The National Federation of State High School Associations, NFHS, oversees the rules and regulations for high school sports. The rules of high school baseball are similar to those of Major League Baseball, but there are some differences. The NFHS dictates the rules of play, equipment standards and uniforms for high school baseball.
Equipment
Aluminum, composite or wood bats are allowed in high school baseball. Through December 2011, aluminum bats must meet the ball exit-speed ratio, BESR, performance standard. Starting in January 2012, non-wood bats must meet the batted ball coefficient of restitution, BBCOR, performance standard and must be labeled with a permanent certification mark. Composite bats will be illegal until they meet the BBCOR standards. Both of these tests ensure that the performance of aluminum bats -- the power created upon impact with the ball -- is limited to that of the top-performing wood bats. A batting helmet face mask is optional, according to NFHS rules.
Pitching
Intentional walks do not require any pitches to be thrown. A coach or player informs the umpire of the intentional walk and the hitter takes first base. An illegal pitch can be called only if no one is on base. If a runner is on, a balk is called. The top of the strike zone is the midpoint between the batter's shoulders and waistline, and the bottom is at the knees. If no one is on base and the pitcher drops the ball during delivery and it crosses the foul line, the pitch is a ball. If the ball does not cross the foul line, it is a no pitch. If a runner is on base, it is considered a balk.
Batting
The batter must take his position in the box within 20 seconds and must keep one foot in the box at all times. A foul tip that goes directly into the catcher's mitt and is legally caught by the catcher is a strike and is in play. If the batter holds the bat motionless over the strike zone after starting to swing, it is not a strike. A designated hitter can be substituted for any player.
Running Bases
If a runner misses a base, he can return and touch the base, then continue running the bases as usual. Unlike in the major leagues, where catchers block home plate, blocking is not allowed in high school baseball. Obstructed runners are awarded at least one base. If a runner interferes with an obvious double play, he is out.
Member Comments