Beavercreek Youth Softball Association

 Schedule

League and Tournament Rules

  1. Introduction
  2. Start Times, Length of Game, Run Rules, and Flip-Flop Rule
  3. Batting out of Turn
  4. Infield Fly Rule (Applies only to Pre-Teen through Senior leagues)
  5. Third Strike Fouls (Applies only to Junior through Senior leagues)
  6. Interference, Obstructions, or Collisions
  7. Bat Throwing
  8. Pitching (Applies only to Junior through Senior leagues)
  9. Dead Ball & Suspension of Play
  10. Personnel other than Players on the Field
  11. Unsportsmanlike Conduct
  12. Official Scorekeeper
  13. Protests
  14. Eligible Players
  15. Ineligible Players
  16. New Players
  17. Uniforms and Equipment
  18. Tobacco and Alcohol
  19. Tournament Play
  20. Rained Out, Suspended, and Forfeited Games
  21. Special Rules for each League

Last Updated May 15th, 2024

I. Introduction

BYSA is a purely recreational league that emphasizes respect for the game, teamwork, and sportsmanship ahead of competitiveness. BYSA has established the following leagues based on the player's current school year in the spring of the year. The leagues are:

Beginner:   Made up of Pre-schoolers
Minor:   Made up of Kindergarteners
Rookie:   Made up of 1st and 2nd graders
Junior:   Made up of 3rd and 4th graders
PreTeen:   Made up of 5th and 6th graders
Teen:   Made up of 7th and 8th graders
Major:   Made up of 9th and 10th graders
Senior:   Made up of 11th and 12th graders

(Note: when requested by the parents on the registration form, players are allowed to play up in the next league. Playing up more than one league is highly discouraged, but requests will be considered and the BYSA has the right to not allow it. Players are not allowed to play down an age group unless there are some compelling reasons to allow it.)

The BYSA season (June and July) consists of league play for all the leagues in the first 6 weeks or so followed by an end of season tournament for Junior through Senior leagues; the Beginner, Minor, and Rookie Leagues play a 8 week league schedule. In the league games, BYSA endeavors to apply a "back yard game" approach to its league games in which terms such as forfeit do not apply—in other words the rules are very relaxed. In the end of season tournament games, there is a spirit of competitiveness more so than the league games and the rules are not as relaxed and forfeits apply. In league play, the teams play each other to help determine the stronger teams. For tournament play, teams are broken out into competitive groups to avoid a weak team having to play a very strong team. The grouping into several brackets is done by league coordinators and is based on record and observation of the teams. The Gold bracket has the strongest teams followed by not as strong teams in the Silver bracket; Bronze and Copper brackets may be added if the league coordinator feels it is warranted. See Section XIX for additional details.

BYSA generally follows the slow pitch rules of the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA). However, BYSA supplements the rules as needed and the BYSA supplemented rule takes precedence.

Base and Pitching distances noted in this document are determined as follows: Pitcher's mound distance is measured from the back (tip) of home plate to the front of the pitching plate. Base distance is measured from the tip of home plate to the back of the bases.

Sections II through XX provide general information about the rules and definitions that are applied across leagues and Section XXI provides specific rules for each league.

II. Start Times, Length of Game, Run Rules, and Flip-Flop Rule

  1. Start Time: Normal game times are 6:10 PM, 7:20 PM, 8:30 PM and 9:40 PM for diamonds 5 through 8. Diamonds 11 and 12 do not have lights and their games are at 6:00 PM and 7:20 PM. Game times at the adult diamonds 1 and 2 are generally at 8:30 PM and 9:40 PM on selected nights of the week.
  2. Game Time and Innings Length: All games are 65 minutes long for all leagues with the number of innings being different for each league. Game times may be shortened when adverse conditions or the Run Rule is in effect or when the number of innings has been completed or when less than 5 minutes are remaining (league play only) prior to time expiring. This 65 minute limit assumes starting the game on time. For league games, there will be a 10 minute grace period allowed from the original starting time of a game to make it an official game (game time will be reduced according to the number of minutes late starting). For example, 6:00 PM games shall start no later than 6:10 PM, unless authorized by a BYSA Commissioner for weather or other extenuating circumstance. For tournament play, there is no grace period—game time is forfeit time. During the regular season, when time has expired and the game is tied, the game will remain tied. For tournament games, time limits are in effect, but should the game be tied when time expires, play will continue until a winner is determined with exceptions. For example, Juniors will not play past 10:30 PM and PreTeens will not play past 11:00 PM as the general rule. Play should be suspended and completed later, or if the championship game, then co-winners may be declared.  Specific time and innings by league are:
    1. For Kindergarten and Rookie leagues their games are 70 minutes long or 5 innings, whichever comes first. If the 5 innings have not been completed once the time limit is reached, the game will be over no matter who is batting. Note: there is no tournament for these 2 leagues.
    2. Junior league and tournament games are 65 minutes long or 5 innings, whichever comes first. If 5 innings have been played before the time limit expires and there is a tie, the game will continue until there is a winner or the time limit is reached. Once the time limit is reached and the game declared over, the league game may end in a tie; in the tournament, ties will be played out until there is winner.
    3. PreTeen, Teen, Major, and Senior league games are 70 minutes long or 7 innings, whichever comes first. If 7 innings have been played before the time limit expires and there is a tie, the game will continue until there is a winner or the time limit is reached. Once the time limit is reached and the game declared over, the league game may end in a tie; in the tournament, ties will be played out until there is winner.
  3. Run Rule: In cases where one team had reached a run differential as defined below for each league, the run rule (aka the "mercy" rule) applies as follow:
    1. Kindergarten and Rookie leagues: no run rule.
    2. Junior leagues: 7 after 4 innings unless the home team has the run advantage, then it is 3 and ½ innings.
    3. PreTeen, Teen, Major, and Senior leagues: 15 after 4 innings or 10 after 5 innings or 8 after 6 innings, unless the home team has the advantage after the flip flop rule has been put into effect, at which time the game is over.
  4. Flip Flop Rule: This rule goes as follows: In the inning where the Run Rule is met and the home team is losing after its 3 outs, the home team will remain at bat and become the visiting team (and the visiting team becomes the home team). If after three outs the losing team does not score enough runs to reduce the run difference below the Run Rule, the game is over. When runs are scored and the new difference is less than the Run Rule, then the new "home" team bats and if it scores enough runs to meet the Run Rule, then the game is over. This will continue until there is a winner or time expires. Should the new "visiting" team score its max allotted runs and then is in Run Rule position over the home team, then the teams would flip flop again.
  5. Adverse Conditions and Impact on the game: Games may also be shortened if adverse conditions such as weather so dictates. A BYSA Commissioner will make the decision when to shorten a game and he or the umpire will announce the decision to both coaches. However, when time is called and the game stopped, the final score shall be based upon the last complete inning and that score shall be reported when the following criteria are met:
    1. For the Kindergarten and Rookie leagues, 3 innings of any 5-inning game or 50 minutes is a complete game should a weather event stop play.
    2. For the Junior league, should weather or other event stop the game, 3 innings of any 5-inning game is a complete game; 2½ if the home team is ahead.
    3. For PreTeen, Teen, Major, and Senior leagues, should weather or other event stop the game, 4 innings of any 7-inning game will be a complete game; 3½ if the home team is ahead.

III. Batting out of Turn

  1. There is "batting out of turn" when the batter who was supposed to bat per the line-up does not. Batting out of turn may be corrected with no penalty or with penalty per the following:
    1. If an incorrect batter is discovered by either the defense or offense and the umpire is informed before he/she completes his/her turn at bat, the correct batter may take his proper place, assuming any accumulated balls and strikes.
    2. If the mistake is discovered and appealed by the defense to the umpire after the incorrect batter has completed the turn at bat, and before a pitch has been made to a succeeding batter, the batter who should have batted is called out. All base runners, if they have advanced, must return to the base occupied at the time that the incorrect batter took a position in the batter's box. The next batter is the player whose name follows that of the player called out for failure to bat.
    3. If the mistake was not discovered until a pitch has been made to the next batter, the turn at bat of the incorrect batter is then legal. All bases advanced or runs scored are counted, and the next following batter shall be the one whose name follows that of the incorrect batter who just finished a time at bat. No one is called out for failure to bat, and players missing their turn at bat, have lost that turn and do not bat again until reached in the regular rotation.
  2. There are no penalties for the Kindergarten, Rookie, or Junior leagues for batting out of turn.

IV. Infield Fly Rule (Applies only to Pre-Teen through Senior leagues)

An INFIELD FLY is defined as a fair batted ball (not a line drive) which can be caught in flight by an infielder with ordinary effort. Any defensive player may catch the ball in the infield area (this includes the edge of the outfield grass in instances of a very high pop up). The INFIELD FLY RULE is in effect where there are runners on first and second base or first, second and third base and there are less than two outs, and the batter hits an infield fly. The home plate umpire makes the judgment and will call "Infield Fly Rule, batter is out" when he judges it to be an infield fly. The base runners may advance, but at their own risk. NOTE: Advancement is still dependent on whether the fielder catches the ball in the air. If caught, the runner must tag-up to advance and if off the base when the ball is caught, risks being called out on appeal. Likewise, if the infield fly ball is not caught by the fielder, the runner does not need to tag up or return to the previous base.

Situation #1: Runners are on first and second and less than two outs and the ball is popped up to the pitcher. The umpire judges it to be an infield fly and he yells out "Infield Fly Rule, batter is out". The pitcher catches the ball and the runners hold (this is the situation that should normally result).

Situation #2: Same as above, except the pitcher drops the ball. The runner on second panics and tries to make it to third base because he thinks he must advance or be forced out. The pitcher picks the ball up and throws to the third baseman who tags the runner before he touches third base. The umpire calls the runner out (this situation happens at least once each year).

Situation #3: Same as above, with the exception that the third baseman panics when the pitcher throws him the ball and he likewise thinks there is a force play and he steps on third and takes a bow for making the play. The umpire calls the runner safe (remember the batter has been called out, there is no force in effect) (this too happens at least once every year).

Situation #4: Some infield flies will be close to the foul lines or others may have excessive backspin. In such cases, the umpire is to yell out "Infield Fly Rule, batter is out, if fair". If the ball is not touched and it goes foul between home plate and first / third base, the infield fly rule is not put into effect and the batter continues to bat (unless it is the second foul ball on the third strike, then the batter is out in the Teen, Major, and Senior leagues).

V. Third Strike Fouls (Applies only to Junior through Senior leagues)

  1. For Junior and Preteen leagues, fouls on the third strike are only considered foul balls.
  2. For Teen, Major, and Senior leagues, two fouls on the third strike are to be outs. When this occurs, play is declared dead, and no runners advance.

VI. Interference, Obstructions, or Collisions

For interference/obstruction, USSSA rules will be strictly enforced by the umpire.

VII. Bat Throwing

  1. For the Kindergarten, Rookie, and Junior leagues: Bat throwing will not be tolerated. For each individual throwing a bat, the umpire will issue a warning for the first offense. On the second and subsequent offenses in the game, the batter will be called out. There will be a "dead ball effect" for the second and subsequent offenses.
  2. For the PreTeen leagues: Bat throwing will not be tolerated. For each individual throwing a bat, the umpire will issue a warning for the first offense. On the second offense in the game, the batter will be called out. On the third offense, the batter will be called out and not allowed to bat in that game again; no out will be taken when it is that individual's turn to bat---the position will be simply passed over. The player may play defense. There will be a "dead ball effect" for the second and third offenses.
  3. For the Teen, Major, and Senior leagues: Bat throwing will not be tolerated. For each game, the batter is warned for the first offense; on the 2d offense in the same game, the batter is called out and is not allowed to bat any more in the game but can play defense. When that person is due to bat, they will be passed over and no out taken.

VIII. Pitching (Applies only to Junior through Senior leagues)

  1. In general, the pivot foot should be in contact with the pitching rubber when the pitching motion is started and the ball is released. However, some leeway is allowed for Junior and Preteen pitchers by allowing them to start beyond the pitching rubber in a walking motion toward home plate. The arc must be perceptible and it cannot exceed 10 feet off the ground. It becomes an umpire's judgment on the amount of arc and whether or not the pitch was thrown too much of a line. In the Teen and above leagues, pitchers are expected to be able to meet the basic requirements of a minimum three foot arc from the release point and should start at the rubber.
  2. If, in the official's judgment, a batter is deliberately walked, the batter will be awarded second base and the next batter will be given the choice of batting or receiving first base. Deliberately walked is defined by being very obvious such as rolling the ball to the plate, throwing it high in the air, etc. If the pitch is around the plate, that is not considered deliberate.

IX. Dead Ball & Suspension of Play

It is not necessary to return the ball to the pitcher after a batted ball to stop base runners from advancing. Play will be deemed suspended, at the call of the umpire, once control of the ball has been maintained, usually within the framework of the infield. Time will not be called if the runner is moving and a play can be made, except in the Beginner, Minor, Rookie, and Junior leagues when applying their specific overthrow rules.

X. Personnel other than Players on the Field

  1. Coaches, Assistant Coaches, parents (when assisting coaches or in the case of an injury or illness to their child), umpires, and other when needed (BYSA Commissioners, medical staff, etc.).
  2. Only 1 coach from each team may approach an umpire to discuss a call.
  3. For Kindergarten and Rookie leagues, there can be up to two (2) adults in the outfield behind the players to instruct the defensive players.
  4. For Junior through Senior leagues, USSSA dictates that coaches are to remain in the dugout areas except when on the field for official purposes, such as a defensive conference, an injury, or coaching bases. All players except the batter and on deck batter are not to be on the field; the umpires will strictly enforce this rule.

XI. Unsportsmanlike Conduct

  1. All coaches will be held responsible for all derogatory remarks made by team members. A coach will be required to appear before the BYSA Commissioners for unsportsmanlike conduct by him/herself or team members. The player or players making the remarks will also be present. Disciplinary action for players making derogatory remarks range from an oral or written reprimand up to suspension of playing privileges, especially when there are repeat offenders. The penalty will be decided by the Commissioners in consultation with the League Coordinator.
  2. All coaches ejected from a game by an umpire must appear before the BYSA Commissioners and League Coordinator before resuming their position as coach. The Commissioners shall determine if the coach can continue to act as a coach of a team.
  3. Rough, unsafe play and arguing with an umpire are prohibited. Any offensive player responsible for rough play will be called out and ejected. In addition to the ejected player being called out, the umpire will also rule that the offensive player nearest to home plate is out as well. Any defensive player responsible for rough play will be ejected. When a player is ejected from a game for rough or unsafe play or arguing with an umpire, the player must leave the ball field area (no closer than the parking lot). Furthermore, the ejected player will also have to sit out the next game—sitting out a game is defined as physically being on the bench for the entire next game. If the umpire deems that the rough play was deliberate, the player will be suspended for the remainder of the season. No refunds will be given to any player that is suspended for the remainder of the season. If a player is ejected more than once a season for arguing with an umpire, that person will be suspended for two games on the second and subsequent offenses.
  4. Players are expected to respect game traditions at all times. Disrespect include such actions as continually goofing off, throwing gloves when upset, running bases backwards, making a mockery of the game and inappropriate dress—such as no shirts slit to the waist or cut in half. The umpire will stop the game when instances occur and have the authority to tell the offender to correct the noted deficiency. Failure to comply with the umpire's direction can result in player ejection for the game and if ejected, the player will be reported to the League Coordinator. If another similar offense happens, then the player will be suspended not only for that game but the next game as well. If a player commits a 3rd similar offense, the player will be suspended for the remainder of the season with no refund. When a player is ejected for disrespect, they will be told to leave the ball field area. If they commit the 2nd offense, they must sit out the next game on the bench before allowed to enter the following game.
  5. If conditions warrant, the Head Commissioner may petition the City Parks and Recreation to issue a NO Trespassing order against players, coaches or parents who are repeat trouble-makers.

XII. Official Scorekeeper

  1. The home team will provide a scorekeeper who keeps the official game score. The umpire will also keep score. It is the scorekeeper's responsibility to confirm the final score with the visiting team's coach or scorekeeper, and to confirm the final score with the umpire. The umpire will report game results to BYSA officials.
  2. The official scorekeeper shall record the time the game started when requested by the umpire.
  3. The last name, first initial (or first name and last initial), and shirt number of each player shall be entered in the scorebook.

XIII. Protests

Protests are allowed during play for incorrect interpretation of rules and ineligible players and applies more to the tournament phase of the league rather than league play. See Section XV below. Protests made after the game is completed will not affect the outcome of that game or previous games. It is recommended to make a protest during the game to the umpire. When made during the game, the umpire will note the protest and the protesting coach should send someone to notify a League Coordinator or a BYSA Commissioner. In the interest of time, the game will continue until a League Coordinator or a BYSA Commissioner arrives at the game and make a decision as to eligibility.

XIV. Eligible Players

All players must be officially registered for the current BYSA season to be considered eligible. Each League Coordinator will maintain a complete, up-to-date list of team rosters in their league.

XV. Ineligible Players

  1. Anyone who submits a falsified registration.
  2. Anyone playing who has not registered. See Section XIV above.
  3. Anyone playing for a team to which they were not assigned, without the consent of the coaches of both teams involved in the game.
  4. When an ineligible player is discovered and protested in a tournament game, and the protest upheld, the game in which he/she was playing will be forfeited by the team using the ineligible player.

XVI. New Players

The League Coordinator or a BYSA Commissioner may add players to team rosters on a space available basis from a waiting list in the order of their addition to that list for that league.

XVII. Uniforms and Equipment

  1. Metal cleats are prohibited.
  2. earing of the uniform: Each player is to wear the team shirt at all games. Exceptions may only be granted by a BYSA Commissioner or League Coordinator. If a Commissioner is not available, the player(s) without an official team shirt may play if both coaches agree. Use good sense here. Remember, the basic rule is that this is recreational softball and players are here to play and have fun. Only if the player's eligibility is in question should this become an issue requiring Commissioner intervention.
  3. ltered Uniforms: Players must wear an un-altered tee shirt under any BYSA-provided team shirt that has been altered. The one exception is that team shirt sleeves may be removed. Tank tops are not permitted.
  4. atchers must wear catcher's masks and helmets. The batter's helmets with attached face masks are also acceptable.
  5. hest protectors are mandatory for Kindergarten through PreTeen leagues.
  6. hest protectors are optional, but recommended for safety for Teen, Major, and Senior leagues.
  7. ll base runners and batters must wear helmets. Any player intentionally removing the helmet during a live ball situation to gain an advantage, in the judgment of the umpire, will be called out and the play stopped.
  8. 0-inch "softie" softballs will be used for the Kindergarten and Rookie leagues, with the Rookie league ball being more firm than the Kindergarten ball.
  9. 1-inch softballs will be used for Junior through PreTeen leagues, regardless of gender.
  10. 12-inch softballs will be pitched to male batters and 11-inch softballs will be pitched to female batters for Teen through Senior leagues.

XVIII. Tobacco and Alcohol

  1. Tobacco products are prohibited from the playing field, dugout areas, under the covered bleacher areas and restrooms. No Smoking signs are prominently displayed per state law.
  2. Park regulations do not permit alcohol in Rotary Park.

XIX. Tournament Play

  1. The Beginner, Minor, and Rookie leagues do not have a season ending tournament.
  2. For Junior through Senior leagues, the BYSA plays a regular season and then concludes the year with a tournament. The results of the regular season are used to place the teams into a stronger (Gold) division or a weaker division such as Silver, Copper or Bronze as needed/determined by the League Coordinator and Head Commissioner. The purpose of this is to make tournament play more competitive within each division.
  3. All tournament games will begin with a coin toss to decide the home team. Tournaments will for most part be in an elimination type format, such as single elimination or double elimination where possible. A round robin may be used if that is deemed the best format for the specific case.
  4. Rules from the regular season also apply to tournament, with the exceptions that:
    1. If a team does not have the required number of players, it forfeits--all players must be assigned to the team to be considered eligible,
    2. Tie games will be played to completion. The tournament games are not completed until there is a run rule or the inning that is started before time expires is completed. For example, if the last out of the inning is made 30 seconds prior to time expiring, the Visiting team bats and the Home team gets to bat unless it is ahead at the end of the half inning.
    3. Games will start on time. There is no 10-minute grace period to allow for late players. However, delays may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
  5. The BYSA will make any and all changes to complete tournament play on schedule.

XX. Rained Out, Suspended, and Forfeited Games

  1. Rained out league games will be rescheduled when and where possible by the BYSA. The BYSA Commissioner in charge of scheduling rainouts is Steve Robinson at 429-4994. Please contact him with any makeup requests you may have. The capability to make up games lost to weather is in itself a function of time and the number of games to be made up; therefore, not all games may be made up. During end of year tournaments, rainouts may cause scheduling changes in order to get the games done by season end.
  2. A suspended game will occur when adverse conditions affect a Tournament game. When the game is stopped due to adverse conditions, it will later be resumed with the same runners on base, the same score, the same number of outs, etc.
  3. Forfeits occur in tournament at scheduled game time when both teams have 7 players or less or one team has the required number of players and the other does not. Forfeits also occur should an ineligible player be found playing—the team with that player forfeits.

XXI. Special Rules for each League

Beginners (Pre-schoolers), Minors (Kindergartners), and Rookies (1st & 2nd Grade)

  1. Pitching: These games shall be coach-pitch (or parent). In the Kindergarten league, the players will use a 10" optic yellow safety ball (preferred ball is the AD Starr SS1-10-S) and in the Rookie league the players use an 10" optic yellow ball (preferred ball is the AD Starr SS1-10-5). Coaches will pitch to their own team.
  2. Pitching Distance: Although the stated pitching distance is 15 to 25 feet for the Kindergarten league and 15 to 30 feet for the Rookie league, the coach-pitcher may move closer to the batter if that will help the batter hit the ball. The intent is for batters to make contact with the ball. The fielding team will position a player (pitcher), who will stand near the pitcher's mound, and be responsible for any plays in that area. The coach-pitcher will step aside and allow all hit balls to be fielded by the players on the field.
  3. Catching: The umpire will assist the catcher on retrieving passed balls.
  4. Base Distance: 60 Feet.
  5. Inning Length / Scoring: Up to 12 batters will constitute a complete inning, even if none or all 12 get out. If the last batter in the inning hits the ball fair and makes it safely to first base, any runs scored during that at-bat will count. However, if the last batter hits the ball fair but is put out on a force play, or if any base runners are put out on a force play, then no runs will be counted during the last at-bat. (The official scorer should assume there are two outs when the last batter comes to the plate).
  6. Players on Defense and Offense: Teams can put up to 12 players on the field to play defense. Teams may also bat up to 12 players in an inning. If a team has less than 12 players, it will be allowed to bat as many batters as the team having the most players. There shall be no more than 5 infielders, including the pitcher, and 6 outfielders and on diamonds 11 and 12 they must be in the grass area; when playing on diamonds 5, 6, 7, 8, the can come in on the dirt within 3 feet of the outfield grass.
  7. Playing the game: BYSA defines an official team as 7 or more players. HOWEVER, there will be times when one or both teams have fewer than 7 players show up. Rather than declare a forfeit in those cases those players showing up will be allowed to play a game. The coaches will get together and come up with the format to be used for an "unofficial game". When each team has at least 7 players, the following rules apply:
    1. Batting: The intent is that the batter learns to hit the ball. Each batter will receive up to 7 pitches. (1) If the batter puts the ball in play on any of the 7 pitches that will constitute his/her turn at bat; (2) The batter's turn is up after the 7th pitch if he/she puts the ball in play (fair ball) or fails to make contact with the ball; (3) If a batter hits a foul ball on the seventh pitch, the batter will get an additional pitch. This applies to all foul balls after the seventh pitch; (4) There will be no walks or strike outs. If an out is made on the batter or a runner, that batter or runner goes to the bench.
    2. Overthrows/Running the bases: It is the BYSA intent that base runners at this age level not be permitted to rampantly run the bases. The intent is that runners learn the game as it is played at higher levels where runners are easily put out if they attempt to run when their chances of success are low. It is also our intent to have the infielders try to throw the batter-base runners out on ground balls, thus learning the game as it is played at higher levels. Therefore, batter-base runner and/or base runners will not advance on overthrows.
  8. Game length: The game is 65 minutes long assuming there is no delay and at the end of 65 minutes, the game is stopped, no matter if it is in the top of the inning or bottom of the inning. If there are delays for reasons other than waiting players, a BYSA Commissioner, the Diamond Supervisor, or the umpire (in that order) will make the decision on the length of the game. The umpire will announce the decision to both coaches. However, when time is called and the game stopped, the final score shall be based upon the last complete inning and that score shall be reported.
  9. Infield Fly Rule: Not in effect.
  10. Batting out of Turn: There is no penalty for batting out of turn, no matter when discovered. The offending team will return to the most reasonable batting order when this is discovered.
  11. Run Rule: No run rule for these 2 leagues.
  12. Bat Throwing: For each game, the batter is warned for the first offense; on the 2d and 3rd offense in the same game, the batter is called out.
  13. Tournament: The Minor and Rookie leagues do not have a season ending tournament.

Juniors: 3rd & 4th Grade

  1. Pitching: The Junior league is player pitch and an 11 inch optic yellow softball is used.
  2. Pitching Distance: 35 feet.
  3. Base Distance: 60 feet.
  4. Inning Length: 3 outs or 6 runs, whichever occurs first.
  5. Players on Offense and Defense: BYSA defines an official team as 7 or more rostered players. HOWEVER, there will be times when one or both teams have fewer than 7 players show up. Rather than declare a forfeit in those cases those players showing up will be allowed to play a game. The coaches will get together and come up with the format to be used for an "unofficial" game, to include using players from other teams. The assigned umpire is not required to umpire "unofficial" games but may if they so choose When each team has at least 7 players (thus an official team), the following rules apply:
    1. OFFENSE: Every player present for the game will be placed in the batting line-up and will bat, regardless of whether they are playing in the field on defense or sitting on defense. If a player shows up late they will be placed at the end of the batting line-up and will bat in that order.
    2. DEFENSE: No less than 7 and no more than 10 players are allowed on the field to play defense. The defensive players should remain in the same defensive position that they occupied at the start of the inning (especially during regular season play), except for injury or pitcher substitution. Players on the bench at the start of the inning should not be substituted in except for injury or pitcher substitution.
      1. Any gender mix of players can take the field during each inning. If a team only has 7, 8 or 9 players, then all 7, 8 or 9 must play on defense. If a team starts an inning with only 7, 8 or 9 players on defense and one or more players show up late to play, then the vacant fielding positions may be filled. In situations where a player is injured or has to leave and cannot continue play, his/her turn at bat will be passed over without any penalty such as an out; however, if he/she has been ejected from the game, an out will be taken.
      2. All infielders should play within a reasonable position of their playing position.
  6. Game length: The League games are 65 minutes long assuming there is no delay and at the end of 65 minutes, the game is stopped, no matter if it is in the top of the inning or bottom of the inning. If there are delays for reasons other than waiting players, a BYSA Commissioner, the Diamond Supervisor, or the umpire (in that order) will make the decision on the length of the game. The umpire will announce the decision to both coaches. However, when time is called and the game stopped, the final score shall be based upon the last complete inning and that score shall be reported. NOTE: for league games, umpires and coaches are expected to use judgment in whether or not to start a new inning when there are less than 5 minutes remaining. For Tournament games, innings will start if there is any time left and once an inning has been started, and time expires, the inning will be played to conclusion, unless the home team is ahead.
  7. Infield Fly Rule: Not in effect.
  8. Batting: Everyone who shows up is in the batting order. The batter starts with a 0-0 count. The batter has unlimited foul balls on the 3rd strike. If the batter gets out, then they go to the bench.
  9. Batting out of Turn: There is no penalty for batting out of turn, no matter when discovered. The offending team will return to the most reasonable batting order when this is discovered.
  10. Overthrows / Running the bases: It is the BYSA intent that base runners at this age level not be permitted to rampantly run the bases. The intent is that runners learn the game as it is played at higher levels where runners are easily put out if they attempt to run when their chances of success are low. Four basic rules apply:
    1. If the ball is hit in the infield, in keeping with this intent, the umpire will rule if the ball is dead or not based on the following: if the overthrow from a defensive player to any base remains in the dirt area of fair territory or if it does not reach the fence in foul territory, the umpire will call time and the runner(s) will not be advanced. Should the overthrow reach the grass area of fair territory or if it reaches the fence in foul territory, the runner may advance one base at their own risk of being put out. The umpire will call time after the one base advance. (EXAMPLE: if an infielder throws the ball to a base to make a put out but an overthrow occurs, the advancing runner may continue on assuming the ball will roll to the grass or fence. But if the ball stops in the dirt area (which means the ball is not that far from the defensive player at that base), the umpire will immediately call time and the runner will be returned to the base in question.)
    2. On a ball hit to the outfield right at a fielder, the runner(s) should be held to one base. If the outfielder has to move to get the hit (i.e. the ball goes past or beyond the outfielder), then the runner(s) may advance until the outfielder retrieves the ball and a throw is made to a base or he/she runs it in to the infield. If there is an overthrow at that base, then the above overthrow rule applies.
    3. Coaches may, at their discretion, hold any runner(s) to one base.
    4. The umpire's decision as to when to let the runner(s) advance at their own risk is final and shall not be disputed or protested.
  11. Inning length: Max of 6 runs per inning or 3 outs, whichever comes first. During tournament play the inning ends when there are 3 outs-- i.e., there is no limit on runs.
  12. Run Rule: If/when the home team is ahead by 7 runs in the bottom of the 4th and time has not expired, then the game is declared a run rule and the game is over.
  13. Bat Throwing: For each game, the batter is warned for the first offense; on the 2d and 3rd offense in the same game, the batter is called out.
  14. Tournament: The Junior league concludes the year with a tournament. The results of the regular season are used to place the teams into a stronger (Gold) division or a weaker division such as Silver, Copper or Bronze as needed/determined by the League Coordinator and Head Commissioner. The purpose of this is to make tournament play more competitive within each division.
    1. Games: All tournament games will begin with a coin toss to decide the home team. Tournaments will for most part be in an elimination type format, such as single elimination or double elimination where possible. A round robin may be used if that is deemed the best format for the specific case.
    2. Start: Games will start on time. There is no 10-minute grace period to allow for late players. However, delays may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. The BYSA will make any and all changes to complete tournament play on schedule.
    3. Completion: All games will be played until a winner is declared. Tournament games are not completed until there is a run rule or the inning that is started before time expires is completed. For example, if the last out of the inning is made 30 seconds prior to time expiring, the Visiting team bats and the Home team gets to bat unless it is ahead at the end of the half inning.
    4. Rainouts: Rainouts may cause scheduling changes in order to get the games done by season end.
    5. Suspensions: A suspended game will occur when adverse conditions affect a tournament game. When the game is stopped due to adverse conditions, it will later be resumed with the same runners on base, the same score, the same number of outs, etc.
    6. Forfeits: Forfeits occur in tournament at scheduled game time when both teams have 7 players or less or one team has the required number of players and the other does not. Forfeits also occur should an ineligible player be found playing—the team with that player forfeits. All players must be assigned to the team to be considered eligible.

Pre-Teens: 5th & 6th Grade

  1. Pitching: The PreTeen league is player pitch and an 11-inch optical yellow softball is used.
  2. Pitching Distance: 43 feet.
  3. Base Distance: 60 to 65 feet.
  4. Inning Length: 3 outs or 7 runs, whichever occurs first.
  5. Players on Offense and Defense: BYSA defines an official team as 7 or more rostered players. HOWEVER, there will be times when one or both teams have fewer than 7 players show up. Rather than declare a forfeit in those cases those players showing up will be allowed to play a game. The coaches will get together and come up with the format to be used, to include using players from other teams. The assigned umpire is not required to umpire these ad hoc games but may if they so choose When each team has at least 7 players (thus an official team), the following rules apply:
    1. OFFENSE: Every player present for the game will be placed in the batting line-up and will bat, regardless of whether they are playing in the field on defense or sitting on defense. If a player shows up late they will be placed at the end of the batting line-up and will bat in that order.
    2. DEFENSE: No less than 7 and no more than 10 players are allowed on the field to play defense. The defensive players should remain in the same defensive position that they occupied at the start of the inning (especially during regular season play), except for injury or pitcher substitution. Players on the bench at the start of the inning should not be substituted in except for injury or pitcher substitution.
      1. Any gender mix of players can take the field during each inning. If a team only has 7, 8 or 9 players, then all 7, 8 or 9 must play on defense. If a team starts an inning with only 7, 8 or 9 players on defense and one or more players show up late to play, then the 1 or 2 vacant fielding positions may be filled during a time out. In situations where a player is injured or has to leave and cannot continue play, his/her turn at bat will be passed over without any penalty such as an out; however, if he/she has been ejected from the game, an out will be taken.
      2. All infielders should play within a reasonable position of their playing position.
  6. Game length: The League games are 65 minutes long assuming there is no delay and at the end of 65 minutes, the game is stopped, no matter if it is in the top of the inning or bottom of the inning. If there are delays for reasons other than waiting players, a BYSA Commissioner, the Diamond Supervisor, or the umpire (in that order) will make the decision on the length of the game. The umpire will announce the decision to both coaches. However, when time is called and the game stopped, the final score shall be based upon the last complete inning and that score shall be reported. NOTE: for league games, umpires and coaches are expected to use judgment in whether or not to start a new inning when there are less than 5 minutes remaining. For Tournament games, innings will start if there is any time left and once an inning has been started, and time expires, the inning will be played to conclusion, unless the home team is ahead.
  7. Infield Fly Rule: In effect. See definition of infield fly rule in Section V.
  8. Batting: Everyone who shows up is in the batting order. The batter starts with a 0-0 count. The batter has unlimited foul balls on the 3rd strike. If the batter gets out, then they go to the bench.
  9. Batting out of Turn: There is a penalty for batting out of turn. See Section III for definition and penalty.
  10. Inning length: Max of 7 runs per inning or 3 outs, whichever comes first. During tournament play the inning ends when there are 3 outs.
  11. Run Rule: 20 runs after 4, 10 after 5 innings. At the end of the inning the run rule is met and the home team is losing after its 3 outs, the Flip Flop rule will be into effect as follows: the home team will remain at bat and become the visiting team (and the visiting team becomes the home team). If after three outs the losing team does not score enough runs to reduce the run difference below the Run Rule, the game is over. When runs are scored and the new difference is less than the Run Rule, then the new "home" team bats and if it scores enough runs to meet the Run Rule, then the game is over. This will continue until there is a winner or time expires. Should the new "visiting" team score its max allotted runs and then is in Run Rule position over the home team, then the teams would flip flop again.
  12. Bat Throwing: For each game, the batter is warned for the first offense; on the 2d offense in the same game, the batter is called out. If the batter does it a third time in a game, they are called out and will be removed from batting and their position in the lineup shall be passed over without penalty but they are allowed to play defense.
  13. Tournament: The PreTeen league concludes the year with a tournament. The results of the regular season are used to place the teams into a stronger (Gold) division or a weaker division such as Silver, Copper or Bronze as needed/determined by the League Coordinator and Head Commissioner. The purpose of this is to make tournament play more competitive within each division.
    1. Games: All tournament games will begin with a coin toss to decide the home team. Tournaments will for most part be in an elimination type format, such as single elimination or double elimination where possible. A round robin may be used if that is deemed the best format for the specific case.
    2. Start: Games will start on time. There is no 10-minute grace period to allow for late players. However, delays may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. The BYSA will make any and all changes to complete tournament play on schedule.
    3. Completion: All games will be played until a winner is declared. Tournament games are not completed until there is a run rule or the inning that is started before time expires is completed. For example, if the last out of the inning is made 30 seconds prior to time expiring, the Visiting team bats and the Home team gets to bat unless it is ahead at the end of the half inning.
    4. Rainouts: Rainouts may cause scheduling changes in order to get the games done by season end.
    5. Suspensions: A suspended game will occur when adverse conditions affect a tournament game. When the game is stopped due to adverse conditions, it will later be resumed with the same runners on base, the same score, the same number of outs, etc.
    6. Forfeits: Forfeits occur in tournament at scheduled game time when both teams have 7 players or less or one team has the required number of players and the other does not. Forfeits also occur should an ineligible player be found playing—the team with that player forfeits. All players must be assigned to the team to be considered eligible.

Teens: 7th & 8th Grade

Majors: 9th & 10th Grade

Seniors: 11th & 12th Grade

  1. Pitching: These leagues are player pitch and an 11-inch optical yellow softball is hit by the girls and boys hit the 12 inch softball.
  2. Pitching Distance: 46 feet for Teens. 50 feet for Majors and Seniors.
  3. Base Distance: 65 feet.
  4. Inning Length: 3 outs or 7 runs, whichever occurs first.
  5. Players on Offense and Defense: BYSA defines an official team as 7 or more rostered players. When each team has at least 7 players (thus an official team), the following rules apply:
    1. OFFENSE: Every player present for the game will be placed in the batting line-up and will bat, regardless of whether they are playing in the field on defense or sitting on defense. Teams that are short girl players will bat their entire lineup with no penalty. The players may bat in any order as decided by the coach. If a player shows up late they will be placed at the end of the batting line-up and will bat in that order. In situations where a player is injured or has to leave and cannot continue play, his/her turn at bat will be passed over without any penalty such as an out; however, if he/she has been ejected from the game, an out will be taken.
    2. DEFENSE: No less than 7 and no more than 10 players are allowed on the field to play defense. For any 10 players in the field on defense, there will be a maximum of 7 boys and a minimum of 3 girls. Should the girl-short team have more girls show up during the game, a time out will be called and the girl(s) can immediately enter the game in the vacant defensive position(s). The defensive players should remain in the same defensive position that they occupied at the start of the inning (especially during regular season play), except for injury or pitcher substitution. Players on the bench at the start of the inning should not be substituted in except for injury or pitcher substitution.
      1. The Teen, Major and Senior league will play by the following BYSA Gender Rule: For any 10 players in the field on defense, there will be a maximum of 7 boys and a minimum of 3 girls.
      2. HOWEVER, there will be times when one or both teams have fewer than 7 players show up. Rather than declare a forfeit in those cases those players showing up will be allowed to play a game. The coaches will get together and come up with the format to be used, to include using players from other teams. The assigned umpire is not required to umpire these ad hoc games but may if they so choose.
  6. Game length: The League games are 65 minutes long assuming there is no delay and at the end of 65 minutes, the game is stopped, no matter if it is in the top of the inning or bottom of the inning. If there are delays for reasons other than waiting players, a BYSA Commissioner, the Diamond Supervisor, or the umpire (in that order) will make the decision on the length of the game. The umpire will announce the decision to both coaches. However, when time is called and the game stopped, the final score shall be based upon the last complete inning and that score shall be reported. NOTE: for league games, umpires and coaches are expected to use judgment in whether or not to start a new inning when there are less than 5 minutes remaining. For Tournament games, innings will start if there is any time left and once an inning has been started, and time expires, the inning will be played to conclusion, unless the home team is ahead.
  7. Infield Fly Rule: In effect. See definition of infield fly rule in Section IV.
  8. Batting: Everyone who shows up is in the batting order. The batter starts with a 0-0 count in the Teen league. A 1-1 count will be in effect for all Major and Senior league games, that is, when taking the batter's box, the batter automatically has one ball and one strike on him/her.
  9. Batting out of Turn: there is a penalty for batting out of turn. See Section IV for definition and penalty.
  10. Inning length: Max of 7 runs per inning or 3 outs, whichever comes first. During tournament play the inning ends when there are 3 outs.
  11. Run Rule: 20 runs after 4, 10 after 5 innings. At the end of the inning the run rule is met and the home team is losing after its 3 outs, the Flip Flop rule will be into effect as follows: the home team will remain at bat and become the visiting team (and the visiting team becomes the home team). If after three outs the losing team does not score enough runs to reduce the run difference below the Run Rule, the game is over. When runs are scored and the new difference is less than the Run Rule, then the new "home" team bats and if it scores enough runs to meet the Run Rule, then the game is over. This will continue until there is a winner or time expires. Should the new "visiting" team score its max allotted runs and then is in Run Rule position over the home team, then the teams would flip flop again.
  12. Bat Throwing: For each game, the batter is warned for the first offense; on the 2d offense in the same game, the batter is called out and is not allowed to bat any more in the game but can play defense. When that person is due to bat, they will be passed over and no out taken.
  13. Tournament: The Teen, Major, and Senior leagues conclude the year with a tournament. The results of the regular season are used to place the teams into a stronger (Gold) division or a weaker division such as Silver, Copper or Bronze as needed/determined by the League Coordinator and Head Commissioner. The purpose of this is to make tournament play more competitive within each division.
    1. Games: All tournament games will begin with a coin toss to decide the home team. Tournaments will for most part be in an elimination type format, such as single elimination or double elimination where possible. A round robin may be used if that is deemed the best format for the specific case.
    2. Start: Games will start on time. There is no 10-minute grace period to allow for late players. However, delays may occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. The BYSA will make any and all changes to complete tournament play on schedule.
    3. Completion: All games will be played until a winner is declared. Tournament games are not completed until there is a run rule or the inning that is started before time expires is completed. For example, if the last out of the inning is made 30 seconds prior to time expiring, the Visiting team bats and the Home team gets to bat unless it is ahead at the end of the half inning.
    4. Rainouts: Rainouts may cause scheduling changes in order to get the games done by season end.
    5. Suspensions: A suspended game will occur when adverse conditions affect a tournament game. When the game is stopped due to adverse conditions, it will later be resumed with the same runners on base, the same score, the same number of outs, etc.
    6. Forfeits: Forfeits occur in tournament at scheduled game time when both teams have 7 players or less or one team has the required number of players and the other does not. Forfeits also occur should an ineligible player be found playing—the team with that player forfeits. All players must be assigned to the team to be considered eligible.