Softball

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Borderline League Progressive Baseball / Softball League (3rd & 4th Grade) ALL COACHES SHOULD COMMUNICATE BEFORE GAMES START TO DISCUSS RULES AND PLANS FOR THE NIGHT!

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The intent of the league is to nurture your team / player along and let them progress as far as they can go developmentally, while at the same time having fun in a team sport. Game time decisions are just that. Coaches meet prior to playing and discuss the rules for that night’s game. As the season progresses, we would like to have the game become a true baseball / softball game. The nature of the teams will determine how it is played.

Field Dimensions   

Bases are 60ft apart Softball Pitching Rubber is 35 ft Baseball Pitching Rubber 42 ft

Umpires  

Coaches act as umpires and are on the field with the kids. If you have some young kids or volunteer parents who would like to umpire that is fine as long as they understand what we are trying to accomplish.

General Guidelines- Coaches should meet to discuss these rules prior to the start of games and come to an agreeance on how each game will be played, how long, etc. 

Game #1: Kids pitch to start off each batter. We than move to coach pitch after 4 pitches are attempted by the athlete. Coaches should pitch to their own batters.

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Game # 2: Kids pitch – NO COACHES PITCHING (unless your pitcher is struggling to throw strikes) – there will be walks and Strike-outs (coaches ump from behind the pitcher).

Progressive Rules – all other general baseball/softball rules not addressed below will apply:  All games are 3 outs or 5 runs per inning  On dropped third strike, batter is automatically out.  No balks will be called at this level (baseball)  Infield fly is in effect  No metal spikes  5 inning games – with a game time limit of an hour and 15 minutes  Stealing is permitted only after the ball crosses the plate. No stealing of home.  Baseball-- no leading off.  Softball--may lead off once the pitcher releases the ball  Runners must slide on any close plays or they are automatically out -- (No head first slides)  Leather baseballs and 11” yellow softballs will be used  Teams should consist of 3rd and 4th graders and be balanced in grade #’s if possible