BABE RUTH LEAGUE, INC. TOURNAMENT … (Babe Ruth League Rule 11.04) The tournament team manager must place in the custody of the tournament officials, the following documents prior

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TOURNAMENT RESOURCE GUIDETOURNAMENT RESOURCE GUIDETOURNAMENT RESOURCE GUIDE

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Babe Ruth League’s tournament trail is more than wins and losses, or trophies that await the champion. Focus is placed on creating memorable moments and teaching life lessons, as well as the various social and cultural experiences that are presented. If a team is participating in tournament competition, they have already enjoyed an incredibly successful season. They’ve already won a league or tournament championship. A tournament team should celebrate what they have accomplished and celebrate what a great season it has been. To prepare you for the upcoming tournament season, please review the tournament rules, regulations and resources listed in this Guide.

Babe Ruth League, Inc. has been offering tournament play since 1952 when the first World Series for the 13-15 Division was held in Trenton, New Jersey. The Babe Ruth League tournament trail has grown year by year and has become an outstanding experience for all involved. Babe Ruth League, Inc. offers 12 tournament trails that culminate with World Series competition: Cal Ripken Baseball 10-Year-Old, Cal Ripken Baseball Major/60, Cal Ripken Baseball Major/70, 13-Year-Old Baseball, 14-Year-Old Baseball, 13-15 Baseball, 16-18 Baseball, Softball 8U, Softball 10U, Softball 12U, Softball 14U, and Softball 16U. Responsibility and Jurisdiction District, State and Regional Commissioners are responsible for selecting sites and

the various aspects of the operations of District, State and Regional Tournaments. All District Tournaments are under the jurisdiction of the District Commissioner;

all State Tournaments under the jurisdiction of the State Commissioner; and all Regional Tournaments under the jurisdiction of the Regional Commissioner.

District, State and Regional Commissioners may appoint Tournament Directors; however, the tournaments remain under the control of the respective commissioner. Appointed Tournament Directors must be well versed in the rules, regulations and policies of Babe Ruth League, Inc. They must be available at the site to answer and address any questions and/or situations that may arise. If no Tournament Director is appointed, then the respective Commissioner shall serve as the Tournament Director.

It must be understood that Babe Ruth League, Inc. has final authority over all aspects of tournament play. No volunteer Commissioner, umpire, league officer, or any other person has the authority to suspend or alter any rule, regulation or policy of Babe Ruth League, Inc.

There will be no waivers or resorting to local rules or other variations, unless granted explicitly by Babe Ruth League Headquarters.

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In most cases, tournament play begins with District Play with the District Champion advancing to the State Tournament. (Where area competition takes place, Area Champions will compete with other Area Champions to determine the State Champion.) The State Tournament Champion advances to the Regional Tournament, with the Regional Champion advancing to World Series level of play.

A league may have a host team in the State or Regional Tournament. A host team will be ineligible automatically for a bye in the state and regional tournaments, and World Series. A Babe Ruth League that has two divisions and is hosting a District, State or Regional Tournament MUST declare which division will be considered the host prior to the start of district tournaments.

The host teams for all divisions, having received eligibility approval from Babe Ruth League, Inc., and at their League President’s discretion, shall be eligible to enter official tournament competition one level below the tournament level they will be hosting. If a state or regional host team participates in an official tournament trail competition prior to its first game as host team and wins, both it and the second-place team will advance to the next level. If the host team loses in an official tournament trail competition prior to its first game as host team, it will be eligible to participate as the host.

NOTE: a 16-18 baseball host league is given the option of having one or two tournament teams—one as the host and the other to compete through the regular tournament competition bracket. At no time is it permissible for a player, manager or coach to appear on more than one tournament team roster in the same year.

Such tournament rules and regulations as may be deemed advisable to meet with local conditions may be established by District Commissioners, State Commissioners, or Regional Commissioners, as long as said rule and regulations are not in conflict with Babe Ruth League, Inc. Rules and Regulations. All District, State and Regional Officials shall establish their tournament rules in writing and every league, district and state shall be advising, in writing, of the establishment of said rules. These rules must be approved by Babe Ruth League, Inc. Some special rules apply to World Series competition. Participating teams will be provided these rules in writing by Babe Ruth League, Inc.

The Host Family Plan will be used in the Babe Ruth 16-18 World Series. When housing of players is required during tournament competition, the Host Family Plan will be under the jurisdiction of the respective Commissioner per Rule 11.06, paragraphs 1, 2 and 3. The World Series will be under the jurisdiction of Babe Ruth League, Inc. Headquarters. Any team or player refusing to complete with this rule shall be ineligible for tournament competition.

Player Eligibility Players are eligible for tournament competition, provided they meet the following eligibility requirements: All player ages are determined by the birth chart and explanations listed in Babe Ruth League

Baseball and Babe Ruth Softball Rules 0.02, paragraph 2.


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Cal Ripken Baseball, Babe Ruth Baseball and Babe Ruth Softball competition is restricted to AMATEUR PLAYERS only. A player once declared ineligible can only be reinstated by his/her own State Commissioner after due review of the case by the Regional Commissioner and final approval of Babe Ruth League, Inc. NOTE: Amateur and eligibility status of any Babe Ruth League player shall be determined in accordance with the prevailing rules of the State High School Athletic Association of the state in which the player participates in Babe Ruth League play. Therefore, Babe Ruth local league and state officials should determine their respective State High School Athletic Association’s current rules, regulations and policies governing amateur standing before ruling on any case.

Players listed on team rosters or revisions thereto, which are filed with Babe Ruth League Headquarters, State Commissioners and District Commissioners in accordance with Rule 0.04, paragraph 3, shall be eligible for the tournament team provided birth documents as defined in Rule 0.04, paragraph 1, are in the custody of the proper tournament authority before the start of competition. IN NO CASE shall a player be allowed to participate in tournament competition

unless said birth document is presented to the tournament officials. No tournament official, District, State or Regional Commissioner shall have the authority to waive this requirement.

Due to death, injury, or if a player, manager or coach leaves on his/her own accord, he/she may be replaced upon presentation of written approval from Babe Ruth League, Inc. to the Tournament Director. The replacement player, manager or coach replaced is recognized at the next level of tournament competition. The player, manager or coach replaced is not eligible for further tournament competition and replacements must meet all tournament eligibility requirements. Proof of inability of player, manager or coach to continue must be presented in writing by the League President to Babe Ruth League, Inc.

To be eligible to compete in tournament play, a player, manager or coach must be listed on league and tournament rosters.

To be eligible for tournament play in any division of Babe Ruth League, Inc., a player just have played in at least one-half of his team’s scheduled league games played prior to the start of tournament play. Note: When odd number of games are involved, the player receives the benefit, i.e., for eligibility for one half of thirteen games played is six games. If a player is unable to meet this criteria because of an injury or participation in scholastic sports, contact Babe Ruth League.


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League Eligibility Each chartered Babe Ruth League shall be eligible for representation in tournament play

provided the league has complied with the following requirements on or before the specified dates: Rule 0.01—paragraph 2—Application for Charter submitted on or before May 15 Rule 0.01—paragraph 5—Geographical Boundaries Rule 0.01—paragraph 6—Accident and Liability Insurance Coverage Rule 0.01—paragraph 7—Nationwide Background Checks Rule 0.04—paragraph 3—Team Roster and League Schedule Filed Rule 0.04—paragraph 4—Official Scorebook Rule 0.05—paragraphp 1(a) - Team Composition State and Regional rules and regulations as established by said State and Regional

Commissioners. If a league is divided into two or more divisions, each division shall be represented by a

tournament team in tournament competition. Each tournament team shall be selected from a division or a league consisting of not more than ten (10) teams.

Authority and responsibility is delegated to State Commissioners to determine tournament eligibility of each individual league based upon Rule 11.01, paragraph 1. Letters of League Eligibility or Non-Eligibility will be forwarded to each registered league and/or division(s) by the State Commissioner. The letter of eligibility can only be issued by the State Commissioner. League eligibility is subject to review by Babe Ruth League, Inc.

Documents (Babe Ruth League Rule 11.04) The tournament team manager must place in the custody of the tournament officials, the following documents prior to the start of competition: Birth documents or records as specified by Rule 0.04 (1) for each of the tournament team

players. Official Tournament Team Roster certified and signed by the League President. Babe Ruth League, Inc. Letter of Tournament Eligibility Form. Accord Certificate of Coverage of Group Accident Insurance Policy. Accord Certificate of Coverage of league’s Commercial General Liability Insurance Policy. Consent for Treatment forms (starting at state level of play). A color team photograph with identification must be uploaded with your tournament roster

through Babe Ruth online. Print and place one copy in your team’s credentials. Digital photographs may be emailed.

Coaching Certification I.D. Card or Certificate for team manager and coaches.


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Babe Ruth League Rule 0.01, Paragraph 5—Geographical Boundaries State Commissioners shall approve geographical boundaries established by each league in conjunction with the District Commissioner in whose district that league exists and operates. Appropriate written descriptions, maps or specifications of boundary limitations, must be certified by and filed with the State Commissioner and submitted to Babe Ruth League, Inc. for final approval. A player must play within the league’s geographical boundaries in which the player resides. This is determined according to the legal residence of the player’s parents or legal guardian. Waivers permitting a player to play outside of his/her geographical boundaries are not permitted in Babe Ruth League. (Each age division shall be a separate entity and shall have its own geographical boundaries.) Such geographical boundaries shall be subject to review and adjustment by the State or Regional Commissioner and Babe Ruth League, Inc. whenever it is deemed advisable. Geographical boundaries are established to eliminate competition of an undesirable nature, but shall not be established to prevent healthy expansion of teams and leagues within any given area. The only exceptions to the above rule are as follows: a. If a player rostered on a Cal Ripken Baseball, Babe Ruth Baseball or Babe Ruth

Softball team moved outside of that league’s geographical boundaries. In this case, the player may finish his/her playing career in the respective division of that league.

b. If the physical location of the school where a player attends classes during the traditional academic year is within the boundaries of an established league, the player is permitted to participate in the established league. (Note: This excludes home schools, cyber schools, sports-related schools, sports academies, or after school where a student participates outside of the primary school in which the player is enrolled.) Under the school boundary rule, once a player selects to participate in a league where the player is eligible, the player must finish the current season in the same league.

Players and their parents/guardians are advised that a false statement regarding residency or school attendance may result in the player being declared ineligible to participate in Cal Ripken Baseball, Babe Ruth Baseball or Babe Ruth Softball. This action may also result in the disqualification of a player, team or league from regular season and/or tournament play.


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Babe Ruth League Rule 0.04—Proof of Birth Documents Such Record of Birth must be one of the following documents: Certificate from the State, County or City Bureau of Vital Statistics, Department of Health,

Affidavits of Birth, Baptismal Certificates, Hospital Certificates, School Certificates, Record of Notification of Birth Registration by the Bureau of Census of the U.S. Department of Commerce, United States Naturalization Certification, United States Passport, Babe Ruth League, Inc. officially laminated I.D. Card or Babe Ruth League, Inc. electronic I.D. Card or Babe Ruth League Letter of Waiver.

In the event of the player’s birth not being recorded at the time of birth, a CERTIFIED COPY OF THE DELAYED REGISTRATION of birth will be accepted, providing said registration is filed with Babe Ruth League, Inc. and the State Commissioner is notified prior to the player’s first local league scheduled game.

Notification of Birth Registration from the State, County or City Bureau of Vital Statistics, Department of Health, or other recognized birth recording agency. [This is termed “Verification of Birth Registration” in some states and may also be either the standard notification or the birth replacement card (short form) issued by the recognized birth recording agency.]

No player should ever be embarrassed by this rule. Should there be any difficulty in complying with birth certificate requirements, any league, state organization, parent or guardian may contact Babe Ruth League, Inc. directly regarding a Letter of Waiver prior to a player’s first local league scheduled game. Applications for a Babe Ruth League, Inc. official Letter of Waiver should be accompanied by as much documentation as is available.

MISCELLANEOUS RULES, REGULATIONS AND POLICIESMISCELLANEOUS RULES, REGULATIONS AND POLICIESMISCELLANEOUS RULES, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES

All Babe Ruth Baseball (including Cal Ripken Baseball) and Babe Ruth Softball must be played in accordance with the Official Baseball Rules and the Official Babe Ruth Softball Rules, respectively. The only exceptions for baseball and softball are listed in the Babe Ruth Baseball and Babe Ruth Softball Rules and Regulations. Do not use the rules of the National High School Athletic Associations, or any other group, as there are major differences between the sets of rules.

Babe Ruth Rule 11.05, Paragraph 2—National Umpires Association Per Babe Ruth League Rule 11.05, paragraph 2, all umpires who work District, State, and Regional Tournaments, as well as the World Series, are required to be an active member of the Babe Ruth League National Umpire Association. Jewelry Jewelry is prohibited. Players shall not wear jewelry. Medical alert and religious bracelets or necklaces are not considered jewelry. If worn, they must be taped to the body so as to remain invisible. Wireless communication devices are not allowed, including fitness monitors.


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Babe Ruth League Rule 2.00—Definition of Shoes Metal cleats are permitted in the Softball 14U, 16U and 18U divisions, and the Babe Ruth Baseball 13-15 and 16-18 Divisions. Metal Cleats are not permitted in the Softball 12U Division and are not permitted in the Cal Ripken Baseball Divisions— rubber cleats are permitted. Protective Headgear (All Divisions) Shall be worn on deck, at bat, while a base runner, and by players in the coach’s box, during practice and all games. Such headgear must cover the top of the head and have extended earflaps, which covers both ears, and properly fit. All bat boys/girls must also wear protective headgear while out of the dugout. Catcher’s Equipment (All Baseball Divisions) Any player, manager or coach, warming up a pitcher at any location, shall wear a mask. An extended throat protector is considered part of the catcher’s mask. During the course of the game and at practice, a catcher shall wear a catcher’s mask with an extended throat protector, protective headgear, shin guards and chest protector. Hockey style catcher’s masks are approved in all divisions of Cal Ripken Baseball and Babe Ruth Baseball. For the Cal Ripken Division, the catcher’s helmet must cover the ears. Catcher’s Equipment (All Softball Divisions) The catcher or anyone acting as the catcher shall wear a catcher’s mask while warming up the pitcher at home plate or at any other location. In addition, during the course of the game and at practice, a catcher shall wear a catcher’s mask, protective headgear which covers the top of the head, throat protector, shin guards and chest protector. (Hockey style mask does not require a “dangling” throat protector.) Protective Cup (All Baseball Division) A protective cup must be worn by the catcher during practice and at all games. Uniforms (All Divisions) All players on a team should wear uniforms identical in color, trim and style, and all players’ uniforms should include minimal six-inch numbers on their backs. All managers and coaches shall be in team uniform during Babe Ruth League, Inc. tournament competition. It is permissible to allow local league uniforms during tournament competition provided they are like in style and have different numbers (unless uniforms are sponsored). For further details regarding uniforms, please refer to Official Baseball and Official Softball Rule 1.11.


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Shoulder Emblems (All Divisions) All teams participating in Babe Ruth League local league and tournament competition are required to wear the Official Cal Ripken Baseball, Babe Ruth Baseball or Babe Ruth Softball Shoulder Emblem on their uniform on their left outer uniform sleeve (if vest type or sleeveless jersey—on the upper left chest of the jersey). The Official Shoulder Emblem is required to be permanently affixed for World Series competition. Cap Emblem Option—Leagues have the option to purchase caps manufactured by Pacific Headwear and/or Outdoor Cap or replica Major/Minor caps licensed by Outdoor Cap that contain the Official Cal Ripken Baseball, Babe Ruth Baseball or Babe Ruth Softball emblem to satisfy the Official Shoulder emblem requirement for local league and tournament play, excluding the Babe Ruth League World Series. Tobacco (All Divisions) Babe Ruth League, Inc. prohibits the use of all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. This rule applies to all field personnel, which includes managers, coaches and umpires. Extra Player— (Cal Ripken Baseball, Babe Ruth Baseball and Babe Ruth Softball) Prior to the beginning of each tournament game, the manager may elect to add a tenth hitter to the batting order. The player will be indicated in the line-up as the “EP”. The EP cannot be added to the line-up once the game begins. The EP will be treated as any other starter, and cannot be eliminated during the course of the game. If a team starts with 10 players, the team must finish with 10 players. Penalty shall be a forfeit. Designated Hitter Official Baseball Rule 6.01 does not apply—The designated hitter rule is not permitted at any level of Cal Ripken Baseball and Babe Ruth Baseball. The designated hitter rule is permitted for use in the SOFTBALL 18U DIVISION, but for no other division of Babe Ruth Softball. For Softball 18U, a hitter may be designated for any one starting player and all subsequent substitutes for that player in the game. A designated hitter for said player must be selected prior to the start of the game, and her name must be included on the lineup cards presented to the Umpire-in-Chief and the official scorer. Failure to declare such a hitter prior to the game precludes the use of a designated hitter in that game.. (Refer to Babe Ruth Softball Rule 6.10 for further details on the designated hitter rule for Softball 18U). Contact Rule (Babe Ruth League—All Divisions) If a runner attempting to reach home plate or another base intentionally and maliciously runs into a defensive player in the area of home plate or a base, he will be called out and ejected from the game.


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Re-Entry Rule—All Divisions of Babe Ruth League Any of the starting players may withdraw and re-enter once provided such player occupies the same batting position whenever he/she is in the line-up. A substitute who is withdrawn may not re-enter. All pitchers are governed by the provisions of Official Rule 3.05 if withdrawn while on the mound pitching. The pitcher withdrawn while a batter or base runner may re-enter the game immediately. If the pitcher is removed from the game because of a second trip in the same inning, he/she may re-enter the game in any position with the exception of pitcher. Trips to the Mound (All Divisions) Per Official Baseball Rule 8.06 and Babe Ruth Softball Rule 8.12, the second trip in the same inning to the same pitcher shall automatically result in the removal of that pitcher from the game AS A PITCHER ONLY. A trip to the mound is defined as attention to the pitcher by the coach. The primary purpose of Official Baseball Rule 8.06 and Official Babe Ruth Softball Rule 8.12 is to prevent delay of the game. The game was delayed by changing the pitcher, and is therefore considered a trip to the mound, whether or not the manager/coach physically visited the mound. Taking Signs From the Rubber (Rule 8.01—All Divisions) The pitcher must take signs from the catcher while standing on the rubber. Penalty—after a warning by the umpire, the pitcher, on the next offense, shall be removed from the mound as a pitcher for the remainder of the game. Infield Fly An infield fly is a fair fly ball (not including a line drive, nor an attempted bunt) which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort, when first and second, or first, second and third bases are occupied, before two are out. The pitcher, catcher and any outfielder who stations themselves in the infield on the play shall be considered infielders for the purpose of this rule.

When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an Infield Fly, the umpire shall immediately declare "Infield Fly" for the benefit of the runners. If the ball is near the baselines, the umpire shall declare, "Infield Fly, if Fair." The ball is alive and runners may advance at the risk of the ball being caught, or retouch and advance after the ball is touched, the same as on any fly ball. If the hit becomes a foul ball, it is treated as any foul.

If a declared Infield Fly is allowed to fall untouched to the ground, and bounces foul before passing first or third base, it is a foul ball. If a declared Infield Fly falls untouched to the ground outside the baseline, and bounces fair before passing first or third base, it is an Infield Fly.


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When an infield fly rule is called, runners may advance at their own risk. If on an infield fly rule, the infielder intentionally drops a fair ball, the ball remains in play despite the provisions of Rule 6.05(1). The infield fly rule takes precedence. If interference is called during an infield fly, the ball remains alive until it is determined whether the ball is fair or foul. If fair, both the runner is out and the batter returns to bat. Regulation/Suspended Games Policy Cal Ripken Division—All tournament games shall be 6 complete innings, unless the home

team is leading at the end of 5 1/2 innings of play. If a game is called before it becomes a regulation game, it shall later be completed from the point of discontinuance. The 10-Run rule is in effect for all tournament games. A game will be terminated once becoming regulation, 3 1/2 or 4 innings if either team is ahead by 10 or more runs and has had equal times at bat, or the home team is leading.

13-15 and 16-18 Baseball Divisions—All tournament games shall be 7 complete innings, unless the home team is leading at the end of 6 1/2 innings of play. If a game is called before it becomes a regulation game, it shall later be completed from the point of discontinuance. The 10-Run rule is in effect for all tournament games. A game will be terminated once becoming regulation, 4 1/2 or 5 innings if either team is ahead by 10 or more runs and has had equal times at bat, or the home team is leading.

Softball 12U Division—All tournament games shall be 6 complete innings, unless the home team is leading at the end of 5 1/2 innings of play. If a game is called before it becomes a regulation game, it shall later be completed from the point of discontinuance. The 10-Run rule is in effect for all tournament games. A game will be terminated once becoming regulation 3 1/2 or 4 innings if either team is ahead by 10 or more runs and has had equal times at bat, or the home team is leading.

Softball 16U and 18U Divisions—All tournament games shall be 7 complete innings, unless the home team is leading at the end of 6 1/2 innings of play. If a game is called before it becomes a regulation game, it shall later be completed from the point of discontinuance. The 10-Run rule is in effect for all tournament games. A game will be terminated once becoming regulation, 4 1/2 or 5 innings if either team is ahead by 10 or more runs and has had equal times at bat, or the home team is leading.

Determination of Pool Play Standings When tournament competition begins with pool play format, each division will play a pool play schedule as determined by the Commissioner under whose jurisdiction the tournament falls. At the end of the pool play schedule, a pre-determined number of teams from each division will advance to the single-elimination competition. Participating teams will be advised, in writing, prior to the start of tournament competition how many teams will advance to the single-elimination round. Teams will be seeded at the beginning of a single-elimination competition according to the position they finished in pool play.


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Pool play standings will be determined as follows:

1) WIN - LOSS RECORD The tie breakers are used in order to advance or seed ONE team at a time. Each time a tie is

broken to advance one team, leaving a tie between two or more teams, the situation reverts to criterion #2. (Head-to-Head results).

If still tied: 2) RESULTS OF HEAD-TO-HEAD COMPETITION Example: Example: Three teams are tied with identical records for the first place at the end

of pool play. Teams A, B and C played against each other once in pool play. Team A won all of its games against Team B and Team C during pool play. Result – Team A advances, which then creates a two-way tie between Team B and Team C. That tie is broken by reverting to criterion #2.

If still tied: 3) FEWEST RUNS GIVEN UP If the results of the head-to-head match up(s) of the teams that are involved in the tie cannot

break the tie (because no team defeated each of the other teams in the tie each time they played, or because no team has defeated all of the other teams involved in the tie, or because the teams involved in the tie did not play one another during pool play), then the tie is broken using criterion #3. The remaining teams’ tie is broken by reverting to criterion #2.

If still tied: 4) RUN DIFFERENTIAL WITH A MAXIMUM OF 10 PER GAME

In the event a tie is created by virtue of a forfeited game, and the tie cannot be broken by criterion #2 or #3, the order of Criterions #3 and #4 will be reversed and applied to the tie. Since the number of runs which might have been scored during the game may have affected the fewest runs allowed standing (and the awarding of the forfeit gives the “winning team” no additional runs given up), this order will better adjust for that event.

NOTE: The official tiebreakers issued by Babe Ruth League, Inc. for pool play formats must be used. (For World Series tiebreaker information, please contact Babe Ruth Headquarters.)


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Pitching Limitations Cal Ripken Division—No pitcher in Cal Ripken tournament play shall be allowed to pitch in

more than six innings in any two successive tournament games within the same tournament level. (e.g. All players have full pitching eligibility beginning at each level of tournament competition.)

13-15 Division—No pitcher in 13-15 tournament play shall be allowed to pitch in more than seven innings in any two successive tournament games within the same tournament level. (e.g. All players have full pitching eligibility beginning at each level of tournament competition.)

16-18 Division - In 16-18 tournament play, although there are no written restrictions as to the use of pitchers, Babe Ruth League, Inc. strongly cautions extreme care be used so an individual player is not overextended.

Softball Divisions—No pitcher in 10U/12U tournament play shall be allowed to pitch in more than nine innings in any two successive tournament games within the same tournament level. (e.g. All players have full pitching eligibility beginning at each level of tournament competition.) 10U and younger level tournament play shall be allowed to pitch in no more than 9 innings in any two successive games. There are no pitching limitations in Babe Ruth Softball tournament games for the 14U, 16U and 18U divisions.; however, Babe Ruth League, Inc. strongly cautions extreme care be used so an individual player is not overextended.

Ineligible Pitchers Games in which an ineligible pitcher has been used shall be declared forfeited. The withdrawal of an ineligible pitcher after the pitcher is announced or after a warm-up pitch is delivered, but before that pitcher has pitched a ball to a batter, shall not be considered a violation. Protests District, State and Regional Commissioners or their designated representatives shall appoint Protest Committees, composed of at least three members, to be present at all tournament games. A manager must immediately claim a violation of a rule at which time play will be suspended until the Protest Committee has made its decision. The Protest Committees decision will be final. No protest, except on player eligibility, will be honored after a game has been completed. (For World Series competition, the World Series Director serves as Chairman of the Protest Committee with members of the Task Force serving as committee members.


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Official Tournament Ball Cal Ripken and Babe Ruth Baseball—Rawlings is the Official Tournament Baseball and the

only brand to be used for all baseball District, State, Regional and World Series competition. Babe Ruth Softball—Worth is the Official Tournament Softball and the only brand to be used

for all softball District, State, Regional and World Series competition. Babe Ruth League Approved and Noncompliant Bats It is the policy of Babe Ruth League, Inc. to assure the safety of all participants. Accordingly, Babe Ruth League, Inc. reserves the right to ban any equipment, including bats, at any time, including during the season, based upon a change of existing policy and/or upon new information made available to Babe Ruth League, Inc.

APPROVED BATS CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL DIVISION The bat may not exceed 33" in length, and the bat barrel may not exceed 2¼" in diameter. Only 2¼" barrel non-wood bats marked BPF 1.15 will be allowed. Wood 2 ¼" barrel bats are allowed. 13-15 BASEBALL DIVISION The bat may not exceed 34" in length, and the bat barrel may not exceed 2 5/8" in diameter. All aluminum/alloy barrel bats and all composite handle (only) aluminum/alloy barrels are allowed. Only composite barrel bats certified and marked BBCOR .50 will be allowed. Wood barrel bats conforming to the specifications of Official Baseball Rule 1.10 are allowed. 16-18 BASEBALL DIVISION The bat may not exceed 34" in length and the bat barrel many not exceed 2 5/8" in diameter or be greater than a -3 length to weight ratio. Only metal/composite bats certified and marked BBCOR .50 are allowed. Wood barrel bats conforming to the specifications of Official Baseball Rule 1.10 are allowed. BABE RUTH SOFTBALL The bat shall may not exceed 34” in length and the bat barrel may not exceed 2 ¼" in diameter. The bat, in its entirety, shall not exceed 38 ounces in weight. Only 2¼" barrel wood bats marked “OFFICIAL SOFTBALL” or “OFFICIAL FASTPITCH” are allowed. The bat may also be made of metal; a metal bat shall not have a wooden handle. (Refer to Official Babe Ruth Softball Rule 1.10 for complete specifications.)


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NON-COMPLIANT BATS BABE RUTH/CAL RIPKEN BASEBALL: Contained below is a current listing of non-compliant bats that are not eligible, or approved, for use in any Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken Baseball program or activity.

The Combat B2YB1 Da Bomb Youth Baseball Bat, is not eligible, or approved, for use in any Cal Ripken program or activity. The Nike Bat Model #Aero CX2-BTO636 (light grey), CX2-BTO573 (dark grey) and CX2-BTO598 (blue) have failed performance standard compliance testing. The Nike Bat Model #Aero CX2-BTO636 (light grey), CX2-BTO573 (dark grey) and CX2-BTO598 (blue), including all graphic variations, is not eligible, or approved, for use in any Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken program or activity. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has advised Babe Ruth League, Inc. that the BBCOR decertification process has been implemented for the following bats: Marucci CAT-52 33-inch model, CAT-52 34-inch model, and Black 33-inch and 34-

inch models Reebok Vector-TLS 33-inch model The Louisville Slugger TPX Dynasty -12, (black/red/grey) composite bat has failed performance standard compliance testing. The Louisville Slugger (Hillerich & Bradsby) TPX Dynasty bat (Model - YB12D -- (black/red/grey) including all graphic variations, is not eligible, or approved, for use in any Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken program or activity. The Mattingly Sports, Inc., Balistk (blue) composite bat has failed performance standard compliance testing. The Mattingly Sports, Inc., Balistk bat (Model - BTKYB, blue) including all graphic variations, is not eligible, or approved, for use in any Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken program or activity.


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NON-COMPLIANT BATS FOR BABE RUTH SOFTBALL: Contained below is a current listing of non-compliant bats that are not eligible, or approved, for use in any Babe Ruth Softball program or activity.

Louisville Slugger has recalled the entire current line of the OneX fastpitch softball bat (all lengths and weights) from the market. Effectively immediately and until notified otherwise, these bats are no longer approved for play in any level of the Babe Ruth Softball program. It should be noted that both the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) have taken similar action at the request of Louisville Slugger.

PENALTY If the illegal bat is discovered prior to a batter completing his "at bat" the bat is simply

removed from play and the "at bat" continues. A player who uses an illegal bat or non-conforming barrel dimension and hits a fair ball will

be ruled out. No advancement on the bases will be allowed, and any outs during the play shall stand. This is an appeal play. The "at bat" will be considered legal once a pitch is thrown to the next batter.

Any bat discovered prior to the game that does not conform to the above rule shall be directed to be removed immediately and not be allowed for use during the game.

If you have any questions on approved or non-compliant bats, do not hesitate to contact Babe Ruth Headquarters. Coaching Education and Certification (All Divisions) All Babe Ruth League, Inc. managers and coaches must complete coaching education and certification. Babe Ruth I.D. Cards For many years, the officially laminated Babe Ruth I.D. Card has been the “IDeal” alternative to collecting and retaining birth documents. Via Babe Ruth Online, leagues are now able to create I.D. Cards and send them to Babe Ruth Headquarters electronically. If you create your rosters via Babe Ruth Online, you simply select one player, a team, or your entire league for I.D. Cards. The cost is $1.25 per card. Simply post a credit card, indicate your preference for shipment and submit the cards electronically to Babe Ruth Headquarters. Babe Ruth League processes the cards and mails them back to your league. Make sure you have your Official I.D. Cards in place to avoid the headache of collecting and returning birth documents. The Babe Ruth I.D. is good for the player’s entire Babe Ruth career.


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Emergency Weather and Lightning Safety

Lightning is the most dangerous and frequently encountered weather hazard that physically active people face. The safety of the players, parents, coaches, officials and spectators is of great importance to Babe Ruth League, Inc. Knowing what to do is an important step in enforcing safety. Sports officials must understand thunderstorms and lightning to ensure they make educated decisions on when to seek safety. All leagues should have and post a written plan in place for such emergencies. Make sure your league doesn’t strike out against emergency weather situations by following the safety policies below:


Before An Event—Plan Ahead-Monitor Weather Conditions

Officials/Organizers should listen to the latest forecast to determine the likelihood of severe weather. If severe weather is imminent, consider postponing the activity.

Many sports officials use a portable tone-alert NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) to monitor forecasts for changing weather conditions. If you don’t have NWR, stay up to date via TV, internet, smart phone, or radio.

If games have begun and/or people are already at the ballpark, the Guides listed in this policy should be followed.

Stopping Activities In general, a significant lightning threat extends outward from the base of a thunderstorm cloud about 6 to 10 miles. Therefore, everyone should be in a safe place when a thunderstorm is 6 to 10 miles away. A plan’s Guides should account for the time it will take for everyone to get to safety by using the following criteria:

If you see lightning. The ability to see lightning varies depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and obstructions such as trees, mountains, etc. In clear air, and especially at night, lightning can be seen from storms more than 10 miles away provided that obstructions don’t limit the view of the thunderstorm.

If you hear thunder. Thunder can usually be

heard for a distance of about 10 miles provided there is no background noise. Traffic, wind, and precipitation may limit to hear thunder to less than 10 miles. If you hear thunder, though, it’s a safe bet that the storm is within 10 miles.

Flash to Bang Theory. You can also count the seconds between the flash of lightning and the bang of thunder to estimate the distance between you and the lightning strike. Because sound travels at approximately 1 mile in 5 seconds, you can determine how far away the lightning is by using this “flash-to-bang” method. In most cases, whenever lighting can be seen and/or thunder can be heard, the risk is already present and individuals should seek a safe location.

Keep and eye on the sky. Other warning signs of impending bad weather include: darkening skies, sudden change in temperature and/or humidity, and increase in air movement. Not all people struck by lightning are in the rain.

If you see or hear a thunderstorm, or the skies look threatening, or there are sudden changes in temperature/humidity, the event should be i m m e d i a t e l y p o s t p o n e d o r cancelled and everyone should seek a safe shelter.

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Seeking Safe Shelter It is ideal to have a coach or official in attendance who can administer CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and who also has experience using an automated external defibrillator to revive them. Continue to monitor the victim until medical help arrives. If possible, move the victim to a safer place away from the threat of another lightning strike.

No place OUTSIDE is safe in or near severe weather. Run to a safe enclosed building. Once inside, avoid corded phones and stay away from any wiring or plumbing. Avoid sheds, picnic shelters, dugouts and bleachers. If there aren’t any safe buildings nearby, find a fully enclosed vehicle with a hard metal top and windows up.

If you absolutely cannot get to safety, the following tips may help you slightly lessen the threat of being struck by lightning while outside. You are NOT SAFE OUTSIDE!

Avoid open fields, the top of a hill or a ridge top. Avoid standing water. Avoid contact with metal objects (bleachers, fences,

bats, metal spikes, umbrellas). Avoid single or tall trees, tall objects and standing in a

group. It is better to find a thick grove of small trees. Never lie flat on the ground during a lightning storm. As a last resort and/or if you feel your hair stand on

end (indicating lightning is about to strike), assume the lightning-safe position: Crouch on the ground with your weight on the balls of your feet, your feet together, your head lowered and ears covered. Some experts recommend placing your hands on your forehead and your elbows on your knees to create a path for lightning to travel to the ground through your extremities rather than through your core (heart).

Resuming Activities Because electrical charges can linger in the clouds after a thunderstorm has passed, experts agree that people should wait at least 30 minutes after the storm before resuming activities. If a game cannot resume because of weather, don’t even try. Safety is always your first priority and erring on the side of caution is never an error. Helping Lightning Victims Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge, are safe to handle, and need immediate medical attention. Call 9-1-1 or your local ambulance service.

Give first aid. In some cases, lightning strikes are

catastrophic without being fatal. In many cases, the victim’s heart or breathing may stop, which can be fatal without immediate medical attention. It is ideal to have a coach or official in attendance who can administer CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and who also has experience using an automated external defibrillator. Continue to monitor the victim until medical help arrives. If possible, move the victim to a safer place away from the threat of another lightning strike.

Safety First! Most tragedies from extreme weather conditions can be avoided if you plan ahead. Babe Ruth League, Inc. urges all leagues to have a safety plan in place. Establish specific Guides where people will go for safety and how much time it will take for them to reach shelter. Establish Guides for postponing or canceling an event so everyone is safe and/or has time to reach safety. Post these Guides around your facility and provide handouts of the Guides to umpires, coaches, volunteers, participants and parents. Follow the plan without exception! Stay Informed! Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or obtain forecasts from other sources. A severe thunderstorm WATCH is issued when conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. A severe thunderstorm WARNING is issued when severe weather is imminent. When storms threaten, officials and coaches must not let the desire to start or finish an activity hinder their judgment when the safety of participants and spectators could be in jeopardy. For further information, please visit http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/outdoors.htm or http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/sports.htm Sources: NOAA National Weather Service NOAA Lightning Safety

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High heat with humidity can be a dangerous, even fatal, combination for players. Most coaches understand they need to take breaks between innings of games when the temperatures soar, giving their players a chance to rehydrate and dissipate their extra body heat. Be careful with practices, too. The combination of high heat and humidity can create an atmosphere where the athletes’ body cannot properly dissipate the heat they generate in even normal activities. Take breaks every 20 minutes for water and rest in the shade or with cool, wet clothes to drape over necks and promote evaporation to help the skin cool the body’s interior. Take a cooler with ice and water for players to use throughout practice and games. If possible, set up misters in the dugouts to spray a light water mist over the players to help cool them each inning. Children’s heat regulating processes are not fully developed, and their skin surface differs than that of an adult’s. So don’t expose players to prolonged workouts or games in high heat, or moderate heat with high humidity. Because their body surface to weight ratio is high, a child’s skin actually works against them, taking in more heat than they can absorb internally; so where an adult’s temperature might slowly climb as they become overheated, on a hot, humid day a chi ld ’s wi l l skyrocket, leaving little time to react.


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To protect players from heat illnesses—heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke—make sure all your players are properly hydrated before games and practices. Make sure your coaches know to schedule drink breaks every 15 to 30 minutes during practices on hot days, and to encourage players to drink between innings. When to Play During tournament time, make sure coaches aren’t over-scheduling practices. Practices should occur in the morning, before noon or in the evening as temps start to drop. On hot days, many leagues have a mandatory break every three innings for all participants, especially needed for umpires, catchers and pitchers, to cool off and rehydrate. On especially hot days, take a break more often. What to Drink Drink 10 to 16 ounces of cold fluid about 15 to 30 minutes before workouts. Drink 4 to 8 ounces of cold fluid during exercise at 10 to 15 minute intervals. Drink a beverage that contains a small amount of sodium and electrolytes like potassium and

chloride. Start drinking early in your workout because you will not feel thirsty until you have already lost two

percent of your body weight; by that time you will already be significantly hydrated. Avoid carbonated drinks, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and may decrease the fluid

volume. Avoid beverages with caffeine due to its diuretic effect. Research has found that sports drinks containing between 6% and 8% carbohydrate (sugars) are

absorbed into the body rapidly as water and can provide energy to working muscles that water cannot.

Detect & Prevent Heat Injuries

Know how to recognize and treat heat injuries to keep your players safe.

Heat Stress What is heat stress? Basically take a hot job, add a hot day, and high humidity and it can add up to heat stress! Heat stress occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. This is the body’s way of saying, “I can’t take the heat anymore,” There are three kinds of heat-related problems you may experience: heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps. They can occur separately or in combination. Heat Stroke: Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Heatstroke occurs when the body’s heat regulating system breaks down under stress and sweating stops. Unless the victim receives quick treatment, death can occur.

SYMPTOMS

No sweating (victim may be sweating profusely)

High body temperature (105 degrees or more)

Hot, dry, flushed skin.

Confused, delirious behavior

Loss of consciousness or coma

FIRST AID

Immediately call for medical help (or 9-1-1 if no medical help is available), and then start first aid.

Move the victim to a cool place

Cool the victim quickly by giving a cool bath (sponging with cool water) and by fanning

Treat for shock

Offer a conscious person half a glass of water every 15 minutes

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Heat Exhaustion: This is a more serious disorder that develops when the body loses more fluid through sweating than it is taking in.

Mild Disorders (Warning Signs): HEAT CRAMPS tend to attack the muscles that do the hardest work, especially when it is hot. A

good rule is to drink half a glass of water every 15 minutes for an hour if you experience heat cramps. FAINTING lets you know your body is having difficulty coping with the heat. As you know when

you faint, you fall and when you are on the field and fall you can get hurt or hurt others. PRICKLY HEAT is a rash caused when sweat can’t evaporate. Sweat ducts become clogged and

sweat glands become inflamed. Hot Weather Tips There are other problems with heat you may not realize until it is too late. Heat stress can alter your coordination, lessen your concentration, reduce strength and alertness and make you irritable. Ways to Avoid Heat Stress Acclimatize: This means allow your body to adjust to the heat naturally. The best way to do this is to gradually increase the time you spend in the heat until you reach the total amount of time desired. Drink Water! One of the most important things to do is drink plenty of water during hot weather. The body can lose as much as three gallons a fluid a day while working in hot, humid weather. Drink some cool water every 15-20 minutes. Use Sale: Add salt to your food but don’t over do it, such as taking salt tablets. If you have high blood pressure, heart problems or circulatory ailments, consult your doctor. Eat Lightly: Light, nutritious meals, preferably cold are better for you due to the fact they are easier to digest. Fatty foods are hard to digest, and hot weather makes them that much harder to digest.

Source: [email protected]

SYMPTOMS

Sweating profusely

Weakness

Clammy Skin

Dizziness

Pale or flushed face

Nausea

Near normal body temperature

FIRST AID

Immediately call for medical help (or 9-1-1 if no medical help is available), and then move the person to shade or a cool place.

Have patient lie on their back with feet elevated.

If conscious, give half a glass of water every 15 minutes.

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Concussions A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes your head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Unlike a broken arm, or other injuries that you can feel with your hands or see on an x-ray, you can’t see a concussion. It is a disruption of how the brain works. This is why brain CAT scans and MRIs are normal in most concussions. Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness. Athletes who have, at any point in their lives, had a concussion have an increased risk for another concussion. Young children and teens are more likely to get a concussion and take longer to recover than adults. Concussions affect people differently. While most athletes with a concussion recover quickly, some will have symptoms that last for days, or even weeks. A more serious concussion can last for months or longer. Yes, while rare, permanent brain damage and death are two potential consequences of not identifying and responding to a concussion in a proper or timely manner. That’s why it is incredibly important for you to pull an athlete from play if you suspect he or she has a concussion.

Most states and the District of Columbia have enacted strong youth sports concussion safety laws to protect young players, and these regulations are always changing. Some concussion laws are only applicable to activities taking place on school-owned property. Some laws are applicable to all youth sports organizations, whether affiliated or not with a school district. Some organizations such as the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCLS), have created online maps to track and update concussion in sports laws by state. Their website can be found at http://www.ncsl.org/research/health/traumatic-brain-injury-legislation.aspx. It is also strongly recommended that local leagues consult with legal counsel to determine the applicability of their state’s concussion laws as it pertains to their program. Obviously, no one wants to experience the trauma of a concussion situation, but it’s a reality in sports. Learning how to identify and treat concussions is only part of the battle. Babe Ruth League strongly encourages all teams and leagues to comply with and follow all applicable state regulations for concussions. We also strongly encourage all teams and leagues to thoroughly review the information and training materials on concussions that is available free of charge by visiting the Center for Disease Control at: http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/headsup/online_training.html.

Symptoms Concussions engender a wide range of symptoms, including: Headache Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Confusion Altered level of consciousness, including loss

of conscious Memory loss Dizziness and balance problems

Danger Signs Call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical help if the player exhibits: One pupil larger than the other Drowsiness or inability to wake up A headache that gets worse or doesn’t go away Weakness, numbness or decreased coordination Repeated vomiting or nausea Slurred speech Convulsions or seizures Inability to recognize people or places Increasing confusion, restlessness, or agitation Unusual behavior Loss of consciousness (even a brief loss of

consciousness should be taken seriously)

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EXPECTED BEHAVIOR Negative behavior/bad sportsmanship at youth sporting events can become a major issue. There may be coaches and parents that choose to act in a negative manner toward the opposing team or an umpire from time to time. Please remember the focus is on the youth. Adults are expected to set a positive example for the players through their words and action. We want all players who participate in the Babe Ruth League tournament trail to enjoy themselves, and we do expect their conduct to be above reproach both on and off the field. Everyone that attends a Babe Ruth League tournament is expected to act in a positive manner, no matter the outcome of a play, call by an umpire, or the game itself. We simply ask the following: LET THE PLAYERS PLAY LET THE COACHES COACH LET THE UMPIRES UMPIRE Our commitment to youth must also extend to tournament competition. You can see it in their eyes—the excitement of making an all-star team and playing in a tournament. For many of us, District, State and Regional Tournaments, as well as the World Series, have become second nature. We know our job is to make it all happen...rain or shine...while keeping the kids our #1 focus. Tournament games can be competitive , but if you keep it fun for all players, a happy and memorable time will be enjoyed by all.

This resource is a basic guide. For a complete listing of all Tournament Rules, including special regulations for specific age divisions, please refer to the Babe Ruth League, Inc. Baseball Rules and Regulations & Official Playing Rules and the Babe Ruth Softball Rules and Regulations & Official Playing Rules.


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Has your league ever considered hosting a Babe Ruth League World Series? It could be one of the most important things you do for the welfare of your league and community. Sports tourism does more than attract athletic enthusiasts from around the country. Hosting a World Series can result in providing your local economy with a big boost. The team followers and other visitors require a place to stay while in town, filling up local hotels and motels. While the players, families and other visiting guests are in town, they need to eat, which results in more customers shopping at grocery stores, and eating at restaurants and fast food establishments. And in between games, they will need a way to entertain themselves, which will result in resort areas, gas stations, shopping malls, outlets, and other local businesses and attractions, feeling a profitable impact. In addition, hosting a World Series is a great way to bring your residents together, grow a stronger community and show all that is good about your hometown to a much wider audience. You will find from the wonderful and lasting memories experienced, to the prestige your league and community will enjoy, to the breathtaking competition, to the financial success of a well-run tournament, hosting a Babe Ruth League World Series is a privilege that will be unmatched by any other project your league ever takes on. If your group is interesting in hosting a future Babe Ruth League World Series, please contact Robert Faherty toll-free at 1-800-880-3142 or via email at [email protected].

If your league feels they are not quite ready to play host to a Babe Ruth World Series, why not consider gaining tournament experience through the operation of a District, State or Regional Tournament. District, State and Regional Tournaments are just as important as a World Series and the participants deserve the same quality tournament at every level. For further information and/or to be considered to host a Babe Ruth League District, State or Regional Tournament, please contact your respective District, State or Regional Commissioner.