Rule 5.00: Putting the Ball in Play FAQs

No. Although it is commonly believed that the ball becomes dead immediately after the third out is made to end the half inning, the ball remains live. This gives the defense an opportunity to make a “fourth” out appeal which might enable them to remove runs from the scoreboard. The opportunity to appeal ends when all defensive players leave fair territory on their way to the dugout.

No. When the umpire gives the “stop sign” to the pitcher this indicates time out for everyone, and the ball is dead.  Umpires should always put the ball back in play after having put their hand up to stop the pitcher.

If a batted ball hits that umpire without having first been touched by the pitcher, it is umpire interference.  The ball is dead, the batter is awarded first base, and all runners advance, only if forced.

Local League rules cannot supersede the rule book. By rule, once the game begins, the umpires have sole authority to determine whether the game should be stopped because of weather or field conditions [Rule 4.01(d)].

No. Players may request “Time,” but it is the decision of the umpire to grant that request. Only umpires can call time out.

Yes, there are no rules against a pitcher wearing sunglasses. The only time it would be a potential issue is if the umpire deemed them distracting to the batter in some obvious way.

Yes. In all levels of baseball, catchers are required to wear a catcher’s mitt that is consistent with protecting the hand. They are not permitted to wear any other kind of glove such as a first basemen’s mitt or a regular fielding glove.

No. Managers, coaches, or other adult volunteers may not warm up a pitcher at any time either before innings or in the bullpen.

Yes. Pitchers are not permitted to wear (exclusive of piping) a glove that is white, or light gray, or a glove that is in any manner distracting to the hitter. Softball pitchers cannot wear gloves that are the same color as the ball being used in the game.

Yes. Runners may advance, at their own risk, if a batter fly ball is caught over foul territory.

Yes. Sleeve length for the pitcher (and other players) need to be the same length and color. Moreover, exposed undershirts and sleeves of pitchers cannot be white or gray.

Safety. Jewelry can be a danger to players participating in a sporting event. The only item permissible is a medical alert tag. All other jewelry must be removed before participating in games or practices.

Bats that are excluded from play should be placed in a neutral place that is safe to ensure they do not accidentally or purposefully re-enter play.

Yes. If the pitch is completed, the play continues in a delayed-dead ball scenario. At the conclusion of the play, the manager of the offense may advise the plate umpire to decline the illegal pitch and accept the play. If, however, all runners have advanced at least one base and the batter-runner reached first base safely, the play proceeds without reference to the illegal pitch or balk.

No. In softball, the catcher must wear a mitt that is consistent with protecting the hand. It may be a first baseman’s mitt or a fielder’s glove.