2008
American Legion
Baseball Rules
American Legion Baseball (both Senior and Junior Legion Teams) shall be played in accordance with rules adopted by the National Americanism Commission of The American Legion. With only a few exceptions, all department (state) and national tournaments will follow the Official Baseball Rules as authorized by the Commissioner of Major League Baseball and published by The Sporting News.
Changes to the Official Baseball Rules may be made by the National Americanism Commission and are noted in Rule 1 of the American Legion Baseball rules. These rules generally pertain to matters of safety, equipment and insurance and are made with the welfare of the players in mind.
These rules may be further modified by the departments (states) for regular season play only and cannot conflict with national rules. All national tournaments will follow rules established by The American Legion’s National Americanism Commission.
Both Senior and Junior teams shall follow these rules with a few exceptions for Junior Legion Baseball, which shall be marked in Green.
Senior American Legion Baseball shall be a 19 and under program.
Junior American Legion Baseball shall be a 17 and under program.
PLAYING REGULATIONS RULE 1
A. Bat Rule. Wood, metal, ceramic, or graphite bats may be used.
1. Wooden bats are permitted under Official Baseball Rules as published by The Sporting News.
2. The maximum length is 36 inches and the maximum diameter is 2 5/8 inches.
3. The knob and end plug (if applicable) must be firmly attached.
4. A bat may not weigh, numerically, more than three units less than the length of the bat (e.g., a 34-inch-long bat cannot weight less than 31 ounces).
5. A non-wood bat must have an approved, coded certification mark on the barrel of the bat signifying the bat is legal for NCAA competition.
6. For all games and practice use, all non-wood bats must have leather, rubber or taped grip securely attached to the bat handle.
7. Any bat that fails to meet these specifications or, in the umpire’s judgment, has been altered to affect the distance factor or cause an unusual reaction on the baseball shall be removed from the game. The batter shall be declared out. Base runners shall not advance.
B. Blood Rule. If a player suffers from a laceration or other injury where blood is visible, the game shall be stopped at the earliest possible time and the athlete treated immediately. If the injury requires extensive treatment, a substitute shall replace the injured player. (Umpires are directed to give a reasonable amount of time to allow all injured players to be treated.) No re-entry is allowed.
C. Catcher’s Equipment. Catchers are required to wear a safety helmet, throat protector and protective cup, in addition to normal catcher’s equipment:
1. All catcher’s masks must have built in or attachable throat guard. Umpires and tournament officials shall halt the game until this rule is complied with.
2. While warming up a pitcher, either in or out of the bullpen, a catcher must wear a mask. Any player who refuses to do so shall be ejected from the game.
D. Coaches. Only those players and coaches listed on the team’s National Registration Form #1 or those approved by the National Tournament Director are permitted on the coaching lines. All coaches must be identified by the tournament officials prior to their participation.
E. Collisions. The intent of this rule is to encourage base runners and defensive players to avoid collisions whenever possible.
1. When there is a collision between a runner and a fielder who clearly is in possession of the ball, the umpire shall judge:
a) Whether the collision by the runner was avoidable (could the runner have reached the base without colliding) or unavoidable (the runner’s path to the base was blocked) or
b) Whether the runner was actually attempting to reach the base (plate) or was he attempting to dislodge the ball from the fielder.PENALTY - If the runner, a) could have avoided the collision and reached the base, or b) attempted to dislodge the ball, the runner shall be declared out, even if the fielder loses possession of the ball. The ball is dead and all base runners shall return to the last base touched at the time of the interference.
Ruling 1: - If the fielder blocks the path of the base runner to the base (plate), the runner may make contact, slide into, or collide with a fielder as long as the runner is making a legitimate attempt to reach the base or plate.
Ruling 2: - If the collision by the runner was flagrant, the runner shall be declared out and ejected from the contest. The ball shall be declared dead.
2. If the defensive player blocks the base (plate) or base line without the ball, obstruction shall be called. The runner is safe and a delayed dead ball shall be called.
Ruling: - If the runner collides flagrantly, he shall be declared safe on the obstruction, but will be ejected from the contest. The ball is dead.
Clarification
Malicious Contact. Any player who, in the judgment of the umpire, maliciously runs into another player is automatically ejected and is declared out. The American Legion is concerned that some coaches may not have explained to their players that malicious contact is illegal. The majority of intentional collisions occur at home plate where the catcher is blocking the plate. Runners should be instructed to slide directly to the plate, or away from the catcher, to avoid making contact with the catcher, especially when the defender is in possession of the ball. Umpires have been instructed that, if there is any intentional and excessive force or if there is any intent to injure another player, the offending player shall be ejected from the game. The malicious contact penalty will be enforced whether committed by an offensive or defensive player. Any player ejected by an umpire is automatically removed from the Tournament, unless the Tournament Director reinstates that player.F. Designated Hitter Rule. All Senior National Tournaments shall use the American League Designated Hitter Rule as published by The Sporting News.
All Junior games, regular and post season play, may use the National High School Federation Designated Hitter Rule, with one exception: The American Legion does not permit re-entry to a game, therefore the DH may not re-enter the game:
1. A hitter may be designated for any one starting player (not just the pitcher) and all subsequent substitutes for that player in the game. A starting defensive player cannot be listed as the designated hitter in the starting lineup. A designated hitter for said player shall be selected prior to the start of the game, and his name shall be included on the line-up cards presented to the umpire-in-chief and to the official scorer. Failure to declare a designated hitter prior to the game precludes the use of a designated hitter in the game. If a pinch hitter or pinch runner for the designated hitter is used that player becomes the new designated hitter. No multiple substitutions may be made that alter the batting rotation. A designated hitter and the player for whom he is batting are locked into the batting order. The role of the designated hitter is terminated for the remainder of the game when
a. The defensive player, or any previous defensive player for who the designated hitter batted, subsequently bats or pinch-hits for the designated hitter; or
b. The designated hitter or any previous designated hitter assumes a defensive position.
In 2009 the junior legion program will use same DH rule as the Senior Legion program –the pitcher only.
G. Force-Play-Slide Rule. The intent of the force-play-slide rule is to ensure the safety of the defensive player. This is a safety as well as an interference rule. Whether the defense could have completed the double play has no bearing on the applicability of this rule. This rule pertains to a force-play situation at any base, regardless of the number of outs.
1. On any force play, the runner must slide on the ground and in a direct line between the two bases. It is permissible for the slider’s momentum to carry him through the base in the baseline extended. Exception – A runner need not slide directly into a base as long as the runner slides or runs in a direction away from the fielder to avoid making contact or altering the play of the fielder.
a) “On the ground” means either a head-first slide or a slide with one leg and buttock on the ground.
b) “Directly into a base” means the runner’s entire body (feet, legs, trunk and arms) must stay in a straight line between the bases.2. Contract with a fielder is legal and interference shall not be called if the runner makes a legal slide directly to the base and in the baseline extended.
Clarification
If contact occurs on top of the base as a result of a “pop-up: slide, this contact is legal.Actions by a runner are illegal and interference shall be called if:
a) If a runner goes into a base standing up and does not make contact or alter the play of the defensive player, interference shall not be called.
Clarification 2
If the runner goes into a base standing up and is safe or out, but makes contact with or alters the play of the defensive player, interference shall be called.2. Contact with a fielder is legal and interference shall not be called if the runner:
a) Makes a legal slide directly to the base, or
b) Is on the ground at the time of contact and the fielder moves directly down the line between the two bases to attempt a play.
c) Makes a legal slide and makes contact with a defensive player who is on or over, but not beyond the base.Clarification
When the base runner slides beyond the base, but does not (1) make contact with, or (2) alter the play of the defensive player, interference shall not be called.3. Actions by a runner are illegal and interference shall be called if:
a) The runner slides or runs out of the base line in the direction of the fielder;
b) The runner uses a rolling, cross-body or either makes contact with or alters the play of a fielder;
c) The runner’s raised leg makes contact higher than the fielder’s knee when in a standing position.
d) The runner goes makes contact with or alters the play of the fielder;
e) The runner slashes or kicks the fielder with either leg;
f) The runner illegally slides toward or contacts the fielder even if the fielder makes no attempt to throw to complete a play.PENALTY for a-f
1. With less than two outs, the batter-runner, as well as the interfering runner, shall be declared out and no other runner(s) shall advance.
2. With two outs, the interfering runner shall be declared out and not other runner(s) shall advance.
3. If the runner’s slide or collision is flagrant, the runner shall be ejected from the contest.Clarification
If the bases are loaded with no outs, a double-play attempt is made, and interference is called, all other runners must return to their original bases.H. First Aid Kit. Each team must have a first aid kit with them in the dugout at each game.
I. Games per day. No team shall be required to play more than two games in one day. Playing days will begin at 8:00 a.m., local time.
J. Helmets. All players are required to wear a double-flapped, ear-protective helmet while batting, running the bases, and while on deck.
1. Bat boys or girls must wear a double-flapped, ear-protective helmet while on the playing field.
2. All batting helmets must have the NOCSAE seal of approval stamped on the helmet, and such seal must be visible on the outside of the helmet.
Clarification
Any helmet that has a crack or the inside padding is worn or missing cannot be used and must be removed from the game.K. Insurance. Every American Legion Baseball team (both Junior and Senior) must purchase both group liability and accident insurance from The American Legion’s agent of record (S.A. Van Dyk, Inc.). Coverage must be purchased prior to registering with the Department Baseball Committee. Proof of such coverage must be submitted to the Department Baseball Committee at the time of registration. Violation of this rule will result in the disqualification from any further competition.
L. National Senior Tournament Rules. The Americanism and Children & Youth Division may prescribe such rules for the playing of any national tournament as it considers necessary. Copies of those rules are available from the Tournament Director.
1. National Junior Tournaments: There shall be no nationally supervised post-season tournaments for the Junior Legion Baseball program. The Americanism Commission understands that several Departments host Department Tournaments and there are several Regional “invitational” tournaments, however these tournaments are supervised by the Host Department. A copy of the Senior Legion Tournament Rules and Policies can be obtained from the Department Chairman or downloaded from the baseball internet web site: www.baseball.legion.org With few exceptions, Junior Legion Tournaments shall follow the tournament procedures and policies of the Senior Legion Baseball program.
M. On Deck Equipment. Equipment permitted in the on deck area include bats, weighted and unweighted, and devices designed to attach to and remain part of the bat, such as weights and wind resistant foils. Sledge hammers, weighted pipes and other “homemade” heavy items are not permitted. Devices deemed unsafe by the umpires and/or Tournament Director cannot be used.
N. Senior Legion Pitching. No player may pitch more than a total of 12 innings during any consecutive three-day period. No player may make more than four appearances as a pitcher during any consecutive three-day period. Penalty: Game shall be forfeit-ed if protest is filed with the umpire in chief before the last out of the game.
1. Should a double or triple play cause a pitcher to exceed the permitted 12 innings in three consecutive days, that action in and of itself shall not be construed as a violation of this rule.
2. Any player may be removed from the pitching position and remain in the game at another position. However, a pitcher will be automatically removed when a coach makes two trips to the mound in the same inning and that player cannot return as a pitcher in that game. Penalty for violating this rule: Forfeiture of the game if a protest is filed with the umpire in chief before the last out of the game.
Clarification
For the purpose of this rule violation the official scorekeeper must record 12 and 1/3 innings.3. Rule 1.N shall be used in all District, Area, Zone, State and National tournaments.
Junior Legion Pitching: No player may pitch more than a total of 10 innings during any consecutive three-day period. No player may make more than three appearances as a pitcher during any consecutive three-day period. PENALTY: Game shall be forfeited if protest is filed with the umpire in chief before the last out of the game.
1. Should a double or triple play cause a pitcher to exceed the permitted 10 innings in three consecutive days that action in and of itself shall not be construed as a violation of this rule.
2. Any player may be removed from the pitching position and remain in the game at another position. However, a pitcher will be automatically removed when a coach makes two trips to the mound in the same inning and that player cannot return as a pitcher in that game. PENALTY for violating this rule: Forfeiture of the game if a protest is filed with the umpire in chief before the last out of the game.
3. Rule 1.N shall be used in all District, Area, Zone, and State tournaments.
NOTE: effective with the 2009 season – the junior program shall use the Official Baseball Rules DH rule. Both the Junior program and the Senior program shall use the same designated hitter rule.
O. Tobacco. The use of any form of tobacco by a player, coach, manager or umpire while on the playing field, benches, in the bullpen or dugouts is prohibited. Any individual violating this rule will be ejected from the game.
P. Ten (10)-Run Rule.
1. All Senior American Legion Tournaments shall use a 10-run rule after seven innings, unless the home team is ahead by 10 runs or more after 6 1/2 innings at which time that game will be halted.
2. All Junior American Legion Tournaments shall use a 10-run rule after five innings, unless the home team is ahead by 10 runs or more after 4 1/2 innings at which time that game will be halted.
Q. Uniforms. Players and coaches must be in uniforms of the same color and style when competing in Department (State) and National Tournaments.
1. Any player, coach or manager who does not have an American Legion Baseball insignia on either the left sleeve or left chest of his uniform shirt will be removed from the game.
2. The front of the uniform shirt may carry lettering that identifies the Post, Department, town, city, community or sponsor that the team represents. Such lettering must be acceptable to the sponsoring Department.
PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS RULE 2
A. Players Age. Senior American Legion Baseball competition in 2008 is open only to players born on or after January 1, 1989.
Junior American Legion Baseball competition in 2008 is open only to players born on or after January 1, 1991. Junior Legion Baseball shall be limited to ages 17 and under. Any player born in 1990, 1989, or 1988 is NOT eligible to play in the Junior Legion Baseball program.
B. Player’s Domicile. A player’s legal domicile shall be established before March 31, 2008.
1. A player’s domicile shall be his parent’s or permanent court-appointed guardian’s permanent and legal domicile.
Clarification
Temporary guardianship does not apply unless a court having jurisdiction over such matters has determined the parents to be incapable of supervision and care until the player reaches the age of majority (18 years of age).Emancipated college or university players are required to play for the team nearest their parent’s domicile or for the team they last played for. The American Legion does not allow emancipated players to be “free agents”.
2. If the parents are divorced by a court order, that player may play for a team of either parent’s legal and permanent domicile provided:
Clarification
The enrollment of the school in which a player is enrolled on March 31 shall be counted. The completing of a National Form #2 shall be proof of the player’s choice. Once a player is deemed qualified and plays for a team under Rule 2.B.2, that player is not eligible to qualify for Rule 4.D (Transfer Rule). The player’s eligibility is tied to that team.
a) The player must declare, in writing, the team of his choice and file that declaration with the Department Chairman prior to the Department closing date. The player’s declaration shall be final and valid for the remainder of the player’s eligibility.3. In the event that both parents are deceased or incapable of caring for and supervising the player during minority, the player’s domicile will be determined by the domicile of the permanent legal guardian appointed by the courts having jurisdiction to make such an appointment.
4. Should a situation arise which is not covered by the provision of this rule, the Department Chairman will, with the concurrence of the National Appeals Board, determine the player’s legal domicile for the purpose of his participation in The American Legion Baseball Program. Such decision shall be in writing and filed with National Headquarters.
C. Professional Baseball Contract. Players who are 18 years of age may be signed to a professional baseball contract in accordance with the rules of professional baseball.
Clarification
It is important that teams select and register players that will complete their obligation to their American Legion Team. Any player that signs a professional contract cannot be replaced on the National Form #1.D. Amateur Rule. Only amateurs shall participate as players in American Legion Baseball. To be considered an amateur, players must not:
1. Receive money, favors or gratuities, direct or indirect, for playing baseball.
2. Accept money or favors for reimbursement for time lost at work while playing or for expenses incurred while playing.
3. Participate in an all-star baseball game that is not approved by the authorized Department Official.
4. Accept, directly or indirectly, money or any favors from anyone for their baseball services, past or present. This also applies to a player’s parents, trustees, guardians, etc.
5. Try out for any professional team without the written permission of their American Legion Baseball coach or Post Commander.
Note: Departments, Districts or Posts planning an all-star game should contact their state high school athletic association to ensure each player’s high school eligibility is protected.
E. Proof of Age. The American Legion will accept as proof of age.
1) Records of birth must be an original or a certified document from the State Bureau of Vital Statistics or Department of Health or other governmental agency authorized to certify birth documents.
a) Notarized photocopies of birth certificates, hospital records, baptismal records, school records or certificates are NOT acceptable proof of age and will disqualify a player and/or the team.
2) A state issued driver’s license or state issued ID that complies with the new Federal ID Law.
3) A U. S. Government issue Passport
4) A U. S. Government issue Military ID card or Dependent ID Card
5) A American Legion Baseball ID card issued by those Departments that use the AL Baseball registration computer program and who have filed the data with the National Office no later than July 15th of the current year. The American Legion Baseball id card shall have purchased from the National Office and shall be recognized by the embossed sportsmanship code on the back of the card.
6) In case of foreign birth, a player will present any certificate or document duly issued to the bearer by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service or by the Department of State that shows the birth date of the bearer. Official birth certificates issued by a foreign country are acceptable when accompanied by a letter with an English translation, and such birth certificate must have an official seal.
7) A court certified copy of that portion of permanent legal adoption papers showing the place and date of a player’s birth shall be acceptable in cases involving adopted players.
PLAYER RECRUITING PLAN “A” RULE 3
Plan “A” recruiting rules are based on zones and are usually designed for large cities or areas where Plan “B” [base school recruiting] would be impractical. Plan “A” rules require a specific area to be drawn on a map. Secondary school enrollments [grades 10, 11 and 12 for both the Senior and Junior Legion Teams] in that area are then added together and divided by 5,000 [enrollment cap] to determine the number of zones within an area. For example, if there are 10,257 students in a specific area, the number is divided by 5,000, which equals 2.05. This will require a minimum of three zones to be established within that area. Players, including emancipated players, whose parents’ domicile is within a zone, must play for the team in that zone unless properly waived to an adjacent zone. All zoning is subject to approval by the National Americanism Commission.
A. Zoning. Zoning of cities, counties and/or school districts may be requested by a team(s).
1. The Department Baseball Committee shall review and approve requests for such zoning. It shall be the responsibility of the Department Baseball Committee to forward zone maps for final approval to the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division before April 15, 2008.
2. A detailed street map showing specific boundaries, as well as the locations and enrollment figures of all high schools, must accompany such requests.
3. If a team’s boundaries are changed, a new map and letter of explanation must be submitted for approval prior to April 15, 2008.
B. Player Recruiting. A Post may select players whose parent’s domicile was established in their zone on or before March 31, 2008 and players whose parents have moved and established a new domicile in their zone after March 31, 2008.
1. Players not selected to play with the team in their zone may play for the next nearest Plan A team provided the player has obtained a written transfer (Form #76) from the team manager in their zone.
2. Players in their final year of eligibility whose parents have established a new domicile shall have the option of playing for their old team or playing for the new team of their parent’s new domicile. A written request must be filed with, and approved by, the Department Chairman prior to listing the player on the National Form #1. This request must be accompanied by the parent’s affidavit stating that the move is permanent and listing the previous and present domicile addresses.
3. In the event a new team is formed and new zones are established that change a player’s eligibility, those players previously registered on National Form #1 are permitted a one-time option of playing for the team of their old zone or playing for the team of their new zone.
a) Zones must be adjacent to each other.
b) Transfers are permitted only in the Senior Program when the combined enrollment of each zone is less than 5,000. Transfers are not permitted in Junior Legion Baseball.
c) Transfers in the Senior program shall be final and valid for the player’s remaining eligibility, unless there is a permanent change of address of the parents’ domicile.
d) The Department Baseball Chairman must approve all transfers prior to listing the player on the National Form #1.
e) A written request for a transfer must be filed with, and approved by, an authorized baseball official prior to listing the player on the National Form #1. (This request must be accompanied by the parent affidavit stating that the move is permanent and listing the previous and present domicile addresses.)4. A written request must be filed with, and approved by, the Department Baseball Chairman prior to listing the player on the National Form #1.
PLAYER RECRUITING PLAN “B” RULE 4
[Not Used by Delaware]
Plan “B” base school recruiting allows both Senior and Junior Legion Baseball teams to select players who attend nearby high schools. High schools are combined to form a recruiting area. A player, whose parents’ domicile is nearest a base school, is eligible to try out and play for the team if the player meets all other eligibility requirements and the combined enrollment of the recruiting area (combination of schools) does not exceed 5,000 students in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades.
Note: Plan “B” recruiting rules are more flexible but more complex than the Plan “A” (zoning) rules. Study these rules carefully.
A. Base school. All teams must have a base school.
1. New teams must request and receive approval for a base school from the Department Baseball Committee at the time the team registers with the Department Baseball Committee.
2. Existing teams may request to change their base school. This request must be in writing and approved by the Department Baseball Committee prior to submitting the National Form #1.
3. If two or more teams are sponsored by the same American Legion Post or outside sponsor, the Department Baseball Committee will assign the base school for each team.
B. Player Recruiting. Teams may select players who are enrolled on March 31, 2008, in any public, private, technical, vocational, regional, or preparatory high school, or any combination of these schools.
1. Existing teams may request a new combination of schools from the Department Baseball Committee; however, approval must be given prior to listing any player on the National Form #1.
2. Teams may not recruit a player(s) from another team’s base school.
Clarification – Teams may select:
1. Non-base school players whose parents’ or guardians’ domicile is nearest the team’s base school. To determine the nearest team, use the shortest driving distance as calculated by DeLorme, Street Atlas USA® 2008 computer program.
2. Player(s) who qualify under Rule 4.C.
3. Senior Legion Player(s) who qualify under Rule 4.D.
Junior Legion players are not eligible to be transferred.a. The combined total enrollment of the schools cannot exceed 5,000 students for 10th, 11th and 12th grades.
Clarification
Junior Legion Baseball is the same as Senior Legion Baseball: The combined total enrollment of the schools cannot exceed 5,000 students for 10th, 11th and 12 grades.4. Enrollment for a school(s) is determined using the number of 10th, 11th and 12th grade students officially recorded on March 31, 2008, by the State Board of Education or other state agency that has jurisdiction over school enrollment. Note: Every student registered shall be counted; including special education students, physically challenged students, bilingual students, and students over the age of 19.
5. When single high school enrollment exceeds 5,000 students, the team that has such a school as its base school, shall not recruit from any other school.
Clarification
The enrollment of the high school the player attends will be counted. Emancipated players such as college or university students or players no longer in high school must play for the team nearest their parents’ or guardian’s domicile or for the team they last played. Teams shall count the enrollment of the last high school attended. The school enrollment for middle schools, junior high schools and high school freshmen classes shall not be counted.C. “Option” Rule. Players attending a high school (including 9th grade freshmen) outside a team’s recruiting area, may have the option of playing for the team nearest the high school the player attends or playing for the team nearest the parent’s legal domicile. To determine the nearest team, use the shortest driving distance as calculated by DeLorme, Street Atlas USA® 2008 computer program.
1. The player must complete National Declaration Form #77 on which the player declares in writing the team for which he wishes to play.
a) Such election shall be final and valid for the remaining player eligibility (unless that player changes school or domicile). Such declaration is final and permanent.
b) The team manager must forward Form #77 to the Department Baseball Chairman prior to listing the player on the National Form #1.Clarification
Players who qualify under Rule 4.C. are not eligible in future years to qualify for Transfer Rule 4.D.The enrollment of the high school the player attends will be counted. Emancipated players and players enrolled in college must play for the team nearest their parents’ or guardian’s domicile or for the team nearest the high school last attended. Teams must count the enrollment of the last high school attended. The school enrollment for middle schools, junior high schools and high school freshmen classes shall not be counted.
D. Transfer Rule. A player released from a team must obtain permission on National Transfer Form #76 from that team’s manager to play for the team that is closest to his parents’ domicile.
1. To determine the nearest team from among several, use the shortest driving distance as calculated by DeLorme, Street Atlas USA® 2008 computer program.
2. The player must provide signed Transfer Form #76 to the new team manager, which must be forwarded to the authorized Department Baseball Official for approval, prior to listing the player on the Form #1. All transfers shall be final and binding through the remainder of a player’s eligibility.
Clarification
Players who try-out for and fail to make the nearest team can request a transfer to the second closest team to their parents’ domicile. If cut again, that player may try-out for the third closest team, until which time the player is able to play on a team. The enrollment of the high school a player attends on March 31, shall be counted. Junior Legion players are not eligible to be transferred.3. Any transfers across state lines require mutual written per-mission of both Department Chairmen.
4. Players who have qualified and played for a Legion team under Rule 4.C. are not eligible for a transfer under Rule 4.D.
5. Junior Legion players are not eligible to be transferred.
E. School Enrollment Expansion. Players who are unable to complete their eligibility because enrollment expansion eliminated their school from previously approved combinations, may continue on the team for which they last played, provided no new players are recruited from their school.
1. Written permission for a player to continue under these circumstances must be obtained from the Department Baseball Chairman prior to listing the player on the National Form #1.
2. Teams cannot form different combinations of schools.
F. Change of Address. Players who realize a permanent change in their parents’ or guardians’ domicile shall be eligible to compete for the team nearest their parents’ new domicile.
1. A notarized statement from the player’s parents must list previous address and new permanent address. Written permission must be obtained from the authorized Department Baseball Official in which the “new” team is located, prior to listing the player on the National Form #1. If released, a player may be transferred to the next nearest team as provided for in Rule 4.D. (Transfer Rule).
2. The enrollment of their previous high school as of March 31, 2008 shall be counted.
G. Final Year of Eligibility. Senior Legion Baseball Players who have one year of eligibility remaining, whose parents move out of the team’s recruiting area, shall have an option of playing for the team nearest their parent’s new domicile or returning to their former team. This rule shall not apply to Junior Legion Teams.
1. The enrollment of the high school the player attends on March 31, 2008 shall be counted.
2. Written permission to play for their previous team must be obtained from the Department Baseball Chairman prior to listing the player on the National Form #1.
H. Home-Schooled Players. A player who is home-schooled may compete for the team nearest their parents’ or guardian’s legal domicile. To determine the nearest team, use the shortest driving distance as calculated by DeLorme, Street Atlas USA® 2008 computer program.
1. Written permission for such competition must be obtained from the authorized Department Baseball Official prior to listing the player on the National Form #1.
2. Enrollment figures for such players shall be that of the high school boundary of his parents’ domicile.
I. New Team Formation. In the event a new Legion team is formed which is closer to a player’s parents’ domicile, that player has a one-time option of playing with the team for which he last played or for the new team.
1. The Department Baseball Chairman, prior to listing the player on the National Form #1, must grant written permission.
2. The enrollment shall be added to the team’s total enrollment.
PROTESTS RULE 5
A. Protest Procedures. All Department Baseball Committees shall, in their rules, define procedures for filing protests. This rule will specify how protests are to be filed, time limits, fees, if any, and with whom protests are to be filed.
B. Written Proof. All protests of player eligibility must be specific, with written proof. All protests shall be filed with the Department in accordance with Department Baseball Rules. All protests must indicate the specific rule that is alleged to have been violated.
C. Forfeitures. If a player is ruled ineligible, he shall be disqualified immediately and all games in which the disqualified player participated-ed shall be forfeited.
D. Game Protest. Protests of Official Baseball Rules published by The Sporting News during actual game conditions must be filed with the chief umpire before the next legal pitch.
E. Appeals to National Headquarters. All protests involving player eligibility and filed with the National Appeals Board must be sent via the Department Chairman. (See Rule 10).
TEAM AND PLAYER CERTIFICATION RULE 6
A. Player and Team Registration. American Legion Baseball teams must register with their Department Baseball Committee.
Clarification
National Forms #1 and #2 must be fully completed and typed. The Department Baseball Chairman must certify the team before the Department closing date and ensure the team is properly registered and properly insured. Certificates of insurance (both liability and medical) must be filed with Department Officials at the time of registration.B. National Form #1. American Legion Baseball players must enroll on Player Roster of Eligibility (National Form #1). This form must be typed and completely filled out to include each player’s full name and the address of their parents’ permanent legal domicile. The Department Baseball Chairman must forward the original Form #1 to National Headquarters by July 15, 2008.
C. National Form #2. All players, their parents or court approved legal guardians must complete Player Agreement and Parent’s Consent Form #2. The Team Manager will retain the original Form #2. The second copy must be filed with the Department Baseball Chairman. Any team or player who fails to complete and file Form #2 shall be disqualified from any further play.
D. Dual Participation. During the regular season, American Legion Baseball players or teams may participate in other amateur baseball programs, however the Team Manager and the player must obtain written approval from the Department Baseball Chairman prior to participating in the event and/or tournament.
Clarification
Dual participation shall in no way interfere with a player’s responsibility to his American Legion Baseball Team. Once tournament play has begun (District Tournament up and through American Legion World Series) the Department Baseball Chairman cannot grant permission to participate in non-Legion sanctioned baseball event, baseball tournaments, exhibition games, showcases or combines.The American Legion believes team loyalty is a key ingredient for any team sport. Any American Legion Baseball player participating in another non-sanctioned baseball event such as exhibition game, tournament showcase, combine or other youth programs shall be ineligible for post-season tournament play.
E. Players Per Team. No American Legion team may have more than 18 registered players once the National Form #1 is registered with the Department. Each team must register before the Department closing date. A member of the Post should have charge of the team as manager, except in the case of outside sponsorship. A non-Legionnaire may act as coach.
1. In cases of death, a player may be replaced on a National Form #1.
2. A player may be replaced if that player is placed on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States following the submission of the certified National Form #1.
F. Non-American Legion Post Sponsorship. Non-Legion (outside) sponsorship is permissible, subject to the approval and supervision of the Department Baseball Committee.
SPORTSMANSHIP & CONDUCT RULE 7
A. Conduct. Managers, coaches or players who, in the opinion of the Department Chairman or his representative, conduct themselves in an unsportsmanlike manner that would discredit this program may be removed by the Department Baseball Committee. The Department Baseball Committee’s decision will be final.
B. Heckling. No player, coach, manager or other party associated with an American Legion Baseball team shall abuse, heckle or make uncomplimentary remarks to opposing players, team officials or umpires. The umpire shall immediately eject from the game any individuals violating this regulation.
C. Sportsmanship. Any player, coach, manager or other party accompanying a team will be ejected from the game from the time of the infraction, if they:
1. Use profane language.
2. Throw bats or other equipment.
3. Make unnecessary or obscene gestures to umpires, fans or opposing players.
4. Commit unnecessary roughness on the playing field.
D. Reinstatement. Any player, coach or manager suspended from a game in tournament play by an umpire for unsportsmanlike conduct is suspended for the remainder of the tournament unless reinstated by the Tournament Director. The Tournament Director’s decision is final.
E. Ejection from the Ballpark. Any player, coach or manager ejected by an umpire must leave the ballpark.
DEPARTMENT JURISDICTION RULE 8
A. Department Rules and Regulations. It is the duty of the Department (State) Baseball Committee to formulate rules and regulations that are not in conflict with Nation-al Rules.
1. Department recruiting rules may be more restrictive than National Rules.
2. Department rules will include procedure for protests. (The protection and stimulation of competition must be used in setting these regulations.)
3. Five copies of the Department rules must be filed with National Head-quarters before April 15, 2008.
B. Department Rulings. The Department Baseball Committee shall decide all questions, disputes and protests within a Department. The Department Baseball Committee shall have the authority to disqualify or suspend anyone violating a Department or National Rule.
C. National Player Eligibility Rule Interpretations. The National Americanism and Children & Youth Division shall make interpretations of National Rules.
1. All requests for interpretations must be in writing and routed through the appropriate Department Baseball Chairman or State Adjutant. Telegrams, e-mail and fax copies are considered written requests. Failure to follow this procedure may result in suspensions and/or forfeiture of fees.
Senior NATIONAL TOURNAMENTS RULE 9
A. National Tournament Registration. The Department Championship team must be certified to the National Americanism Commission by the authorized Department Baseball Official. Certification must be faxed no later than midnight, August 10, 2008.
Note: National Headquarters will only be financially responsible for a maximum of 18 players and two adults who are included on the National Form #1.
B. National Competition. Tournament competition is open only to Senior American Legion teams that have registered with the State Baseball Committee. The Department (State) Baseball Committee is responsible for filing the original National Form #1 with the Baseball Section, The American Legion, 700 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, IN 46204, postmarked no later than July 15, 2008, in accordance with Department regulations.
C. National Tournament Supervision. All National tournaments will be played under the supervision of the National Americanism Commission. All disputes and questions shall be referred to the National Tournament Director. Any situation not specifically covered by National rules or regulations will be referred to the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division, whose decision shall be final.
D. National Tournament Player Eligibility Protest. Eligibility protests of players involved in national tournaments must bear written proof of ineligibility and must be filed with the National Tournament Director at each such tournament no later than 9:00 a.m., local time on the first day of the tournament involved, except on the discovery of fraud. When fraud is discovered, the eligibility protest and a written description of the alleged fraud must be filed immediately. All other protests shall be filed as specified in the Official Baseball Rules published by The Sporting News.
E. National Tournament Play. Teams competing in National tournaments will play every day.
1. The National Tournament Director has complete instructions concerning double-elimination.
2. No National Tournament games will begin after 11:00 p.m., local time.
F. Regional Tournament Host. No Regional host team shall be denied the opportunity of participating in tournaments leading up to the Regional Tournament. Nor shall any team hosting a Department or National Regional Tournament refuse to participate in any such tournament.
Clarification
The host team for a Department or National Regional tournament is mandated to participate in the District and/or State Tournament until such time as the team is eliminated from competition. Host teams will not be permitted to rest their team creating an unfair advantage at either a Department or National Regional Tournament.G. Tournament Photographs. Department Baseball Officials are required to furnish National Headquarters and the local Regional Tournament Chairman two (2) high quality glossy (color) photographs, 5” x 7”, of the Department Championship team with players and coaches identified.
1. The Department Chairman must express mail to the local Regional Tournament Host, two photographs, no later than August 8, 2008 to ensure the championship team’s photo will appear in the Regional Tournament souvenir program and local newspaper.
2. Digital photographs are acceptable if resolution is at least 300-dpi. Email digital photos to Baseball@legion.org
H. Department Championship Play. No Department may enter a team in a National Tournament without first conducting an official Department Tournament that had two or more certified teams participating.
1. At least eight teams must be officially registered in regular season play for a Department to enter a team in a National Tournament.
I. Artificial Noise-makers Prohibited. The National Americanism Commission has an established policy that prohibits artificial noisemakers at all times. Fans who operate artificial noisemakers will be asked not to do so. A second warning will cause those fans to be removed from the stands.
J. Suspended Games. Suspended games will be completed from the point of suspension.
1. When games are suspended on one day and completed the following day the pitching records shall be charged as played the previous day.
2. The pitcher will be charged for innings pitched on the first day. Innings pitched on the following day will also be charged to the first day. One appearance will be charged unless pitchers change.
3. A suspended game completed on the following day will not count toward two (2) games in Rule 1.I. These teams can still play an additional two (2) full games.
K. Minimum Active Players. Teams competing in ALB Senior National Tournaments must have 12 players available for participation at a National Tournament. Teams with less than 12 players are permitted to transfer up to three players registered on their Junior American Legion team roster to the Senior team. Any players transferred from Jr. team to Sr. Team must be approved and certified by the Department Baseball Chairman. The junior roster must be registered with the national office by July 15. Any Senior team that does not have 12 players will forfeit their right to participate and the National Americanism Division, in consultation with the Department Baseball Chairman, shall determine a suitable replacement team. This rule shall not apply to host teams at National Regional Tournaments.
NATIONAL BASEBALL APPEALS BOARD RULE 10
A. National Appeals Board. There is a National Baseball Appeals Board (hereafter referred to as “the Board”) composed of (1) the Chairman of the National Americanism Commission; (2) the Chairman of the Baseball and Recreation Subcommittee; and (3) a third member appointed by the chairperson of the National Americanism Commission. The chairperson shall also appoint two alternate members. The term of office for board members and alternate members shall be one year.
B. Time Limit. An appeal filed under this rule must be made within 24 hours of the time when the rule interpretation of the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division is issued. Such appeal may be made by telegram, fax, e-mail or mail-a-gram and shall state the precise points of contention that are the basis for the appeal. If an appeal is not filed within 24 hours to the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division, an interpretation will not be considered.
C. Filing An Appeal. All appeals must be in writing and addressed to The American Legion, National Baseball Appeals Board, 700 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, IN 46204. Faxes and e-mail protests are acceptable when sent in by the Department Baseball Chairman or Department Adjutant. National Headquarters Fax Number is (317) 630-1369. E-MAIL ADDRESS: baseball@legion.org
D. Final Authority. The Board shall have sole jurisdiction over any appeal filed following a decision involving American Legion Baseball rule interpretations rendered by the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division. The decision of the Board shall be final and may be enforced by a court of law. The concurrence of a majority of the members of the Board shall constitute the ruling by the Board.
E. Approved Interpretations. During tournaments supervised by National Headquarters, the Board shall approve interpretations rendered by the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division before publication of the interpretation.
F. Appeal Procedure. No appeal shall be considered by the Board until all established appeal procedures within the respective Department’s rules have been exhausted, as certified in writing by the Department Baseball Chairman.
AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL DEFINITIONS
BASE SCHOOL: A public or private high school that will serve as the starting point to recruit players, if eligible. When a player’s parents domicile is located within a base school boundary, that base school is considered the nearest team.
CERTIFIED BIRTH RECORD: A document issued by the State Bureau of Vital Statistics, or other authorized state or federal government office, which lists the player’s date and place of birth. This document usually has a raised state seal and there is usually a fee to obtain a copy.
Clarification
A U.S. Passport (or any U.S. government documentation) qualifies as an acceptable Record of Birth.CERTIFICATION: A written document or act that has or has not been done. Certifying a Department Champion or Runner-up does not qualify a team for National Competition if an ineligible player is discovered. When certifying the Department Champion or Runner-up, the authorized Department Official is attesting to the fact a Department Tournament was held in accordance with National and Department Baseball Rules. An Authorized Baseball Official, in certifying a team entry form, is attesting to the fact that the National Form #1 was registered with the chairman on or before the date required by the Department Rules. This does not guarantee that the team is eligible for league or tournament play.
COMBINED TOTAL ENROLLMENT: The entire enrollment on March 31, 2008, of all students in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades of those schools from which players are recruited for one team. This shall include all male, female, special education, physically challenged and bilingual students enrolled on March 31, 2008.
COUNTY: A subdivision of the District. County Chairmen may prescribe rules if approved by the Department Baseball Committee.
DEPARTMENT BASEBALL OFFICIAL: A volunteer appointed or elected to oversee and supervise the Department Baseball program within a given Department.
DEPARTMENT CLOSING DATE: A specific date by which a team must have their National Form #1 and other documentation registered with the proper Department Baseball Official. The date is determined by the Department Baseball Committee and published in the Department Rulebook.
DEPARTMENT: The American Legion is a nonprofit veterans’ organization with 55 Departments or subdivisions (one in each state, plus Puerto Rico, France, Mexico, the Philippines and the District of Columbia). Each Department is an independently operated subdivision of The American Legion, with its own Constitution and Bylaws.
DISTRICT: A subdivision of the Department. Several Districts make up the Department.
DISTRICT BASEBALL CHAIRMAN: An individual appointed or elected to oversee and supervise the district baseball program, under the general rules and regulations of the Department Baseball Committee. District Chairmen may prescribe rules if approved by the Department Baseball Committee.
DIVISION OR ZONE CHAIRMAN: A subdivision, as authorized by the Department Constitution and Bylaws. As noted earlier, individual Legionnaires may be authorized as a volunteer agent of the Department organization to help administer the baseball program in their area. Division or Zone Chairmen may prescribe rules if approved by the Department Baseball Committee.
LEGAL PERMANENT DOMICILE: A player’s legal domicile shall be the same domicile of his parents or permanent court appointed guardian’s domicile. This definition means living in a particular locality with intent to make it a fixed and permanent home. A Post Office box does not qualify as a domicile.
Clarification
Notarized birth certificates or hospital certificates are not acceptable proof of age for American Legion Baseball.NOTARIZED DOCUMENTS: Adoption papers, divorce or legal separation papers, if notarized, are acceptable documents for determining a player’s domicile as of March 31.
PERMANENT COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIAN: An individual appointed by a Court for a minor, due to the loss of or incapacity of the natural parents and until attainment of full age. Temporary Guardianship is not acceptable in American Legion Baseball, unless the courts have determined the parents incapable of supervision and care of the minor, or parents are deceased.
REGISTERED TEAM: Any team that has properly filed the necessary documents and purchased the proper liability and medical insurance as required by the National and Department Rules.
SPONSORSHIP: The American Legion Post is always recognized as the primary and exclusive sponsor, regardless of financial support of the team. A support group, booster club, company, private association or corporation is recognized as a financial supporter for a local American Legion Team. Those teams that do not have a Post sponsorship shall come under the sponsorship of the Department or District Baseball Committee having jurisdiction over team discipline. An outside supporter or co-sponsor has no legal jurisdiction over a team. The American Legion Post or Department Baseball Committee that sponsors any team retains the exclusive legal sponsorship of the team.
TECHNICAL OR VOCATIONAL SCHOOL: A tax supported institution for secondary education.
TOTAL ENROLLMENT: The entire enrollment of one high school of all students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades. This includes all male, female, special education, physically challenged, and bilingual students enrolled on March 31, 2008.
TRANSFER: A written document that provides a means of transferring a player from one team to another. Note: Transfers are final and binding, as long as the player does not have a change of address or a change of school. Any change in parent’s residency or a change in schools voids the transfer and will require the player to re-qualify in accordance with the existing rules (See Rule 4.D). Transfers require tryout and release by Team Manager or American Legion Post Commander in consultation with Team Manager.
Clarification
Players who qualify under Rule 2.B.2. (divorced parent’s rule) and Rule 4.C. (Option Rule) are not eligible for transfer (Form #76) once they have competed with an American Legion team, unless that team fails to exist or if either parent has a new permanent change of address.ZONE: A specific territory determined on a map, by the authorized Department Baseball Official, for recruiting players under Plan “A.”
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