In general, the rules of PONY Pinto league will govern the Pinto Softball league. These rules are to be followed and adhered to except as noted below. Local rules as outlined will take precedence over the otherwise accepted rules of the game.
Pre/Post Game Duties
Before the Game: Home team should chalk the lines, the batters box, base coaches box and on-deck circles as needed in preparation for game play. The visiting team should rake and water the fields prior to the game if necessary.
After the Game: Home team to ensure that the field lights are turned off after night games.
FIELD LIGHTS are to be turned off at 9:30 p.m., NO Exceptions.
League Guidelines
1. The Head Coach is responsible for the behavior of coaches, players and spectators.
2. The Home team shall occupy the 3rd base dugout, be responsible for keeping the official score book and chalk the field prior to the start of the game.
3. The home or visiting team can be responsible for the scoreboard.
4. 60 minute games; finish the inning.
Offense
1. There will be a 4-run limit per inning.
2. The pitcher will offer five (5) pitches. Three strikes and the batter is out. A swing and miss and foul balls are considered strikes. If the fifth pitch is fouled off, the batter will continue the at bat until the ball is missed or put in play. At the second half during the Spring season, there will be only four (4) pitches offered.
3. There is no leading off or base stealing.
4. No bunting is allowed.
5. No head first sliding. A player sliding head first will be called out.
6. A batter throwing her bat will receive a warning. The second occurrence will result in the batter being called out.
7. Teams must bat the full lineup. If a player arrives late, she is placed at the bottom of the line up.
8. A team may play with as few as (7) players but outs are taken at spots #8 and #9. With eight (8) players, an out is taken at spot #9.
Defense
1. Ten (10) players may be in the field at one time; four (4) outfielders. Outfielders shall be positioned on the grass.
2. Each player must play a minimum of one (1) full inning in the infield by the end of the 3rd inning and at least two (2) full innings at any position by the end of the 4th inning UNLESS A PLAYER ARRIVES TO THE GAME LATE.
3. The play is dead when the ball is under control in the infield and the LEAD runner stopped/hesitated forward progress. This is a judgment call by the umpire.
4. Catchers must wear full catchers gear. If the catcher is not geared up by the start of the inning, the coach should stand in and catch so play may start.
5. Coaches (limit 2) may be allowed in the field of play for instructional purposes only, but must be positioned in the outfield grass (Fall season only.)