Unless specified below, play follows all rules and regulations outlined in the Little League 2026 Official Regulations and Playing Rules Softball book for the Major Leagues. For further clarification, coaches should contact their division coordinator.
Pre-Game Information
Home team is responsible for prepping the field – ensure bases are secure, rake infield, eliminate
standing water, line field if necessary, etc.
Home team occupies 1st base line dugout and has on field warmup 30 to 15 minutes prior to start of
game.
Visiting team has on field warmup 15 minutes prior to start of game.
Number of Players
A minimum of 8 players per team is required to play a game. If a team starts a game with 8 players, the
9 th position in the batting order will not be an automatic out. If additional players arrive after play begins
they are inserted into the bottom of the lineup.
Dugout Personnel
The only personnel (16 years of age or older) allowed in the dugout are the manager (head coach) and 2
assistant coaches. A 16-17 year old may serve as an assistant coach and does not require an approved
volunteer application. All adults must have approved volunteer forms on file with EHLL. They must also
have completed a background check, Little League’s Child Abuse Training Course and CPR/First Aid
training.
Cancellations
The League determines if a game should be postponed due to inclement weather. If a game is
postponed, coaches should attempt to reschedule the game by contacting their Division Coordinators with
proposed makeup dates.
Runs
A maximum of 6 runs can be scored in any half inning. This does not apply to the last inning of a game.
Dropped third strike
We will follow Rule 6.05 (b)(2). Minor League and Tee Ball portion rule is extended to Majors Softball. “The batter is out when a third strike is caught or not caught by the catcher.”
Base Running
All base runners must remain in contact with the base until the pitch crosses home plate – failure to do so will result in the runner being called out.
Time Limit
1 hour 45 minutes time limit – finish the inning. No new inning will begin once the time limit has expired.
Umpire will announce when game’s final inning is beginning and run limit will not apply.
Games can end in a tie.
A minimum of 4 innings must have been played (3.5 innings if home team is winning) unless the game ends as a result of the 15-run rule.
** Playoffs - The 1 hour 45 minutes time limit will not apply. Games cannot end in a tie. Mercy rules (15/10/8 after 3/4/5) do apply.