Little League baseball games are similar to the ones played by larger and older players. However, there are several differences that have to do with the field of play, player participation and player safety. While Little League baseball is quite competitive, all rules are based on keeping the players safe and able to return to play in the future.
Playing Field
One of the primary differences between youth baseball and adult baseball is the size of the field. Youth baseball is played on a much smaller field with smaller dimensions: the bases are 60 feet apart; the pitching rubber is 46 feet from home plate; and home plate is 17 inches wide. The Little League strike zone is from the bottom of the batter's knees to the arm pits. Fences in Little League must be a minimum of 165 feet from home plate.
Game Length and Player Usage
All games at the Little League level are six innings long. If the home team is ahead after the visiting team has batted in the top of the sixth inning, the home team does not bat. If either team is ahead by 15 runs after four innings or 10 runs after five innings, the game is called in favor of the team that is ahead. This is often referred to as the mercy rule. All players must play at least two innings in the field and get at least one at bat. Players may re-enter the game after coming out. Pitchers may pitch a maximum of three innings in any one game. If a pitcher throws more than 20 pitches, he may not pitch the next day. If a pitcher throws more than 40 pitches, he may not pitch for two days. If a pitcher throws more than 60 pitches, he may not pitch for three days.
Player Equipment
All players who bat, are on base or in the on-deck circle must wear a batting helmet at all times. The batting helmet must cover the entire head and the ears. A face mask that attaches to the helmet is not required but is encouraged. Players may not wear shoes with metal spikes, only plastic or rubber spikes. Catchers must wear shin guards, a chest protector, an athletic supporter with a protective cup and a catcher's mask. Both a cage-type mask and a hockey goalie-type mask are allowed.
Member Comments