Baseball Farm A League Rules
Pitching
Pitching machines will be used during all games and innings.
Pitching Machine Rules
A coach from the offensive team will load the machine to pitch.
The pitcher will stand on either side of mound with one foot in the dirt.
There are no walks or hit by pitch during machine pitch innings. There are strikeouts including “called strikes.”
When a ball hits the machine, the ball is ruled dead. Batter is awarded first base, and runners advance only if forced.
When a ball lands and remains on the dirt of the pitcher’s mound area the ball is ruled a dead ball. The batter is awarded first base, and runners advance only if forced.
When a thrown ball from a fielder hits the machine, the ball is ruled dead. The batter is awarded first base, and runners advance only if forced
Pitching Machine set-up
Home team is responsible for picking up the machine from the field two shed prior to game and setting up. Enough time must be allowed prior to the game to have the machine picked up, set up and tested.
Home team must also return the machine after each game unless the machine will be used during the following game.
The A divisional director will provide direction on the speed setting that should be used during each game. This may change as the season progresses.
A hard ball specifically designed for pitching machine use will be used.
Number of Outfielders
Extra outfielders, not infielders, will be permitted. If there are 12 players or less, all players will play. If there are more than 12 players in attendance, then only 11 will play in the field.
Base and Field Coaches
Base coaches should be adults and shall also serve as base umpires. In addition to the pitcher, two other coaches may be on the field for coaching purposes only. Adult coach from the defensive team should backup the player-catcher to speed up play.
Strikeouts and Walks
There are no strikeouts or walks in Farm A. If a player swings and misses after 3 strikes, or refuses to swing, a batting tee is used for the batter to hit off. Coach pitching or underhand tosses are not permitted as an intermediary step prior to the use of the tee.
Scoring & Standings
No score, records or standings should be kept in Farm A.
Advancement on Overthrows
Runners may not advance any bases on an overthrow in Farm A.
Bunting
Bunting is not permitted in Farm A.
Stealing
Stealing and leading are not permitted in Farm A.
Infield Fly Rule
The infield fly rule will not be in effect in Farm A.
End of an Inning
The offensive inning will end when the defensive team records 3 outs or the entire lineup bats. Coaches shall serve as "umpires" for purposes of determining outs.