Baseball caps have become ubiquitous in society, with their use extending far beyond baseball diamonds. In organized baseball, though, the caps are a required part of the team uniform. They also serve a purpose by helping shield a player's eyes from the sun. League rulebooks set forth specific rules about baseball caps and how they are to be worn and used.
Uniform Regulations
In college and professional baseball, a player's cap constitutes part of his uniform. As such, players and coaches all must wear identical hats, including the color and trim. Furthermore, plays cannot alter their caps or uniforms by adding tape or any other colored material. In Major League Baseball, no part of the uniform -- including the team caps -- can imitate the size or shape of a baseball.
When It Is Worn
According to National Collegiate Athletic Association and Major League Baseball rules, all players and coaches on the field of play must wear a team hat at all times. Players on the fielding team must wear caps, while hitters, runners on base and base coaches must wear batting helmets.
Cap Violations
Players who violate uniform regulations -- including wearing an improper cap or altering their hats in way that is not permitted -- will not be allowed. In cases where rules are violated, players must be informed on the violation by a game official and can change their cap to comply with the rules.
To Make a Catch
Baseball caps, along with all other parts of the uniform, cannot be used to assist a fielder in making a catch. NCAA and Major League Baseball forbid the use of any part of the uniform to assist in making a catch.
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