitcher and not to the relief pitcher. an error by a fielder with other runners advancing one
base. Batter D hits a home run, scoring four runs. The next
18.4.2.2 Any other action by that batter, such as a hit, an error, a batter is out and the inning ends.
fielder’s choice, a force out, or hit by a pitch will be credited
to the relief pitcher. These conditions do not contradict or

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The Official Scorer shall score two unearned runs to performances, the individual leaders and the most outstanding
Pitcher 1 and two unearned runs to Pitcher 2 as the inning players in accordance with the guidelines established in these
would have ended when the error was made. WBSC Official Rules of Baseball and for the competition.

Example 3: Pitcher 1 allows a hit by Batter A. Batter B 19.2 PREPARATION OF REPORTS

reaches first base on an error by a fielder and Batter A For the preparation and management of the reports, the Scoring
advances to second base. Pitcher 2 relieves Pitcher 1. Director must include:
Batter C hits a home run and three runs are scored. The
following two batters, D & E are retired. Batter F reaches 19.2.1 The following data and statistics for each batter and runner:
first base on an error by a fielder. Batter G is hit by a pitch.
Batter H hits a three-base hit (triple) and two runs are 19.2.1.1 Name and last name, if he bats right or left handed or is a
scored. The next batter is out and the inning is over. switch hitter, and for fielders it must include which hand
he throws with. In addition, the report of each game must
The Official Scorer shall score two runs to Pitcher 1, one
include the batting order and position or positions played
earned and one unearned; and three runs to Pitcher 2 with
by each player.
only one being an earned run.
19.2.1.2 AB - Number of times At Bat, except for those times at bat
where the player:
RULE 19. STATISTICS - Hits a sacrifice bunt.
- Hits a sacrifice fly.
- Is awarded first base on four balls (walking) intentionally
or not.
- Is hit by a pitch.
19.1 RESPONSIBILITIES
- Is awarded first base because of interference or
The Scoring Director, based on the records of the Official Scorer
obstruction.
and assistant scorer(s), after each game is declared over, including
forfeited games, will be responsible for managing and preparing
19.2.1.3 R - Number of runs scored.
the report that includes all individual and collective records
for each player and team, for each championship game and
19.2.1.4 H – Total number of safe hits.
accumulated for the entire competition. The reports must include
all the statistics specified in these rules related to offence (batting)
19.2.1.5 RBI - Number of runs batted in.
and defence for each player who appears in a game of the
competition, as well as the statistics relating to the pitchers.
19.2.1.6 2B - Number of two-base hits (doubles).

19.1.1 The Scoring Director will publish said report through the formats,
19.2.1.7 3B - Number of three-base hits (triples).
means and periods established by the WBSC for each competition.
19.2.1.8 HR - Number of home runs.
19.1.2 If there is any discrepancy between the report prepared by the
Scoring Director and the records of an Official Scorer, they must
19.2.1.9 BB - Total number of bases on balls received.
consult each other to resolve any difference.
19.2.1.10 SB - Number of stolen bases.
19.1.3 At the end of the tournament, the Scoring Director must prepare
a final report listing all the records and individual and collective

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19.2.1.11 CS - Number of times caught stealing. 19.2.3.1 Name and last name, throwing hand.

19.2.1.12 HP - Number of times hit by a pitch. 19.2.3.2 IP - Number of innings pitched, to calculate them the
Official Scorer must count each out made as a third (1/3)
19.2.1.13 SH - Sacrifice bunts. of an inning.

19.2.1.14 SF - Sacrifice fly. Examples: If a starting pitcher is relieved in the seventh

inning with one out, the Official Scorer will credit him 6 1/3
19.2.1.15 K - Strikeouts received. (6.1) innings.
If a starting pitcher is relieved in the fifth inning with no
19.2.1.16 GDP - Number of times the batter grounded into double
outs, the Official Scorer will credit him 4 full innings (4.0)
plays; the Official Scorer shall not charge a batter for
and indicate how many batters that pitcher faced in the
grounded into double play if the batter-runner is called out
fifth.
for interference by a preceding runner.
If a relief pitcher retires two batters and is substituted, the
19.2.1.17 IO - Number of times awarded first base for interference or Official Scorer will credit him with 2/3 innings pitched (0.2).
obstruction.
19.2.3.3 H - Number of hits allowed.
19.2.1.18 TB - Total number of bases reached by safe hits.
19.2.3.4 R - Number of runs allowed.
19.2.1.19 IBB – Separate list of intentional bases on balls received.
19.2.3.5 ER - Number of earned runs allowed.
19.2.2 The following statistics for each fielder:
19.2.3.6 BB - Total number of bases on balls awarded.
19.2.2.1 PO - Number of outs made.
19.2.3.7 SO - Number of struck out batters.
19.2.2.2 A - Number of assists made.
19.2.3.8 WP - Number of wild pitches.
19.2.2.3 E - Number of errors made.
19.2.3.9 HP - Number of batters hit by a pitch.
19.2.2.4 DP - Number of double plays in which he participated.
19.2.3.10 BK - Number of balks.
19.2.2.5 TP - Number of triple plays in which he participated.
19.2.3.11 IBB - Number of all intentional walks awarded.
19.2.2.6 IP – Number of innings played by each fielder, noted on
the line opposite his name. When a fielder is substituted 19.2.3.12 SH - Number of sacrifice bunts allowed.
or changes position during an inning, the number is
calculated according to the number of putouts he has 19.2.3.13 SF - Number of sacrifice flies allowed.
made in that position.
19.2.3.14 2B - Number of two-base hits allowed.
19.2.3 The following statistics for each pitcher:
19.2.3.15 3B - Number of three-base hits allowed.

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19.2.3.16 HR - Number of home runs allowed. 19.2.4.10 Official attendance, which will be provided by the
organising committee of the competition.
19.2.3.17 IO – Number of batters awarded first base for interference
or obstruction. 19.2.5 The following additional data:

19.2.3.18 AB - Number of batters who officially batted against the 19.2.5.1 Name of the starting pitcher and the pitcher who finished
pitcher, taking into consideration what is indicated in for each team.
WBSC Official Baseball Rule 19.2.1.2.
19.2.5.2 Number of passed balls committed by each catcher.
19.2.3.19 BF-Total number of batters he faced.
19.2.5.3 Name of the players who participated in double and triple
19.2.4 The following data or information: plays.

19.2.4.1 In each game indicate the date, place and stadium where 19.2.5.4 Number of runners left on base by each team. This total
it was played, the names of the teams and the players who will include all runners who remained on base for any
participated. reason and who did not score or were put out. The Official
Scorer shall include in this total a batter-runner whose hit
19.2.4.2 Name of the winning pitcher. resulted in another runner being put out for the third out.

19.2.4.3 Name of the losing pitcher. 19.2.5.5 Name of the batters who homered with the bases loaded
(grand slam).
19.2.4.4 If any, name of the pitcher to whom a save is credited.
19.3 GAMES PLAYED
19.2.4.5 The score inning by inning for each team. When a player appears in the batting order at the start of a
game and is substituted before he plays in defence, he will not
19.2.4.6 If the game was won in the last half of an inning, indicate be credited in the defensive statistics unless he actually plays
the number of outs when the winning run was scored. that position during the game. However, all players mentioned
or included in the batting order will be credited with one game
19.2.4.7 Names of Umpires, listed in this order: Umpire-in-chief, first played in the offensive (batting) statistics.
base Umpire, second base Umpire, third base Umpire and
if applicable, left field and right field Umpires. 19.3.1 A player will be credited with playing defence if that player is on
the field for at least one pitch or play.
19.2.4.8 Name of the Official Scorer, assistant scorer(s) and
Technical Commissioners. 19.3.2 If a game is called, for example, for weather reasons, after a
substitute player enters the game, but before a pitch or play is
19.2.4.9 Time it took to play the game, discounting delays due to made, such player shall be credited with one game played in the
weather, lighting failure or any technological failure not batting statistics, but not in defensive stats.
related to the action of the game. A delay in attending to
an injured player, manager, base coach, or an Umpire must 19.4 EXTRA GAMES
also be taken into account in calculating the time of the Any game played to resolve a tie in the standings after the end of
game. the scheduled round to determine the individual leaders must be
included in the competition statistics.

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19.5 INDIVIDUAL AWARDS 19.6.2 Slugging average, divide the total bases reached by safe hits by
In each competition the individual work of the players will be the number of times at bat [TB / AB].
recognised, evaluating the statistics of the offence (batting) and
defence, including the pitchers. Such recognition will be adjusted 19.6.3 On-base percentage, divide the total number of safe hits plus
to show the following: all the bases on balls received and hit by a pitch, by the total
number of times at bat, plus all the bases on balls received, plus
19.5.1 OFFENSIVE: hits by pitch, plus sacrifice flies. For the calculation of the on-base
percentage, the number of times a batter reaches first base due to
19.5.1.1 The leader in batting average, slugging and on base will be interference or obstruction will not be taken into account. [(H + BB
the player who has the highest average in each category + HP) / (AB + BB + HP + SF)].
and has the minimum or more than the appearances
required. 19.6.4 Average of games won and lost, divide the total of games won by
the total of games won and games lost [W / (W + L)].
19.5.1.2 The leaders in home runs, triples, doubles, and singles, runs
batted in, runs scored and stolen bases, will be the player 19.6.5 Pitcher’s earned run average, multiply the total number of
who accumulated the most to their credit. earned runs allowed by the pitcher by the number of innings (IC)
scheduled for the competition or category (see Appendix A2.3),
19.5.2 PITCHERS: divide the result by the total number of innings pitched (including
the fractions or third of an inning) [ER * IC / IP].
19.5.2.1 The pitching leader by earned run average allowed will
be the one with the lowest average and has played in the 19.6.6 Fielding average (defence), add the total of outs made plus the
minimum or more than the required innings. assists made and divide this by the total of the sum of outs, assists
and errors made- [(PO + A) / (PO + A + E)].
19.5.2.2 The leaders in strikeouts achieved, most games won and
most games saved, will be the player who accumulated the 19.7 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY FOR INDIVIDUAL PRIZES
most in each category.
19.7.1. To qualify for the batting, slugging and on-base percentage title,
19.5.3 DEFENCE: players must have a minimum number of appearances at the plate,
The defensive leaders will be those who have the highest fielding which will be obtained by multiplying the number of games played
average in their position and have also played the minimum or by the number of appearances specified in Appendix A2.4.
more than the games required in the respective defensive position.
Total plate appearances shall include official at-bats, plus bases
on balls, times hit by a pitch, sacrifice bunts, sacrifice flies, and the
19.5.4 The WBSC may present different and/or additional prizes and
number of times the batter is awarded first base for interference or
recognition to those indicated in these WBSC Official Rules of
obstruction.
Baseball for each specific competition.
If despite the minimum plate appearances required, a player with
19.6 AVERAGES fewer than the required number of appearances has the highest
The calculation of the averages will be obtained through the batting average, slugging percentage or on-base percentage if
following formulas: charged with the required number of plate appearances as official
times at bat, then that player will be awarded the respective prize,
19.6.1 Batting average, divide the total number of safe hits by the total as the case may be.
times at bat [H / AB].

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Fractions of home plate appearances shall be rounded up or down 19.8 RECORDING CUMULATIVE RECORDS
to the nearest whole number.
19.8.1 CONSECUTIVE HITTING STREAKS:
Note: In the Premier12, if a team has played 8 games, to qualify The record for consecutive hits will not be finalised if the batter’s
for the batting, slugging and on-base percentage, a player must appearance at the plate ends in a walk, hit by a pitch, defensive
have a minimum of 22 appearances at the plate (8 games x 2.7 interference, or a sacrifice bunt. A sacrifice fly will end the record.
appearances = 21.6).
19.8.2 CONSECUTIVE GAMES HITTING STREAKS:
19.7.2 To qualify for the pitching titles of earned runs allowed and The record for hits in consecutive games will not end if all of the
average games won and lost, pitchers must have a minimum player’s appearances at home plate in a game (one or more) result
innings pitched performance of at least as many innings as in a base on balls, hit by a pitch, defensive interference or tag or
the number of games played by their team multiplied by the sacrifice. The record will end if the player hits a sacrifice fly.
coefficient specified in Appendix A2.5. Fractions of innings for the
A player’s record for hitting in consecutive games will be
minimum number required shall be rounded to the nearest third of
determined by the consecutive games in which he participates and
an inning.
not by the games played by his team.
Example: In the Premier12, if a team played 8 games, to qualify for
19.8.3 CONSECUTIVE GAMES PLAYING STREAKS:
the titles of earned run average and average games won and lost,
The record for consecutive games played will be extended if the
a pitcher must have a minimum of 6.1 (6 1/3) innings pitched (8
player plays at least half an inning on defence, or if he completes
games x 0.8 = 6.4).
an at-bat by reaching a base or being put out. An appearance
only as a pinch runner will not extend the record. The record will
19.7.3 The individual leaders in defence will be the players with the
continue if a player is ejected from a game before he can meet the
highest average at each position who have participated in the
established requirements.
following minimum number of games:
19.8.4 For the purpose of cumulative record keeping guidelines, all
19.7.3.1 Catchers: must have participated as a catcher in at least half
performances to complete a suspended game will be considered
(50%) of the number of games scheduled for his team in
as having occurred on the original date of the game.
the competition.

19.7.3.2 Infielders and outfielders: must have participated in the

position in at least two thirds (67%) of the number of games
scheduled for their team in the competition.

19.7.3.3 Pitchers: must have pitched in at least as many innings

as the number of games scheduled for his team in the
competition, unless another pitcher has an equal or higher
fielding average and has participated in a greater number of
plays in fewer innings.

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A1. BASEBALL RULES

All games will be played under the event year of the WBSC Official Rules
of Baseball and Baseball Umpire Manual Procedures and Interpretations
unless noted in this section.

A1.1 DESIGNATED HITTER

The designated hitter is accepted. See WBSC Official Rules of
Baseball Rule 9.3

A1.2 INNINGS
The WBSC Executive Board has established a number of innings
for each WBSC Baseball World Cups as mentioned below:

APPENDIX
U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP 6 innings

U-15, U-18, U-23 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP 7 innings

01. A1.3
PREMIER12

PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
9 innings

WBSC BASEBALL Single or Double ear-flap helmet is mandatory for the hitter, base-
runners and it is also recommended that base coaches wear the
WORLD CUPS skull caps. For catchers including warm-up and bullpen catchers,
wearing protective gear is required.

Note: The skull caps for coaches is not required but highly
recommended.

A1.4 RUN DIFFERENCE

A1.4.1 RUN DIFFERENCE RULE

A1.4.1.1 U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP

For six inning games, if a team is losing by fifteen (15) or
more runs after having batted at least in four (4) innings,
the games is ended at that point. If a team is losing by
ten (10) or more runs after having batted at least in five
(5) innings, the game is ended at that point. However, run
difference rules will not apply to the World Championship
game while it is enforced for the Bronze medal game.

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A1.4.1.2 U-15, U-18, U-23 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP Tournament Regulations will remain in effect
If a team is losing by ten (10) or more runs after having during extra innings required to determine a
batted at least in five (5) innings, the games is ended at winner.
that point. However, run difference rules will not apply to
the World Championship game while it is enforced for the A1.4.2.1.4 The traditional system of the visiting team hitting
Bronze medal game. in the top of the inning and the home team hitting
in the bottom of the inning (if needed) will remain
A1.4.1.3 PREMIER12 in effect until a winner is determined.
If a team is losing by ten (10) or more runs after having
batted at least in seven (7) innings, the games is ended at A1.4.2.2 U-15, U-18, U-23 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP
that point. However, run difference rules will not apply to If the game remains tied after the completion of seven
the World Championship game while it is enforced for the (7) innings, the following procedures will be implemented
Bronze medal game. during extra innings:

A1.4.2 EXTRA INNING RULES A1.4.2.2.1 Each team will begin the 8th inning (and any
subsequent necessary extra innings) with a player
Note: The runners put on 1B and 2B as effect of the Extra Inning on first and second, no outs.
Rules shall be considered as “ghost runners” in charge to the
pitcher who starts the extra inning. In any case the runs scored A1.4.2.2.2 The line-up will continue as in any other inning.
by such players, or by any runner who reaches base on a fielder’s For example, if the 6th inning ends with the #8
choice in which the defence puts out a “ghost runner”, will always hitter having made the last plate appearance (PA),
be considered as unearned runs. the 8th inning begins with the #9 at bat and the
2B runner is the #7, and 1B runner is the #8 in the
A1.4.2.1 U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP line-up, or any pinch runners for these payers.
If the game remains tied after the completion of six (6)
innings, the following procedures will be implemented A1.4.2.2.3 With the exception of beginning the inning with
during extra innings: runners on 1B and 2B with no one out, all other
WBSC Official Rules of Baseball and WBSC
A1.4.2.1.1 Each team will begin the 7th inning (and any Tournament Regulations will remain in effect during
subsequent necessary extra innings) with a extra innings required to determine a winner.
player on first and second, no outs.
The traditional system of the visiting team hitting
in the top of the inning and the home team hitting
A1.4.2.1.2 The line-up will continue as in any other inning.
in the bottom of the inning (if needed) will remain
For example, if the 6th inning ends with the #8
in effect until a winner is determined.
hitter having made the last plate appearance
(PA), the 7th inning begins with the #9 at bat
A1.4.2.3 PREMIER12
and the 2B runner is the #7, and 1B runner is the
If the game remains tied after the completion of nine (9)
#8 in the line-up, or any pinch runners for these
innings, the following procedures will be implemented
payers.
during extra innings:
A1.4.2.1.3 With the exception of beginning the inning with
A1.4.2.3.1 Each team will begin the 10th inning (and any
runners on 1B and 2B with no one out, all other
subsequent necessary extra innings) with a
WBSC Official Rules of Baseball and WBSC
player on first and second, no outs.

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A1.4.2.3.2 The line-up will continue as in any other inning. headfirst slides to home plate are permitted.
For example, if the 6th inning ends with the #8
hitter having made the last plate appearance Note: The runner sliding headfirst into home plate is
(PA), the 7th inning begins with the #9 at bat and called out. The ball stays in play until all play has stopped.
the 2B runner is the #7, and 1B runner is the #8 in
the line-up, or any pinch runners for these payers. A1.6 SUSPENDED GAMES

A1.4.2.3.3 With the exception of beginning the inning with A1.6.1 In case a game is stopped because of weather, curfew or other
runners on 1B and 2B with no one out, all other reason, the following will apply:
WBSC Official Rules of Baseball and WBSC
Tournament Regulations will remain in effect A1.6.1.1 Before a contest becomes a regulation game, it is not an
during extra innings required to determine a official game and shall be resumed at the exact point of
winner. suspension.

A1.5 EXCEPTIONS TO THE WBSC OFFICIAL RULES OF BASEBALL A1.6.1.2 After it becomes a regulation game, it is ruled a complete
game.
A1.5.1 In the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen conditions,
the Technical Commissioners assigned to the game will have the A1.6.1.3 When it is tied or when the visiting team takes the lead
responsibility of determining the start of a game. (Note: See Rule 5.1) in an uncompleted inning, and after it has become a
regulation game, it shall be ruled a suspended game and
A1.5.2 When a batter hits a home run, members of his team shall not be shall be resumed at the exact point of suspension and
allowed to touch the hitter until he has passed home plate. Failure played to a completion. The scheduling of completion of
to observe this rule will result in a warning to the team manager suspended game shall be given priority by the Technical
and if it occurs again the Team will be fined and the team manager Commission in order to complete it as soon as possible.
shall be ejected from the game.
A1.6.1.4 All suspended, tied or games not played shall be re-
A1.5.3 This exception only applies to U-12. scheduled by the Technical Commission and the WBSC
Events Department in order to resume or start them
A1.5.3.1 RE-ENTRY RULE following the suspension order if applicable. The new
Catcher is allowed to re-enter as pitcher, however, pitcher is schedule has to be officially approved in writing by the
not permitted to re-enter as catcher or pitcher. The re-entry WBSC Executive Director before being released to all
of a starting player is allowed as long as the replacement participants.
player has played at least 6 outs and 1 time at bat.
A1.6.1.5 If there are difficulties concerning the closing date, only the
A1.5.3.2 PITCHER RULE games necessary to establish the final positions of the first
A pitcher moved to another position can come back to three teams will be re-scheduled. No team shall be asked
pitch only one time in the same game and his pitch count to play more than two games on the same day unless the
will begin with the number of pitches delivered in his first case warranted by exceptional circumstances and agreed
presence on the mound. upon by both teams affected by this measure. Would the
exceptional circumstances persist and would any of the
A1.5.3.3 STEALING involved teams refuse to play two games on the same day,
Stealing, lead off and pickoffs are allowed, however no the WBSC Executive Director has the authority officially to

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determine whether they must play or not and the team or - The knob and the end plug, if any, must be firmly attached.
teams will be under the obligation to do it if the decision - The bat shall not be more than 33 inches (0.83 m) of length.
of the WBSC Executive Director establishes it as to be so. - The diameter of a bat shall not be more than 2 5/8 inches (0.06
If the team or teams do not agree to play, they will lose the m) nor less than 2 1/4 inches (0.05 m).
game by forfeit to appear. - One piece wood bats can be used as long as they are included in
the current year’s Official List of Approved Bats by the WBSC.
A1.6.1.6 As per the WBSC Official Rules of Baseball, for nine (9) - Non-wood or multi-piece wood bats shall have a Bat
inning games, a game is considered a regulation game Performance Factor (BPF) of 1,15 or less. If the BPF is not visibly
if five innings have been completed (4 1/2 innings if the indicated on the bat, manufacturer’s proof and/or alternate
home team is winning) and the Umpire calls the game. For equivalent certification may be presented to the Technical
six (6) or seven (7) inning games, a game is considered a Commission for approval.
regulation game if four innings have been completed (3 1/2
if the home team is winning) and the Umpire calls the game. A1.7.2 U-15 BASEBALL WORLD CUP
In all WBSC sanctioned events, the Umpires must wait a Bats that are allowed for use at U-15 Baseball World Cups must be
minimum of sixty (60) minutes and no more than ninety “Batted Ball Coefficient or Restitution” (BBCOR) certified:
(90) minutes, before making a decision about whether to - A bat is BBCOR certified and so clearly indicated on the bat.
call the game and make it become a regulation game. - The entire bat must be round with a constant radius at any point
and the finish of the hitting area must be smooth.
A1.6.1.7 If a play is in progress at the moment of a failure of - There must be a direct line from the centre of the knob to the
the field’s lighting system and an additional action is centre of the large end. The knob and end plug (if applicable)
impossible, the game is considered suspended. Whenever must be firmly attached.
the lights are restored, the game shall continue in the same - The maximum length is 34 inches (0.86 m) and the maximum
situation that existed at the beginning of the play which diameter is 2 5/8 inches (0.06 m).
was interrupted due to lack of lighting. - A bat may not weigh, numerically, more than three units less
than the length of the bat (e.g. a 34-inch (0.86 m) long bat
A1.7 BAT REGULATIONS cannot be less than 31 ounces (0.87 kg) in weight.
- One piece wood bats can be used as long as they are included in
Note: The list is available at WBSC website. the current year’s Official List of Approved Bats by the WBSC.
An illegal bat must be removed. Any bat that has been altered shall
be removed from play. A1.7.3 U-18 AND U-23 BASEBALL WORLD CUP
The players can only use one-piece wooden bats that are included
Penalty: If a batter entering the batter’s box is discovered with an in the Official WBSC Approved-Wood Bat List published in the
illegal bat or is discovered having used an illegal bat prior to the current year. Refer to Annex IV of the WBSC Baseball World Cups
next player entering the batter’s box, he shall be called out. Tournament Regulations or the WBSC website.
Use of composite bats is prohibited (composite bats refer to
A1.7.1 U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP
wood bats wrapped with fiberglass or other components or a
The bat shall be made of wood or of other materials as it complies
combination of pieces rather than one solid piece of wood – the
with WBSC specifications as written in this rule:
use of these bats is not permitted).
- It shall be smooth, rounded stick with a constant radius at any
point.
A1.7.4 WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP
- There must be a direct line from the centre of the knob to the
The use of non-wooden bats is authorised, as long as they comply
centre of the large end.
with the following requirements:

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- The entire bat must be round with a constant radius at any point The Technical Commissioner will ultimately determine the accurate
and the finish of the hitting area must be smooth, pitch count by using all the information gathered from the Official
- There must be a direct line from the centre of the knob to the Scorers plus his own work and render any final decisions on protests.
centre of the largest end. The knob and end plug (if applicable)
must be firmly attached. Note:
- The maximum length is 36 inches (0.91 m), and the maximum a. Pitch count is to be accurately recorded by Official Scorers and
diameter is 2 3/4 inches (0.07 m). non-active players will be listed in a daily report;
- A bat may not weigh, numerically, more than five units less than b. Pitch count thrown by the same pitchers in games on the same
the length of the bat (e.g. a 35-inch (0.89 m) long bat cannot be day will be added to determine non active pitchers;
less than 30 ounces (0.85 kg) in weight. c. Pitcher cannot pitch three (3) consecutive days, if pitcher’s first
- It is mandatory that all bats have an identification mark 18 inches two (2) days combined exceed thirty (30);
(0.45 m) from the end of the handle. d. If pitcher’s day 1 + day 2 exceeds thirty (30), they require at least
- Use of wooden bats is also authorised, as long as they are one (1) day rest. Pitcher cannot pitch four (4) consecutive days.
included in the current year official approved list published by One (1) day rest is needed; and
WBSC. e. When a pitcher reaches any of the thresholds, he may not play as
a pitcher according to the corresponding rest day(s), however the
A1.8 PITCH COUNT LIMITS AT WBSC WORLD CUPS pitcher is allowed to play as a position player during such rest.
WBSC cares about the well-being and proper development of
youth athletes. The intent of this rule is to protect young athlete’s Penalty:
arms during the growth period, therefore setting a pitch limit for - Ejection of the Team Manager;
certain youth Baseball World Cups. It is the responsibility of the - Team Manager suspended for at least the next scheduled game
team coaches to track their pitchers’ pitch counts at all times, and (including possible re-scheduled games) of the team in the same
to ensure that no athletes go beyond the maximum number of competition; and
pitches in their respective age categories. - National Federation fined with A-Level infraction, pitch count
limit violation, minimum of $2,000 USD.
If a pitcher reaches the maximum number of pitches during an
active at bat, the pitcher may finish the same batter but must be
Example of Pitch Count Rule:
removed at the end of the at bat.
If the Team Manager fails to substitute the pitcher prior to PITCHER DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6
surpassing the maximum number of pitches allowed, for the safety
of the athlete the Technical Commissioner will ask the Home Plate PITCHER 1 25 20 X
Umpire to stop the game and the pitcher shall be substituted. The PITCHER 2 35 X
Team Manager and/or the National Federation will then be subject
PITCHER 3 50 X X
to the corresponding infraction penalties (see specific penalties
below). PITCHER 4 65 X X X

PITCHER 5 82 X X X X
A.1.8.1 U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP
Each pitcher must observe a day(s) rest as follows: PITCHER 6 15 12 30 X

Pitcher availability
NUMBER OF PITCHES 1 – 30 31 – 45 46 – 60 61 – 75 Max. 85
55 Sample number of pitches
REST DAYS No rest 1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days X Mandatory rest day pursuant to WBSC U-12 BWC Regulations

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A1.8.2 U-15 BASEBALL WORLD CUP Example of Pitch Count Rule:

Each pitcher must observe a day(s) rest as follows:
PITCHER DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7
NUMBER OF PITCHES 1 – 35 36 – 50 51 – 65 66 – 80 Max. 95 PITCHER 1 25 11 X

REST DAYS No rest 1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days PITCHER 2 50 X

(no more than 95 pitches will be allowed) PITCHER 3 65 X X

PITCHER 4 80 X X X
The Technical Commissioner will ultimately determine the accurate
PITCHER 5 95 X X X X
pitch count by using all the information gathered from the Official
Scorers plus his own work and render any final decisions on PITCHER 6 15 20 30 X
protests. PITCHER 7 15 20 45 X

PITCHER 8 15 20 62 X X
Note:
a. Pitch count is to be accurately recorded by Official Scorers and PITCHER 9 15 20 75 X X X
non- active players will be listed in a daily report; PITCHER 10 15 20 91 X X X X
b. Pitch count thrown by the same pitchers in games on the same
day will be added to determine non-active pitchers; Pitcher availability
c. A pitcher can only pitch on three (3) consecutive days if pitch 55 Sample number of pitches
count on the two previous days does not exceed thirty-five (35) X Mandatory rest day pursuant to WBSC U-15 BWC Regulations
pitches. If pitch count is thirty-six (36) or above on those two
days, the said pitcher will require one (1) day of rest;
d. Pitcher cannot pitch four (4) consecutive days. At least one (1) A1.8.3 U-18 BASEBALL WORLD CUP
day-rest is needed; Each pitcher must observe a day(s) rest as follows:
e. When a pitcher reaches any of the thresholds, he may not play
as a pitcher according to the corresponding rest day(s), however NUMBER OF PITCHES 1 – 40 41 – 55 56 – 75 76 – 90 91 - 105
the pitcher is allowed to play as a position player during such
rest. REST DAYS No rest 1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days

Penalty: The Technical Commissioner will ultimately determine the accurate

- Ejection of the Team Manager; pitch count by using all the information gathered from the Official
- Team Manager suspended for at least the next scheduled game Scorers plus his own work and render any final decisions on protests.
(including possible re-scheduled games) of the team in the same
competition; and Note:
- National Federation fined with A-Level infraction, pitch count a. Pitch count is to be accurately recorded by Official Scorers and
limit violation, minimum of $2,000 USD. non- active players will be listed in a daily report;
b. Pitch count thrown by the same pitchers in games on the same
day will be added to determine non-active pitchers;
c. A pitcher can only pitch on three (3) consecutive days if pitch
count on the two previous days does not exceed forty (40)
pitches. If pitch count is forty-one (41) or above on those two
days, the said pitcher will require one (1) day of rest;

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d. Pitcher cannot pitch four (4) consecutive days. At least one (1)
day-rest is needed;
A2. SCORING RULES
e. When a pitcher reaches any of the thresholds, he may not play as
a pitcher according to the corresponding rest day(s), however the
A2.1 FORFEITED GAMES
pitcher is allowed to play as a position player during such rest. In this case the Official Scorer will consider the final score as the
flowing table, regardless of the existing result at the time the game
Penalty: was forfeited.
- Ejection of the Team Manager;
- Team Manager suspended for at least the next scheduled game U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP 6 innings 6-0
(including possible re-scheduled games) of the team in the same U-15, U-18, U-23 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP 7 innings 7-0
competition; and
PREMIER12 9 innings 9-0
- National Federation fined with A-Level infraction, pitch count
limit violation, minimum of $2,000 USD.
A2.2 WINNING PITCHER
Example of Pitch count Rule: A starting pitcher to claim victory in the game must pitch at least:

4 innings in a regulation
PITCHER DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7 PREMIER12 5 innings
game of 5 innings
PITCHER 1 25 16 X U-15, U-18, U-23 & WOMEN’S 3 innings in a regulation
4 innings
BASEBALL WORLD CUP game of 4 or 5 innings
PITCHER 2 50 X
3 innings in a regulation
U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP 4 innings
PITCHER 3 65 X X game of 4 or 5 innings

PITCHER 4 80 X X X
A2.3 PITCHERS EARNED RUN AVERAGE COEFFICIENT
PITCHER 5 95 X X X X

PITCHER 6 15 20 15 X PREMIER12 9
PITCHER 7 15 20 41 X U-23, U-18, U-15 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP 7
PITCHER 8 15 20 62 X X U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP 6

PITCHER 9 15 20 78 X X X

PITCHER 10 15 20 91 X X X X A2.4 MINIMUM PLATE APPEARANCE COEFFICIENT

Pitcher availability PREMIER12 2.7

55 Sample number of pitches U-23, U-18, U-15 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP 2.1
X Mandatory rest day pursuant to WBSC U-18 BWC Regulations
U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP 1.6

A2.5 MINIMUM INNING PITCHED COEFFICIENT

A1.8.4 U-23 AND WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP

PREMIER12 0.8
There is no pitch count limitations for U-23 and Women’s Baseball
World Cups. U-23 & WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP 1.7
U-18, U-15, U-12 BASEBALL WORLD CUP 1.5

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A3. OTHER MATTERS

A3.1 ELECTRONIC DEVICES

The use of electronic devices is forbidden during the games. None
of the electronic devices such as cellular phones, laptops, tablets,
video cameras, walkie-talkies, shall be used to communicate
to on-field personnel, those in the dugout, bullpen, clubhouse
and stands. The only exception to this rule is the use of phone/
cellular phone to communicate between dugout and bullpen,
however such device must be approved by WBSC in advance. No

APPENDIX
microphones or cameras are permitted in the dugout, bullpens or
on the field of play without approval of WBSC. The participating
teams must obtain approval of WBSC before using any other or
new electronic equipment during a game.
02.
UMPIRE VIDEO REVIEW
A3.2 SMOKING OR SMOKELESS TOBACCO PROTOCOL & REGULATION
Any members of team delegation are not permitted to smoke in
places that are visible to the public including audiences on media
outlets such as TV, Internet streaming. It is the responsibility of
team delegation leader to ensure such smoking is not seen by The implementation of WBSC’s play call
public as long as they are in game venues and practice facilities video review system intends to support our
as well as other tournament official activities. In addition, Umpiring crews with the latest technology
team delegations should only smoke in a smoking area if one tools to ensure the highest degree of
is designated by LOC. Any violation of this rule will be taken
fairness possible in competition. In this
seriously, and violators would be subject to disciplinary action
document the general guidelines, the list
as WBSC may deem appropriate. The use of smokeless tobacco
of reviewable calls and the protocol to
is also prohibited for team delegation members during televised
interviews or appearances. While spectators are permitted into challenge a call are listed.
the stadium, the delegation leader must ensure that such tobacco
products (including tobacco tins or packages) are not visible to
audience.

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B1. GENERAL GUIDELINES - Any fly ball in foul territory is reviewable.

- Play in the infield is NOT reviewable.
B1.1 Each team manager will have one (1) challenge per seven (7) Note: Infield limit at Umpire’s discretion.
innings of play.
B2.3 FAIR/FOUL
B1.2 Managers may only challenge calls included in the list of - Ball must land at or beyond the set position of the 1st/3rd base
“Reviewable Calls for Managers Challenge”. Umpire.
- Foul ball landing in front of Umpire IS NOT reviewable. Exception:
B1.3 If the challenged call is overturned, the manager will maintain the Ball swung at or bunted, called fair landing in front of Umpire
challenge. If the call is upheld, the manager will lose the challenge. is reviewable to see if the ball hit the batter. The call could be
overturned to an out or foul ball. Runners would not be in jeopardy.
B1.4 If the game goes into extra innings, each Team will have one (1)
challenge. B2.4 FORCE PLAYS
- Any force play at any base is reviewable.
B1.5 Beginning in the top of the 5th inning, the Crew Chief can choose
to review any reviewable calls if manager is out of challenges. B2.5 HIT BY PITCH
- Any hit by pitch is reviewable.
Exception: Potential Home Run calls are reviewable at all times as - If the hit by pitch occurs on a check swing, the check swing must
detailed in section “Reviewable Calls by Crew Chief Initiative”. be appealed prior to asking for review.

B1.6 Except in the case of potential home run calls, the crew chief B2.6 POTENTIAL HOME RUN
shall not initiate video review of any play or call if the requesting - Any potential or Home Run call may be challenged.
manager has a challenge remaining.
Note: Manager may ask Crew Chief for review without counting
as a challenge. Umpire crew should check on potential Home Run
if any doubt. If Crew Chief does not concede review, manager
B2. REVIEWABLE CALLS FOR may challenge.
MANAGERS CHALLENGE B2.7 COLLISION RULE
- Any collision at any base is reviewable.
- Safe/out call will be reviewed while judging potential violation.
B2.1 BASE RUNNING
- Runner passing the runner in front of him/her. Note: If multiple plays, manager must state at once which ones
- Time plays. are being challenged.
- Runner missing a base while advancing. Defence must appeal prior
to review. B2.8 NON-HOME RUN BOUNDARY
- Runner(s) leaving early during a tag-up play. - Any ball/fielder entering dead ball territory.
- Runner(s) failing to retouch a base when required. - Spectator interference with a play (all types).
- Specific tournament ground rules (i.e. ball striking catwalk at a
B2.2 CATCH/NO CATCH PLAY dome).
- Any play attempted by one of the outfielders.
Note: If a ball hits the catwalk and falls in the infield, not
- Any play attempted by an infielder if he/she is forced to go back
reviewable. Only reviewable if it falls in the outfield.
into outfield to make the play.

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- Balls lodged during a play (i.e. ball stuck in temporary fence).

B3. REVIEWABLE CALLS BY CREW
Note: balls stuck reviewable even if a player goes after it and tries
to retrieve it.
CHIEF INITIATIVE
- Placement of runners after a non-Home Run boundary call. The - Any reviewable calls upon start of the 5th inning.
call prompting the challenge will also be reviewed. - Potential Home Runs.
- Record Keeping situations such:
B2.9 SLIDE RULE a. Counts.
- When a runner hindered/impeded the fielder and engaged in a b. Outs.
bona fide slide on a double play attempt: c. Score.
a. If both calls favour the offence (safe/safe), the defence - Proper/Improper line-up.
maychallenge. - Substitutions.
b. If both calls favour the defence (out/out), the offence may - Rules review if potential protest by manager.
challenge. - To ask/clarify if a call is reviewable.
c. If one calls favours the offence and one call favours the - Ground rules review.
defence (out/safe, safe/out), both Teams may challenge.
Exception: if out call is 3rd out. B3.1 CHALLENGE PROTOCOL

Note: Infielder must make attempt to throw to be reviewable. B3.1.1 Upon an Umpire’s call and the completion of a play, a manager
wishing to challenge a call has ten (10) seconds to signal the Home
On-field crew will determine a double play attempt on a non-
Plate Umpire to hold with his hand.
throw.
If challenging both calls, manager must state it at once or pick B3.1.2 The manager will then have twenty (20) seconds to decide
which one he is challenging. whether to initiate the challenge or drop the hold.
The original calls on the field will dictate whether a play requires
B3.1.3 If challenging a call, the manager must head to home plate
one or two trips to review. A Team adversely affected by a review
and indicate to the Home Plate Umpire the call that is being
can still challenge provided the change of the initial call made a
challenged.
previous call relevant and the manager had no incentive to seek
review originally. This request for a manager’s challenge or Crew
B3.1.4 If reviewable, the Home Plate Umpire will signal that the call will be
Chief Review must be made immediately after the announcement
reviewed. The Crew Chief and the call Umpire will then head to the
of the Video Review Official’s decision.
video review area to communicate via headphones with the review
booth.
B2.10 TAG PLAYS
- A runner potentially being pushed off is NOT reviewable.
B3.1.5 When a review is initiated by the Crew Chief, both managers will
be informed of the call that is being reviewed.

B3.1.6 The Official assigned to the video review booth will evaluate the
call and make the final call, which will be relayed to the Crew Chief.

B3.1.7 Upon completion of the review, the Crew Chief will signal whether
the call stands or is overturned.

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B3.1.8 The call by the video review Official will be final and may not be actions necessary to place both Teams in the same position that
argued by neither member of a Team. Any Team member (player, they would have been had the changed call been correct in the
coach, or team personnel) arguing a call that has been reviewed first instance) may occur after the expiration of the two-minute
will be automatically ejected from the game. clock.

B3.1.9 Team on defence must stay on the field after the third out of an B3.2.4 If the Crew Chief determines that a team’s request for a manager’s
inning if a HOLD is requested by the opposing manager. If the challenge is untimely, the play shall not be reviewed, the Umpire’s
challenge is requested, the Team will remain on the field until the call shall stand. The team will NOT be charged with a challenge.
call has been reviewed. The decision of the crew chief will be final to determine whether a
manager’s challenge is timely.
B3.1.10 For Teams on defence, the manager must challenge a call before
signalling a possible pitching change and/or a no pitch intentional B3.2.5 If a manager challenges a call that is not eligible for review, the
walk. Crew Chief will inform him that the call is not reviewable, and
the team will not be charged a challenge. If the Crew Chief is
B3.1.11 For Teams on offence, the manager must challenge before the unsure of whether a call challenged by the manager is eligible
pitcher steps onto the warning track or crosses the foul line. for review, he may consult with the Video Official prior to making
the determination. If either the team or Crew Chief invokes Video
Exception: Crew Chief may allow if defensive manager signalled Review of a call that the Video Official determines is not subject
pitching change/intentional walk in an accelerated manner to to review, he will inform the Crew Chief that the play is not
prevent offensive challenge). reviewable, and the team will not be charged with a challenge. To
the extent that the Official Rules of Baseball require the defensive
B3.2 GENERAL GUIDELINES team to appeal a play eligible for Video Review (e.g., a runner
missing a base), Video Review may not be initiated until the
B3.2.1 Only the team manager is authorised and permitted to request Umpires rule on the appeal.
or initiate Video Review. If the manager cannot perform his/her
responsibilities due to injury, illness, ejection, removal, or other B3.3 CHALLENGE OF A REVIEWABLE PLAY BY BOTH MANAGERS
legitimate reasons, in which case the coach designated to assume
the manager’s responsibilities shall have the sole right to request B3.3.1 Both managers may challenge different reviewable calls within the
or initiate Video Review. same reviewable play. These challenges may be in the form of a
manager’s challenge or a request for a Crew Chief review, to the
B3.2.2 Crew Chief Review – At any time during a game, a Crew Chief extent available.
may, in his sole discretion, initiate a Video Review of a potential
Home Run call. With respect to other reviewable calls, beginning B3.3.2 The Video Review Official shall review all challenges properly
in the 5th inning, a Crew Chief may, in his/her sole discretion, initiated and shall review the challenged calls in the order in which
conduct Video Review upon his/her own initiative or upon the the calls occurred during the game. If the decision of the Video
request of a manager who has no remaining manager challenges. Review Official on an earlier reviewable call renders moot a later
reviewable call, the Video Review Official shall not review the
B3.2.3 Duration of Video Review. The Video Review Official shall make subsequent call. If a call challenged by a Team is not reviewed by
a decision on a call under Video Review within two minutes after the Video Review Official by operation of the foregoing rule, that
the Crew Chief and Video Review Official confirm which call is manager’s challenge shall be deemed rescinded, and the Team
subject to Video review. In the event the call is overturned, the shall not be charged with the challenge.
Video Review Official’s placements of runners (or such other

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B3.3.3 If manager challenges by both Teams are not invoked runner was called out at second base to end the inning. However,
simultaneously, the second Team must invoke its challenge before if the offensive Team challenges the tag call at second base, and
the Crew Chief makes communication contact with the Video the Video Review Official overturns the call, the defensive Team
Review Official; provided, however, that any Team adversely will be afforded the opportunity to challenge the runner’s failure
affected by a Video Review Official’s decision to change a call has to retouch third base. Because that play is an appeal play within
the right to use a manager’s challenge or request that a Crew Chief the meaning of the Official Rules of Baseball, the defensive Team
review another reviewable call in the same play, provided that: must first appeal the play. If the Umpire calls the runner safe at
third on such appeal, the defensive Team then will be afforded the
B3.3.3.1 The manager of the adversely affected Team makes the opportunity to challenge the appeal play by informing the Crew
manager’s challenge or requests the Crew Chief review Chief of the challenge immediately after the safe call.
immediately after the announcement of the Video Review
With no outs and runners on first and second, the Umpire calls
Official’s decision.
a double play and the runner on second advances to third. The
offensive Team challenges the double play. If the Video Review
B3.3.3.2 The change of the initial call affects the relevance of the
Official overturns the double play and one or both of the runners
subsequent call to the outcome of the play.
is ruled safe, the defensive Team will be afforded an opportunity to
challenge the Umpire’s non-call of WBSC Official Rules of Baseball
B3.3.3.3 The Team adversely affected by the change in the initial call
Rule 10.6.
had no incentive to seek Video Review of the subsequent
call until after the Video Review Official reversed the initial
B3.3.4 If any of the conditions set forth in Section 3 above is met and an
call. For purposes of this Regulation, the advancement of a
additional call within a single play is subject to its own subsequent
runner (other than the batter-runner) pursuant to a non-
Video Review and the decision by the Video Review Official
call of WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 10.6 (Sliding to
renders irrelevant a manager’s challenge previously used by the
Bases on Double Play Attempts) shall not be considered an
opposing manager on that play, then the opposing manager’s
incentive for the defensive Team to seek Video Review.
previous challenge shall be deemed rescinded, and the Team shall
not be charged with such challenge.
Example: With two outs and no one on base, the Umpires call a
line drive hit to the outfield a trap but call the batter-runner out
Example: With two outs and a runner on first, the batter hits a fly
when trying to advance to second base. The defensive Team had
ball to the outfield that is ruled “no catch,” and the runner is called
no incentive to challenge the trap call because the batter-runner
“out” trying to reach third base, which results in the third out of
was called out at second base to end the inning. However, if the
the inning. The offensive manager challenges the call at third base,
offensive Team challenges the tag call at second base, and the
and the Video Review Official determines that the runner was safe.
Video Review Official overturns the call, the defensive Team will be
The defensive manager then challenges the “no catch” call on the
afforded the opportunity to challenge or request review of the trap
batted ball to the outfield, and the Video Review Official overturns
call in the outfield by informing the Crew Chief of the challenge or
the call to a “catch,” which results in the third out of the inning.
request immediately after learning of the Video Review Official’s
The offensive manager’s challenge of the call on the runner at third
decision.
base is irrelevant because the batter is out by virtue of the fly ball
With one out and a runner on second, the batter hits a long fly being caught in the outfield, and therefore such previous challenge
ball to centre field that is caught. The runner on second, who had on the play would be deemed rescinded.
rounded third base at the time of the catch, fails to retouch third
base on his way back to second base. He is tagged out at second
base. The defensive Team had no incentive to appeal or otherwise
challenge the runner’s failure to retouch third base because the

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B3.4 EFFECT OF VIDEO REVIEW RESULT ON POST-PLAY DECISION BY to review any calls other than those included in a manager’s
MANAGER challenge or those accepted by the Crew Chief.
If a call is overturned on Video Review, any decisions made by a
manager after the play and influenced by the incorrect call shall be Example: A runner is called safe on a rundown because the
nullified. Such manager shall be permitted to reaffirm or change Umpire rules that the fielder missed the tag. The defensive Team
his strategic decision based on the result of the play as determined challenges the tag call with a manager’s challenge. During Video
by the Video Review Official. Review. The Video Review Official confirms that the tag was
missed but observes that the runner who was called safe was
Example: The defensive manager signals for a pitching change passed by a preceding runner in violation of WBSC Official Rules
after a play and, subsequently, the offensive manager timely of Baseball Rule 10.7.9. The Video Review Official cannot correct
initiates a challenge or the Crew Chief initiates Video Review. The the Umpires non-call regarding the passed runner because the
Video Review results in an overturned call. Any pitching change, manager only challenged the tag call.
or attempted pitching change, made by the defensive manager
With nobody on base, a batter-runner is called out on a close, but
shall be nullified unless reaffirmed by him after the Video Review
routine, force play at first base. It is sufficient for the manager to
Official’s decision is announced.
communicate that he is challenging the call without any further
With no outs and a runner on third base, the batter’s bat hits the specificity.
catcher’s glove as he swings at a pitch and catcher’s interference
is called. On the swing, a fly ball is hit to left field and caught. B3.6 IRREVOCABLE AND FINAL
The runner on third base tags up and scores on a close play at
the plate. Pursuant to WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 9.10, B3.6.1 Once a manager informs an Umpire that he wishes to exercise a
because of the catcher’s interference, the offensive manager may manager’s challenge, it may not be rescinded. A manager should
elect either the interference penalty (i.e., batter awarded first base not point to the headset unless he/she is sure that he/she wants to
and runner returns to third base) or the result of the play (i.e., initiate a challenge.
batter is out and runner scores). The offensive manager elects
to accept the result of the play. The defensive manager then B3.6.2 WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 7.12 shall have no applicability
challenges the call at home plate, and the Video Review Official to these Video Review Regulations. No protest shall ever be
overturns the call and rules the runner out at home plate. Knowing permitted on judgement decisions by the Video Review Official.
the final result of the play as determined by the Video Review Moreover, a violation of any rule or procedure set forth herein shall
Official, the offensive manager’s decision to accept the result of not constitute a basis for protesting a game.
the play shall be nullified unless reaffirmed by him after the Video
Review Official’s decision is announced. B3.6.3 In circumstances in which Video review is not available (e.g., the
call is not reviewable, no manager challenge or Crew Chief review
B3.5 SPECIFICITY OF THE CHALLENGE is available or after the start of the fifth inning, the Crew Chief has
When invoking a manager’s challenge or otherwise requesting communicated that he/she has declined to initiate Video Review),
a Crew Chief review, it is the manager’s responsibility to ensure if a manager, coach, player or team personnel makes reference to
that the Umpire knows the specific calls for which he/she is having observed a video review that purportedly contradicts the
seeking Video Review, but the manager need not state the reason call under dispute, such person is subject to immediate ejection
for his/her belief that the call was incorrect. (For example, in from the game.
order to challenge an “out” call on a force play at first base, the
manager need not state that the throw pulled the fielder off the B3.7 STANDARD FOR CHANGING A CALL
bag, the runner reached first base before the ball was caught, To change a reviewable call, the Video Review Official must
etc.) Moreover, the Video Review Official shall have no authority determine that there is clear and convincing evidence to change

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the original call that was made on the field of play. In other words, Official that a runner would have safely advanced beyond one base
the original decision of the Umpire shall stand unchanged unless had the call been made correctly, or the Official Rules of Baseball
the evidence obtained by the Video Review Official leads him/her otherwise require such advancement.
to definitively conclude that the call on the field was incorrect.
B3.9.3 FACTORS TO CONSIDER:
B3.8 CORRECTING AN INCORRECT CALL The Video Review Official should consider several factors when
Consistent with WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 14.2.3, if placing the runners, including: (a) the depth of fly balls; (b) the
Video Review results in a change to a call that had been made speed of runners; (c) the location of runners on the field when the
on the field, the Video Review Official, to the extent feasible, play occurred; (d) the number of outs at the time of the play; and
shall exercise his/her discretion to place both Teams in the same (e) whether the incorrect call affected the subsequent behaviour
position they would have been in had the call on the field been or conduct of the offensive or defensive players.
correct. This shall include placing runners where he/she thinks
those runners would have been at the conclusion of the reviewed B3.9.4 SUBSEQUENT CALLS AND OUTS:
play if the reviewed call had been correctly made in the first If the Video Review Official determines that an incorrect call on
instance, disregarding interference or obstruction that may have the field had no effect on the subsequent behaviour or conduct of
occurred on the play, failures of runners to tag up based upon the offensive or defensive players, the Video Review Official shall
the initial call on the field, runners passing other runners, missing change the incorrect call, but let stand any on-field calls or plays
bases, etc. unaffected by the incorrect call. The Video Review Official may not
declare a runner out based on a play the Umpire believes would
B3.9 PLACEMENT OF RUNNERS have occurred subsequent to the play subject to the play subject
to Video Review.
B3.9.1 VIDEO REVIEW OFFICIAL’S RESPONSIBILITY:
All decisions regarding the placement of base runners resulting Example: A runner attempts to advance to second base on a
from a call that is overturned pursuant to the Regulations shall force play. The runner fails to touch second base, and the second
be made by the Video Review Official in accordance with the baseman fails to tag the runner or the base, but the Umpire calls
standard set forth in the Official Rules of Baseball. the runner “out.” The runner, believing he is out, makes no attempt
to touch second base and leaves the field. The offensive manager
B3.9.2 BOOK AWARDS & DISCRETION: challenges the call, and the Video Review Official determines that
Unless directed otherwise by the WBSC Official Rules of Baseball the second baseman did not tag the runner or the base. The Video
(for example, WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 10.2.5 – 10.2.9, Review Official shall reverse the call on the field, declare the runner
10.4.3 and 10.4.7.7 the Video Review Official shall place the base “safe” and place him/her at second base.
runners on the bases he/she believes they would have reached had
the reviewed call been made correctly. For example, WBSC Official B3.9.5 SCORING:
Rules of Baseball Rule 12.4 Comment states, “Batter and runners The Video Review Official shall determine whether base runners
shall be placed where in the Umpire’s judgement they would have would have scored had the call been made correctly, and award or
been had the interference not occurred.” Rule 12.7.3 states, “All nullify runs scored by a Team where appropriate.
runners shall advance, without liability to be put out, to the bases
they would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgement, if there B3.9.6 FINAL AND BINDING:
had been no obstruction.”) any doubt regarding the placement The decision of the Video Review Official regarding the placement
of runners should be resolved in favour of the last base legally of runners, or runners being declared out, shall be final and binding
touched at the time of the challenged call. More than one base on both Teams. On-field personnel shall be ejected if they argue or
should not be awarded unless it is obvious to the Video Review otherwise challenge the placement of runners.

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B3.10 BASE RUNNING ball lands fair, the Video Review Official may take into consideration
When reviewing a play at home plate, if the Video Review Official whether the defensive Team attempts to retire the batter-runner,
determines both that the runner did not touch home plate and that whether the batter-runner attempts to take a base, the batter-
the fielder did not tag the runner (or, in the case of a force play, runner’s attempt to deceive the defensive Team and the Umpires
did not touch home plate), the Video Review Official shall rule the on the field, and other relevant factors, in placing the batter-runner,
runner “safe” at home plate unless the defensive manager appeals calling him out, or calling the ball “foul” (if a “foul ball” ruling would
the failure of the runner to touch home plate prior to the Crew result in a third strike, the pitch would be reviewed).
Chief making contact with the Video Review Official.
B3.12 COLLISIONS AT HOME PLATE
Example: A runner attempts to score on a play at the plate. The An Umpire’s decision to call or not call a violation of WBSC Official
catcher misses the tag on the runner, and the runner fails to touch Rules of Baseball Rule 12.8 and WBSC Collision Rule.
home plate, but the Umpire calls a tag and the runner “out.” The
offensive manager challenges the call, and the Video Review Official Example: A runner collides with a catcher and touches home plate
determines that the catcher missed the tag. The Video Review on a close play at home plate, but the home plate Umpire calls
Official shall disregard the failure of the runner to touch home the runner out for having violated WBSC Official Rules of Baseball
plate, declare the runner “safe” and score the run. If, however, the Rule 12.8 and Appendixes. The manager on offence invokes Video
catcher tags the runner after his initial attempt, after the initial call Review to challenge the application of Rule 12.8 If the Video
of the Umpire, and before the runner touches home plate, the Video Review Official overturns the call that Rule 12.8 was violated, then
Review Official shall declare the runner “out” and not score the run. he also shall determine whether the runner was tagged out before
touching home plate.
B3.11 HIT BY PITCH
Those plays for which there is a possibility that a pitched ball Note: Whenever Video Review of a call involving the application
touches a batter, or his clothing. See, e.g., Rules 10.5 and 10.2.11. of WBSC Official Rules of Baseball Rule 12.8 is initiated, the Video
Any doubt as to whether a pitched ball hit the bat (as opposed Review Official also shall review any other reviewable call on the
to the batter or his clothing) should be resolved by the Home runner on at home plate on that play (e.g., whether the runner was
Plate Umpire at that moment as hitting the bat and not the tagged out at home plate even if Rule 12.8 was not violated).
batter, and the Umpire should declare a fair or foul ball under the
circumstances. Notwithstanding the foregoing, whether the ball B3.13 PLAYS NOT REVIEWABLE
was in the strike zone when it touched the batter, and whether the The following plays WILL NOT be subject to review:
batter made any attempt to avoid being touched by the ball, shall - The Umpire’s judgement on whether a base runner rounded first
not be reviewable. See Rule 10.2.11. base in an attempt to advance to second base.
- The Umpire’s judgement on whether a base runner was pushed off
Example: A pitch strikes the batter, but the Umpire erroneously a base.
rules that the pitch struck the bat instead and rules “foul ball.” - The Umpire’s judgement on whether a base runner abandoned
The manager on offence appropriately invokes Video Review and his effort to advance in accordance with WBSC Official Rules of
the Video Review Official reverses the call. The Crew Chief shall Baseball Rule 10.7.2.
declare the ball dead at the moment it struck the batter and rule
accordingly.
A pitch strikes the bat, but the Umpire erroneously rules “hit batter-
dead ball.” The manager on defence appropriately invokes Video
Review and the Video Review Official reverses the call. If the ball
lands foul, the Video Review Official shall call the ball “foul.” If the

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C1. PITCH CLOCK

- The pitch clock will be set at twenty (20) seconds.
- Pitch clocks will be visible from the field of play and dugouts.
- The pitch clock will be in effect ONLY with NO runners on base for the
entire game, including any extra innings.
- It will be activated when the pitcher receives the ball on the mound
area.

APPENDIX
- Once the 20 second clock has started, the batter has 10 seconds to
enter the batter’s box.

03.
- The batter must keep one foot in the batter’s box between pitches.
Failure to keep one foot in the batter’s box shall result in a strike being
called on the batter.
GAME MANAGEMENT CLOCKS - The batter may only step out of the batter’s box with both feet in the
following circumstances:
REGULATION a) When the ball is hit.
b) On a swing, provided it is the momentum of the swing that takes
them out of the batter’s box.
The implementation of game management c) If forced out of the batter’s box to a valid pitch.
clocks at all WBSC Baseball Tournaments d) If the catcher is attempting to make a play (i.e. pop fly).
supports the efforts to maintain a reasonable e) If time has been called, or the plate Umpire leaves his/her position to
pace of game, helping to create a better perform other duties not directly connected with the calling of plays.
f) If the pitcher leaves the mound.
experience for fans in the stadium and viewers
g) On a three-ball count that the batter thinks the pitch was a ball.
around the globe.
h) On a check swing.
All Game Management clocks at WBSC Events i) On a bunt attempt.
will be operated by an Official WBSC Umpire - When the Umpire indicates “PLAY BALL”, after the batter leaves the
assigned by the Tournament Umpire Director. batter’s box as a result of one of the exceptions listed above, the
Umpire shall do so once all play has ceased, and the batter is in or near
Listed below are the general guidelines and
the batter’s box, the pitcher has possession of the ball on the mound,
regulations for each of the Game Management
or the catcher is in a position to return the ball to the pitcher. The
clocks. Umpire shall signal for the clock to begin. This includes a foul ball, a
dead ball or “TIME” being called, even if the batter does not leave the
batter’s box.
- A pitcher stepping off the rubber will not stop the clock unless the
Umpire grants the pitcher time.
- If either the pitcher or batter is granted time by the Umpire with five

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or more seconds showing on the clock, the player in question will not
get a reset of the full 20 seconds. The clock will be restarted when the
C3. PITCHING CHANGE CLOCK
Home Plate Umpire signals PLAY BALL.
- The pitching change clock will be set at ninety (90) seconds.
Penalty: The first time a pitcher violates the 20 second clock, he shall
be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent violations by the same - Clock will be visible from the field of play and dugouts.
pitcher will be penalised with a ball awarded to the batter. There will be
- The pitching change clock will be in effect ONLY when play is halted to
one warning per pitcher.
make the substitution (i.e., following a pitching mound visit by coach/
- If the batter is not in the batter’s box ready to take the pitch with five manager).
seconds or less showing on the clock and time expires, both the batter
- It will be activated when the pitcher coming from the bullpen steps
and the team manager shall be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent
onto the warning track.
violations by any batter will be penalised with a strike awarded to the
pitcher. There will be one Team warning per game. - The pitcher may not exceed eight (8) warm up pitches within the time.
- A delay of the game caused by the failure of the batter to keep one - The catcher will be instructed no more throws with fifteen (15) seconds
foot in the batter’s box between pitches will result in the ball being left on the clock.
declared dead and a strike awarded against the batter. The Home Plate
- The batter must be entering the batter’s box as time expires or when
Umpire shall call and signal “DEAD BALL”, point to the batter’s box
instructed by the Home Plate Umpire.
and say, “BATTER’S BOX VIOLATION”, awarding a strike on the batter
and giving the new count. Penalty: The first time the defence violates the pitching change clock,
the team manager shall be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent
violations by the same Team will be penalised with a ball awarded to
the next batter of the inning. The Umpire will then activate the pitch
C2. COACH / MANAGER PITCHER’S clock for the following pitch.
VISIT CLOCK - The first time the offence violates the pitching change clock, the team
manager shall be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent violations by
the same Team will be penalised with a strike awarded to the pitcher.
- The coach/manager’s visit clock will be set at thirty (30) seconds. The Umpire will then activate the pitch clock for the following pitch.
- Clock will be visible from the field of play and dugouts.
Note: Time allowance for pitching changes may be modified slightly if
- The coach/manager’s visit clock will be in effect when time is a game is televised live. In such cases, the Umpire Director/Crew Chief
requested by the coach/manager to visit the pitcher. will inform Teams accordingly.
- It will be activated when the coach/manager steps across the foul line
on his/her way to the mound.
- The coach/manager shall start walking back towards dugout before
the clock reaches zero (0) seconds.
Penalty: The first time the coach/manager violates the visit clock,
the team manager shall be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent
violations by the same Team will be penalised with a ball awarded to
the current batter of the inning. The Umpire will then activate the pitch
clock for the following pitch.

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C4. BETWEEN INNING CLOCK C5. CLOCK INSTALLATION

REQUIREMENTS
- The between innings clock will be set at ninety (90) seconds.
Each competition venue shall provide two (2) clocks in accordance to the
- Clock will be visible from the field of play and dugouts. following specifications:
- The clock will be in effect for the entire game, including any extra
innings. INFIELD CLOCK DESCRIPTION

Exception: 5th inning field maintenance of five (5) minutes and/or - A four-digit clock.
adjustment up to one-hundred and twenty (120) seconds if Live TV - Located in clear view of the pitcher, not
requests so. interfering with backstop publicity.
- Remote controllable and synchronised with the
- It will be activated once the defensive pitcher has reached the foul line
outfield clock.
near their dugout. REQUIREMENT - To be secured to the wall, preferably flush with
- The pitcher may complete a maximum of 8 warm up pitches within the the existing backstop.
time. - Durable display to withstand being hit by a ball
repeatedly and inclement weather.
- The catcher will be instructed a throw to second base with thirty (30) - To be padded on top and sides for player’s safety,
seconds left on the clock. especially if it projects out of the backstop.

- The batter must be entering the batter’s box as time expires or when DIGIT SIZE - Minimum height 24” (0.61 m)
instructed by the Home Plate Umpire.
Penalty: The first time the defence violates the between innings clock,
the team manager shall be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent
violations by the same Team will be penalised with a ball awarded to
OUTFIELD CLOCK DESCRIPTION
the first batter of the inning. The Umpire will then activate the pitch
clock for the following pitch.
- A four-digit clock.
- The first time the offence violates the between innings clock, the team - Located outside the FOP, not interfering the
manager shall be warned by the Umpire. Any subsequent violations by Batter’s Eye. It can be added to an existing video
the same Team will be penalised with a strike awarded to the pitcher. board.
REQUIREMENT
The Umpire will then activate the pitch clock for the following pitch. - Remote controllable and synchronised with the
infield clock.
Note: Time allowance for between inning breaks may be modified if a - Durable display to withstand being hit by a ball
game is televised live. In such cases, the Umpire Director/Crew Chief repeatedly and inclement weather.
will inform Teams accordingly.
DIGIT SIZE - Minimum height 30” (0.76 m)

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C5.1 PLACEMENT OF GAME MANAGEMENT CLOCKS

- The clocks shall be placed where they can be easily viewed by

the players, managers, Umpires, and spectators.
- One OUTFIELD CLOCK shall be placed either to the left or right
of the Batter’s Eye (see location options in diagram below) to
be visible by the batter and the plate Umpire.
- One INFIELD CLOCK shall be placed in the backstop area closer

APPENDIX
to the first base or third base dugouts (see location options in
diagram below) to be visible to the pitcher and one or more of
the base Umpires.
- Exact location of each clock may vary slightly based on venue’s
characteristics. 04.
DIAGRAM

D1 PLAYING FIELD
D1.1 for U-15 and above
D1.2 for U-15 and above (Metric)
D1.3 for U-12
D1.4 for U-12 (Metric)
D2 HOMEPLATE & BASES
D2.1 for U-15 and above
D2.2 for U-15 and above (Metric)
D2.3 for U-12
D2.4 for U-12 (Metric)
D3 PITCHING MOUND
D3.1 for U-15 and above
D3.2 for U-15 and above (Metric)
D3.3 for U-12
D3.4 for U-12 (Metric)
D4 FIELDERS GLOVE
D5 STRIKE ZONE

PLACEMENT OF GAME MANAGEMENT CLOCKS

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D1. PLAYING FIELD PLAYING FIELD

D1.1 FOR U-15 AND ABOVE D1.2 FOR U-15 AND ABOVE (METRIC)

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PLAYING FIELD PLAYING FIELD

D1.3 FOR U-12 CATEGORY D1.4 FOR U-12 CATEGORY (METRIC)

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D2. HOME PLATE & BASES HOME PLATE & BASES

D2.1 FOR U-15 AND ABOVE D2.2 FOR U-15 AND ABOVE (METRIC)

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HOME PLATE & BASES HOME PLATE & BASES

D2.3 FOR U-12 CATEGORY D2.4 FOR U-12 CATEGORY (METRIC)

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D3. PITCHING MOUND PITCHING MOUND

D3.1 FOR U-15 AND ABOVE D3.2 FOR U-15 AND ABOVE (METRIC)

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PITCHING MOUND PITCHING MOUND

D3.3 FOR U-12 CATEGORY D3.4 FOR U-12 CATEGORY (METRIC)

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D4. FIELDERS GLOVE D5. STRIKE ZONE

TOP OF SHOULDERS

MIDPOINT

TOP OF PANTS

HOLLOW BENEATH KNEECAP

A Palm width (top) 7 ¾ in (19.68 cm)

B Palm width (bottom) 8 in (20.32 cm)
Top opening of web
C 3 ½ in (8.89 cm)
Webbing not to be wider than 4 ½ in (11.43 cm) at any point
D Bottom opening of web 3 ½ in (8.89 cm)
E Web top to bottom 5 ¾ in (14.60 cm)
F 1st finger crotch seam 5 ½ in (13.97 cm)
G Thumb crotch seam 5 ½ in (13.97 cm)
H Crotch seam 13 ¾ in (34.92 cm)
I Thumb top to bottom edge 7 ¾ in (19.68 cm)
J 1st finger top to bottom edge 13 in (34.92 cm)
K 2nd finger top to bottom edge 11 ¾ in (29.84 cm)
L 3rd finger top to bottom edge 10 ¾ in (27.30 cm)
M 4th finger top to bottom edge 9 in (22.86 cm)

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OFFICIAL WBSC OFFICIAL OFFICIAL WBSC OFFICIAL

BASEBALL RULES RULES OF BASEBALL BASEBALL RULES RULES OF BASEBALL
Rule 1.01 Rule 1 Rule 5.10 N/A
Rule 2.00 Rule 2 Rule 5.11 Rule 9.3
Rule 2.01 Rule 2.1 Rule 5.12 Rule 8.5
Rule 2.02 Rule 2.2 Rule 6.01 Rule 12
Rule 2.03 Rule 2.3 Rule 6.01(a) Rule 12.1
Rule 2.04 Rule 2.4 - 2.5 Rule 6.01(b) Rule 12.1
Rule 2.05 Rule 6.1 Rule 6.01(c) Rule 9.10
Rule 3.01 Rule 3.1 Rule 6.01(d) Rule 12.3
Rule 3.02 Rule 3.2 Rule 6.01(e) Rule 12.4
Rule 3.03 Rule 3.3 Rule 6.01(f) Rule 12.5
Rule 3.04 Rule 3.4 Rule 6.01(g) Rule 12.6
Rule 3.05 Rule 3.4 Rule 6.01(h) Rule 12.7
Rule 3.06 Rule 3.4 Rule 6.01(i) Rule 12.8
Rule 3.07 Rule 3.4 Rule 6.01(j) Rule 10.6
Rule 3.08 Rule 3.5 Rule 6.02 Rule 13
Rule 3.09 N/A Rule 6.02(a) Rule 13.10
Rule 3.10 Rule 3.6 Rule 6.02(b) N/A

APPENDIX
Rule 4.01 Rule 4.1 Rule 6.03(a) Rule 9.7
Rule 4.02 Rule 4.2 Rule 6.03(b) Rule 9.9
Rule 4.03 Rule 5.5 Rule 6.04 Rule 8.6
Rule 4.04 Rule 5.1 Rule 7.01 Rule 7.7

05. Rule
Rule
Rule
Rule
4.05
4.07
5.01
5.02
Rule
Rule
Rule
Rule
5.4
5.6
7.1
7.5
Rule
Rule
Rule
Rule
7.02
7.03
7.04
8.00
Rule
Rule
Rule
Rule
7.8 – 7.9
7.11
7.12
14

CROSS REFERENCE Rule

Rule
5.03
5.04
Rule
Rule
7.4
9
Rule
Rule
8.01
8.02
Rule
Rule
14.1
14.2
Rule 5.04(a) Rule 9.1 Rule 8.03 Rule 14.3
Rule 5.04(b) Rule 9.4 Rule 8.04 Rule 14.4
Rule 5.04(c) Rule 6.13 Rule 9.00 Rule 15
Rule 5.05 Rule 10.2 Rule 9.01 Rule 15.2
Rule 5.06 Rule 10 Rule 9.02 Rule 15.4
Rule 5.06(a) Rule 10.3 Rule 9.04 Rule 16.6
Rule 5.06(b) Rule 10.4 Rule 9.05 Rule 16.2
Rule 5.06(c) Rule 10.5 Rule 9.07 Rule 16.7
Rule 5.07 Rule 13 Rule 9.08 Rule 16.5
Rule 5.07(a) Rule 13.2 Rule 9.10 Rule 17.2
Rule 5.07(a)(1) Rule 13.2 Rule 9.11 Rule 17.4
Rule 5.07(a)(2) Rule 13.3.2 Rule 9.12 Rule 17.3
Rule 5.07(b) Rule 13.4 Rule 9.13 Rule 17.5
Rule 5.07(c) N/A Rule 9.14 Rule 16.8
Rule 5.07(d) Rule 13.7 Rule 9.15 Rule 16.9
Rule 5.07(e) Rule 13.8 Rule 9.16 Rule 18.3
Rule 5.07(f) Rule 13.9 Rule 9.17 Rule 18.2
Rule 5.08 N/A Rule 9.18 Rule 18.2
Rule 5.09(a) Rule 9.11 Rule 9.19 Rule 18.2
Rule 5.09(b) Rule 10.7 Rule 9.20 Rule 19.1
Rule 5.09(c) Rule 11 Rule 9.22 Rule 19.7
Rule 5.09(d) Rule 11.2 Rule 9.23 Rule 19.8
Rule 5.09(e) Rule 11.3

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2023-2024

RULES OF
BASEBALL
WBSC HEADQUARTERS
Avenue Général-Guisan, 45
CH-1009 Pully | Switzerland

OFFICE
Phone: +41 21 318 8240
Fax: +41 21 318 8241
E-mail: [email protected]