Adult Slow-Pitch
It is the responsibility of coaches, managers, sponsors and players to know the NASP Rules and By-Laws. Ignorance of these Rules and By-Laws is not grounds for protest or appeal.

RULE 1 – DEFINITIONS

Sec. 1 ALTERED BAT: A bat is considered altered when the physical structure of a legal bat has been changed, or an illegal or non-approved bat has been changed to resemble a legal bat. Examples of altering a bat are, but not limited to, the following: painting a bat, replacing the handle of a metal bat with a wooden or other type handle, or inserting material inside the bat. A flare or cone grip that does not meet the specifications of Rule 3 is considered an altered bat. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out and base runners may not advance. The batter is ejected for using an altered bat.

Sec. 2 APPEAL PLAY: A play in which an umpire cannot make a decision until requested by a manager, coach or player. The appeal must be made before the next legal or illegal pitch, or before all infielders (including the pitcher) have left the field (crossed the foul lines). The appealed play does not change the type of out that is being appealed. There is such a thing as a fourth out appeal. This appeal is only done in order to prevent a run from scoring.

Sec. 3 APPROVED BAT: A bat model becomes approved after the bat manufacturer submits the bat to the NASP after being tested by the official test facility and said model meets the requirements of a legal bat as defined in Rule 3. Sec. 1

Sec. 4 BALL ROTATION: A pitcher will have a choice of balls at the start of each half inning, with the exception that if both balls do not get into play in the first half inning, the pitcher, in the bottom of the first inning, must pitch the unused ball. Thereafter, every third out, the ball in play must be returned to the pitcherís plate. The pitcher, now taking the field, has a ball to start the next half inning. Before throwing a warm-up pitch, the pitcher may request the other ball, giving the ball in his/her possession to the plate umpire. A choice has now been made, and the pitcher must pitch this ball until it goes out of play or becomes blocked.

Sec. 5 BASE PATH: The base path is an imaginary line, three feet on either side of a direct line between the bases.

Sec. 6 BASERUNNER: A player on the team at bat who has finished his/her batting turn, reached first base, and has not yet been put out.

Sec. 7 BATTERíS BOX: The area in which the batter is restricted to while in position to bat. The batter must have both feet entirely within the lines of the box prior to the pitch (the lines are considered to be within the box).

Sec. 8 BATTER-BASERUNNER: A player who has finished his turn at bat but has not yet been put out or touched first base.

Sec. 9 BATTING ORDER: The batting order is the official lineup of offensive players, listing the order in which team members must come to bat. A lineup card must include each playerís name and defensive position; also the playerís number must be indicated. (Also the designation of the extra player when used.)

Sec. 10 BLOCKED BALL: A live ball that is touched, stopped or handled by a person not engaged in the game; or which touches any object that is not part of the official equipment or playing area. EFFECT: The ball is dead. See Rule 8, Sec. 5 (e) for enforcement. NOTE: A blocked ball is not called when a live ball strikes a base coach unintentionally. NOTE: For offensive equipment causing a blocked ball, the runner closest to home plate will be declared out and all other runners must return to the last base touched when the ball becomes blocked.

Sec. 11 BUNT: A bunt is a fair ball in which the batter does not take a full swing at the ball but holds the bat in such a manner in the path of the ball to tap the ball slowly to the infield. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and base runners may not advance.

Sec. 12 CATCH: A catch is a legally caught ball that occurs when a fielder secures a batted or thrown ball with his/her hand or glove. If the ball is merely held in the fielderís arms, or prevented from dropping to the ground by some part of the fielderís body or clothing, the catch is not complete until the ball is in the grasp of the fielderís hand or glove. It is not a catch if a fielder, immediately after he/she contacts the ball, collides with another player, or wall (fence), or falls to the ground and drops the ball as a result of the collision or falling to the ground. In establishing a valid catch, the fielder shall have complete control of the ball, and his/her release of the ball is voluntary and intentional. If a player drops the ball while in the act of throwing, it is a valid catch. NOTE: An intentional dropped ball is a ball that has first been caught, by the definition of a catch, and is then intentionally dropped in an attempt to confuse or obtain additional outs. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter- base runner is called out, and all other runners are protected under the obstruction rule.
PLAY... (1) A batted fly ball, before touching the ground, strikes F5 on the head, and while still in the air, is caught by F6. RULING: A legal caught fly ball by F6. Batter is out. PLAY... (2) The batter hits a sharp line drive, which after passing F4 strikes the umpire over fair ground. The ball ricocheted and is caught by F4 while still in flight.
RULING: No catch. Ball is alive and batter would have to be thrown out or tagged out. A ball which strikes anything other than a defensive player, while in flight, is ruled the same as having struck the ground.

Sec. 13 CATCHERíS BOX: The catcherís box is the area in which the catcher must stay until the pitched ball is batted or reaches the catcherís box (the lines of the box are considered within the box). All of the catcherís body and equipment must be within the catcherís box until the ball is batted or reaches the catcherís box. An illegal pitch is called if the batter does not swing.

Sec. 14 CHARGED CONFERENCE: A charged conference takes place when:
a. (Defensive conference) the defensive team requests a suspension of play for any reason, and a representative, not in the field, enters the playing field and delivers a message, by any means, to the pitcher. It is not a conference when the representative enters the field and removes the pitcher or when the defensive team confers while the offense is in conference.
b.(Offensive conference) the offensive team requests a suspension of play to allow the manager or other team representative, on or off the field, to confer with the batter or base runner. It is not a charged conference when an offensive pitcher is putting on a warm-up jacket on base or if the offensive team confers while the defensive team is in conference.

Sec. 15 CHOPPED BALL: When the batter strikes downward with a chopping motion so that the ball bounces high into the air, this is considered a chopped hit ball. The chopping motion should resemble that of chopping a piece of wood lying on the ground.

Sec. 16 COACH: A member of the team at bat who takes his place in the coachís box to direct his/her players in running the bases. Two coaches are allowed, one positioned at first base and one positioned at third base. One coach can have in his possession a scorebook and an indicator, which shall be used for scorekeeping purposes only. The defensive coaches/manager must remain in the dugout, as their normal position, when their team is playing defense. Failure to obey this rule, after a warning is issued, will result in the coach/manager being ejected.

Sec. 17 DEAD BALL: The ball is not in play and not considered in play again, until the pitcher has the ball in his possession and the umpire has called ìplay ballî.

Sec. 18 DELAYED DEAD BALL: An infraction, signaled by the umpire, in which the ball remains alive until all play has been completed and the umpire calls time.

Sec. 19 FAIR BALL: A fair ball is a batted ball that:
a. Settles on fair territory between home plate and 1st base or home plate and 3rd base.
b. Is on or over fair territory, including any part of 1st and 3rd bases, when bounding toward the outfield, or touches 1st, 2nd, or 3rd base.
c. First falls in fair territory beyond 1st or 3rd base.
d. While in or over fair territory, touches the person of any umpire or player.
e.While over fair territory, passes out of the playing field beyond the outfield fence.
NOTE: A fair fly shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball and foul line and not as to the position of the fielder at the time he/she touches the ball. It does not matter whether the ball first touches fair or foul territory, as long as it does not touch anything foreign to the natural ground in foul territory and complies with all other aspects of a fair ball. Home plate is in fair territory.
PLAY (1) Batted ball first hits foul ground, and before being touched, rolls into fair territory between home and 1st where it settles. RULING: Fair ball

Sec. 20 FLAGRANT PLAYER OBSTRUCTION: A defensive fielder shall not at any time flagrantly, and with excessive force, impede the batter/runner or runner.
PENALTY: Immediate ejection of the defensive player.

Sec. 21 FORCE OUT: A force out is an out which can be made only when a base runner loses the right to the base he is occupying because the batter becomes a batter-base runner and before the batter-runner or a succeeding base runner has been put out.

Sec. 22 FOUL BALL: A foul ball is a batted ball that:
a. Settles on foul territory between home and 1st base or home and 3rd base.
b. Bounds past 1st and 3rd base on or over foul territory.
c. Falls first on foul territory beyond 1st or 3rd base.
d. While on or over foul ground, touches an umpire, player or foreign object to the natural ground. NOTE: A foul fly ball shall be judged according to the relative position of the ball and the foul line, and not the position of the fielder.

Sec. 23 FOUL TIP: A foul tip is a batted ball that goes directly from the bat, not higher than the batters head, to the catcherís hands or glove/mitt, and is legally caught by the catcher. A foul tip is a strike. The batter is out if it is the third strike. A foul tip is a dead ball. NOTE: Any foul tip is a strike.

Sec. 24 ILLEGAL BAT: An illegal bat is one that does not meet the requirements of Rule 3, Sec.1

Sec. 25 ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL: An illegally batted ball occurs when:
a. A batterís entire foot is completely out of the box on the ground when he/she hits the ball, fair or foul.
b. Any part of the batterís foot is touching home plate when he/she hits the ball.
c. The batter hits the ball with an illegal, altered, or non-approved bat.

Sec. 26 ILLEGALLY CAUGHT BALL: Occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball with his cap, illegal glove or any part of his/her uniform detached from its proper place. See Rule 1, Sec. 12.

Sec. 27 ILLEGAL PLAYER: A player who enters the line-up without the right to the offensive or defensive position.
Examples of an illegal player(s) but not limited to are:
a. Illegal use of the re-entry rule.
b. Illegal use of the courtesy runner rule.
c. Using a player to pitch who was removed from the pitching position.
d. Unreported Substitute.
PENALTY: An illegal player violation results in the immediate ejection of the illegal player.

Sec. 28 INELIGIBLE PLAYER: A player who is unregistered or who does not meet requirements to register.
Examples of an ineligible player but not limited to are:
a. Playing under an assumed name.
b. Players not on the team roster.
c. Violating residence requirements.
d. Violating divisional age requirements.
e. Player(s) that are listed on two (2) official NASP sanctioned rosters without an official release form on file in the State Directorís Office.
NOTE: Use of an ineligible player will result in a forfeit of the game if protested properly.

Sec. 29 IN JEOPARDY: A term indicating that the ball is in play and an offensive player may be put out.

Sec. 30 INFIELD FLY: An infield fly is a fair ball, not including a line drive, which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort when 1st and 2nd or 1st, 2nd, and 3rd bases are occupied before two are out. Any fielder can catch an infield fly.
NOTE: When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an infield fly, the umpire shall immediately declare ìINFIELD FLY ñ BATTER IS OUTî to aid the runners. If the ball is near the foul lines, the umpire shall declare ìINFIELD FLY ñ BATTER IS OUT, IF FAIRî. The ball is alive and runners may advance at the risk of the ball being caught, or re-touch and advance after a fielder touches the ball. If the hit ball becomes a foul ball, it is treated the same as any other foul ball.

Sec. 31 INNING: An inning is that portion of a game within which the teams alternate between offense/defense and there are three outs for each team. A new inning begins when the third out of the bottom of an inning is recorded.

Sec. 32 INTERFERENCE: Interference is the act of an offensive player or team member, which impedes or confuses a defensive player while attempting to execute a play. If judged so by the umpire, vocal interference may be called.

Sec. 33 LEGAL TOUCH: A legal touch occurs when a runner or batter-runner, who is not touching a base, is touched by the ball while the ball is held securely in a fielderís hand. The ball is not considered as being securely held if it is juggled or dropped by the fielder after having touched the runner, unless the runner deliberately knocks the ball from the hand of the fielder. It is sufficient for the fielder to touch the runner with the glove which holds the ball.

Sec. 34 LEGALLY CAUGHT BALL: A legally caught ball occurs when a fielder catches a batted or thrown ball, provided the ball is not caught in the fielderís cap, hat, pocket, protector or any other part of his/her uniform. It must be caught and firmly held with the hand or hands.

Sec. 35 NON - APPROVED BAT: A non - approved bat is one that is not listed on the NASP Approved Bat List or that has been removed from the NASP Approved Bat List.

Sec. 36 OBSTRUCTION: Obstruction is the act of:
A defensive team member who hinders or impedes a batterís attempt to make contact with a pitched ball or who impedes the progress of a runner or batter-runner legally running the bases, unless the fielder is in possession of the ball or is fielding a batted ball. The act may be intentional or unintentional, physical or verbal.
NOTE: Catcher obstruction is called when the catcher obstructs the batter who is attempting to hit or swing at a pitch. Prior to the pitch, catcher obstruction does not apply, a dead ball shall be called and allow the batter to re-set themselves.

Sec. 37 OVERSLIDE: An over slide is the act of the offensive player sliding over and beyond a base he is attempting to reach. This is usually caused when his/her momentum causes him/her to lose contact with the base, which then causes him/her to be in jeopardy. The batter runner may over slide 1st base, without being in jeopardy, if he/she immediately returns to that base.

Sec. 38 OVERTHROW: An overthrow is a play in which a ball is thrown to retire a runner who has not yet reached or is off base and goes into foul territory beyond the boundary lines of the playing field.

Sec. 39 PLAYER PARTICIPATION: NASP considers a player to be a participant of a game when the line up card with substitutions is turned in to the umpire, or official scorekeeper, or is announced.

Sec. 40 QUICK PITCH: A quick pitch is made by the pitcher with the attempt to catch the batter off balance. This would be before the batter takes his/her position in the batterís box, or while he/she is still off balance as a result of the previous pitch.

Sec. 41 STRIKE ZONE: The strike zone is that space over any part of the plate between the batterís highest shoulder and his/her front knee when the batter assumes a natural batting stance. Where the ball contacts the ground or glove has no bearing on the actual strike zone.

Sec. 42 THREE-FOOT LINE: Is a line parallel to, and three feet from the base line, starting at a point halfway between home plate and 1st base. The batter-base runner is declared out when he/she runs outside the three foot line, and in the judgment of the umpire interferes, intentionally or unintentionally, with the fielder attempting to field a batted ball, or interfering with a thrown ball.

Sec. 43 TIME: The term used by the umpire to order suspension of play.

Sec. 44 TURN AT BAT: A playerís turn at bat begins when he/she enters the batterís box and continues until he/she is put out or becomes a base runner.

RULE 2 ñ THE PLAYING FIELD

Sec. 1 The playing field is the area within which the ball may be legally played and fielded. The playing field shall have a clear and unobstructed area within radius of the prescribed fence distances from home plate between the foul lines.
a. ADULT DIVISION MINIMUM DISTANCE
Male 275 feet

Sec. 2 Ground rules or special rules establishing the limits of the playing field may be agreed upon by leagues or opposing teams whenever backstops, fences, stands, vehicles, spectators, or other obstructions are within the prescribed area.

Sec. 3 The playing field layout should include, in addition to marking for foul lines, the following:
a. THE THREE-FOOT LINE is drawn parallel to and 3 feet from the base line, starting at a point halfway between home plate and 1st base.
b. THE BATTERíS ON-DECK CIRCLE is a 5-foot circle placed between home plate and 1st base and between home plate and 3rd base.
c. THE BATTERíS BOX, one on each side of home plate, shall measure 3 feet by 7 feet. The inside lines of the batterís box shall be 6 inches from home plate. The front line shall be 4 feet in front of the center of the plate. The lines are considered as being in the box.
d. THE CATCHERíS BOX shall be 10 feet in length from the rear outside corners of the batterís boxes and shall be 8 feet 5 inches wide.
e. THE COACHES BOX is behind a line 15 feet long drawn outside the diamond. The line is parallel to, and eight feet from, the foul lines extended from the bases toward home plate.

Sec. 4 The official diamond shall have base lines as follows:
a. MEN AND WOMEN ADULT DIVISIONS ñ 70 FEET.
b. Distances from Home Plate to 2nd Base:

90í bases ñ 127í 3 ºî
85í bases ñ 120í 2 Ωî
80í bases ñ 113í 1 æî
75í bases ñ 106í 1 æî
70í bases ñ 99í
65í bases ñ 91í 11î
60í bases ñ 84í 10 ºî
55í bases ñ 77í 9 Ωî
50í bases ñ 70í 8 Ωî

Sec. 5 The official diamond shall have Men and Women adult pitching distance of 50 feet.

Sec. 6 If, during the playing of any game, the base distance or pitching distance is found to be in error; the error should be corrected immediately, and the game should be continued. This is not a point to be protested.

RULE 3 ñ EQUIPMENT

Sec. 1 The official bat shall be of one piece construction and can be made of wood (hardwood) or other materials approved by the NASP; or formed from a block of wood consisting of two or more pieces of wood bonded together with an adhesive, in such a way, that the grain direction of all pieces is essentially parallel to the length of the bat. Below is a list of additional requirements:
a. The bat shall not be more than 34 inches in length and no more than 38 ounces in weight and shall meet the NASP bat standards and also be listed on the NASP Approved Bat List. Any bat which cannot be identified by markings on the bat as an approved bat shall be considered illegal. EXCEPTION: Wooden bats need only meet the standards described in Rule 3 Sec. 1 above.
b. The bat shall have a safety grip of cork, tape (not smooth plastic type), or combination material.
c. The grip shall not be less than ten inches long and shall not extend more than 15 inches from the small end of the bat.
d. The bat may be made of metal or other materials approved by the NASP and may be angular; however, the NASP must approve any material before it is used in Sanctioned Events.
e. All exposed surfaces of the bat must be smooth and free of burrs, pins, rivets, DEEP DENTS OR DANGEROUS DENTS, fractures/cracks of any type, sharp edges or any type of exterior fastener that would present a safety hazard. EXCEPTION: At the umpires discretion slightly dented bats may be considered legal.
f. Unless the bat is made of one-piece construction with the barrel end closed, it should have a rubber or plastic insert in the barrel.
g. A one-piece rubber grip and knob combination is illegal.
h. Metal or other approved material bats must have a knob on the handle and welded or mechanically fastened.
i. All bats must have a safety knob of a minimum of º inch protruding at a 90-degree angle from the handle. The º inch is measured from the outer edge of the knob 90 degrees to the outside layer of wrapping. The knob portion of the bat may be taped as long as the bat does not exceed 34 inches in length; however, the umpire may request tape to be removed from both the handle and knob, if there is any question concerning the bat being altered or illegal. After determining the bat legal, the player may tape the bat back to his/her preference, providing the bat meets the requirements set forth by Rule 3, Sec. 1 (a-k).
j. A flare or cone grip may be attached from the factory or a factory flare or cone may be attached to the bat by the player, but the flare or cone must be installed properly to the bat. The flare or cone must be taped or covered by an approved bat grip and the bat must meet all requirements of Rule 3, Sec. 1 (a-k) after installation to be considered legal.
k. Shall be rounded, and shall be smooth. Shall not be more than 2 1/4 inches in diameter at its largest part. A tolerance of 1/16 inch is permitted, to allow for expansion on the round bat. NOTE: Sec. 1 (a-k) Any bat that does not comply with these guidelines or that is not listed on the Official NASP approved bat list must be removed from the game, penalties (if any) administered, and the bat may no longer be used in any NASP Sanctioned Play.

Sec. 2 The official softball shall be a smooth-seamed, concealed-stitched, or flat-surfaced ball. The center of the ball may be made of either long fiber kapok or mixture of cork and rubber, and/or machine wound, with a fine twisted yarn and covered with latex or rubber cement. Or it may be made of other materials approved by the NASP. The cover of the ball shall be optic yellow, tanned horsehide, cowhide or any other materials approved by the NASP, cemented to the ball by application of cement to the underside of the cover and sewn with black waxed cotton or black linen thread to form a black stitched softball. The solid core ball must be stamped with the official NASP logo that contains the maximum C.O.R. and compression standards. MAXIMUM C.O.R. is .44 or .40. (.47 for Women). Maximum Compression for NASP softballs is 400 pounds with no tolerance effective immediately. For the 2007 and 2008 seasons, 525 compression balls can be used to allow existing Manufacturers stock to be depleted. NOTE: The menís division will use the twelve-inch softball. The womenís division will use the eleven-inch softball.

Sec. 3 Gloves/mitts must be worn by all fielders: The catcherís glove/mitt may be any size. Gloves that are entirely gray, white or optic in color are illegal. Gloves that have circles on the outside or inside of the glove and prove to be distracting are illegal. The gloves worn by all fielders with the exception of the catcher shall be governed by the following specifications:
a. The height of the glove measured from the bottom edge across the center of the palm to a line even with the highest point of the glove/mitt shall be a minimum of eight (8) inches and may be increased by either Ω or 1 inch to reach a maximum height of fourteen (14) inches.
b. The Width of the glove measured from the bottom edge of the webbing farthest from the thumb in a horizontal line to the outside edge of the little finger shall be eight (8) inches
c. The webbing across the glove shall be measured parallel to the top end and shall be 5 æ inches

Sec. 4 All players, coaches, and participants must wear shoes. Sandals are considered proper shoes for non-players. A shoe shall be made with either canvas or leather uppers or similar materials. The sole may be either smooth or have soft or hard rubber or polyurethane cleats. Metal cleats or any type of shoe that has exposed metal on the sole, other than a rivet, may not be worn in any division of play. Shoes that have steel or any type of metal tips on the cleats such as (but not limited to) soccer shoes, golf shoes, football, and track shoes are illegal. *PENALTY: If it is discovered during the game that an offensive player is wearing metal cleats an out will be called and the player will be ejected and any base runner(s) must return to the last base occupied at the time of the pitch. A defensive player who is wearing metal cleats will be ejected.

Sec. 5 No Equipment shall be left lying on the field, either in foul or fair territory.

Sec. 6 Uniform: All players on a team shall wear uniforms alike in color with same team name/logo.Hard plastic visors; bandanas, scarf and handkerchiefs are not approved headgear.
NOTE: Shirts may have sleeves or no sleeves and still be considered matching. Players CANNOT EXCHANGE shirts with other players when they are substituted for during the game. All players must have their own shirt with separate numbers. PENALTY: For sharing shirts will be an illegal substitution. EXCEPTION: When a jersey is saturated with blood, team members can exchange shirts.
a.A pitcher shall not wear any item on the pitching hand, wrist, arm or thigh, which may be distracting to the batter. Players may wear solid colored undergarments under their uniform shirts or shorts. It is not mandatory that all players wear these undergarments, but if worn, they shall not be ragged, frayed, or slit on the exposed areas.
b.Numbers must be worn on all uniforms. No players on the same team may wear identical numbers.
c. YOUTH DIVISIONS ONLY, NO JEWELRY IS ALLOWED:
Un-exposed jewelry is legal in youth play as long as it remains un-exposed. If any type jewelry continues to become exposed, the umpire can ask the player to remove it. First warning for non-compliance with the jewelry rule will be a team warning. The team warning will be issued at the pre-game conference. For the second offense, the offending player WILL BE EJECTED.**NOTE; NASP STRONGLY RECOMMENDS THAT ANY TYPE OF JEWELRY NOT BE WORN IN ANY NASP PLAY.
d. Casts, (plaster, metal or other hard substances) or other items judged dangerous by the umpire may not be worn during the game, by any coach coaching the bases or by any player.
e. Coaches in wheelchairs MAY NOT be on the field of play during ANY live ball situation unless the chair has all exposed metal parts covered by a soft substance and taped in such a way that would eliminate the risk of bodily injury to the players playing the game or other coaches coaching the game. This pertains to ALL adult and ALL youth play.
f. NASP Uniform requirements: In all NASP play, violation of uniform requirements is not grounds for protest. NOTE: In all NASP play, if a team is not in compliance with the uniform rule, the opposing team, if in total uniform, has the choice of being the home or visiting team. If both teams are in compliance, or if both teams are not in compliance, then a flip of a coin will determine the home and visiting team. Class B thru E Matching shirts with numbers

Sec. 7 Protective Equipment Recommendation: The National Association of Softball Players HIGHLY RECOMMENDS protective equipment for ALL DIVISIONS of softball. All players are permitted to wear any approved protective equipment including catcherís equipment, batterís helmet, and soccer style shin guards. If used, the equipment must not be detached. Detached equipment can be an obstruction. Repeated acts could be grounds for ejection.

RULE 4 ñ PLAYERS & SUBSTITUTIONS

Sec. 1 A team shall consist of nine (9), ten (10), eleven (11), or twelve (12) players if the optional extra player (EP) is used. Players of the team in the field may be stationed anywhere on fair territory, except the catcher, who must be in the catcherís box, and the pitcher, who must be in a legal pitching position at the start of each pitch. No part of the defensive playerís foot (except catcher) may be on or outside the foul line, from the time when the pitcher steps on the rubber or until the pitch is released. Teams can play a maximum of ten (10) players on defense, and a minimum of nine (9). In the case where a team starts a game with nine players, the vacant 10th spot in the batting order shall be declared an out for the entire game. Should the 10th player arrive, the team MAY NOT at any time, insert that player into the 10th spot. If a team is playing the game with ten players, and a player is removed from the game for any reason, that team may continue to play with nine players, with the vacated spot in the batting order being declared an out. When a team is left with a vacant spot in the lineup because of the removal of a player or having only nine players, as described in Section 4 (a), the opposing team with two (2) outs may not intentionally or unintentionally walk the previous batter, in order to get to the ìautomatic outî created by the vacant spot in the batting order. Under no circumstances may a team play with less than 9 players. Refer to Rule 4 Sec. 4 (b)
NOTE: For further rules pertaining to the stationing of players in the COED Division, Refer to part III, Rule 4 sec 1 of the Co-ed rules *NOTE: FOR LEAGUE PLAY ONLY: Teams can play a maximum of ten (10) players on defense, and a minimum of nine (9). If a team starts a game with nine players, the vacant 10th spot in the batting order shall be declared an out. If a team starts with nine (9) players and the tenth (10) player arrives, the team may insert the tenth (10) player immediately. If a team is playing the game with ten (10) players and a player is removed from the game for any reason, that team may continue to play with nine (9) players with the vacated spot in the batting order being declared an out. When a team is left with a vacant spot in the lineup because of the removal of a player as described in Section 4 (c), the opposing team with two (2) outs may not intentionally or unintentionally walk the previous batter, in order to get to the ìautomatic outî created by the vacated spot in the batting order.
a. A team must have the required number of players present in the team area to start or continue a game. Players listed in the starting line-up and not available at game time may be substituted for and re-entered later.
1. Official line-up cards are to be completed and submitted to the official scorekeeper or the umpire at the start of each game. The line-up shall contain the first and last name, position and uniform number of each player. NOTE: If a wrong number is on the line-up card, correct it and continue playing ball with no penalty.
2. Their last name, first name and uniform number should be listed for all available substitutes in the designated place on the line up card.
3. Eligible roster members may be added to the available substitute list any time during the game.

Sec. 2 Extra Player (EP)
a. Any team may use one (1) or two (2) Extra Players (EP) per game provided it is made known prior to the start of the game and properly indicated in the lineup.
b. The (EP) must remain in the same position in the batting order for the entire game.
c. The (EP) may play defense at any time without his/herstatus being affected. He/she may go in and out of the defensive lineup as often as needed as long as his/her position in the official batting order is not altered.
d. The (EP) may be substituted for at any time with the substitute becoming the new (EP). The substitute must be a player who has not been in the game. NOTE: See Rule 4, Section 4, for removal of the (EP) from the game.

Sec. 3 Any of the starting players may be withdrawn from the game and re-entered once (including the starting EP), provided that the players occupy the original position in the batting order whenever in the game. NOTE: The original player and his/her substitute cannot be in the game at the same time.
a. Violation of the re-entry rule results in the use of an illegal player. Penalty shall be the immediate ejection of the illegal player when the violation is brought to the attention of the umpire by the offended team. EFFECT: An illegal player violation results in the immediate ejection of the illegal player. In youth play the coach is also ejected.
b.Violation of the re-entry is handled as an appeal,which can be made anytime during the game.

Sec. 4 A team must have the required number of players to start or continue a game. Requirements are:
a. A team must have a minimum of nine (9), ten (10), eleven (11), or twelve (12) players with which it started the game with the exception of vacated spots where players are removed for any reason. At no time may a team play more than ten (10) players defensively.

b. If a team starts with the EPíS and any player is removed, injured, or ejected from the game with no substitute to replace the removed, injured or ejected player, the vacated spot automatically becomes an out each time the vacant spot comes to bat or anytime a runner is removed from the base with no legal substitution.
c. When a team is left with a vacant spot in the lineup because of the removal of a player, as described in Section 4 (a), the opposing team may not with two (2) outs intentionally or unintentionally walk the previous batter, in order to get to the ìautomatic outî created by the vacant spot in the batting order.
d. If the previous batter is walked, the vacant spot in the batting order is skipped, the ìautomatic outî is waived, and the next batter is the player whose name follows the vacant spot in the batting order. This only applies when there are two (2) outs.
NOTE: A team may continue to play with more than one (1) vacant spot if it started with more than one EP.

Sec. 5 A player shall be officially in the game when his/her name has been entered on the official score sheet or has been announced. The following regulations govern the substitution of players:
a. The manager or team representative shall notify the plate umpire at the time a substitute enters the game. Failure to notify the umpire of a substitution would create an illegal substitution with the penalty ñ IMMEDIATE EJECTION FROM THE GAME WHENEVER THE INFRACTION IS DISCOVERED.
NOTE: Re-entry is considered a substitution, and if an illegal entry occurs, the penalty is the immediate ejection of the illegal player.
b. Substitute players will be considered in the game as follows:
1. When a batter, when he/she takes his/her place in the batterís box.
2. When a fielder, when he/she takes the place of the fielder he/she is substituting.
3. When a runner, when he/she replaces the player on the base he/she is holding.
4. When a pitcher, when he/she takes his/her place on the pitcherís plate.
In 1-4 above, in each case a pitch has to be thrown or a play has to have been made.
c. Each pitcher (starter or substitute) must pitch until the first batter facing him/her has completed his/her turn at bat, the side has been retired or he/she has been removed from the game. Unless the pitcher sustains an injury or illness which in the judgment of the home plate umpire incapacitates the pitcher from pitching. A pitcher removed from the game, by rule or ejection, is not subject to this rule 5 (c). Any other player may be removed from the game at any time.
d. A player substituted for in the game shall not participate in the games except as a coach.
EXCEPTION: The starting lineup, including the ìEPî may re-enter once.
NOTE: Any player participating in any NASP sanctioned event must be physically able to participate. By physically able, the player must be able to walk on and off the field and play the game as intended. This is intended to keep injured people from further injury. *NOTE: A playerís correct name supersedes error if an incorrect number has been entered on the score sheet.

Sec. 6 Divisions of play: The National Association of Softball Players has divisions for men and women, and a coed division for both to compete in jointly. The menís division is specifically for men ages 16 and older, and the womenís division is specifically designed for women ages 16 and older. With the exception of CO-ED division, women may not compete in the menís program and men may not compete in the womenís program of any division. This also applies to the Youth Program.

Sec. 7 The Tournament Director or the Tournament Umpire-in-Chief may declare a higher-class player ineligible immediately without having a team protest, no matter their roster status.

Sec. 8 Illegal player:
The use of an illegal player is handled as an appeal that can be made at any time while the player is in the game. A player will not violate the illegal player provision until he/she enters the game and one (1) pitch is thrown. Any action before one pitch is thrown is correctable. An illegal player violation results in the immediate ejection of the illegal player (in youth play the coach is also ejected). In addition, the following penalties will apply:
a. If the illegal player has completed a turn at bat and before the next pitch, the illegal player is called out. Any advance by any runner as a result of the illegal player becoming a batter-runner is nullified. Any additional outs recorded on the play stand.
b. If the illegal player has made a defensive play and before the next pitch (or the defensive team or the umpires have left the field), the offensive team has the option of 1) the result of the play or 2) replaying the last pitch. NOTE: The illegal player can be legally replaced by any eligible substitute. PLAY (1) Smith enters the game in the 4th inning and was not reported. In the 6th inning the opposing team reports this to the umpire. RULING: The player (Smith) is immediately ejected from the game. All play by or on Smith is legal. PLAY (2) Smith enters the game in the 4th inning and was not reported. Smith legally reaches 1st base and before the next pitch is reported to the Home Plate Umpire.
RULING: The player Smith is called out and immediately ejected from the game. All runners must return to the base occupied when Smith first came to bat.

Sec. 9 Communicable disease procedures:
When a player is bleeding or has an open wound, the bleeding must be stopped and the open wound covered with a bandage/dressing strong enough to withstand the rigors of competition. This treatment must be immediate and a suspension of play for a *reasonable amount of time will be awarded the team. Should the treatment of this wound exceed a *reasonable amount of time, the affected player must be substituted for. If no substitute is available and the team is using the EP, the team may play on with ten players until the affected player can continue, with all penalties as set forth by Rule 4, Sec. 4 in effect. When the affected player can continue, he may re-enter the line-up. Return to play will be determined by appropriate medical personnel or the home plate umpire. Any player whose uniform is saturated with blood, regardless of the source, must follow the same guidelines as stated above for a person bleeding and must have that uniform changed, if determined necessary, before returning to the game. NOTE: A reasonable amount of time will be determined by the home plate umpire and will be no less than 5 minutes. Soiled clothing must be changed, and the change of clothing need not be matching team clothing. This is not a point of protest.

Sec. 10 COURTESY RUNNER: A Courtesy Runner may be used once per inning. The courtesy runner must be the player who made the last out. EXCEPTION: If the player that made the last out is on deck or due up to bat, the player who made the previous out prior to the last out will be used. Or if the game is in the first inning the player furthest from the batter will become the courtesy runner. This could result in going back to a previous inning to get the proper courtesy runner. The player making the out is the proper courtesy runner, NOT the last player to complete his/her turn at bat. A Courtesy Runner is allowed in all Adult divisions.
NOTE: If a courtesy runner is substituted for illegally, the infraction must be caught before the next pitch. NOTE: A player becomes a courtesy runner when they have touched the base that is occupied by the player they are running for. Courtesy runners may not run for another courtesy runner.

RULE 5 ñ THE GAME

NOTE: It is the option of the Tournament Director to either use or not use an official scorekeeper. If an official scorekeeper is not used, the home team will be the official scorer and it is the obligation of the visiting team to verify the score at the end of each half inning.

Sec. 1 No alcoholic beverages will be allowed in the dugouts or on the field during any NASP sanctioned event.

Sec. 2 No youth player will be charged admission to any NASP youth tournament, above and beyond the team entry fee.

Sec. 3 The choice of the first or last bat in the inning shall be decided by the toss of a coin unless otherwise stated in the rules of the organization under which the schedule of games is being played. If a team is not in compliance with the uniform rule, the opposing team has the choice of being the home or visiting team if they are in total uniform compliance.

Sec. 4 The fitness of the grounds for a game shall be decided by the Tournament Director, Tournament Umpire-In-Chief and the Home Plate Umpire.

Sec. 5 A regulation game shall consist of seven (7) innings: A regulation game officially begins when the defensive team has taken the field and the umpire indicates (verbally or physically) play ball. A full seven (7) innings need not be played if the home team (the team second at bat) scores more runs in six innings or before the third out of the seventh inning. NOTE: The game is officially over when BOTH umpires have left the playing field.
a. A game that is tied at the end of seven innings shall be played with the International Tie Breaker Rule.
b. The umpire is empowered to call a game at any time because of darkness, rain, fire, panic, or other causes that place the patrons or players in peril.
c. These provisions do not apply to any acts on the part of the players or spectators that might call for the forfeiture of the game. The umpire may forfeit the game if attacked physically by any team member or spectator.
d. The umpire shall forfeit a game in favor of a team not at fault in the following cases:
1. If a team fails to appear on the field, or being on the field refuses to begin a game at the time the team is scheduled to play, or within a time set for forfeitures (grace period) by the organization in which the team is playing.
2. If after the game has started, one team refuses to continue play unless the game has been suspended or terminated by the umpire.
3. If after the umpire has suspended the game, one side fails to resume playing within two minutes after the umpire has called ìplay ballî.
4. If a team uses tactics to delay or to hasten the game.
5. If, after being warned by the umpire, any one of the rules is willfully violated.
6. If the order for the removal of a player or manager/coach, from the game, is not obeyed within one minute.
7. If because of the removal of a player by the umpire, or for any reason, there are less than players on the team. EXCEPTION: See Rule 4, Sec. 1
8. The score of a forfeited game will be 7-0 to the winning team.
e. During all tournament play, in the event of rain or any other causes which interrupt a game, the game must be resumed at the exact point where it was stopped unless the teams mutually agree to accept the existing score as the final score. NOTE: Players not listed in the lineups, and not available at game time, may be substituted for when the game is resumed.
f. In the event that a tournament cannot be completed, an official game may be called after 5 innings of play or 4 Ω innings of play, if the home team is ahead.

Sec. 6 The winner of the game shall be the team that scores the most runs in a regulation game. The score of a called regulation game shall be the score at the end of the last complete inning, unless the home team has scored more runs than the visiting team in the incomplete inning. In this case, the score shall be that of the incomplete inning.

Sec. 7 A run shall not be scored if the third out of the inning is a result of:
a.The batter being put out before legally touching 1st base.
b.A base runner being forced out due to the batter becoming a base runner.
c. A base runner leaving base before a pitched ball reaches home plate or before the pitched ball is batted.
d.An appeal play at 1st base on the batter/runner for the 3rd out of the inning.

Sec. 8 No succeeding runner shall score a run when a preceding runner has been declared the third out of an inning.

Sec. 9 A base runner shall not score a run ahead of the base runner preceding him/her in the batting order, if the preceding runner has not been put out.

Sec. 10 A manager and/or team representative, on or off the field, shall be allowed only one charged conference with a batter or base runner in any one inning.
PENALTY: A strike will be called on the batter if more than one conference occurs.

Sec. 11 Player eligibility/rosters

Sec. 12 Home run limits for independent teams: (Any untouched ball hit over the fence)
Class B Four - (4) - one-up home run rule
Class C Two - (2) - one-up home run rule
Class D One Up
Class E One homerun. Every home run after the one untouched over the fence will be declared an out. NOTE: The one-up home run rule is in effect. Once both teams have reached their respective home run limits, either team may hit an additional home run; however, no team may ever go more than one home run up on the other team. Any additional home runs above the one up will be scored as an out. Example: Both Class ìBî Teams have hit their respective four (4) home runs by the bottom of the fourth inning. In the 5thinning, the visiting team is now allowed to hit another home run, and do so. In the bottom of the 5th the home team can now hit 2 home runs, which is allowed, because they are no more than one home run up on the visiting team. If one team does not hit their allotted home run limit, then the one-up home run rule will not be used. The home team, in the bottom of the 7th or later innings, may hit one home run to pull even in the number of home runs as the opposing team, but may not hit a home run to go one up.

*NOTE: In the case of inclement weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, and a time limit is implemented, the home team cannot go one-up once the time limit has been imposed.
**NOTE: The progressive penalty home run rule is in effect for this division. Once a team reaches its home run limit, a batter shall be declared out for hitting any additional home runs, and the defensive team is awarded a progressive number of runs for each un-touched home run hit over the fence. For the first home run hit, the defensive team will receive one (1) run, for the second home run hit, the defensive team will receive (2) runs, three (3) runs for the third homerun etc. ***NOTE: In all programs that have competitive and recreation divisions, the recreational teams can hit one (1) home run, then any home runs hit after one will come under the progressive penalty home run rule. The competitive teams can hit the number of home runs specified for that particular program, and then the one-up home run rule is in effect. Ex: Coed Competitive can hit 3 Home Runs then the one-up home run rule is in effect. EXCEPTION: For all Home Run Rules: If a player has batted out of turn or has been substituted for illegally and has been called out by proper appeal after hitting a home run, that home run DOES NOT count against the teams total.

Sec. 13 Each untouched ball over the fence, exceeding a teams home run limit, will be scored as an out. NOTE: Any untouched batted ball that goes over the fence in fair territory shall be considered a home run against the teams home run total, regardless if the batter/base runner or base runners miss a base, pass a runner or otherwise get called out in the act of running the bases.

Sec. 14 Any ball touched by a defensive player which then goes over the fence in fair territory, shall not be included in the total of over the fence home runs. EFFECT: The ball is dead. The batter is awarded 4 bases. All other runners are entitled to advance to home plate without liability to be put out.

RULE 6 ñ PITCHING REGULATIONS

Sec. 1 The pitcher shall take a position with one or both feet in the pitching box.
a. Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher must come to a full stop with the ball held in the pitching hand or both hands in front of the body.
b. This position must be maintained at least one (1) second and not more than five (5) seconds before making the delivery.
c. The pitcher shall not be considered in the pitching position unless the catcher is in the catcherís box.

Sec. 2 The pitch starts when the pitcher makes any motion that is part of his/her wind-up after the required pause. Prior to the required pause any wind up may be used. The pivot foot must remain in contact with the ground until the ball leaves the hand.
a. It is not necessary to step, but if a step is taken, the step may be forward, backward or sideways as long as the ball remains within six (6) inches of the hip.

Sec. 3 A legal delivery shall be delivered with an underhand motion.
a. The pitch shall be released at a moderate speed. The speed is left up to the judgment of the umpire who shall warn the pitcher who delivers a pitch with excessive speed. If the pitcher repeats such an act after being warned, he/she shall be removed from the pitcherís position for the remainder of the game.
b. The hand shall be below the hip.
c. The ball must be delivered with an arch and reach a height of at least 6 feet from the ground while not exceeding a maximum height of 12 feet from the ground.
d. The catcher must be within the lines of the catcherís box until the pitched ball reaches the plate or until the ball is batted. PENALTY: The ball is dead, a ball is called on the batter, and a warning given to the catcher and the defensive coach that if the catcher repeats such an act after this warning, they will be removed from the catcherís position for the remainder of that game.
e. The catcher shall return the ball directly to the pitcher after each pitch, except after a strike out or put out made by the catcher. The pitcher has five seconds to release the next pitch. EFFECT: Sec. 3 (e) ñ An additional ìBALLî is awarded to the batter.

Sec. 4 The pitcher may use any wind-up desired provided the pitch is delivered within 10 seconds of being set or ordered by the umpire.
a.Pitching motion may include pitching between the legs, behind the back or faking.

Sec. 5 The pitcher shall not deliberately drop, roll, or bounce the ball to the batter either on or off the pitching rubber.

Sec. 6 The pitcher shall not at any time during the game, be allowed to use tape or other substances on the ball, the pitching hand or fingers; nor shall any other player apply a foreign substance to the ball. Under the supervision of the umpire, powdered resin may be used to dry the hands, also Gorilla Gold grip enhancer.

Sec. 7 At the beginning of each half inning or when a pitcher relieves another, not more than 1 minute may be used to deliver not more than 3 pitches to the catcher or other teammate. Play shall be suspended during this time. EFFECT: Sec. 1 ñ 7 is an illegal pitch and the ball is dead. A ball shall be called on the batter and base runners do not advance. EXCEPTION: If a batter strikes at any illegal pitch, it shall be a strike and there shall be no penalty. The ball remains in play if hit by the batter. NOTE: The umpire shall not or will not give a vocal warning or a delayed dead ball signal to the batter on an illegally pitched ball. An umpire will declare ìDead Ball, No Pitchî on any illegal pitching action. These are illegal actions by the pitcher prior to the release of the pitched ball. A pitched ball that hits the ground or home plate is a dead ball and may not be hit by the batter.

Sec. 8 No pitch shall be declared when:
a. The pitcher pitches during the suspension of play.
b. The runner is called out for leaving the base too soon.
c. The pitcher pitches before a base runner has retouched his/her base after a foul ball and the ball is dead.
d. The ball slips from the pitcherís hand during his/her wind-up or during the back swing.
e. No player, manager or coach shall call ìTimeî, employ any other word or phrase, or commit any act while the ball is alive and in play for the obvious purpose of trying to make the pitcher commit an illegal pitch. EFFECT: No pitch shall be declared and a warning issued to the offending team. A repeat of this type of act shall result in the offender being removed from the game.

Sec. 9 There shall be only one charged conference between the manager or other team representative from the dugout with each and every pitcher in an inning. The second charged conference shall result in the removal of the pitcher from the pitching position for the remainder of the game. NOTE: It is not a charged conference when the coach or team representative enters the field of play and removes the pitcher from the pitching position. The player may return to the pitching position.

Sec. 10 At no time during the game shall an offensive or defensive player or coach be allowed to leave their positions on the field or come from the dugouts to argue whether a pitch was a strike or a ball. NOTE: Anyone who leaves his/her positions on the field or the dugout to question balls and strikes, will be immediately ejected.

RULE 7 ñ BATTING

Sec. 1 The batter shall take his position within the lines of the batterís box.
a. The batter shall not have his/her entire foot touching the ground completely outside the lines of the batterís box or touching home plate when the ball is hit.
b. The batter shall not step directly across in front of the catcher to the other side of the batterís box while the pitcher is in position to pitch. EFFECT: Sec. 1(a-b) The ball is dead, the batter is out, base runners may not advance.
c. The batter shall not enter the batterís box with an illegal bat. EFFECT: The ball is dead; batter is out and ejected; base runners may not advance.
d. The batter shall not enter the batterís box with an altered bat or non-approved bat. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and without warning, is ejected from the game. Base runners may not advance. (In youth play the coach is ejected).
e. The batter must take his/her position within five (5) seconds after the umpire has called ìplay ballî. He/she must have both feet within the lines of the box before the start of the pitch. He/she may touch the line, but no part of his/her foot may be outside of the lines prior to the pitch. EFFECT: The ball is dead. The umpire will call a strike on the batter; also issue a warning to the batter to take his/her position or risk being called out. If the batter refuses to take his/her position after the warning, he/she will be called out. The warning will be given to a batter only one time per game. Any repeated violation during the game by that player, will result in an out being called. This rule is intended to help speed up the play of the game, and umpires, while using good judgment in enforcement of the rule, must prohibit the batter from delaying the game by taking an excessive or unnecessary amount of time entering the batterís box.

Sec. 2 Each player of the side at bat shall become a batter in the order in which his/her name appears on the score sheet. The batting order of each team must be on the score sheet and delivered by the manager or captain to the home plate umpire. The batting order must be followed throughout the entire game unless a player is substituted for. When this occurs, the substitute must take the place of the player he/she is replacing in the batting order. The first batter in each inning shall be the batter whose name follows that of the last player who completed a turn at bat in the preceding inning. NOTE: Batting out of order is an appeal play which may be made by the defensive team only.
a. If the error is discovered while the incorrect batter is at bat, the correct batter takes his/her place and legally assumes any balls and strikes.
b. If the error is discovered after the incorrect batter has batted, and before the next pitch to the following batter, the player who should have batted is out, and any out(s) that has been made prior to the discovering the infraction remain an out(s). Any advance or score made because of a batted ball by the improper batterís advance to 1stbase on a hit, error or a base on balls shall be nullified. The next batter is the player whose name follows that of the player called out for failing to bat.
c. If the error is discovered after the first pitch to the next batter, the turn at bat of the incorrect batter is legal, all runs scored and bases run are legal and the next batter shall be the one whose name follows that of the incorrect batter. No one is called out for failure to bat. Players who have not batted and who have not been called out have lost their turn at bat until reached again in the regular order.

Sec. 3 No base runner shall be removed from the base he/she is occupying to bat in his/her proper place. He/she merely misses his/her turn at bat with no penalty. The batter following him/her in the batting order becomes the legal batter.

Sec. 4 When the third out of the inning is made before the batter has completed his/her turn at bat, he/she shall be the first batter in the next inning and shall have the ball and strike count on him/her canceled.

Sec. 5 Members of the team at bat shall not interfere, either physically or vocally, with a player attempting to field either a fair or foul ball. This includes a base coach. EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out, and any base runner(s) must return to the base that they occupied at the time of the pitch.

Sec. 6 The batter shall not hit a fair ball a second time with the bat in fair territory.
EFFECT: The ball is dead, the batter is out and base runners may not advance. EXCEPTION: If the batter is standing in the batterís box and contact is made while the bat is in the batterís hands, it is a foul ball even if the ball is hit a second time over fair territory. NOTE: If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory and in the umpires judgment, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball, the batter is not out and the ball is alive and in play.

Sec. 7 A strike is called by the umpire:
a.For each legally pitched ball entering the strike zone before touching the ground and at which the batter does not swing. It is not a strike if the ball touches home plate andis not swung at.
b. For each pitched ball swung at and missed by the batter.
c. For each foul tip held by the catcher. The batter is out if it is the third strike. The ball is dead on any strike.
d. For each foul ball not legally caught, including the 3rd strike.
e. For each pitched ball swung at and missed which touches any part of the batter.
f. When any part of the batterís person is hit with his/her own batted ball, when he/she is in the batterís box, and he/she has less than two strikes.
g. When a pitched ball hits the batter while the ball is in the strike zone.
EFFECT: Sec. 5, d-g, the ball is dead and base runners must return to their bases without liability to be put out. NOTE: A pitched ball that hits the ground or home plate is a dead ball and may not be hit by the batter.

Sec. 8 A ball is called by the umpire:
a.For each pitch, which does not enter the strike zone, or touches home plate, which is not hit or swung at by the batter.
b. For each illegally pitched ball not hit or swung at by the batter.
c. When a pitch hits the batter outside of the strike zone.
d. When the catcher fails to return the ball directly to the pitcher as required in Rule 6, Sec. 3 e.
e. When the pitcher fails to pitch within five (5) seconds.
f. For each excessive warm-up pitch (See Rule 6, Sec. 7).
g. When the pitcher attempts a quick return pitch, the pitcher shall be given a warning.
EFFECT: Rule 7, Sec. 6 a-g. The ball is dead and base runners may not advance.

Sec. 9 A fair ball is a legally batted ball which:
a. Settles or is touched on fair ground between home and 1st or home and 3rd.
b. Bounds past 1st or 3rd base on or over fair ground.
c. Touches 1st, 2nd or 3rd base.
d. While on or over fair ground, touches the person or clothing of an umpire or player.
e. First falls on fair ground beyond 1st or 3rd base. A fair fly ball must be judged according to relative position of the ball and the foul line, regardless of whether the fielder is on fair or foul ground at the time he/she touches the ball.
EFFECT: Rule 7, Sec. 7(a-e) the ball is in play and base runners are entitled to advance any number of bases with liability to be put out. The batter becomes a base runner unless the infield fly rule applies.
f. While on or over fair ground, lands behind a fence or into a stand beyond the outfield fence, this is a home run.
g. Hits a foul pole on the fly. If the ball hits the pole above the fence level, it shall be a home run.

Sec. 10 A foul ball is a legally batted ball which:
a. Settles on foul ground between home and 1st base or between home and 3rd base.
b. Bounds past 1st or 3rd base on or over foul ground.
c. First touches on foul ground beyond 1st or 3rd base.
d. While on or over foul ground, touches the person or clothing of an umpire or player, or it is blocked. EFFECT: Rule 7, Sec. 8 a-d The ball is dead. A strike is called on the batter for each foul ball, including the third strike. Base runners must return to their bases without liability to be put out. Base runners may not advance on a third strike foul ball, including a legally caught foul ball; however, all runners may advance on any other legally caught foul ball.
e. Is caught, with less than two strikes, allowing all runners to tag-up and advance at their own risk of being put out.

Sec. 11 The batter is out:
a. When the batter has three strikes.
b. When the 3rd strike is struck at, missed including if the ball touches any part of the batterís person.
c. When a batter appears in the batterís box with, or is discovered using an illegal bat, altered bat or a non-approved bat, prior to or after hitting the ball. The batter is also ejected from the game for using an altered or non-approved bat. In Youth Divisions, the coach is ejected.
d. When a fly ball is legally caught.
e. Immediately when he/she hits an infield fly and the umpire has declared ìInfield Flyî. Refer to Rule 1, Sec. 29.
f. If a fielder intentionally drops, or lets drop, a fair fly ball, including a line drive, which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort with 1st, 1st & 2nd, 1st & 3rd or 1st, 2nd & 3rd bases occupied with less than two outs. EFFECT: Rule 7, Sec. 9 e. The ball is dead, the batter is out and base runners must return to the last base touched at the time of the pitch. This does not apply to an infield fly; the dropped ball remains alive on an infield fly. NOTE: A trapped ball shall not be considered as having been intentionally dropped.
g. If a preceding runner, in the umpireís judgment, intentionally interferes with a fielder who is attempting to catch a thrown ball, or is attempting to throw a ball in an attempt to complete a play, the preceding runner and the batter are both declared out.
h. When the batter bunts or chops the ball downward. (See Rule 1, Sec. 11)
i. When the umpire calls the third strike including a foul ball that is hit with two (2) outs.
j. When hit by his/her own-batted ball, in fair territory, outside the batterís box.

Sec. 12 The batter or base runner is not out if a fielder making a play on him/her uses an illegal glove. The manager of the offended team has the option of having the batter bat over and assuming the ball and strike count he/she had prior to the pitch he/she hit (base runner return), or taking the result of the play. The umpire(s) will signal a delayed dead ball.

Sec. 13 On ñ deck batter
a. The on-deck batter is the offensive player whose name follows the name of the batter in the batting order.
b. The on-deck batter shall take a position within the lines of either of the on deck circles without interfering with the view of any manager or coach.
c. The on-deck batter may loosen up with two official softball bats, an official warm up bat, or the player may use the Power Wrap, Worth WBS, H & B BW1, Swing Sock, or any other official warm-up bat or product that has been approved by the NASP National Office. Nothing else may be attached, such as a donut, fan etc. when loosening up.
d. The on-deck batter may leave the on-deck circle when he/she becomes the batter or to direct base runners advancing from 3rd base to home plate.
e. When the on-deck batter interferes with the defensive playerís opportunity to make a play on a runner, the runner closest to home plate at the time of the interference is declared out.
f. The provision of Rule 7, Sec. 3 shall apply to the on-deck batter.

RULE 8 ñ BASERUNNING

Sec. 1 The base runner must touch bases 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Home Plate in that order.
a. When a base runner must return to bases while the ball is in play, he/she must touch the bases in reverse order.
EFFECT: The ball is in play and base runners must return with liability to be put out.
b. When a base runner acquires the right to a base by touching it before being put out, he/she may hold the base until he/she has legally touched the next base in order or is forced to vacate it for a succeeding runner.
c. When a runner dislodges a base from its proper position neither he/she nor the succeeding runners in the same series of plays are compelled to follow a base unreasonably out of position. The ball is in play and runners may advance with liability of being put out.
d. A base runner may not run the bases in reverse order, either to confuse the fielders, or to make a travesty of the game. EFFECT: The ball is dead and the runner is out.
NOTE: A runner in a double play situation who stops or retreats back towards the base left is not to be considered as running the bases in reverse order or considered making a travesty of the game.
e. Two base runners may not occupy the same base simultaneously.
EFFECT: The runner who first legally occupied the base is entitled to it. The other runner can be put out by being touched with the ball.
f. Failure of a preceding runner to touch a base or to leave a base legally on a caught fly ball and who is declared out, does not affect the status of a succeeding runner who touches the bases in proper order. However, if the preceding runner were to be called out for the third out of the inning,no succeeding runner may score a run.
g. No runner may return to touch a missed base, or one left illegally, after a succeeding runner has scored.
h. When the ball is dead, no runner may return to touch a missed base, a base he/she has left illegally, even after the ball becomes alive. However, when a dead ball occurs, a runner may return to a missed base or a base he/she left illegally, if he/she is required to by the umpire in the awarding or determination of bases. The runner is not liable to be put out for missing a base beyond the base he/she is required to by the umpire in the awarding or determination of the bases. The runner is not liable to be put out for missing a base beyond the base he/she is required to return to.
i. No runner may return to touch a missed base or one left illegally once he/she enters his/her dugout or bench area.
j. When the umpire has called four (4) balls or when a walk is issued, all runners must touch all bases in legal order. Base runners do not advance unless forced.
k. Bases left too soon on a caught fly ball must be retouched before advancing to awarded bases. Awarded bases must also be touched in proper order.

Sec. 2 The batter becomes a batter-base runner:
a. As soon as he/she hits the ball.
b. When the umpire has called four (4) balls, the ball is dead. Base runners do not advance unless forced. A batter may be awarded an intentional walk by the defensive team by merely notifying the umpire. A second intentional walk cannot be administered until the first walked batter reaches 1st base.
c. When the catcher or any other fielder obstructs or hinders the batter from striking at or hitting a pitched ball.
1. The umpire will signal ìdelayed dead ballî.
2. The offensive team manager has the option of taking the base awarded the batter for catcherís obstruction or he/she may take the result of the play.
3. If the batter reaches first base safely and all other runners advance at least one base on the batted ball, catchers obstruction is cancelled and no other options are given.
d. When a fair ball strikes the umpire or base runner on fair ground.
1. If the ball hits the umpire or base runner after passing an infielder, other than the pitcher or touches an infielder, including the pitcher, the ball is in play.
2. If the ball hits the umpire or base runner before passing an infielder, the ball is dead and the batter is entitled to first base without liability of being put out. Runners not forced by the batter-runner must return.

Sec. 3 Base runners are entitled to advance with liability to be put out:
a. When the ball is thrown into fair territory or foul territory and is not blocked.
b. When the ball is batted into fair territory and is not blocked.
c. When a legally caught fly ball is first touched.
EXCEPTION: Base runners may not advance on a caught third strike foul ball.
d. If a fair ball strikes an umpire or a runner after passing an infielder other than the pitcher, or having been touched by an infielder, including the pitcher, the ball shall be in play.
e. On 70 ft bases each runner may leave his base in an attempt to steal the next base when a pitched ball is batted, touches the ground or reaches home plate. On bases longer than 70 ft the runner may leave his base in an attempt to steal when the ball leaves the pitchers hand. When the catcher or other defensive player returns the LIVE ball to the pitcher, and the ball is in possession of the pitcher, any runner between bases must immediately advance to the next base or return to the last base touched, with liability to be put out. If the runner(s) fail to return or advance immediately, the runner(s) will be declared out.
f. Runner(s) may not attempt to steal on a third strike out, nor can a runner(s) steal a base if the pitched ball hits any part of the batterís person, other than the bat, while the pitched ball is in the air, or if the pitched ball hits the ground and bounces into the batterís person before being touched by the catcher. Any interference of the live-pitched ball by a batter, or offensive player will negate any attempted steal, and runner(s) must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch.

Sec. 4 A player forfeits his/her exemption from liability to be put out:
a. If, while the ball is in play, he/she fails to touch the base he/she is entitled to before attempting to make the next base. If the runner put out is the batter-runner at 1st base or any other runner forced to advance because of the batter-runner at 1st base, or any other runner, forced to advance because of the batter-runner, this is a force out.
b. If, after over running 1st base, the batter-runner attempts to continue to the next base.
c. If, after dislodging the base, the batter-runner attempts to continue to the next base.

Sec. 5 Base runners are entitled to advance without liability to be put out:
a. When forced to vacate a base because the batter was awarded a base on balls, the ball is dead.
b. When a fielder obstructs a base runner from making a base, unless the fielder is trying to field a batted ball or has the ball ready for a tag.
EFFECT: When obstruction occurs, the umpire shall call and give a delayed dead ball signal for obstruction.
1. If play is being made on the obstructed runner or if the batter-runner is obstructed before reaching 1stbase, the ball is dead; and all runners advance without liability to be put out to the bases they would have reached, in the umpireís judgment, if there had been no obstruction.
EXCEPTION: A base runner obstructed in a run down shall be awarded the lead base at the time of the obstruction. Any proceeding runners forced to advance by the award of bases for obstruction shall advance without liability to be put out.
2. If no play is being made on the obstructed runner at the time of obstruction, the play shall proceed until the play is completed. The umpire shall call ìtimeî and impose such penalties,if any, as in his judgment, will nullify the act of obstruction.
3. If a fielder without the ball fakes a tag, the umpire may award the obstructed runner and each other runner affected by the obstruction, the bases they would have reached had there been no obstruction. NOTE: In the case of a ìfake tagî, the fielder will be automatically ejected from the game.
c. When forced to vacate a base because the batter was awarded a base for catchers obstruction.
d. When a fielder contacts or catches a batted or thrown ball with his/her cap, glove or any part of his/her uniform while detached from its proper place. NOTE: The umpire(s) will give the ìdelayed dead ballî signal. EFFECT: The runner shall be entitled to three (3) bases if a batted ball or two (2) bases if a thrown ball. In either case runners may advance further at their own risk. If the illegal act was made on a fair ball that, in the judgment of the umpire, would have cleared the outfield fence in flight, a home run shall be awarded, and a four ñ (4) base error will be scored on the play with the home run not counting against the teams home run total.
e. When the ball is in play and is overthrown (beyond the boundary lines) or is blocked.
EFFECT: Awarded bases shall be determined by the position of the base runners at the time of the infraction. EFFECT: For offensive equipment or an offensive player causing a blocked ball, the player closest to home plate is declared out, and all other runners must return to the last base touched when the ball becomes blocked.
1. The ball is dead. In all cases where a thrown ball goes into the spectatorsí seats, goes over, through, or under any fence surrounding the playing field; hits any person or object not engaged in the game, including bats lying near benches, goes into the players benches, whether the ball rebounds onto the playing field or not, or remains in the meshes of any wire screen, each and every base runner shall be awarded two (2) bases.
2. When the first throw is made by an infielder, two (2) bases shall be awarded. The award shall be governed by the position of each runner at the time the pitch was made; however, if all runners, including the batter-runner, have advanced at least one (1) base when the infielder makes the wild throw, on the first play after a pitch, the award shall be governed by the position of the runners, when the wild throw was made.
3. When a throw is made by an outfielder or is the result of any succeeding play or attempted play, the two (2) base award shall be governed by the position of each runner and the last base he/she has touched at the time the throw was made. If two runners are between the same base, the award is based on the position of the lead runner.
4.When a fielder loses possession of the ball such as on an attempted tag and the ball enters a dead ball area or becomes blocked, all runners are awarded one (1) base from the last base touched at the time the ball entered the dead ball area or became blocked. If a runner touches the next base and returns to his/her original base, the original base he/she left is considered the ìlast base touchedî for the purposes of an over throw award.
f.When a ball bounds or rolls into a stand, over, under, or through a fence; bounds out of play unintentionally off a defensive player or other obstruction marking the boundaries of the playing field.
EFFECT: Rule 8, Sec. 5 (f). The ball is dead and all base runners are awarded two (2) bases from the time of the pitch.
g. When a live ball is unintentionally carried by a fielder from playable territory into a dead ball area, the ball becomes dead immediately. All base runners are awarded one base from the last base touched at the time the fielder enters dead ball territory. If, in the judgment of the umpire, a fielder intentionally carries a live ball into dead ball territory, the ball becomes dead and all base runners are awarded two (2) bases from the last base touched at the time he/she entered the dead ball area. NOTE: A fielder carrying a live ball into the dugout or team area to tag a player is considered to have intentionally carried it there. A dead ball line is considered in play.

Sec. 6 A base runner must return to his/her base:
a. When a foul ball is illegally caught and so declared by the umpire.
b. When the umpire declares an illegally batted ball.
c. When a batter or base runner is called out for interference, other base runners shall return to the last base touched at the time of the interference.
d. When a pitched ball that is swung at and missed touches any part of the battersí person.
e. When a foul ball is not caught.
EFFECT: Sec 6.(a ñ e) . The ball is dead and base runners must return to last base occupied prior to the pitch except when forced by the batter becoming a base runner. Base runners need not touch the intervening bases in returning, but must return promptly; however, they must be allowed sufficient time to return.
f. Base stealing. Under no circumstances is a runner permitted to steal a base when a pitched ball is not batted.

Sec. 7 Batterñbase runner is out:
NOTE: 1stbase double base ñ At facilities that use the White and Orange double bag at first base, the following rules will be implemented. If the first play is at first base, either from the infield or outfield, a batter/runner will be called out for touching the inside base. If the play is elsewhere, the inside base may be tagged in a continuation or possible continuation toward second (2nd) base. The batter/ runner running toward first (1st) base may cross over to the inside bag to avoid a collision if a wild throw occurs. The fielder may tag the outside of the bag to record the out in this situation. This is only permissible on the initial play at first base. The inside bag will be used by the batter/runner/runner if attempting to get back to first (1st) base. If a batter/ runner on the first play at first base touches ìANYî part of the orange bag, that runner is considered to have touched the bag legally. If the runner touches ìANYî part of the white bag in a continuation or possible continuation to 2nd base, the runner is considered to have touched the bag legally.
a. When, after hitting a fair ball, he/she is legally touched with the ball before he/she touches 1st base.
b. When after hitting a fair ball, the ball is held by a fielder touching 1stbase with any part of his/her person, before the batter-base runner touches 1st base.
c. When, after a fly ball is hit, a fielder catches the ball before it touches the ground or any object other than a fielder.
d. When, after hitting a fair ball or a base on balls is awarded, he/she fails to advance to the next base. EFFECT: Rule 8, Sec. 7(a ñ d). The ball is in play and the batter-runner is out.
e. When he/she runs outside the three foot line, and in the judgment of the umpire, interferes with the fielder taking the throw at 1stbase; however, he/she may run outside the three foot line to avoid a fielder attempting to field a batted ball.
f. When he/she interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If the interference, in the judgment of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, the base runner closest to home plate shall be called out.
g. When a batter runner interferes with a play at home in an attempt to prevent an obvious out at home plate, the runner is also out.
h. When he/she moves back towards home plate to avoid or delay a tag by a fielder.
i. When he/she is discovered using an altered or illegal bat. EFFECT: Rule 8, Sec. 7(eñi). The ball is dead and the batter-runner is out. Other base runners must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the illegal action.
j. Any batter-runner who carries the bat and legally reaches or touches first base, while still holding the bat, during a live ball situation (including a homerun), will be declared out. Should this be the 3rd out of an inning, no preceding runner shall score. EFFECT: If less than two (2) outs, a delayed ball signal will be given and the ball will remain alive.

Sec. 8 The base runner is out:
a. When in running to any base, he/she runs more than three feet from a direct line between that base and the next base in regular or reverse order to avoid being touched by the ball in the hand of a fielder. When a play, such as a rundown, is made on a runner who has ìroundedî a base, and that runner is outside of a direct line between bases, the runner establishes his/her baseline as a direct line between him/her and the next base in regular or reverse order.
b. When, while the ball is in play, he/she is legally touched by the ball in the hand of a fielder while not in contact with a base.
c. When on a force out, a fielder tags him/her with the ball or tags the base on a force out.
d. When the base runner fails to return to touch the base he/she previously occupied when play is resumed after suspension of play.
e. When a base runner physically passes a preceding runner before that runner has been put out.
f. When anyone, other than another base runner, physically assists a base runner while the ball is in play.
g. When the base runner leaves his/her base to advance to another base before a caught fly ball has been touched by a fielder, provided the ball is returned to a fielder and legally held on that base, or a fielder legally touches the base runner before he/she returns to his/her base.
h. When the base runner fails to touch the intervening base or bases, in regular or reverse order, and the ball is in play and legally held on that base; or the base runner is legally touched while off the base he/she missed.
i. When the batter runner legally over runs 1st base attempts to run to 2nd base and is legally touched while off the base.
j. In running or sliding for home plate, he/she fails to touch home plate and makes no attempt to return to the base, when a fielder holds the ball in his/her hand while touching home plate and appeals to the umpire for a decision. EFFECT: Rule 8, Sec. 8(g ñ I). These are appeal plays, and the defensive team loses the privilege of putting the base runner out if the appeal in not made before the next legal or illegal pitch. If an appeal is made after the ball is dead and before the next pitch is made, the ball remains dead and runners may not advance. The pitcher must have the ball in his/her possession, around the area of the pitcherís plate. Any player in the game, coach or manager may then make an appeal by announcing to the umpire, which runner is being appealed; which base has been missed; or which base has been left too soon. Any player may also make an appeal while the ball is still alive, and before the ball becomes dead, by tagging the runner or the base being appealed, with the ball.
k. When the base runner interferes with a fielder attempting to field a batted ball, or intentionally interferes with a thrown ball. If this interference, in the judgment of the umpire, is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play, and occurs before the base runner is put out, the immediate succeeding runner shall be called out also.
l. When a base runner is struck with a fair-batted ball in fair territory while off base and before it passes an infielder, excluding the pitcher.
m. When a runner intentionally kicks a ball, which an infielder has missed.
n. When with a base runner on 3rd base, the batter interferes with a play being made at home plate with less than 2 outs.
o. When the coach near 3rd base runs in the direction of home plate, on or near the baseline, while a fielder is attempting to make a play on a batted or thrown ball, and thereby draws a throw to home plate. The base runner nearest to 3rd base shall be declared out.
p. When one or more members of the offensive team stand or collect at or around a base, which a base runner is advancing, thereby confusing the fielders and adding to the difficulty of making the play. This includes the bat boy/girl or any other person authorized to sit on the teamís bench.
q. When any base runner runs the bases in reverse order to confuse the defensive team, or to make a farce of the game. This includes the batter-runner moving backward toward home plate to avoid or delay a tag.
r. If a coach intentionally interferes with a thrown ball.
s. When a runner, after being declared out or after scoring, interferes with a defensive playerís opportunity to make a play on another runner. The runner closest to home plate at the time of the interference shall also be called out. EFFECT: Rule 8, Sec. 8(k ñ s) The ball is dead and the base runner is out. Other runners must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the illegal action.
t. When a defensive player has the ball and is waiting for the runner and the runner remains on his feet and deliberately, with great force, crashes into the defensive player, the runner is declared out. The ball is dead and all runners must return to the last base touched at the time of the collision unless Rule 8, Sec. 8 (j) or Rule 8, Sec. 8 (s) applies. NOTE: IF THE ACT IS DETERMINED TO BE FLAGRANT, THE OFFENDER SHALL BE EJECTED.
u. When the base runner fails to keep contact with his/her base until a legally pitched ball has reached home plate, the ball is dead. ìNo Pitchî is declared and the base runner is called out.
v. When he abandons a base, does not attempt to advance to the next base, and enters the team area or leaves the field of play. The base runner shall be called out immediately when he/she enters the team area or leaves the field of play.
w. If hit by an infield fly when not in contact with the base, the ball is dead and the runners and the batter are both declared out. Other runners must return to the base occupied, without liability to be put out, at the time of the pitch.
x.When prior to a pitch being made to the next batter, it is discovered that the previous batter used an altered, illegal or a non-approved bat.
Penalty: The base runner is declared out. If the bat was altered or non-approved bat, the player is ejected from the game and in the NASP youth divisions, the coach is also ejected. Any out(s) made on the play shall remain an out(s). All other base runner(s) must return to the last base legally touched at the time of the illegal action.

Sec. 9 Base runner is not out:
a. When a base runner runs behind or in front of a fielder and outside the baseline in order to avoid interfering with a fielder who is attempting to field the ball in the baseline.
b. When a base runner does not run a direct line to the base, providing the fielder, in the direct line, does not have the ball in his/her possession.
c. When more than one fielder attempts to field a batted ball, and the base runner comes into contact with the one who, in the umpires judgment, was not entitled to field the ball.
d. When a base runner is hit with a fair-batted ball that has passed through an infielder, excluding the pitcher, and in the judgment of the umpire, no other fielder has a chance to make a play on the ball.
e. When a base runner is touched with a ball not securely held by a fielder.
f. When the defensive team does not request the umpireís decision on an appeal play until after the next pitch.
g. When a batter runner over runs 1st base, after touching it, and makes no attempt to advance to the next base.
h. When the base runner is not given sufficient time to return to a base, he/she shall not be called out for being off the base before the pitcher pitches the ball. The umpire shall call no pitch.
i. When a runner, who has legally started to advance, cannot be stopped by the pitcher receiving the ball while on the pitching plate, nor by stepping on the plate with the ball in his/her possession.
j. When a base runner holds his/her base until a fly ball touches a fielder, and then attempts to advance.
k. When a runner is in contact with the base, and is hit by a batted ground ball or fly ball in fair territory, the base runner is not out and the ball is dead. All runners advance one (1) base if forced. EFFECT: Ball is dead; all runners advance one (1) base, if forced.
l. When a base runner slides into a base and dislodges it from its proper place. The base is considered to have followed the runner. See Rule 8, Sec. 1 (c) and Rule 8, Sec. 4 (c).
m.When a fielder makes a play on a batter or base runner while using an illegal glove. See Rule 7, Sec. 10 for option given to the manager of the offensive team.
n. When a fair-batted ball hits the base runner, after it touched or touches any fielder, including the pitcher.

RULE 9 ñ DEAD BALL ñ BALL IN PLAY

Sec. 1 The ball is dead and not in play:
a. When the ball is batted illegally.
b. When a batter steps from one box to another when the pitcher is ready to pitch.
c. When a ball is pitched illegally. EXCEPTION: If the batter swings at an illegal pitch, the play stands.
d. When the umpire declares ìNo Pitchî.
e. When a pitched ball touches any part of the batterís person or clothing, whether or not the ball is struck at.
f. When a foul ball is not caught.
g. When a base runner is called out for leaving a base too soon on a pitched ball.
h. When the offensive team causes interference.
i. When the ball is outside the playing limits of the playing field. A ball is considered ìout of playî when it touches the ground, person on the ground or object outside the playing area.
j. In case of interference with the batter or fielder.
k. When the batter bunts or chops a pitched ball.
l. When the umpire calls time.
m. When the umpire calls time and an appeal play follows, the ball remains dead throughout the appeal.
n. When any part of the batters person is hit by his own batted ball while he is in the batterís box.
o. When a runner runs the bases in reverse order.
p. When a coach near third base runs in the direction of home plate on or near the baseline while the fielder is attempting to make a play, and thereby draws a throw to home plate.
q. When a base runner fails to keep contact with his/her base until the pitched ball has reached home plate.
r. When a play is being made on an obstructed runner, or if the batter-runner is obstructed before he/she reaches first base.
s. When a blocked ball is declared.
t. When the batter enters the batters box with, or uses, an illegal bat or altered bat.
u. When a caught fair ball, including a line drive, which can be handled by any infielder with ordinary effort, is intentionally dropped, with less than two outs, and with a runner on 1st, 1st and 2nd, 1st and 3rd or 1st, 2nd or 3rd bases.
v. When a fielder carries a live ball into dead ball territory.
w. When a foul ball is caught and the batter has 2 strikes.
x. When a batter is hit with his/her own-batted ball in fair territory outside the batterís box.
y. When a fair ball strikes an umpire or base runner on fair ground before passing or touching an infielder.

Sec. 2 The ball is in play:
a. At the start of each half inning, when the pitcher has the ball in the pitching position and the umpire has called ìPlay Ballî.
b. When the infield fly rule is enforced.
c. When a thrown ball goes past a fielder and remains in playable territory.
d. When a fair ball strikes an umpire or base runner on fair ground after passing or touching an infielder.
e. When a fair ball strikes an umpire on foul ground.
f. When the base runners have reached the bases which they are entitled, when the fielder illegally fields batted or thrown ball.
g. When a base runner is called out for passing a preceding runner.
h. When no play is being made on an obstructed runner, the ball shall remain alive until the play is over.
i. When the batter legally hits a fair ball.
j. When a base runner must return, in reverse order, while the ball is already in play.
k. When a base runner acquires the right to a base by touching it before being put out.
l. When a base is dislodged while runners are running the bases.
m. When a runner runs out of the base line in regular or reverse order to avoid a tag by a fielder.
n. When a runner is forced or tagged out.
o. When the umpire calls the base runner out for failure to return and touch the base when play is resumed, after a suspension of play.
p. When a live ball strikes a groundskeeper, photographer, policeman etc. assigned to the game.
q. When a thrown ball strikes an offensive player.
r. If the batter drops the bat and the ball rolls against the bat in fair territory, and in the judgment of the umpire, there was no intention to interfere with the course of the ball. The batter is not out and the ball is alive and in play.
s. When a thrown ball strikes an umpire.
t. When a thrown ball strikes a coach.
u. As long as there is a play as a result of the hit by the batter. This would include an immediate live ball appeal before the umpire has called ìtimeî. Once the umpire has called ìtimeî however, the ball remains dead during a subsequent appeal play.
v. When a foul ball is caught and the batter has less than two strikes.
w. When, in the judgment of the umpire, a coach touches or physically helps a runner.
EFFECT: A delayed dead ball signal will be given and play shall continue. The touched or assisted runner shall be ruled out and all other subsequent play will be ruled upon accordingly.

Sec. 3 The ball remains alive until the umpire calls ìtimeî, which should be done when the ball is held by a player in the infield area, and in the judgment of the umpire, all play has ceased.

RULE 10 ñ UMPIRES

NOTE: Failure of umpires to adhere to Rule 10 shall not be grounds for protest. These are guidelines for the umpires.

Sec. 1 Powers and duties: The umpires are the representatives of the league or organization for the particular game that they have been assigned. They are authorized and required to enforce the rules contained in this book. The umpires have the power to order a player, coach, captain, or manager to do or refrain from doing, any act that is necessaryto enforce any of these rules; and to inflict any penalties prescribed. The plate umpire shall have the authority to rule on any situation not specifically covered in these rules.
NOTE: An umpire shall not be a member of either team (i.e. player, coach, officer scorekeeper, or sponsor.)
a. The umpire should inspect the playing field, equipment, and clarify all ground rules to both teams and managers/coaches prior to the start of the game.
b. Each umpire shall have the power to make decisions on violations committed anytime during playing time or suspension of play until the game is over.
c. No umpire has the authority to set aside or question decisions made by another umpire within the limits of his/her respective duties.
d. An umpire may consult with his/her partners at any time; however, the final decision shall rest with the umpire whose authority it is to make the decision and who requested the opinion of the other umpires.
e. The plate and base umpires shall have equal authority to :
1. Call a runner out for leaving a base too soon.
2. Call ìtimeî for suspension of play.
3. Remove a player, manager, coach, or other team member from the game for violation of the rules. NOTE: Unless appealed, the plate umpire shall not call a player out for having failed to touch a base, leaving a base too soon on a caught fly ball, batting out of order or making an attempt to go to second base after reaching first base, as provided in these rules.

Sec. 2 The plate umpire:
a. Shall take a position behind the catcher and have full responsibility for the proper conduct of the game.
b. Shall call all balls and strikes.
c. Shall be in agreement and in cooperation with the base umpire(s) call on plays, fair or foul balls, legally or illegally caught balls. On plays, which require the base umpire to leave the infield, the plate umpire shall assume the duties that the base umpire is normally required to cover.
d. Shall determine and declare whether a batter chops or bunts a ball, whether a batted ball touches the person or clothing of the batter, and also whether a fly ball is an infield fly.
e. Shall render decisions on the bases when required by the instruction in the umpireís manual.
f. Shall determine when a game is forfeited.

Sec. 3 The base umpire:
a. Shall take a position(s) on the playing field as outlined in the Umpireís Manual.
b. Shall assist the plate umpire in every way to enforce the rules of the game.
c. Can call an Infield Fly.

Sec. 4 Changing of umpire:
a. Umpires cannot be changed during a game unless injury or illness incapacitates an umpire.

Sec. 5 Umpires judgment:
There shall be no appeal of any decision of any umpire on the grounds that he/she was not correct in his/her decision that a batted ball was fair or foul, a base runner was out or safe, a pitched ball was a ball or a strike, or any other play involving accuracy of judgment. Any argument is grounds for a player or coach to be ejected from the game. No decision of an umpire shall be reversed, except when he/she is convinced it is in violation of a rule. If the manager, captain, or either team does not seek reversal of a decision based solely on a point of rules, the umpire whose decision is in question, shall, if in doubt, confer with his/her associates before taking any action. But under no circumstances shall any player or person, other than the manager or captain of either team, have any legal right to protest any decision and seek its reversal on a claim that it is in conflict with these rules. Under no circumstances should any umpire seek to reverse a decision made by his/her associates, nor shall any umpire criticize or interfere with the duties of his/her associates, unless asked to do so.

Sec. 6 Suspension of play:
a. An umpire may suspend play when, in his/her judgment, conditions justify such action.
b. Play shall be suspended when the plate umpire leaves his/her position to brush the plate or to perform other duties not directly related with the calling of a play.
c. The umpire shall suspend play whenever the batter or pitcher steps out of position for a legitimate reason.
d. The umpire shall not call ìTimeî after the pitcher has started his/her pitching motion, or while play is in progress. ìTimeî shall not be called until all action, in progress by either team, has been completed.
e. When in the judgment of the umpire, all immediate play is apparently completed should he/she call ìTimeî.

Sec. 7 Violations and penalties:
a. Players, managers, coaches or other team members shall not make disparaging or insulting remarks to or about any opposing players, officials, or spectators; or commit other acts that could be considered unsportsmanlike conduct.
b. There shall be no more than two coaches for each team to give words of assistance and direction to the members of the team while at bat. One coach shall be stationed near first base and the other near third base. Each coach must remain in the coachís box.
c. The penalty for violations by a player is prompt removal of the offender from the game and grounds. For the first violation the manager or coach may be warned. For second offense the player is removed from the game. The offender shall go directly to the dressing room (if available) for the remainder of the game or leave the grounds. Failure to do so will warrant a forfeiture of the game.
d. Any player or coach who leaves his/her position on the field, including the dugout, to argue balls and strikes, or to argue whether a batter stepped on or over home plate, will be ejected.

Sec. 8 All NASP Umpires must wear an Official NASP umpiring uniform consisting of the following:
1. Official NASP umpire shirt w/embroidered logo. NOTE: Any clothing worn under the official umpire shirt must be plain white with no writing or graphics of any kind. EXCEPTION: The embroidered official NASP mock turtleneck.
2. Heather grey with belt loops (Slow-pitch).
3. Heather grey trousers with belt loops (Fast pitch).
NOTE: Trousers do not include jeans, sweatpants, jogging pants, or other pants or slacks that would not be considered dress trousers.
4. Navy blue with belt loops. *NOTE: Navy blue shorts, with belt loops, may be worn at all levels of NASP sanctioned play. EXCEPTION: Fast pitch Softball. It is up to the discretion of the Tournament Director to allow umpires to wear shorts or trousers during all Post season play. It is recommended that Umpires, in cooperation with the league/tournament Umpire-In-Chief, coordinate their uniforms to look alike, i.e. one Umpire wears shorts, both wear shorts. This is the same for trousers. When shorts are worn, solid white socks must be worn. Ankle socks are acceptable as part of the NASP OFFICIAL UNIFORM.
5. Black Belt.
6. Black socks with trousers and white socks with navy blue shorts.
7. Navy blue jacket w/official NASP logo.
8. Black shoes. NOTE: Black official (umpire) shoes bearing the white logo, trademark or manufacturers name is legal. NO WALKING BOOTS OR CASTS PERMITTED.
9. White mock with official NASP logo or plain white regular turtleneck.
10.Navy blue rain gear (top and bottom).
11.Navy blue cap w/official NASP Logo.
12.Navy blue ball bag w/official NASP logo. NOTE: Ball bag must be worn on the hip or slightly to the rear of hip. **NOTE: Any umpire apparel (hat, jacket, etc) that is issued to an umpire for being assigned to a special event (NIT, World Series, a Super World Series, etc) may NOT be worn after the conclusion of said special event as a part of the official NASP Umpire uniform.

Sec. 9 No player during the course of any NASP sanctioned softball event may wear any part of the NASP official umpireís uniform.

RULE 11 ñ PROTESTS

Sec. 1 Protests shall not be allowed or considered if they are based solely upon a decision involving judgment on the part of any umpire. NOTE: Examples of a protest, which will not be considered, are:
a. Whether a batted ball was fair or foul.
b. Whether a base runner was safe or out.
c. Whether a pitched ball was a strike or ball.
d. Whether a runner did or did not touch a base.
e. Whether a runner left his/her base too soon on a caught fly ball.
f. Whether a fly ball was or was not legally caught.
g. Whether it was or was not an infield fly.
h. Whether there was or was not interference.
i. Whether the field is fit to continue or resume play.
j. Whether there is sufficient light to continue play.
k. Any other matter involving only the accuracy of the umpireís judgment.

Sec. 2 Protests that shall be received and considered concerning matters of the following types:
a. Misinterpretation of a pla