General Rules

• Coaches may pitch to batters who are not ready to hit from the machine.

• If the pitching machine is broken or there is a power outage, games will be played as coach pitch.

• Only Level 5 or other appropriate safety-labeled (8U) baseballs will be used in the pitching machine.

• Games consist of up to 6 innings, with no inning beginning more than 1 hour and 45 minutes after the scheduled start time.

• There is a hard stop at 2 hours or when darkness makes play unsafe.

• All bats must be USA Baseball-approved, with the required stamp visible on the neck of the bat.

• T-ball bats may be used only if they are clearly labeled as T-ball bats.

• Every player on a team will be included in the batting lineup, whether or not they are currently playing in the field.

• The batting order must remain consistent throughout the game. Players who arrive late will be added to the end of the lineup.

• Pool players are allowed if a team expects fewer than 7 players at a game.

• No team will forfeit due to a lack of players. If a team is short, players from the opposing team’s lineup may be used as fielders.

• Makeup games must be coordinated by the coaches, and teams are required to play at least 12 games.

• No on-deck batters—players waiting to bat must have their helmet on and stand behind the backstop with their bat.

Game Play Rules

• The pitching machine will be set to 35 mph, but may be adjusted upon agreement by both coaches.

• There is a 5-run limit per half-inning.

• Each batter receives 6 pitches per turn. If the sixth pitch is hit foul, one additional pitch is allowed, with no maximum number of fouls.

• Base runners may not steal or leave the base until the ball makes contact with the bat.

• Sliding is prohibited to protect both runners and fielders. Any player who slides will be called out.

• All outfielders must be positioned in the grass, and infielders (except the pitcher) may not stand more than 1–2 paces inside the baselines.

• If a batter hits a ball that reaches the outfield after its first bounce is in the infield (dirt), the runner may only advance two bases.

• If a batter hits a ball and its first bounce lands in the outfield (grass), the runner and any other runners on base may advance without restriction.

• Once an infielder gains possession of the ball on the infield dirt and is no longer attempting a play, runners must stop at the base they are advancing to.

These rules ensure a safe and structured environment for young players while keeping the game fun and competitive. If you need additional details or official documentation, you can check out the Little League® Coach Pitch - Little League