ALL ABL TEAMS ARE REQUIRED TO EXECUTE THESE LOCAL RULES EFFICIENTLY AND ACCORDINGLY.

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Table of Contents

Section 1        

RULES AND PROTEST COMMITTEE

Registration information

Responsibilities

First Aid Kits

Reporting a Win or Tie email addresses: 

AutumnBaseballLeague@live.com 

Bylaws           

Rules and Regulations:  ABL Rules, MLB Rules, LL Rules

                        EXTRAINNINGS AND TIED GAMES rule.

                        Delayed, Postponed and Suspended Games.

                        INNINGS TO BE PLAYED FOR COMPLETE GAME.

                        ONE GAME 2 POINTS ONLY.

                        GAME TIME LIMITS AND EXTRA INNINGS RULE

Section 2

Rescheduled, rained out games or game that could not be completed

                        Grace Period

            Umpire Qualifications

            Post season hiring and paying of umpires

            PLAYER ELIGIBILITY / CUTOFF DATES / 40%

                        18(max.) MAN ROSTER/Post season eligibility   18 Man Roster must be submitted by mid season; the date is to be announced by Commissioner.

                        Misconduct Rule

                        Protests

                        8 Player Rule,Extra Hitters and Batting Line-up Rule

Section 3

Extra Hitters and Batting Line-up Example

Substitution Rule (offense and defense)

                        Trips to the mound

                        Slash bunting

                        Sliding  Section 6, Gen. Rule 26

                        Innings a pitcher is allowed to throw

                            INNINGS ALLOWED PER 3 CONSECUTIVE DAY PERIOD

                        ABL does not use the Little League Catcher to Pitcher Rule.

Section 4: 

8U - no stealing home (see Section 6: #22) / 9U and older are allowed to steal home.          

8U 10 defensive players allowed

Pre-Game

Playoff Eligibility SUBMIT 18 MAN ROSTER BY MID SEASON...This date is to be announced by Commissioner.

Pinch Courtesy Runner Rule

Game Times, Rescheduling games, Managers/Umpires responsibility, night game curfew times.

POSTPONING (CANCELLING) Game because of the weather

                        BAT RULE

Section 5

General Rules

1.  ABL's game rules, Major League Baseball & Little League Rules

2.  Standings:  The Point System.

3.  Game reporting protocol/procedure

4.  One Win Gets 2 Points Only Rule. / Penalty

5.  Once game begins home plate umpire is in charge of  

     game.

6.  Home team score book is final in contested decisions.

7.  Hidden Ball Trick Rule.

8.  Player Multi-Team Rule

9.  Trades.

10.  Ball Park Size Regulations for 13U, 14U, 16U & 19U

11.  Disbanded teams:  Rules for players to join other teams.

12.  Player proof of age / Pre season submit rosters to Commissioner

13.  CORI and Management Check (IMPORTANT:  MUST READ)

Section 6

14.  Deliquent League Registration Fee Rule

15.  Play by the ABL RULES.

16.  Mercy Rule

17.  Head to Head Rule (if necessary)  For playoff seeding.

18.  Keep Copy of Rules during the games.

19.  Bylaws May Be Modified by the Commissioner

       and/or Rules Committee during the season.

20.  8U Teams are Allowed 10 Defensive Players.

21.  8U Teams Cannot Steal Home. 9U and older can steal home.

22.  8U Teams Can only Score on a Batted Ball.

22.1  8U 4 run rule.

23.  The Infield Fly Rule is used by ALL DIVISIONS.

24.  Illegal Bat Use Penalty

25. 

26. Force-Play-Slide Rule

27.  11U thru 19U:  Uncaught/Dropped Ball 3rd Strike Rule

28.  Required Umpires for all age groups.

29.  Trophy distribution

30.  All Divisions are required to use 2 eared helmets. 

31. Refunds

32.  UMPIRE RULES:  dress code, number to be hired, relationship with coaches and players, PROTESTING UNQUALIFIED UMPIRES.  IF THE 11U  (50/70), ((11U(46/60) is not included), AND OLDER DIVISIONS, DO NOT HAVE 2 UMPIRES THEN THE OPPOSING TEAM(S) WILL HAVE GROUNDS TO PROTEST TO REPLAY THE GAME.  THE PROTEST MUST BE MADE BEFORE THE START OF THE GAME.  READ THE PROTEST PROTOCOL.

33  Coaches must account for all games and game information in their scorebooks and save for the entire season...    Save ALL information of each game played.

34. ATTENTION ALL 50/70 & 60/90 TEAMS AND especially the RI Teams who uses "Federation Rules": Pitchers while on rubber cannot fake a pickoff to 3rd then throw to first. This is a Major Baseball League Rule.

35. (2017) METAL CLEATS RULE

36.  COACHES ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE THE "CONCUSSION IN SPORTS" ONLINE FREE COURSE.

GO TO http://nfhslearn.com/courses/61037 TO TAKE THE COURSE.

37.  POST SEASON:  COACHES RESPONSIBILITIES FOR CONTACTING AND PAYING UMPIRES

b.  in the event of postponements, delays or cancellations, BOTH TEAMS have he responsibility of calling the umpires to notify them of the delay.

                give umpires ample time to prevent them from showing up to your ball park.  

KNOW YOUR UMPIRE'S PAY POLICIES:

                If the umpires go to the field without being contacted then BOTH TEAMS shall owe umpire fees.  The ABL is not responsible for umpire costs and fees.  

 NOTE:  TO PROVE THAT YOU CONTACTED THE UMPIRES TO REPORT A CANCELLATION, DELAY, POSTPONEMENT ETC., USE TEXT MESSAGING WHICH WILL HAVE THE DATE AND TIME TO PROVE WHEN CALL WAS MADE.  UMPIRES MUST BE INFORMED WITHIN THE GUIDELINES OF YOUR UMPIRE'S PAY POLICIES...

38.-

THE ABL RECCOMENDS TEAMS TO HAVE AT LEAST ONE ASSISTANT COACH and listed CONSEQUENCES.

REMINDER:  GAMES ARE MAINLY SCHEDULED ON SATURDAYS AND MAY ALSO BE SCHEDULED OR RESCHEDULED ON SUNDAYS.  TEAMS WISHING TO RESCHULE GAMES MAY  ALSO DO SO ON WEEKDAYS... ALL RESCHEDULED GAMES MADE BY THE TEAMS HAVE TO HAVE MUTUAL AGREEMENT.

39.  GAME TIME LIMIT RULE - AUG. 1, 2019

40.ABL WORLD SERIES 9 INNING RULE

41.  WHO'S RESPONSIBLE FOR UMPIRES AND BASEBALLS?

Section 7

 42.  QUALITY OF BASEBALLS

43. A PROPOSED NEW RULE TO BE REVIEWED FOR THE 2020 SEASON

 DETERMINING RANKINGS OF WORLD SERIES TEAMS

44.  Umpire behind the plate protocol guidelines for post season.

In the event of the teams not agreeing on whose umpire will work behind the plate during 2 of 3 or 3 of 5 series.

1.  higher seed's umpire will have the option/opportunity to work behind the plate during the first doubleheader.
2.  during the 'if necessary' games, the host's umpire will have the option/opportunity to work behind the plate.  
3.  both teams may agree on their own comfortable arrangement(s).  
4.  Both teams' must agree and if not refer to #1 & #2 above.

45. REGULAR & POST SEASON POSTPONEMENT RULES, RESCHEDULING &  COVID GUIDELINES

Section 8

CODE OF CONDUCT

SECTION 9

NON-DISCRIMINATION RULE

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Autumn Baseball League 2021

                                                                                                                        Section1

Deadline for registration – Sat., Aug., 27th, 2022.   

Entrance fee is $300 per team and required to be paid to the League on or before the deadline date. 

MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:  Autumn Baseball League or make an online payment.

Insufficient funded checks will be charged $50.00  

Checks must be accompanied with registration. 

Teams may be omitted from schedule if fee is late.  Late fee:  $100.00

BY SIGNING THE APPLICATION and WAIVER FORMS YOU ARE ACCEPTING ALL LIABILITY RESPONSIBILITY.

Team managers, coaches, and parents willingly and voluntarily accept and assume all medical and liability risks of participation.  Each independent team, manager(s), coaches and parents or combination, shall be responsible for any and all liability.  The ABL shall share no responsibility resulting from injury or any other reason. 

COACHES ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE THE "CONCUSSION IN SPORTS" ONLINE FREE COURSE. GO TO http://nfhslearn.com/courses/61037 TO TAKE THE COURSE.

Teams are required to have First Aid Kits at games.

Reporting a WIN OR TIE:  

GAME RESULTS MUST BE REPORTED TO COMMISSIONER.  The report must be sent to AutumnBaseBallLeague@Live.com by the winning team.     

File your Game Results Report at AutumnBaseballLeague@Live.com;

WITHIN A 72 HOURS OF THE END OF GAME.   Failure to report within 72 hours could result in no credits awarded for the win(s). 

Bylaws

Rules and Regulations:  The Autumn Baseball League (the ABL) shall be played in accordance with the rules adopted by the Rules Committee of the ABL and has the right to modify any rule for the betterment of the league and the safety of the participants on and off the field.

8U, 9U, 10U, 11U(46/60), teams shall use Little League Rules except for ABL modifications.

11(50/70),  12U 13U, 14U, 16U, 17U, 19U & Adult Division use current Major League Baseball League Rules. See 2017 Rules in URL below :

 https://img.mlbstatic.com/mlb-images/image/upload/mlb/ub08blsefk8wkkd2oemz.pdf

Delayed, Postponed and Suspended Games:

     THE GAME MUST CONTINUE UNLESS AN ACT OF NATURE PREVENTS IT FROM CONTINUING.  i.e. LIGHTNING, EARTHQUAKE, RAIN,  SUNSET or ANY OTHER UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCE.  IF THE GAME IS ENDED BECAUSE OF THESE CIRCUMSTANCES A COMPLETE GAME IS DEFINED AS:  

1.) 4 INNINGS IN A 6 INNING GAME

2.) 5 INNINGS IN A 7 INNING GAME: 

3.) 7 INNINGS IN A 9 INNING GAME

     IF A GAME IS CALLED AND THE GAME HAS NOT MET THE REQUIRED AMOUNT OF INNINGS TO MAKE IT A COMPLETE GAME THEN THE GAME MUST START OVER. 

IF A GAME IS CALLED AND THE GAME HAS MET THE REQUIRED AMOUNT OF INNINGS BUT IS TIED THE GAME IS COMPLETE.  Recorded as a tied game... (added 9/18/14)

 Innings to be played:

8U - 12U Divisions:  All games shall be 6 innings.  A complete game shall be a minimum of 4 innings.

 In the event of an "if necessary" game in post season then 10U, 11U & 12U divisions will play 7 innings. (complete game 5 innings)

13U, 14U, 16U, 18U, & 18+ Divisions:  9/18/14 (corrected to clarify)

     All games shall be 7 innings (complete game 5 innings) 

One game shall earn 2 points ONLY.

GAME TIME LIMITS
- 8U-12U, 6 Innings (2 Hours)/7 innings (2 Hrs. and 20 min)
- 13U and Beyond, 7 Innings (2 Hours and 20 Mins)

- 9 inning games (3 hours)
- Start Time officially begins at 1st Pitch
- Complete any Inning started before Time Limit
- No New Inning can begin after the Time Limit unless the Game is Tied.
- One Extra Inning shall be played if the score is still tied after the Time Limit is reached and/or tied after regulatory innings have been completed.

- The player making the last out in the previous inning shall be placed on 2nd base during that 'extra inning'.

- Three outs allowed to each team during the 'extra inning'.
- If the Score remains Tied after 1 Extra Inning, the Game will be recorded as a Tie.
- Coaches and Umpires should agree to the official start time to avoid any confusion.

 NEW 2021 RULE:  IF BOTH TEAMS AGREE, THEN THE TEAMS MAY PLAY A ONE GAME/9 INNING GAME FOR 4 POINTS. 

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ABL

                                                                                                                                                            Section2

                                                                                                                                                            Rescheduled, rained out games (or game that could not be completed):

Teams must agree on a make up date within a week.  If an agreement to reschedule cannot be made then the Commissioner may have to decide on the makeup date. 

If in the last week of the season then the Commissioner has the authority to decide when the game(s) shall be played but not authority to mandate games on weekdays.

Grace Period:

If a team does not have enough players by game time, the team shall have a 15 minute grace period.  The second game shall start no earlier than 20 minutes and no later than 30 minutes after the 1st game.  If a team does not have enough players to start the second game then  a 15 minute grace period is allowed.  In this case, the max time between games will be 45 minutes.  If the team doesn't have enough players at the time of the second game, then the second game is forfeited.

If both teams do not have enough players to start a game then both teams shall forfeit and no points will be issued unless the teams mutually agree to reschedule.

Call the Commissioner if this event occurs.  508 496 7371

Umpire qualifications:

Post season umpires are paid by both teams (see the 'hiring' priority order below)

     Option 1:  both home and visiting teams hire the umpires.

     Option 2:  the home team may hire both umpires.

     Option 3:  the visiting team may hire both umpires

 Coaching staff cannot umpire games within their team’s Division.

8U & 9U only:   All home teams are responsible for qualified adult  umpires, baseballs and field preparations. Min. of 2 umpires are recommended. PATCHED UMPIRES MAY BE OF RESPONSIBLE AGE.  A MINIMUM OF ONE PATCHED UMPIRE IS REQUIRED AT EACH GAME.   Proper dress required.

THE UMPIRES NOT SHOWING UP?

           IT IS ADVISED TO CONTACT YOUR UMPIRES PRIOR TO THE GAMES TO ENSURE AND REAFFIRM THEY KNOW THE TIME, DATE AND LOCATION OF THE GAMES AND THAT THEY WILL OR WILL NOT SHOW UP.

IF THE UMPIRES INDICATE THEY ARE NOT GOING TO ATTEND, IT'S THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBITY OF THE HIRING TEAM TO CONTACT THE VISITORS IN AMPLE TIME PRIOR TO THE START TO PREVENT THE VISITORS FROM MAKING THE DRIVE TO THE GAME AND ULTIMATELY WASTING THEIR TIME.  

IF THE UMPIRES SAY THEY WILL BE AT THE GAME AND STILL DO NOT SHOW UP, IT CONTINUES TO BE THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE HOST TEAM AND THE HOST TEAM MAY BEAR THE RESPONSIBILITY.

HOST TEAMS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR HIRING THE UMPIRES AND IF THE UMPIRES DO NOT SHOW UP, THE HIRING TEAM MAY FACE FORFEITS OF THE GAME(S).

IF THE VISITING TEAM IS WILLING TO PLAY THESE GAMES THEN SO BE IT... ALTHOUGH, SOMETIMES THERE ARE SCHEDULES WHEN THERE IS NO TIME LEFT TO MAKE UP THE GAMES. 

WE NO LONGER MANDATE GAMES TO BE PLAYED ON WEEKNIGHTS.

10, 11, 12U, 13U, 14U, 16U, High School & Post H.S. Division:  Adult and mature umpires must be used during the game.  Two umpires are required.  Proper dress required.  It's prohibited to use a close friend, relative of a player or person connected to the teams playing.  Umpires must be neutral.  All umpires must have earned an umpire’s certificate as credentials. 

PENALTY:  GAMES COULD BE FORFEITED IF PROTESTED AND

 PROVEN A RELATIVE, FRIEND, PARENT OR ANYONE ASSOCIATED WITH THE TEAM OR PLAYERS UMPIRES THE GAMES.                                                                                                               

Player Eligibility / Cutoff dates / Maximum ages for Divisions

Teams must submit rosters by mid season.  The Commissioner shall announce the date. ) 

These players shall be locked in for the remainder of the season including post season.  No other player is allowed to play in games after this time.
18 players maximum are eligible for the latter part of season and post season.

ALL TEAMS MUST SEND THE COMMISSIONER A COPY OF THEIR ROSTER BY MID SEASON TO PROTECT YOUR TEAM  FROM ROSTER PIRACY AND FOR PLAYER ELIGIBILITY FOR SECOND HALF SEASON PLAY.  

Players cannot play on multiple teams in the same Division.

Coaches are required to keep rosters updated with the Commissioner during the entire ABL season.

AGE CUTOFF DATES FOR 2022:

***APRIL 1ST IS THE AGE CUTOFF DATE.

                      (MODIFIED  on May 2, 2022)

8u (46/60) ~ players becoming 9 on or after April 1 are eligible; USA Certified bats or wood bats

9u (46/60) ~ players becoming 10 on or after April 1 are eligible; USA Certified bats or wood bats

10u (46/60) ~players becoming 11 on or after April 1 are eligible; USA Certified bats or wood bats

11u (50/70) ~ players becoming 12 on or after April 1 are eligible; USA Certified bats or wood bats

12u (50/70) ~ players becoming 13 on or after April 1 are eligible; USA Certified bats or wood bats

12u (60/90) ~ players becoming 13 on or after April 1 are eligible;; USA Certified bats, BBCOR bats or wood bats

13u (60/90) ~ players becoming 14 on or after April 1 are eligible; Wood Bats

14u (60/90) ~ players becoming 15 on or after April 1 are eligible; Wood Bats

16u (60/90) ~ players becoming 17 on or after April 1 are eligible; Wood Bats

18u (60/90) ~ players becoming 19 on or after April 1 are eligible; Wood Bats

18+ (60/90) -  no age cutoff date.  ;  Wood Bats

Misconduct Rule:

Only the team manager is designated to confront the umpire on disputes.  This person shall be named prior to the game.  If there is a violation then that person may be warned and may be ejected for the second violation.  The umpire has the option of either or both.  Disagreeing with the umpire is allowed but acting disrespectfully is not allowed.  All team personnel shall be civil and respectful.  The maximum penalty shall be ejection from the league.  The rules/protest committee shall make the final decision. 

IF A PLAYER, COACH OR MANAGER IS EJECTED FROM A GAME, THEN HE/SHE SHALL LEAVE THE BASEBALL PARK PREMISES FOR THE REST OF THE GAME.  THE NEXT GAME, THE OFFENDER CANNOT STEP ON BALL FIELD BUT CAN WATCH THE GAME FROM OUTSIDE THE BALL PARK NOT IN DUGOUT.

Protests:    

There is a $100 protest fee...

If the decision is upheld then you shall get a refund...

If you lose the decision, no money is returned...

All protests shall be reported to the ABL COMMISSIONER with details of the game situation and must be presented in hard copy or email with a $100 check made payable to the Autumn Baseball League within 24 hours of the game.  Fee shall be returned if the protest is upheld (won).  Fee shall not be returned if protest is not upheld (lost).

Any protests upheld by the committee shall be replayed at exact point of protest of the game.

 Only protest involving disputes of official rules of baseball shall be considered.  The protesting manager must notify the head umpire and opponent of protest.  Umpires must give their contact information by writing it in the book and indicating in the book where the alleged infraction occured during the game.  Protests must be made before the next ball is pitched. A written report with all information (including umpires contact information) must be sent to ABL Commissioner within 24 hours, either personally handed over or emailed at autumnbaseballleague@live.com.    (NO TEXT)

8 Player Rule, Extra Hitters and Batting Line-up Rule:

***The minimum number of players in the batting lineup shall be 9.  The maximum, your entire team.   Any player(s) in the lineup over 9 shall be considered Extra Hitters (EH). Once you choose one of the above or a number in between and the game commences, you cannot change. 

***Exception…If a team can only field 8 players at game time, then the 9^th position shall be recorded as an out.  If later in the game the 9th player arrives, that player shall be inserted in the ninth position to rectify the problem. Extra Hitters:  If you elect to use all of your players in your line up and one (or more) gets injured then there will be an open spot in the line-up which shall be recorded as an out.

Section 3

Extra Hitters and Batting Line-up Example: 

If you place all of your players in the lineup you’re at risk.  If a player or players gets injured and cannot play because of an injury or a player ejected, then that vacant spot(s) shall be recorded as an out(s).  A minimum of 8 players is allowed in line-up.  No game is to be played with less than 8.  The team with less than 8 players in lineup shall forfeit the game.

Substitution Rule (offense and defense):

ALL DIVISIONS:  There is no mandatory or minimum amount of playing time for the players.  The manager is not obligated to play everyone.  Free substitution is allowed.  When a batter is taken out of a game and later re-entered, the batter must re-enter in his or her original position in the batting line up.

Defensively players may enter and re-enter multiple times.  There’s no set amount of times a player can re-enter a game.  Example:  two shortstops may be flip-flopped every inning.  Pitchers are excluded.

Trips to the mound:

One trip to the mound:  If the pitcher is removed from his pitching position and goes to the bench then he/she cannot return to the mound however he/she can return to another position any time during the game.  

If a pitcher is relieved after the 1st trip and immediately takes another position in the field then later in the game he/she can return to the pitcher's position.  This procedure is allowed only once per pitcher per game.

Two trips to the mound in the same inning with the same pitcher, the pitcher must be removed from the pitcher's position.

One visit to the mound per inning per pitcher is allowed.  On the 2nd visit in one inning the pitcher must be removed from the pitcher's position and cannot return to that position for the remainder of the game.

* For 11U, 12U, 13U, 14U, 16U, H.S. & Post H.S. Graduates only...Concerning the 2nd trip to the mound, in the same inning, same pitcher and the same batter the pitcher has to be removed and the coach is ejected from game. (this is a Major League Baseball Rule)

***Note: Major League Baseball rule - if coach makes 2 trips to the mound in one inning with the same batter then the pitcher must be removed and the coach ejected.  The mound circle or grass fringe once crossed is considered a trip. The coach can participate in the next game.

If the pitcher is removed from the mound (after the first visit) and is placed in another defensive position then he is entitled to return to the mound. (This move will be allowed only once per game per pitcher)  

However, if at any time that player is benched immediately after getting relieved, then he cannot return to the pitchers position during the game but allowed to play any other defensive position.

The player can return to the mound if he/she immediately goes to a defensive position and NOT sent to the bench after being relieved.

If he/she gets relieved and goes directly to the bench then he cannot return to the mound in that game.

Bottom Line: A player can make 2 (separated) appearances on the mound per game in the event he is immediately placed in a defensive postion after he's relieved... BUT if he is removed from the mound then benched then he CANNOT take the mound for the rest of the game. (Repeated 3 times just to emphasize the point)

A pitcher can be relieved/removed and returned to the pitchers position once per game.

If the player returns to his pitchers position in the same inning he was removed, he may have warm-up pitches if needed.  Moreover, if the coach visits the pitcher again in the same inning then the pitcher is removed permanently from the pitcher’s status for that game.

Slash bunting: 

No slash bunting in the 8U, 9U, 10U, 11U & 12U Divisions (will be recorded as an out.

Slash bunting is allowed in 13U, 14U, 16U, High School & Post H.S. Divisions but not recommended. 

Sliding:

>>>ALL DIVISIONS:  Slide or avoid contact.  If there is a collision without sliding and the defensive player has the ball and or getting ready to make the play, the runner is out.    NOTE for all divisions:  If defensive player is blocking the plate without the ball or not attempting to make a play then the runner has a right to advance to the base even if a collision occurs the umpire shall call defensive interference.

8U - 13U:

RUNNER IS OUT WHEN RUNNER SLIDES HEAD FIRST WHILE ADVANCING.  IF A RUNNER SLIDES HEAD FIRST INTO THE BAG BECAUSE  (1) OVER RUN THE BASE OR (2) DURING A PICK OFF THEN THE RUNNER SHALL NOT BE CALLED OUT FOR THE HEAD FIRST SLIDE.   If the Umpire calls a runner out for a head first slide, the ball is still live.  Go to page 7:  Slide Rule

>>>14U, 16U, High School & Post H.S. Division:  See 2007 NCAA rules Section 6 General Rules #26.  Head first sliding is permitted but not recommended. 

Innings a pitcher is allowed to throw

(more importantly Managers should keep a pitch count):

If pitcher throws at least one pitch in an inning and is taken off the mound, he's charged for an entire inning pitched.

ABL does not use the Little League Catcher to Pitcher Rule.

as of 10/31/2013:  Pitcher re-entry counts as an appearance.

PITCHER RE-ENTRY RULE CLARIFICATION (10/30/17): 

WE HAVE BEEN USING A MODIFIED MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL RULE REGARDING PITCHERS FOR ALMOST 18 YEARS IN THE ABL:   if a pitcher is relieved and is taken out of the game (to the bench) then that pitcher cannot re-enter the game as a pitcher.  However, if that pitcher is relieved and is placed directly to another defensive position then he may re-enter as a pitcher.

A pitcher can only re-enter once in the game.

INNINGS ALLOWED PER 3 CONSECUTIVE DAY PERIOD:

8U & 9U pitchers cannot pitch more than 6 innings in one given day.  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 8 innings in any 3 consecutive days and cannot make more than 3 appearances during the 3 consecutive day period.   

10U & 11U:  pitchers cannot pitch more than 7 innings per day)  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 8 innings in any 3 consecutive days and cannot make more than 3 appearances during the 3 consecutive day period.

12U & 13U:   A pitcher cannot pitch more than 7 innings in one given day.  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 10 innings in any 3 consecutive days and cannot make more than 3 appearances during the 3 consecutive day period.  

14U:  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 9 innings in one given day.  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 12 innings in any 3 consecutive days and cannot make more than 3 appearances during the 3 consecutive days.  

16U:  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 9 innings in one given day.  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 14 innings in any 3 consecutive days and cannot make more than 4 appearances during the 3 consecutive days.   

17U, 18U, 19U:  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 10 innings in one given day.  A pitcher cannot pitch more than 16 innings in any 3 consecutive days and cannot make more than 3 appearances during the 3 consecutive days.

ABL does not use the Little League Catcher to Pitcher Rule

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ABL

                                                                                                                                                            Section4

8U - No stealing home (See Section 6:  #22)

8U - 10 defensive players are allowed (10th player shall be an outfielder only)

Pre Game:

If time permits, each team shall be allowed to have pre-game infield/outfield warm-up.  Visitors first.

Just prior to the game, both team managers shall meet at home plate to review the park rules and should but not necessary give the umpire their line-ups. If lineups are given to the umpires then all changes should be conveyed to them.

PLAYOFF ELIGIBILITY: 

Teams must submit rosters by mid season 

to the Commissioner.

FAILURE TO COMPLY MAY DISQUALIFY THE TEAM FROM POST SEASON...

These players shall be locked in for the remainder of the season including post season. No other player is allowed to participate in games after this time.

The mid season specific date of sending in roster shall be determined by the Commissioner.

18 players are eligible per team for the latter part of season including post season.

Players cannot play on multiple teams in the same Division.

Coaches are required to keep rosters updated with the ABL.

PINCH/COURTESY RUNNER RULE:

 THE RUNNER WHO IS REPLACED CANNOT RE-ENTER THE SAME GAME, ALTHOUGH, IN THE EVENT OF AN INJURY AND WITH THE AGREEMENT OF THE OPPOSING MANAGER AND HEAD UMPIRE, THAT INJURED PLAYER  MAY BE AVAILABLE TO RE-ENTER ONLY IF THE TEAM NEEDS THAT PLAYER TO MAINTAIN THE MINIMUM OF EIGHT PLAYER LINEUP.  THE UMPIRE AND OPPOSING MANAGER SHALL DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT THE INJURED PLAYER IS HEALTHY ENOUGH TO PLAY, HOWEVER, THE UMPIRE SHALL HAVE THE FINAL DECISION.    THE HEALTH AND WELFARE OF THE CHILD SHALL BE THE MAIN CONCERN.  COACHES:  TO PREVENT THIS SITUATION, MAINTAIN ENOUGH PLAYERS ON YOUR ROSTER.  EXCEPTION AND WITH 2 OUTS - Courtesy Runner may be used for the pitcher or catcher without removing them from the lineup in order to speed up the game.  The Courtesy Runner must be a legal substitute player who has not entered the game.  In the event no legal substitute is available, the Courtesy Runner shall be the player in the lineup who made the last batted out in the previous inning.

Game Times & Rescheduling games, Managers/umps responsibility:  

WITHIN 5 DAYS AFTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE, each team must review the schedule.  If teams see any conflicts then the teams must report it to the Scheduling Committee for review as well as contact the opposing team's management for compromise.  

Once the season commences, the schedule stands.  It can be modified only if both teams and the league agrees.

REPEAT: 

TEAMS MUST REPORT ANY CONFLICTS IN THE

SCHEDULE WITHIN 5 DAYS AFTER DEADLINE.

1.      1.   If you wish to change the original scheduled time and place, then you must notify your opponent, umpires and Commissioner at least 24 hrs. ahead of scheduled game time.  The opposing team must agree with the change.  If no mutual agreement of the change of time then the original scheduled time and place shall stand. 

      Host team shall be home team for both games of double headers (during regular season) supply the baseballs and responsible for the hiring and paying umpires. 

          The second game of the double header shall begin a minimum of 20 minutes and a maximum of 30 minutes from the end of the first game.

Game Times & Rescheduling games, Managers/umps responsibility: 

all games are initially scheduled for Saturday mornings.

1.      If you wish to change the original scheduled time and place, then you must notify your opponent, umpires and Commissioner at least 24 hrs. ahead of scheduled game time.  The opposing team must agree with the change.  If no mutual agreement of the change of time then the original scheduled time and place shall stand.

2.      Curfew / Night games.  No inning shall start after:

                   8U, 9U, 10U, - no inning starts after 8 pm

                   11U, 12U - no inning starts after 9 pm.

                  13U, 14U, 16U, - no inning starts after 10 pm.

                  H.S. and Post H.S. - no inning starts after 11 pm.

3.      Host team shall be home team for both games of double headers, supply the baseballs and responsible for the hiring and paying umpires.

4.  All post season games:  both teams supply baseballs and hire/pay for umpires.

      The second game of the double header shall begin a minimum of 20 minutes and a maximum of 30 minutes from the end of the first game.

Postponement of Game because of the weather:

                   The home team must notify their opponent at least 2 hours*** before game time concerning a postponed game because of rain or any other reason. 

       Call 3 hours*** before game time, if the game is to be called off and if (VISITING) team traveling is more than 50 miles away.  THE MILEAGE SHALL BE DETERMINED BY USING MAPQUEST OR GOOGLE MAP.

       Because teams are traveling, this rule would prevent a team from needlessly making a trip. A

     WORD TO VISITING TEAM:   YOU SHOULD NOT RELY ON THE HOME TEAM TO CONTACT YOU... BE PROACTIVE AND CALL THE HOME TEAM MANAGER TO BE SURE.

No game can be called off less than 24 hours prior to game unless both teams agree.   See Section 5, General Rules #5. Home team is responsible to decide whether or not the game shall start in the event of inclement weather. Once the game begins, then the home plate umpire is in charge and controls the game and the home team is responsible for paying the umpires.

BAT RULE

·  THE USSSA BPF 1.15 BAT IS NOT ALLOWED IN ANY DIVISION

8U-11U (46/60) Divisions: USA Stamped Bats, BBCOR or Wood Bats 

11U (50/70), 12U (60/90):  USA Stamped Bats, BBCOR or Wood Bats

13U, 14U, 16U, 18U, 20U & ADULT Divisions: Wood Bats ONLY

·  NO COMPOSITE BATS ARE TO BE USED.

·  ·   The wood bat shall be a smooth, round stick not more than 2 5/8 inches in diameter at the thickest part and not more than 42 inches in length. The bat shall be one piece of solid wood.

·  NO BAMBOO BATS ARE TO BE USED.

·  Post season playoff and finals protocol:

The team with the most points shall host the first 2 games and shall be home team for those games.  The third game shall be hosted by the opponent involved and shall be the home team.

The first 2 games of playoffs and World Series shall be hosted by the top seeds.  The top seeds will be home for both games. 

If scheduling permits, and if the Rule Committee agrees, all teams could qualify for tournament competition.  This shall be determined pre-season.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                                                                                                                                Section 5

 General Rules:

1.  8U, 9U, 10U, 11U(46/60), teams shall use Little League Rules unless superceded by ABL Rules.

11(50/70), 12(60/90), 13U, 14U, 16U, 18U, 20U & older Divisions use current Major League Baseball League Rules.  Unless ABL Rules supercede... 

See 2016 Rules in URL below :

See Bylaws - Section 1

2.  The ABL uses the point system:  2 points for a win, 1 point for a tie and 0 for a loss.  A team that forfeits gets 0 points and their opponent shall receive 2.  If both teams cannot field enough players or cannot play for any reason, then each team receives 0 points. 

3.  The winning team must report the result of the game to get credit (points).  If the game ends in a tie then both teams must report.  If both teams forfeit, then the home team must call the commissioner with an explanation.  YOU HAVE 72 HOURS TO REPORT THE SCORES…IF THE REPORT IS NOT RECEIVED WITHIN THE 72 HOURS THEN THE WINNING TEAM MAY NOT RECEIVE THE POINTS.   Send the results to AutumnBaseballLeague@live.com

4.  One win gets 2 points only.  No exceptions.  A complete game must be played to earn points. 

Addendum to #4 and effective as of Oct. 9th, 2014:

If a game report is received indicating 4 points and it is found that only one game was played then the following rules shall be enforced:

        A.  Penalty:  BOTH TEAMS FORFEIT; NO POINTS AWARDED.

 5.  Home team is responsible to decide whether or not the game shall start in the event of inclement weather. 

UMPIRE PAY AGREEMENT- PRIOR TO THE SEASON ALL TEAMS MUST HAVE AN AGREEMENT WITH THEIR UMPIRES REGARDING HOW MUCH MONEY IS TO BE PAID IN THE EVENT THE GAMES ARE CALLED OFF FOR WHATEVER REASON.

Once the game begins, then the home plate umpire is in charge and controls the game. SEE 'UMPIRE AGREEMENT' ABOVE:  IF THE UMPIRE SHOWS UP TO THE GAME, THE HOME TEAM OWES THE UMPIRES MONEY.  TEAMS MUST HAVE THEIR UMPIRE'S CONTACT INFORMATION IN THE EVENT OF CANCELLATION, DELAY, POSTPONEMENT OR OTHER REASONS.

6.  Home and Away teams' scorebooks will be used if necessary to resolve any arguements or disputes although the home team book has preference and both books may be reviewed by the Rules Committee.  KEEP YOUR BOOKS ACCURATE.

7.  Hidden ball trick is allowed. (except for games on the 46/60 field)

Pitchers can be on the mound but cannot straddle or appear to be on or near the rubber creating an illusion or deception to the runner or batter.  It’s the umpire’s call concerning level of the deception.  The umpires call shall be indisputable.

8.  Playing on multi-teams:  No player is allowed to play for more than one team in each Division.  However, a player is allowed to play on more than one Division concurrently.  Example:  A 10 year old may play for a U10 team and a U11 team during the season.  The player cannot play on two teams within a Division.

9. Trades:   If a player desires to be traded, then the manager from which that person currently plays for must release that player in writing or both agree and confirmed with the Commissioner, otherwise if there is a dispute, and the teams cannot agree, then the rules committee shall review the case.

10. FIELD DIMENTIONS:   12U, 13U, 14U, 16U, 17U, H.S. and Post H.S. Post Graduate  DIVISIONAL TEAMS PLAY ON MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL SIZE FIELDS.

11.  IF A TEAM BECOMES INSOLVENT OR DISCONTINUES DURING A SEASON, NO PLAYER FROM THAT TEAM IS ALLOWED TO PLAY FOR ANOTHER TEAM, WITHIN THAT DIVISION, DURING THAT SEASON WITHOUT PRIOR APPROVAL OF THE RULES COMMITTEE AND A MAJORITY VOTE OF THE MANAGERS WITHIN THEIR DIVISION.

12.  PLAYER IDENTIFICATION:  MANAGERS MUST KEEP BIRTH CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE DURING EACH GAME.

ALL TEAMS MUST SEND THE COMMISSIONER A COPY OF THEIR ROSTER BY MID SEASON TO PROTECT YOUR TEAM  FROM ROSTER PIRACY.  DATE TO TURN IN ROSTER IS TO BE DETERMINED BY THE COMMISSIONER.

A PLAYER CANNOT PLAY FOR ANOTHER TEAM IF THE PLAYER HAS PARTICIPATED IN AT LEAST ONE INNING.  IF PLAY HAS NOT PARTICIPATED AT ALL THEN HE/SHE HAS THE FREEDOM TO JOIN ANOTHER TEAM.

 If a player actually participates at least a part of an inning then that player cannot join another without approval of his manager and Commissioner. 

On the other hand, if a player is on the roster BUT HAS NOT played at all during the season then that player can join another team if he wishes. His manager cannot block the transfer BUT proof is needed to support this action.

This is one of the reasons I ask all managers to keep complete and accurate books to help prove your case.

13.   CORI AND MANAGEMENT CHECK:  ALL TEAMS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR INTERNAL ISSUES.  THE LEAGUE (ABL) IS NOT LIABLE OR RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY PERSONNEL OR TEAM PROBLEMS, ISSUES, LITIGATION OR UNMENTIONED SITUATIONS or for THOSE WHO HAVE NOT TAKEN OR CANNOT PASS A CORI TEST.  TEAM LEADERS AND MANAGERS MUST SCREEN, CORI AND APPROVE ALL MANAGERS, COACHES AND PERSONNEL ASSOCIATED WITH THE TEAM.  IT IS NOT THE AUTUMN BASEBALL LEAGUE'S RESPONSIBILTY AND THE ABL SHALL NOT BE LIABLE.   As a manager, coach, parent, supporter, bat boy, helper, assistant, etc.in this league I/we have read these bylaws, registration form and parential waiver as required, all team personel, parents, players, et al, agree on the above and relieves the Autum Baseball League and it's personel including Herman Bomback, his family and property from all liability and furthermore agree that the team(s) you have entered in this league are independent and no associated with the ABL.

                                                                                                                                                Section 6

14. DELIQUENT LEAGUE FEES:  IF REGISTRATION FEE IS NOT PAID THEN THE TEAM(S) SHALL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO PLAY.

   15.  All teams in each division must play by these ABL rules.

16. The 10 run mercy rule is used when required…(6 inning game – must complete 4 innings) (7 inn / 5) and (9 inn / 7)

17. HEAD TO HEAD used for playoffs:  In the year 2009 the league elected to use the “Head to Head” method of breaking a tie to determine playoff eligibility or playoff seeding.  If teams are still tied after Head to Head then the team that gave up the least runs IN AGGREGATE during the head to head game(s) shall be the upper seed.  In previous years teams that were tied at the end of the season would play a one game tie breaker.  Because time is a factor, the weather may be cold and the sun sets much earlier the “Head to Head” method shall be used.  A playoff game will be played only if using the head to head method results in a tie.  If both teams agree, a flip of a coin may be used.

18. Keep these rules with you during games.  Review them with the umpires.

19. Anytime during the season bylaws may be modified by the Rules Committee for the betterment of the league and players.       

    20.  8U - teams are allowed 4 outfielders (10 defensive players)

    21.  8U - teams CANNOT steal home. 9U and older are allowed to steal home.

    22.  8U can only score on a batted ball 

    22.1   8U 4 Run Rule: Four runs maximum per inning per team may be scored. Last inning is open.

10 run lead after four inning (3 ½ if home team is ahead) will be considered a complete game.  Home team must get its last at bat, if the home team is losing by 10 or more.

      23.  The infield fly rule is used in all Divisions except for the 8U Division

     24.  Illegal Bat Penalty

          ABL penalty for use of illegal bat for all Divisions

          1^st violation: The batter is out for use of illegal bat when the batter is discovered using an illegal bat prior to first pitch of the next batter.

          2^nd violation: The batter is out for use of illegal bat when the batter is discovered using an illegal bat prior to first pitch of the next batter.

          3^rd violation: The batter is out (same as above) and the manager is ejected.

          4^th violation: The batter is out (same as above) and the assistant manager is ejected.  If no assistant manager then the game is forfeited.

          5^th violation: The game is forfeited.

          25        

        26.  Force-Play-Slide Rule: 

Force Play Slide Rule:  SECTION 4. The intent of the force-play-slide rule is to ensure the safety of all players. This is a safety as well as an interference rule.

Whether the defense could have completed the double play has no bearing on the applicability of this rule. This rule pertains to a force-play situation at any base, regardless of the number of outs.

a. On any force play, the runner must slide on the ground before the

base and in a direct line between the two bases. It is permissible for

the slider’s momentum to carry him through the base in the baseline

extended (see diagram).

Exception—A runner need not slide directly into a base as long as the

runner slides or runs in a direction away from the fielder to avoid making

contact or altering the play of the fielder. Interference shall not be

called.

(1) “On the ground” means either a head-first slide or a slide with one

leg and buttock on the ground before the base.

(2) “Directly into a base” means the runner’s entire body (feet, legs,

trunk and arms) must stay in a straight line between the bases.

b. Contact with a fielder is legal and interference shall not be called if

the runner makes a legal slide directly to the base and in the baseline

extended (see diagram).

A.R.—If contact occurs on top of the base as a result of a "pop-up" slide, this contact

is legal.

c. Actions by a runner are illegal and interference shall be called if:

(1) The runner slides or runs out of the base line in the direction of the

fielder and alters the play of a fielder (with or without contact);

(2) The runner uses a rolling or cross-body slide and either makes

contact with or alters the play of a fielder;

(3) The runner’s raised leg makes contact higher than the fielder’s knee

when in a standing position;

(4) The runner slashes or kicks the fielder with either leg; or

(5) The runner illegally slides toward or contacts the fielder even if the

fielder makes no attempt to throw to complete a play.

PENALTY for 1-5—

(1) With less than two outs, the batter-runner, as well as the interfering runner, shall be declared out and no other

runner(s) shall advance.

(2) With two outs, the interfering runner shall be declared out and

no other runner(s) shall advance.

(3) If the runner’s slide or collision is flagrant, the runner shall be

ejected from the contest.

A.R.—If the bases are loaded with no outs, a double-play attempt is made, and

interference is called, all other runners must return to their original bases.

Note: On a force play, with a two-man umpiring system, if the plate umpire

does not have a potential play at the plate, he should move toward the base

to observe the runner going into second or third base. In this situation, the

base umpire must follow the throw and may not see the true effect of the lead

runner’s action.

 27.    11U thru 19U:  UNCAUGHT/DROPPED THIRD STRIKE RULE 

IN EFFECT FOR THE ABL 11U and OLDER DIVISIONS.

In baseball, an uncaught third strike (often inaccurately referred to as a dropped third strike) occurs when the catcher fails to cleanly catch a pitch for the third strike. A pitch is considered uncaught if the ball touches the ground before being caught, or if the ball is dropped after being grasped (see also catch). In Major League Baseball, the specific rules concerning the uncaught third strike are addressed in Rules 6.05 and 6.09 of the Official Baseball Rules.^[1]

On an uncaught third strike with no runner on first base or with two outs, the batter immediately becomes a runner. The strike is called, but the umpire does not call the batter out. The umpire may also actively signal that there is "no catch" of the pitch. The batter may then attempt to reach first base and must be tagged or thrown out. With two outs and the bases loaded, the catcher who fails to catch the third strike may, upon picking up the ball, step on home plate for a force-out or make a throw to any other fielder.

One intent of this rule is to ensure that a defensive player fields the ball cleanly in order for that team to record an out. It was thought that it was not enough that the offensive player be unsuccessful at the plate in order for an out to be made; a defensive player must be successful as well.

Regardless of the outcome of an uncaught third strike, the pitcher is statistically credited with a strikeout. Because of the uncaught third strike rule, it is possible for a pitcher to register more than three strikeouts in an inning, a feat which has been accomplished in Major League Baseball 56 times.^[2][3]

If at the time of the strike three pitch, first base is occupied with fewer than two outs, the batter is automatically out and cannot become a runner. This is to prevent the defense from deliberately dropping a third strike pitch and getting a double or triple play as a result, because of the possible force play at second, third base, or home plate in this situation.

In Little League divisions Tee-Ball and Minor League the batter is out after the third strike regardless of whether the pitched ball is caught cleanly by the catcher. In Little League (or the Major Division), Junior, Senior, and Big League divisions a batter may attempt to advance to first base on an uncaught third strike. Little League Major Division Softball as well as many other youth baseball leagues, such as the USSSA also follow the rule.

A batter who does not realize his situation on a third strike not caught, and who is not in the process of running to first base, shall be declared out once he leaves the dirt circle surrounding home plate."

28.   8U, 9U, 10U & 11(46-60) 1 umpire minimum, 2 recommended.

11U (50/70), 12U(46/60), 12U(50/70),13U, 14U, 16U, 19U:  2 umpires required per game

29.  Championship awards a to be presented at the end of final game of World Series.

30. All Divisions are required to use 2 eared helmets.

31.  Refund Policy:  Once the scheduling process has started, no refunds shall be granted. Scheduling begins between 10 days / 2 weeks before opening day.

32.  (AS OF 2020) UMPIRE REQUIREMENTS:

IF THE 11U (50/70), ((11U(46/60) is not included), AND OLDER DIVISIONS, DO NOT HAVE 2 UMPIRES THEN THE OPPOSING TEAM(S) WILL HAVE GROUNDS TO PROTEST TO REPLAY THE GAME.  THE PROTEST MUST BE MADE BEFORE THE START OF THE GAME.  READ THE PROTEST PROTOCOL.

IF THE UMPIRE(S) ARE NOT PROPERLY DRESSED AND USING IMPROPER EQUIPMENT THEN THE OPPOSING TEAM(S) WILL HAVE GROUNDS TO REPLAY THE GAME AT THE EXPENSE OF THE TEAM IN VIOLATION.  THIS PROTEST MUST BE MADE BEFORE THE START OF THE GAME.  READ THE PROTEST PROTOCOL.

IF AN UMPIRE IS FAMILY RELATED, CLOSE FRIEND, AND/OR A COACH THEN THE OPPOSING TEAM(S) WILL HAVE GROUNDS TO PROTEST FOR A FORFEIT.  THE PROTEST MUST BE MADE DURING THE GAME.  READ THE PROTEST PROTOCOL.

THE UMPIRES NOT SHOWING UP?

           IT IS ADVISED TO CONTACT YOUR UMPIRES PRIOR TO THE GAMES TO ENSURE AND REAFFIRM THEY KNOW THE TIME, DATE AND LOCATION OF THE GAMES AND THAT THEY WILL OR WILL NOT SHOW UP.

IF THE UMPIRES INDICATE THEY ARE NOT GOING TO ATTEND, IT'S THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBITY OF THE HIRING TEAM TO CONTACT THE VISITORS IN AMPLE TIME PRIOR TO THE START TO PREVENT THE VISITORS FROM MAKING THE DRIVE TO THE GAME AND ULTIMATELY WASTING THEIR TIME.  

IF THE UMPIRES SAY THEY WILL BE AT THE GAME AND STILL DO NOT SHOW UP, IT CONTINUES TO BE THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE HOST TEAM AND THE HOST TEAM MAY BEAR THE RESPONSIBILITY.

HOST TEAMS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR HIRING THE UMPIRES AND IF THE UMPIRES DO NOT SHOW UP, THE HIRING TEAM MAY FACE FORFEITS OF THE GAME(S).

IF THE VISITING TEAM IS WILLING TO PLAY THESE GAMES THEN SO BE IT... ALTHOUGH, SOMETIMES THERE ARE SCHEDULES WHEN THERE IS NO TIME LEFT TO MAKE UP THE GAMES. 

WE NO LONGER MANDATE GAMES TO BE PLAYED ON WEEKNIGHTS.

33. Coaches must account for all games and game information in their scorebooks and save for the entire season... Save ALL information of each game played.

34.  ATTENTION ALL 50/70 & 60/90 TEAMS AND especially the RI Teams using "Federation Rules":  Pitchers while on rubber cannot fake a pickoff to 3rd then throw to first.  This is a Major Baseball League

35.  METAL CLEATS RULE:  11U AND UNDER - CANNOT WEAR METAL CLEATS.

36. 

     COACHES ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE THE "CONCUSSION IN SPORTS" ONLINE FREE COURSE.   GO TO http://nfhslearn.com/courses/61037 TO TAKE THE COURSE.

37.  POST SEASON:  COACHES RESPONSIBILITIES FOR CONTACTING AND PAYING UMPIRES

POST SEASON expenses: 

·  HOME and or VISITING teams are required to contact and pay umpires and equally supply baseballs.  Post season umpires are paid by both teams (see the 'hiring' priority order below)

     Option 1:  both home and visiting teams hire the umpires.

     Option 2:  the home team may hire both umpires.

     Option 3:  the visiting team may hire both umpires

·                     SEE SECT. 6 - #41

·            a.  BOTH TEAMS are responsible for the umpires' pay in the event of any  postponements, delays, or cancellations.  REPEAT, BOTH TEAM ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY AND ALL UMPIRE FEE AND COSTS.

          b.  in the event of postponements, delays or cancellations, BOTH TEAMS have he responsibility of calling the umpires to notify them of the delay.

                give umpires ample time to prevent them from showing up to your ball park.  

KNOW YOUR UMPIRE'S PAY POLICIES:

                If the umpires go to the field without being contacted then BOTH TEAMS shall owe umpire fees.  The ABL is not responsible for umpire costs and fees.  

 NOTE:  TO PROVE THAT YOU CONTACTED THE UMPIRES TO REPORT A CANCELLATION, DELAY, POSTPONEMENT ETC., USE TEXT MESSAGING WHICH WILL HAVE THE DATE AND TIME TO PROVE WHEN CALL WAS MADE.  UMPIRES MUST BE INFORMED WITHIN THE GUIDELINES OF YOUR UMPIRE'S PAY POLICIES...

c.   new 2022 rule:   

FORFEITING TEAMS SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING UMPIRES.

     <<<  PLAYOFFS AND WORLD SERIES expenses: >>> AS OF the WINTER ABL MEETING 2018, BOTH TEAMS EQUALLY SUPPLY Baseballs and equally pays umpires.  Visitors may provide an umpire of their own.

38.b

·  THE ABL REQUIRES TEAMS TO HAVE AT LEAST ONE ASSISTANT COACH.

If a team has only one coach on the field and he is ejected by the umpire then his/her team shall forfeit the game. 

Teams are requested to have 2 or more adult coaches on the field.

Team managers should take note (in the beginning of the game at home plate when reviewing the ballpark rules) of the names their opponent's coaches.

If a coach(s) is/are ejected from the game, then he/she must sit out the next game on their schedule.

In the event of all named coaches are ejected, leaving no adult coach to manage the team, then that team shall forfeit.

Teams cannot appoint a bystander/parent/friend/ or etc. to manage a team after the game is started.

Coaches who are declared at the beginning of the game shall be the only persons to be managing the team during these games.

COACHES ARE REQUIRED TO PASS THE CORI

TEAMS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE ADULT SUPERVISION DURING THE GAMES.

REMINDER:  GAMES, BY DEFAULT, ARE SCHEDULED ON SATURDAYS AND MAY ALSO BE SCHEDULED OR RESCHEDULED ON SUNDAYS.  TEAMS WISHING TO RESCHEDULE GAMES MAY  ALSO DO SO ON WEEKDAYS... ALL RESCHEDULED GAMES MADE BY THE TEAMS MUST BE IN MUTUAL AGREEMENT.

 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

39.  GAME TIME LIMITS
- 8U-12U, 6 Innings (2 Hours)
- 13U and Beyond, 7 Innings (2 Hours and 20 Mins)
- Start Time officially begins at 1st Pitch
- Complete any Inning started before Time Limit
- No New Inning can begin after the Time Limit unless the Game is Tied.
- One Extra Inning shall be played if the score is still tied after the Time Limit is reached and/or tied after regulatory innings have been completed.

- The player making the last out in the previous inning shall be placed on 2nd base during that 'extra inning'.

- Three outs allowed to each team during the 'extra inning'.
- If the Score remains Tied after 1 Extra Inning, the Game will be recorded as a Tie.
- Coaches and Umpires should agree to the official start time to avoid any confusion.

40. ABL WORLD SERIES 9 INNING RULE

· 
3 OF 5 GAME SERIES:  BECAUSE OF POSSIBLE POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS DURING THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, TEAMS IN THE WORLD SERIES HAVE THE OPTION TO PLAY ONE 9 INNING GAME IN LIEU OF THE DOUBLE HEADER IN THE EVENT OF A 3 OF 5 SERIES OR A ONE 9 INNING GAME TO END THE SERIES; 'WINNER TAKES ALL'.  BOTH TEAMS MUST AGREE. 

2 OF 3 GAME SERIES:  IN LIEU OF A 2 OF 3 SERIES THE TEAMS HAVE THE OPTION TO PLAY ONE 9 INNING GAME, 'WINNER TAKES ALL'.  BOTH TEAMS MUST AGREE.

41.  WHO PAYS UMPIRE AND SUPPIES BASEBALLS? 

Regular season

·  the home team hires and pays umpires.

     the home team supplies baseballs.

·   the home team provides a field and maintenance.

·  Post Season     

·  both teams hire & pay for umpires. 

·  Visitors may allow the home team to provide the umps but are still responsible to pay half.  (Visitors may use their own umpire)

·  both teams provide baseballs

·  the home team provides a field and maintenance.

·  Section 7

 BATS (read rule in Section 4)

42.  QUALITY OF BASEBALLS:

use baseballs that are appropriate for the age group, i.e. Little League ages must have Little League approved., middle school ages must be Senior LL or Babe Ruth approved and the High School age group or older must us high school or better approved baseballs. 

In the event of the teams not agreeing on whose umpire will work behind the plate during 2 of 3 or 3 of 5 series.

1.  higher seed's umpire will have the option/opportunity to work behind the plate during the first doubleheader.
2.  during the 'if necessary' games, the host's umpire will have the option/opportunity to work behind the plate.  
3.  both teams may agree on their own comfortable arrangement(s).  
4.  Both teams' must agree and if not refer to #1 & #2 above.

44.  Umpire behind the plate protocol guidelines for post season.

In the event of the teams not agreeing on whose umpire will work behind the plate during 2 of 3 or 3 of 5 series.

1.  higher seed's umpire will have the option/opportunity to work behind the plate (if he/she agrees to working behind the plate) during the first doubleheader.
2.  during the 'if necessary' games, the host's umpire will have the option/opportunity to work behind the plate.  
3.  both teams may agree on their own comfortable arrangement(s).  
4.  Both teams' must agree and if not refer to #1 & #2 above.
5.  if there's any further disagreement, the Commissioner shall make the final decision.

Section 8

ABL Code of Conduct:
No board member, manager, coach, player or spectator
shall, at any time:
◆ Lay a hand upon, push, shove, strike, or threaten to
strike an official.
◆ Be guilty of heaping personal verbal or physical abuse
upon any official for any real or imaginary belief of a
wrong decision or judgment.
◆ Be guilty of an objectionable demonstration of dissent
at an official’s decision by throwing of gloves,
helmets, hats, bats, balls, or any other forceful
unsportsman-like action.
◆ Be guilty of using unnecessarily rough tactics in the
play of a game against the body of an opposing player.
◆ Be guilty of a physical attack upon any board member,
official manager, coach, player or spectator.
◆ Be guilty of the use of profane, obscene or vulgar
language in any manner at any time.
◆ Appear on the field of play, stands, or anywhere on
the Little League complex while in an intoxicated state.
Intoxicated will be defined as an odor or behavior
issue.
◆ Be guilty of gambling upon any play or outcome of
any game with anyone at any time.
◆ Smoke while in the stands or on the playing field or
in any dugout. Smoking will only be permitted in
designated areas which will be 20 feet from any
spectator stands or dugouts.
◆ Be guilty of publicly discussing with spectators in a
derogatory or abusive manner any play, decision or a
personal opinion on any players during the game.
◆ As a manager or coach, be guilty of mingling with
or fraternizing with spectators during the course of
the game.
◆ Speak disrespectfully to any manager, coach, official
or representative of the league.
◆ Be guilty of tampering or manipulating any league
rosters, schedules, draft positions or selections, official
score books, rankings, financial records or procedures.
◆ Challenge an umpire’s authority. The umpires shall
have the authority and discretion during a game to
penalize the offender according to the infraction up to
and including expulsion from the game.

The Board of Directors will review all infractions of the
Code of Conduct. Depending on the seriousness or
frequency, the board may assess additional disciplinary
action up to and including expulsion from the league.

Section 9

ABL NON-DISCRIMINATION RULE:

The Autumn Baseball League (aka ABL) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment and to ensuring that participation in the ABL are based on individuals’ desires to play ball, abilities and qualifications. Consistent with these principles and applicable laws, it is therefore the Autumn Baseball League's policy not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation.   No person, on the basis of protected status, shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or retaliation under any of the Autumn Baseball League's programs schedules or activities, including with respect to coaching terms and conditions. Such a policy ensures that only relevant factors are considered and that equitable and consistent standards of conduct and performance are applied. 

Penalty:

     The ABL has zero-tolerance for discriminatory behavior.  The ABL Umpires in Chief have been notified of the ABL's policy on discrimination and have notified their umpires, to the best of their abilities, that this type of conduct shall not be tolerated.   The ABL policy to handle any such discriminatory activity, offensive discriminatory statements and/or physical aggression shall face immediate ejection from the ball park and surrounding area.  

     Team managers are ultimately responsible for the control and actions of the players and assistant coaches.  Once the first ejection has been rendered and if the discrimination continues then the team shall be informed that the unfinished game shall be recorded as a forfeit.  If there is a game 2 of a double header scheduled that day then that game shall also be forfeited.

     As stated in the ABL bylaws regarding appeals, if you wish to appeal this decision by the umpires, you must submit your appeal to the Commissioner within 24 hours of the event with a check payable to the ABL for $100.   Once the appeal is received then the Commissioner shall review the report and consult the umpires of the incident.  If you win the appeal, you shall received your money back, however, if you lose the appeal then the money is not refunded.