Rookie Rules

Batting Rules

• Bat your full lineup. Each player must have at least 1 at-bat.
• Batters will get 3 "strikes". If they do not get a hit within three pitches they are out. However, if the pitching machine throws a wild pitch, that will be a "ball" and not counted towards their three "strikes".
• Only the batter and one on-deck player may hold bats. One batter in the on-deck circle at a time.

Base Running Rules

• No leading off at any time; runner must remain in contact with the base at all times.
• No stealing at any time.
• No advancing on passed balls.
• No stealing home at any time.

Pitching / Field Setup Rules

• 45-foot pitching machine distance.
• 50-foot base paths.

Defensive / Playing Time Rules

• Each player must play a minimum of 2 defensive innings and have at least 1 at-bat.
• No infield fly rule.

Game Rules

• 10-run rule after 4 innings.
• 6th inning is the open inning.
• If the 6th inning is not reached, the next full inning becomes the open inning. If the game is tied after the Home team bats in the final half inning, the game will end in a tie.

Time Limits

• 2-hour time limit (not drop dead).
• If the time limit is reached during the bottom half of an inning with at least one out, that inning will be completed.
• No new inning after 1:45.

Equipment / Safety Rules

• USA and USSSA bats are allowed.
• Only the batter and one on-deck player may have a bat in hand.
• All other players must remain in the dugout or behind the fence/backstop.

Field & Operations

• Home team preps the field (chalk lines, etc.) and provides an umpire unless prior arrangements are made.
• Weather decisions are made by directors only; unauthorized cancellations = forfeit.

Facility Rules

• No parking behind gate (coaches only).
• No dogs in field of play; must remain secured in parking area or vehicle.


Updated 4/2026