Unless specified below, play follows all rules and regulations outlined in the Little League 2025 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.
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.
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 EHHL. They must also have completed a background check and Little League’s Child Abuse Training Course. At least one coach needs to have completed CPR/First Aid training.
Number of Players
9 players maximum in the field, but game can be played with 8 players. If both teams have 10 or more players than both teams will play with 10 defensive players 4 of which will be outfielders.
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.
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 Coordinator with proposed makeup dates.