Rule 4.00: Beginning and Ending the Game FAQs

No. At this point, the opposing manager would choose the player to enter the game.

Yes. Rule 4.06(c), No manager, coach, or player shall at any time whether from the bench or the playing field, make any move calculated to cause a balk or illegal pitch. The ability for a team to cheer for their batter or runners should not be restricted, unless there is a definite intent to gain an unfair advantage as discussed in Rule 4.06(c). The chanting/cheering must be in good taste and be directed solely at their own team. A good rule of thumb is the chants/cheers may be as loud as the team desires as long as there is no crescendo or shrieking when the pitcher is delivering the pitch. No artificial noise making (i.e.- pounding on buckets, or fences or air horns) is allowed.

The game is to be resumed from the point it was halted.

This would depend on the number of outs. If the successful appeal is the third out and is a force out, then no runs score. If the successful appeal is the third out and is not a force out, then no following runs score. If the successful appeal is not the third out, all runs, except the runner successfully appealed, would score.

Yes. The intent is to stop any protest before it may happen. If the umpire has the knowledge of an ineligible pitcher or player, do not allow this. At the plate meeting before the game, the Umpire-in-Chief should determine if there are any ineligible pitchers on either team. If the opposing manager or any of the umpires has reason to believe that one team is not properly identifying player/pitcher eligibility, then the Umpire-in-Chief should ensure that the manager in question understands the eligibility requirements of Regulation VI.

If there is still a question of eligibility, consult with the game support staff (Scorekeeper and Official Pitch Count Recorder) and any Board member seeking resolution. Since, this is a serious safety issue, if unable to clearly determine the correct pitcher eligibility, suspend the game and get proper documentation. If documentation is available in a reasonable amount of time, proceed.  If not, do not play until resolved. Regardless of the outcome, file a game report with the League President.

Yes. The suspended game is considered the same game. The pitcher of record may pitch in the resumed game, provided the pitcher(s) has eligibility.

If the local/host league has opted to allow games to start or continue with eight (8) players, then the game can continue. If the local League has adopted the option under Rules 4.16, 4.17, and 6.05(n) to continue the game with at least eight (8) players, then the reason for the leaving is immaterial. If the player’s departure is an attempt to gain an unfair advantage, the situation should be reported to the Board of Directors.