Regular Season Rules and Regulations Spotlight: Player Re-Entry, Special Pinch-Runner, Pitch Count, and Mandatory Play
Whether volunteering for the first time or returning to the dugout for another season, Little League® Managers and coaches are encouraged to thoroughly review the annual Regulations, Playing Rules, and Policies.
Every year, the rules and regulations that govern Little League are applied in order to provide an organized and enjoyable experience for everyone in the program.
As you prepare for the regular season, you are encouraged to give additional attention to Rules 3.03 and 7.14, along with Regulations IV and VI. A reminder for Little League International Tournament coaches that some of these rules and regulations may be different for tournament play.
Rule 3.03 – Player Re-entry
Rule 3.03 states references “player re-entry.” The rule states: A player in the starting lineup who has been removed for a substitute may re-enter the game in the same position in the batting order after his/her substitute has met mandatory play. A starter and his/her substitute may not be in the lineup at the same time. Review this rule for a complete description as it applies to baseball and softball.
Rule 7.14 – Special Pinch-Runner
Rule 7.14 references the “special pinch-runner.” The rule states: That once each inning, a team may utilize a player who is not in the batting order as a special pinch-runner for any offensive player. A player may be removed for a special pinch-runner one time per game. Review the rule for a complete description as it applies to baseball and softball. This rule is in effect only when NOT using continuous batting order. If there is/are substitutes (players not in the current lineup), said players would be eligible to enter the game as a Special Pinch Runner.
Regulation VI – Pitchers: Pitch Count
Regulation VI – Pitchers states that: Any player on a regular season team may pitch. Baseball players operate under a pitch count to determine eligibility, and days of rest between pitching appearances. Softball utilizes innings pitched to determine eligibility, and days of rest. Review the regulation for a complete description as it applies to baseball and softball.
Learn More About Pitching Rules
Regulation IV (i) – Players: Mandatory Play
Regulation VI – Pitchers states that: Every rostered player at the start of a game will participate in each game for a minimum of six (6) defensive outs and bat at least one (1) time. Review the regulation for a complete description as it applies to baseball and softball.
The official Regulations, Playing Rules, and Policies books are available through the Little League Rulebook mobile application which is a FREE download from the Apple App Store or Google Play.