Baseball rules are explained in a rule book that is published every year by Major League Baseball. Each rule has a specific purpose to regulate common plays that occur during a game. Over the years, new rules have been implemented to take into account the evolution of the game.
Field Measurements
Having consistent measurements between bases, foul lines and the pitcher's mound reduces home field advantage. The infield is a 90-foot square with a 15-inch square base marking each corner. The pitcher's plate--measuring 24 by 6 inches--is 10 inches above home plate and 60 feet, 6 inches away from the back tip of home plate. The outfield fence must be a minimum of 250 feet away from home plate with a recommended distance of 320 feet along the foul lines and 400 feet to center field.
Lineups
Starting lineups and batting orders must be handed to the home plate umpire before the start of the game.Each team can designate nine players in a specific batting order. A designated hitter may substitute for the pitcher in the batting lineup as a 10th in the American League. Substitutions during the game may not take place during a play. Once a player leaves the game, he is not allowed to return. Each substitution must be reported to the home plate umpire and then relayed to the official scorekeeper. The substitute player assumes the same spot in the batting lineup as the player he replaced.
Scoring Runs
Runs are scored on offense when a runner successfully advances around the bases. Each base--first, second, third and home plate--must be touched in consecutive order. Once a runner touches home plate before the end of an inning, a run is scored.
Equipment Regulations
Gloves may not exceed 12 inches in length from top to bottom for fielders. Catchers are allowed to have a mitt that is 38 inches in circumference and 15 1/2 inches from top to bottom. Bats are limited to 42 inches in length and must have a barrel diameter of less than 2 3/4 inches. The wood must be one solid piece, smooth and round.
Base Running
Runners are given certain rights but must not interfere with a defensive player making a play on a batted ball. If runner interference occurs, the umpire shall call interference and the runner is out. The runner must touch each base--first, second, third and home plate--in that order and may not skip any base. If the defense catches the runner skipping a base, the runner shall be called out.
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