2012 Usssa Fast Pitch Rules Challenge

1. The umpire who called the Illegal Pitch shall explain the violation to the coach if requested.

True

False

Yes, with the proper explanation. (6-3-F)

Explanation

Yes, with the proper explanation. (6-3-F)

2. A ball that has been cooled is an altered ball and falls under the same rules in place for altered bats.

True

False

Rule 2-3; 3-Altered Ball

Explanation

Rule 2-3; 3-Altered Ball

3. If a batter swings and the ball hits the batter's hand, she is awarded First Base.

True

False

No, this is a DEAD BALL STRIKE. Regardless of where the pitch hit her body, she swung at the ball and a strike is called and the ball is dead. 8-4-D.4

Explanation

No, this is a DEAD BALL STRIKE. Regardless of where the pitch hit her body, she swung at the ball and a strike is called and the ball is dead. 8-4-D.4

4. Coaches must be neatly attired.

True

False

Rule 2-8

Explanation

Rule 2-8

5. If a runner is called out for violating the look back rule, any other runner who is stopped off base is also called out.

True

False

Only one runner is declared out. The ball is dead and not other outs can be recorded. (8-2-Effect)

Explanation

Only one runner is declared out. The ball is dead and not other outs can be recorded. (8-2-Effect)

6. The Three Foot running lane starts halfway between home plate and first base.

True

False

Rule 1-2-G

Explanation

Rule 1-2-G

7. The leadoff hitter, Amy, strikes out. The next batter, Betty, is knocked unconscious by a wild pitch. Since the team has no eligible substitutions, Amy can replace Betty as the batter-runner and will be placed on 1st base.

True

False

If the player leaving the game is the batter or a runner, they shall be declared out. Exception: If the injury is caused by a rule violation by the defensive team (for example batter hit by pitch, obstruction, malicious contact), the player may be replaced by the player not currently on base who had the last completed time at bat. This exception does not apply to any future time at bat. (5-2-A Exception)

Explanation

If the player leaving the game is the batter or a runner, they shall be declared out. Exception: If the injury is caused by a rule violation by the defensive team (for example batter hit by pitch, obstruction, malicious contact), the player may be replaced by the player not currently on base who had the last completed time at bat. This exception does not apply to any future time at bat. (5-2-A Exception)

8. Any time a pitched ball hits the batter, it is a Dead Ball.

True

False

Always dead. Your partner can help in these situations too. 10-1-A

Explanation

Always dead. Your partner can help in these situations too. 10-1-A

9. Interference by a batter, runner or retired runner is a dead ball.

True

False

Every time. 10-1-E

Explanation

Every time. 10-1-E

10. A chin strap is required on the batting helmet.

True

False

Chin straps are not required. (Rule 2-1)

Explanation

Chin straps are not required. (Rule 2-1)

11. Regarding the use of a courtesy runner ... The team at bat may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and/or catcher any time after they reach base other than by substitution. The same courtesy runner may be used for both positions but not in the same inning. Neither the pitcher nor the catcher will be required to leave the lineup under such circumstances.

True

False

All correct. (8-3-A)

Explanation

All correct. (8-3-A)

12. A batter-runner who is running legally is hit by a thrown ball and incapacitated, she is awarded First Base.

True

False

A batter runner is awarded first base if hit by a thrown ball while legally advancing which incapacitated the batter-runner prior to reaching 1st base. 8-5-E

Explanation

A batter runner is awarded first base if hit by a thrown ball while legally advancing which incapacitated the batter-runner prior to reaching 1st base. 8-5-E

13. Unadorned bobby pins less than 2 inches in length are legal.

True

False

Rule 2-5

Explanation

Rule 2-5

14. The Flex must be listed in the last spot in the lineup, either the 10th spot (or the 11th or 12th spot if an Additional Player(s) is used).

True

False

5-4-B

Explanation

5-4-B

15. The pitch is completed with a step toward the batter.

True

False

6-1-F-4

Explanation

6-1-F-4

16. The DP can play defense for any of the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the FLEX can legally be on defense at the same time.

True

False

5-4-F

Explanation

5-4-F

17. Each team may be granted one charged conference while on offense per inning.

True

False

4-8-b

Explanation

4-8-b

18. A throat protector is not required on a catchers hockey style mask.

True

False

Rule 2-2

Explanation

Rule 2-2

19. The FLEX can play offense for any ot the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the FLEX can be legally on offense at the same time.

True

False

Placing the flex into one of the batting positions for someone other than the DP's position is considered an illegal substitution. (5-4-H)

Explanation

Placing the flex into one of the batting positions for someone other than the DP's position is considered an illegal substitution. (5-4-H)

20. The Penalty for excessive defensive conference is the pitcher may not pitch for the remainder of the game.

True

False

Penalty: After three charged conferences in a seven inning game, or for any charged conference in excess of one in each extra inning, the pitcher shall be removed as a pitcher for the duration of the game.(Rule 4-8-A)

Explanation

Penalty: After three charged conferences in a seven inning game, or for any charged conference in excess of one in each extra inning, the pitcher shall be removed as a pitcher for the duration of the game.(Rule 4-8-A)

21. The Umpire shall make awards to nullify spectator interference.

True

False

8-14-E-1

Explanation

8-14-E-1

22. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion and collides with the first baseman, it is interference.

True

False

Absolutely .. this is the whole reason there is a double base, to avoid this situation. 8.19.C

Explanation

Absolutely .. this is the whole reason there is a double base, to avoid this situation. 8.19.C

23. A player may return to pitch any number of times in one inning.

True

False

Return only once per inning. (5-5)

A player may be removed as a pitcher and returned as a pitcher only once per inning. Provided the return as a pitcher does not violate either the pitching, substitution, or charged conference rule.

Explanation

Return only once per inning. (5-5)

A player may be removed as a pitcher and returned as a pitcher only once per inning. Provided the return as a pitcher does not violate either the pitching, substitution, or charged conference rule.

24. If the FLEX runs for the DP ... the DP has left the game.

True

False

5-4-D

Explanation

5-4-D

25. The ball must have the USSSA FASTPITCH CLASSIC label on it.

True

False

Rule 2-3

Explanation

Rule 2-3

26. The Coaches Box is 8 feet from the foul lines.

True

False

Rule 1-2-H

Explanation

Rule 1-2-H

27. Pam is one of five substitutes who have not participated at all in the game. Pam courtesy runs for the pitcher in the sixth inning and scores. In the same inning, Pam is allowed to pinch run for the shortstop but can no longer be used as a courtesy runner for the remainder of the game. Did the umpire handle this properly ?

True

False

No, a player may not run as a courtesy runner and be used as a substitute for another player in that HALF INNING.

Explanation

No, a player may not run as a courtesy runner and be used as a substitute for another player in that HALF INNING.

28. Double base ... A ground ball bounds off the first baseman into foul territory. The first baseman picks up the ball, dives and touches the orange base with the ball in her throwing hand, beating the runner. The runner is declared out. Is this correct ?

True

False

Case Book. Double First base D Ruling --- May use either side of the base on this situation when coming from foul territory.

Explanation

Case Book. Double First base D Ruling --- May use either side of the base on this situation when coming from foul territory.

29. 14U players are allowed to wear metal cleats.

True

False

In all divisions 14 and under and younger, Metal cleats and metal toe plates are
prohibited. (Rule 2-4)

Explanation

In all divisions 14 and under and younger, Metal cleats and metal toe plates are
prohibited. (Rule 2-4)

30. It is a delayed dead ball when an illegal pitch is delivered.

True

False

10-2-A

Explanation

10-2-A

31. Conferences not used carry over into extra innings.

True

False

Conferences are not cumulative (4-8-A)

Explanation

Conferences are not cumulative (4-8-A)

32. The pitcher must start with both feet on the pitching rubber.

True

False

6-1-A

Explanation

6-1-A

33. Pam comes to bat in the top of the first inning in the third position in the batting order and is wearing #8. The official line-up has Pam batting in the third position in the batting order but wearing #17. Number can be corrected with no warning or penalty.

True

False

Numbers on the lineup card may be corrected without penalty. Casebook 5-c

Explanation

Numbers on the lineup card may be corrected without penalty. Casebook 5-c

34. Players may not wear casts while participating in the game.

True

False

Cast may be worn if padded. (Rule 2-6)

Explanation

Cast may be worn if padded. (Rule 2-6)

35. The pitching distance for Girls 14 and under is 40 ft.

True

False

Rule 1-1. Pitching distance for 13U on up will be 43 Ft since January 2011.

Explanation

Rule 1-1. Pitching distance for 13U on up will be 43 Ft since January 2011.

36. The pitcher must release the ball the first time past the hip.

True

False

The ball does not have to be released the first time past the hip. (6-1-G-4)

Explanation

The ball does not have to be released the first time past the hip. (6-1-G-4)

37. The FLEX can be declared up until the DP bats for the first time.

True

False

Must be declared prior to the start of the game. (5-4)

Explanation

Must be declared prior to the start of the game. (5-4)

38. Each team, when on defense, may be granted not more than two charged conferences without penalty during a seven-inning game.

True

False

Not more than three. (Rule 4-8-A)

Explanation

Not more than three. (Rule 4-8-A)

39. With Fran on First, Beth hits a ground ball to the outfield. Fran (the lead runner) has not reached second and Beth has rounded first when the right fielder throws the ball. At the time of the throw both runners were between 1st and 2nd base. The throw goes out of play. Beth (the trailing runner) is awarded third base moving Fran Home.

True

False

If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead runner. Therefore the two base award is given to Fran, the lead runner. She is awarded 3rd base on the two base award. 8-14-C-3; 8-14-C Note

Explanation

If two runners are between the same bases, the award is based on the position of the lead runner. Therefore the two base award is given to Fran, the lead runner. She is awarded 3rd base on the two base award. 8-14-C-3; 8-14-C Note

40. A bat that has graphics added to the barrel should be considered an altered bat.

True

False

Rule 3-Altered Bat: The bat has had the surface of the barrel or the taper changed in any way such as by addition of graphics, painting, repainting, removal of bat material or paint by any means including but not limited to sandpapering or applying a solvent to the surface such as fingernail polish remover or by any other means.

Explanation

Rule 3-Altered Bat: The bat has had the surface of the barrel or the taper changed in any way such as by addition of graphics, painting, repainting, removal of bat material or paint by any means including but not limited to sandpapering or applying a solvent to the surface such as fingernail polish remover or by any other means.

41. An illegal pitch which is released is a dead ball and the penalty is invoked.

True

False

Illegal pitches which are released are considered a DELAYED DEAD ball and the play continues. (6-3)

Explanation

Illegal pitches which are released are considered a DELAYED DEAD ball and the play continues. (6-3)

42. The role of the DP is terminated for the rest of the game when the FLEX bats.

True

False

The DP may re-enter which brings the lineup back to 10 again. This can happen more than once provided the substitution rules are complied with. (5-4-E)

Explanation

The DP may re-enter which brings the lineup back to 10 again. This can happen more than once provided the substitution rules are complied with. (5-4-E)

43. Double base again ... The shortstop fields a ground ball and throws directly to first base. The first baseman catches the throw touching only the orange base before the batter runner reaches first. The batter runner is out.

True

False

The first baseman is considered to be off the base. The batter-runner is safe. 8-19-B

Explanation

The first baseman is considered to be off the base. The batter-runner is safe. 8-19-B

44. Pam is the only substitute. Pam is used as a courtesy runner. Karen bats Pam home but is injured sliding safely into second and cannot continue. Pam must substitute immediately for Karen.

True

False

This is the EXCEPTION. If there is an injury and there is no substitute available, the courtesy runner must be used as a substitute and take the place of the injured player. Should the courtesy runner be on base, the pitcher or catcher for whom the courtesy runner is running must run in their place. (8-3-D)

Explanation

This is the EXCEPTION. If there is an injury and there is no substitute available, the courtesy runner must be used as a substitute and take the place of the injured player. Should the courtesy runner be on base, the pitcher or catcher for whom the courtesy runner is running must run in their place. (8-3-D)

45. The pitcher can only take a signal from the catcher.

True

False

The pitcher may simulate taking the signal from the catcher. No requirement to have signals. No restrictions as to can give signals. (6-1-C)

Explanation

The pitcher may simulate taking the signal from the catcher. No requirement to have signals. No restrictions as to can give signals. (6-1-C)

46. A batter-runner who overruns first and delays in her attempt to advance to second is required to return to first base and stop.

True

False

(8-2-para 4)

Explanation

(8-2-para 4)

47. Defensive players may not wear batter's helmets.

True

False

All players may wear protective equipment. (Rule 2-7)

Explanation

All players may wear protective equipment. (Rule 2-7)

48. Same situation ...With a runner on second base, the batter hits a fair ground ball. The batted ball bounds off the third baseman's glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline attempting to field the deflection and hinders the runner going from second to third. Obstruction has occurred.

True

False

The 3rd baseman made the initial play ... not the shortstop. This is obstruction. (3-39 and 8-13)

Explanation

The 3rd baseman made the initial play ... not the shortstop. This is obstruction. (3-39 and 8-13)

49. During the Pre-game conference, a team member must verify hall players are legally and properly equipped.

True

False

Only a coach can verify. (4-8-D-4)

Explanation

Only a coach can verify. (4-8-D-4)

50. With a runner on second base, the batter hits a fair ground ball. The batted ball bounds off the pitcher's glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline trying to field the deflected ball, and hinders the runner going from second to third. Obstruction has occurred.

True

False

This is NOT obstruction. A fielder is considered to be making an initial play on a fair batted ball when she has a reasonable chance to gain control of a ground ball that NO OTHER fielder (except the pitcher) has touched.

A fielder who either has the ball or is attempting an initial play on a batted ball cannot obstruct the runner.

(3-39 and 8-13)

Explanation

This is NOT obstruction. A fielder is considered to be making an initial play on a fair batted ball when she has a reasonable chance to gain control of a ground ball that NO OTHER fielder (except the pitcher) has touched.

A fielder who either has the ball or is attempting an initial play on a batted ball cannot obstruct the runner.

(3-39 and 8-13)

51. A player shows up late and is not listed as a starter or substitute on the line-up card. She is ineligible to play in that game.

True

False

Eligible roster members may be added as substitutes at ANY time. (5-1-B)

Explanation

Eligible roster members may be added as substitutes at ANY time. (5-1-B)

52. The pitcher must physically have the ball in one hand or she is not considered to have possession of the ball.

True

False

the pitcher has possession of the ball (e.g. has the ball in their hand, glove, under arm or chin, between
their legs) within the 16-foot circle. (8-2-para 1)

Explanation

the pitcher has possession of the ball (e.g. has the ball in their hand, glove, under arm or chin, between
their legs) within the 16-foot circle. (8-2-para 1)

53. Use of an altered bat by a Youth player can lead to suspension of the parents.

True

False

Rule 2-1M The parents or legal guardians of a youth player suspended under section 2-1 E (Altered Bat Director Inspection and Suspension) and/or EI (Altered Bat Determination by Altered Bat Committee Chairman or Manufacturer) shall be suspended for life from all USSSA sanctioned activities.

Explanation

Rule 2-1M The parents or legal guardians of a youth player suspended under section 2-1 E (Altered Bat Director Inspection and Suspension) and/or EI (Altered Bat Determination by Altered Bat Committee Chairman or Manufacturer) shall be suspended for life from all USSSA sanctioned activities.

54. It is obstruction if a fielder hinders a runner by moving into her path to get ready to catch a thrown ball.

True

False

The fielder must have the ball or be attempting an initial play on a batted ball, otherwise it's obstruction. 8-13

Explanation

The fielder must have the ball or be attempting an initial play on a batted ball, otherwise it's obstruction. 8-13

55. Regarding the look-back rule. If the pitcher has both feet straddling the line of the pitcher's circle, she is considered to be in the pitcher's circle.

True

False

Provided one foot is inside (or partially inside) the circle, she is considered in the circle. (8-2 para 9)

Explanation

Provided one foot is inside (or partially inside) the circle, she is considered in the circle. (8-2 para 9)

56. Same situation ...With a runner on second base, the batter hits a fair ground ball. The batted ball goes to the shortstop. She fumbles the ball and the ball goes behind her. She takes a step and starts to pick up the ball when she hinders the runner going from second to third. Obstruction has occurred.

True

False

No obstruction here. The fielder is still considered to be making an initial play if she fails to gain control of
the batted ground ball and is within a step and a reach. (3-39 and 8-13)

Explanation

No obstruction here. The fielder is still considered to be making an initial play if she fails to gain control of
the batted ground ball and is within a step and a reach. (3-39 and 8-13)

57. A batted ball that travels directly from the bat to the catcher's chest protector and is caught before touching the ground is a live ball.

True

False

This is a foul ball. If the ball traveled directly to the glove (or hand) first , then to the catcher's protector, and was caught, this would be considered a "foul tip" and the ball would remain alive. However in this situation the ball touched the chest protector first which caused the ball to be a dead ball / foul ball. 3-Foul Tip Note

Explanation

This is a foul ball. If the ball traveled directly to the glove (or hand) first , then to the catcher's protector, and was caught, this would be considered a "foul tip" and the ball would remain alive. However in this situation the ball touched the chest protector first which caused the ball to be a dead ball / foul ball. 3-Foul Tip Note

58. When a coach physically assists a runner during playing action, a dead ball occurs.

True

False

Delayed Dead ball occurs ... ball remains alive. 10-2-D

Explanation

Delayed Dead ball occurs ... ball remains alive. 10-2-D

59. If a runner is thrown out when a batter committed interference with the catcher making a throw, the interference is ignored.

True

False

Batter Interference is an immediate Dead Ball. 7-12 penalty

Explanation

Batter Interference is an immediate Dead Ball. 7-12 penalty

60. Double base again ... The runner on first is stealing second. After catching a line drive, the shortstop throws directly to first base. The first baseman catches the throw touching only the orange base before the runner returns to first. The runner is declared out. Is this correct ?

True

False

8-19-F Permitted.

Explanation

8-19-F Permitted.

61. A step backward in the pitching motion is legal if it begins before the hands come together.

True

False

No step backward is allowed. 6-1-E-2

Explanation

No step backward is allowed. 6-1-E-2

62. With no outs, Fran is stealing second when the batter lines out to the shortstop. Fran is returning to first as the shortstop throws to the first baseman. The throw goes out of play. Fran is awarded second base. Is this correct ?

True

False

Fran is awarded 3rd base ... since the award is TWO BASES from the base runners position (and base reached) at the time of the throw. Fran's running direction has no bearing on the dead ball award. She get's third. 8-14-C-3; 8-15-C

Explanation

Fran is awarded 3rd base ... since the award is TWO BASES from the base runners position (and base reached) at the time of the throw. Fran's running direction has no bearing on the dead ball award. She get's third. 8-14-C-3; 8-15-C

63. Same situation ...With a runner on second base, the batter hits a fair ground ball. The third baseman turns to watch the ball in left field and blocks R2 before she gets to third base. Obstruction is called and R2 is thrown out at home plate. The umpire states that the runner could not have made home plate regardless of the obstruction. R2 is returned to third base without an out being recorded.

True

False

Key here is "before" she gets to third base. If the obstructed runner advances beyond the base the runner would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, the runner advances with liability to be put out. The runner would be declared out for trying to advance beyond the base she was obstructed to. 8-13-A

Explanation

Key here is "before" she gets to third base. If the obstructed runner advances beyond the base the runner would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, the runner advances with liability to be put out. The runner would be declared out for trying to advance beyond the base she was obstructed to. 8-13-A

64. A quick return pitch (when the batter is not in position and ready) is considered an illegal pitch.

True

False

No, quick return pitches should be ruled a NO PITCH. (6-4-C)

Explanation

No, quick return pitches should be ruled a NO PITCH. (6-4-C)

65. The next 5 questions deal with a DOUBLE first base. The white base is in fair territory and the orange base is in foul territory, in all cases. If a play is being made on the batter-runner at first base and the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base, the runner is out.

True

False

This is an appeal play. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion when there is a play being made at first base, it is treated the same as missing the base. The batter-runner is out providing the defense appeals prior to the batter-runner returning to first base by tagging the runner or touching the base. This is an "implied live ball appeal." 8-19-B-1

Explanation

This is an appeal play. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion when there is a play being made at first base, it is treated the same as missing the base. The batter-runner is out providing the defense appeals prior to the batter-runner returning to first base by tagging the runner or touching the base. This is an "implied live ball appeal." 8-19-B-1

66. If the Batter Runner moves backward toward Home Plate for any reasons, the ball is dead.

True

False

Only to avoid or delay being tagged out. The batter-runner may stop but cannot move backward to avoid the tag. This is a common situation during a bunt play with runners on base. 10-1-M

Explanation

Only to avoid or delay being tagged out. The batter-runner may stop but cannot move backward to avoid the tag. This is a common situation during a bunt play with runners on base. 10-1-M

67. If a pitcher does not release the pitch within 20 seconds from the time of receiving the ball, an illegal pitch is called.

True

False

Not an illegal pitch ... just a DEAD ball and a BALL awarded to the batter. This is a pitcher (timing) violation. (6-1-K)

Explanation

Not an illegal pitch ... just a DEAD ball and a BALL awarded to the batter. This is a pitcher (timing) violation. (6-1-K)

68. On a base on balls, the look back rule goes into effect as soon as the pitcher receives the ball in the circle.

True

False

The LOOK-BACK RULE is in effect when the ball is live, the batter-runner has touched first base or has been declared out, and the pitcher has possession of the ball ... within the 16-foot circle. (8-2-para 1)

Explanation

The LOOK-BACK RULE is in effect when the ball is live, the batter-runner has touched first base or has been declared out, and the pitcher has possession of the ball ... within the 16-foot circle. (8-2-para 1)

69. The third baseman obstructs R2 after she touches third base and the umpire who called obstruction does not think R2 would have scored regardless of the obstruction. R2 is thrown out at home plate. R2 is returned to third base without an out being recorded.

True

False

the obstructed runner is awarded the base they would have reached had there been no obstruction.
An obstructed runner may not be called out between the two bases where she was obstructed – exceptions do NOT apply.

8-13, 8-13-D

Explanation

the obstructed runner is awarded the base they would have reached had there been no obstruction.
An obstructed runner may not be called out between the two bases where she was obstructed – exceptions do NOT apply.

8-13, 8-13-D

70. When a coach physically assists a runner during playing action, a dead ball occurs.

True

False

It is a delayed dead ball when a coach physically assists a runner. The play remains alive until completed. 10-2-D

Explanation

It is a delayed dead ball when a coach physically assists a runner. The play remains alive until completed. 10-2-D

71. An Optic Yellow Manufacter's Logo on the pitcher's glove is to be considered legal.

True

False

Rule 2-9. B. The glove/mitt may be any combination of colors except the color of the game ball or optic. Glove lacing may be any color other than that of the ball. The manufacturer’s logos are not considered a glove color. A gray, white or optic colored circle on the outside or inside of the glove/mitt that gives the appearance of a ball is illegal. A glove/mitt that is judged to be distracting by the Umpire is illegal.

Explanation

Rule 2-9. B. The glove/mitt may be any combination of colors except the color of the game ball or optic. Glove lacing may be any color other than that of the ball. The manufacturer’s logos are not considered a glove color. A gray, white or optic colored circle on the outside or inside of the glove/mitt that gives the appearance of a ball is illegal. A glove/mitt that is judged to be distracting by the Umpire is illegal.

72. If during a live ball, a runner deliberately removes her helmet, it results in a dead ball.

True

False

Warning then ejection; Delayed Dead Ball should be ruled here. 2-1; 10-2-F

Explanation

Warning then ejection; Delayed Dead Ball should be ruled here. 2-1; 10-2-F

73. A courtesy runner may not be used for the DP.

True

False

A courtesy runner is permitted for the DP if the DP is the pitcher or catcher of record. (8-3-F)

Explanation

A courtesy runner is permitted for the DP if the DP is the pitcher or catcher of record. (8-3-F)

74. After hitting an illegal pitch, the batter is thrown out at second base, the coach has the option of accepting the illegal pitch penalty.

True

False

Unlike high school, in USSSA if the batter reaches first base and all runners advance at least one base, the play stands, and the illegal pitch is canceled. NO OPTION is given. (6-3-B)

Explanation

Unlike high school, in USSSA if the batter reaches first base and all runners advance at least one base, the play stands, and the illegal pitch is canceled. NO OPTION is given. (6-3-B)

75. The team fails to report Pam as a courtesy runner. Pam becomes an illegal substitute.

True

False

This is considered an Unreported courtesy runner: An unreported courtesy runner is treated the same as an unreported substitute. The team is warned and further violations result in the ejection of the coach. (8-3-Penalty)

Explanation

This is considered an Unreported courtesy runner: An unreported courtesy runner is treated the same as an unreported substitute. The team is warned and further violations result in the ejection of the coach. (8-3-Penalty)

2012 Usssa Fast Pitch Rules Challenge

1. The umpire who called the Illegal Pitch shall explain the violation to the coach if requested.

2.

What first name or nickname would you like us to use?

2. A ball that has been cooled is an altered ball and falls under the same rules in place for altered bats.

3. If a batter swings and the ball hits the batter's hand, she is awarded First Base.

4. Coaches must be neatly attired.

5. If a runner is called out for violating the look back rule, any other runner who is stopped off base is also called out.

6. The Three Foot running lane starts halfway between home plate and first base.

7. The leadoff hitter, Amy, strikes out. The next batter, Betty, is knocked unconscious by a wild pitch. Since the team has no eligible substitutions, Amy can replace Betty as the batter-runner and will be placed on 1st base.

8. Any time a pitched ball hits the batter, it is a Dead Ball.

9. Interference by a batter, runner or retired runner is a dead ball.

10. A chin strap is required on the batting helmet.

12. A batter-runner who is running legally is hit by a thrown ball and incapacitated, she is awarded First Base.

13. Unadorned bobby pins less than 2 inches in length are legal.

14. The Flex must be listed in the last spot in the lineup, either the 10th spot (or the 11th or 12th spot if an Additional Player(s) is used).

15. The pitch is completed with a step toward the batter.

16. The DP can play defense for any of the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the FLEX can legally be on defense at the same time.

17. Each team may be granted one charged conference while on offense per inning.

18. A throat protector is not required on a catchers hockey style mask.

19. The FLEX can play offense for any ot the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the FLEX can be legally on offense at the same time.

20. The Penalty for excessive defensive conference is the pitcher may not pitch for the remainder of the game.

21. The Umpire shall make awards to nullify spectator interference.

22. If the batter-runner touches only the white portion and collides with the first baseman, it is interference.

23. A player may return to pitch any number of times in one inning.

24. If the FLEX runs for the DP ... the DP has left the game.

25. The ball must have the USSSA FASTPITCH CLASSIC label on it.

26. The Coaches Box is 8 feet from the foul lines.

28. Double base ... A ground ball bounds off the first baseman into foul territory. The first baseman picks up the ball, dives and touches the orange base with the ball in her throwing hand, beating the runner. The runner is declared out. Is this correct ?

29. 14U players are allowed to wear metal cleats.

30. It is a delayed dead ball when an illegal pitch is delivered.

31. Conferences not used carry over into extra innings.

32. The pitcher must start with both feet on the pitching rubber.

33. Pam comes to bat in the top of the first inning in the third position in the batting order and is wearing #8. The official line-up has Pam batting in the third position in the batting order but wearing #17. Number can be corrected with no warning or penalty.

34. Players may not wear casts while participating in the game.

35. The pitching distance for Girls 14 and under is 40 ft.

36. The pitcher must release the ball the first time past the hip.

37. The FLEX can be declared up until the DP bats for the first time.

38. Each team, when on defense, may be granted not more than two charged conferences without penalty during a seven-inning game.

40. A bat that has graphics added to the barrel should be considered an altered bat.

41. An illegal pitch which is released is a dead ball and the penalty is invoked.

42. The role of the DP is terminated for the rest of the game when the FLEX bats.

43. Double base again ... The shortstop fields a ground ball and throws directly to first base. The first baseman catches the throw touching only the orange base before the batter runner reaches first. The batter runner is out.

44. Pam is the only substitute. Pam is used as a courtesy runner. Karen bats Pam home but is injured sliding safely into second and cannot continue. Pam must substitute immediately for Karen.

45. The pitcher can only take a signal from the catcher.

46. A batter-runner who overruns first and delays in her attempt to advance to second is required to return to first base and stop.

47. Defensive players may not wear batter's helmets.

49. During the Pre-game conference, a team member must verify hall players are legally and properly equipped.

50. With a runner on second base, the batter hits a fair ground ball. The batted ball bounds off the pitcher's glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline trying to field the deflected ball, and hinders the runner going from second to third. Obstruction has occurred.

51. A player shows up late and is not listed as a starter or substitute on the line-up card. She is ineligible to play in that game.

52. The pitcher must physically have the ball in one hand or she is not considered to have possession of the ball.

53. Use of an altered bat by a Youth player can lead to suspension of the parents.

54. It is obstruction if a fielder hinders a runner by moving into her path to get ready to catch a thrown ball.

55. Regarding the look-back rule. If the pitcher has both feet straddling the line of the pitcher's circle, she is considered to be in the pitcher's circle.

57. A batted ball that travels directly from the bat to the catcher's chest protector and is caught before touching the ground is a live ball.

58. When a coach physically assists a runner during playing action, a dead ball occurs.

59. If a runner is thrown out when a batter committed interference with the catcher making a throw, the interference is ignored.

60. Double base again ... The runner on first is stealing second. After catching a line drive, the shortstop throws directly to first base. The first baseman catches the throw touching only the orange base before the runner returns to first. The runner is declared out. Is this correct ?

61. A step backward in the pitching motion is legal if it begins before the hands come together.

62. With no outs, Fran is stealing second when the batter lines out to the shortstop. Fran is returning to first as the shortstop throws to the first baseman. The throw goes out of play. Fran is awarded second base. Is this correct ?

64. A quick return pitch (when the batter is not in position and ready) is considered an illegal pitch.

65. The next 5 questions deal with a DOUBLE first base. The white base is in fair territory and the orange base is in foul territory, in all cases. If a play is being made on the batter-runner at first base and the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base, the runner is out.

66. If the Batter Runner moves backward toward Home Plate for any reasons, the ball is dead.

67. If a pitcher does not release the pitch within 20 seconds from the time of receiving the ball, an illegal pitch is called.

68. On a base on balls, the look back rule goes into effect as soon as the pitcher receives the ball in the circle.

69. The third baseman obstructs R2 after she touches third base and the umpire who called obstruction does not think R2 would have scored regardless of the obstruction. R2 is thrown out at home plate. R2 is returned to third base without an out being recorded.

70. When a coach physically assists a runner during playing action, a dead ball occurs.

71. An Optic Yellow Manufacter's Logo on the pitcher's glove is to be considered legal.

72. If during a live ball, a runner deliberately removes her helmet, it results in a dead ball.

73. A courtesy runner may not be used for the DP.

74. After hitting an illegal pitch, the batter is thrown out at second base, the coach has the option of accepting the illegal pitch penalty.

75. The team fails to report Pam as a courtesy runner. Pam becomes an illegal substitute.