What are the rules I need to know as a Little League Majors player (league age 9-12)? Batting, running the bases, pitching, catching and the equipment you need.
Your league age is how old you are on August 31 of the current year. Majors is for players league age 12 and under, and 12-year-olds must play in Majors rather than the Minor League.
Your league decides which younger players move up to Majors.
Not until the pitch reaches the batter. There are no lead-offs in Majors.
If you leave too early, the umpire signals it and lets the play finish. You won't be called out, but you'll be sent back, and any other runners usually have to go back too. Leaving early can undo a good play for your whole team.
Only when you're going back to a base. If you slide head first while running to the next base, you're out. Always slide feet first when advancing.
Yes, in Majors you can run on an uncaught third strike if:
Otherwise you're out on strike three. Run hard straight away; you're out if the catcher tags you or throws to first before you get there. If your field has a double first base, you can touch either part on this play.
It depends on your league age:
After pitching, you need rest before you pitch again:
| Pitches | Days of rest |
|---|---|
| 1-20 | 0 |
| 21-35 | 1 |
| 36-50 | 2 |
| 51-65 | 3 |
| 66 or more | 4 |
You can't pitch in two games on the same day or on three days in a row. Tell your coach if your arm hurts, at any pitch count.
You can use pine tar and a thumb protector, but not a choke-knob or other choke-up device on the bat. Show your coach any new bat before you use it in a game.
Whenever you bat or run the bases, in games and at practice. Your helmet must have the NOCSAE mark, no cracks, no tape and no paint added after it was made.
If you catch, you need a full catcher's helmet with a face mask and throat guard, even when you're just warming up a pitcher.
No. Players can't wear watches, rings, pins, jewelry or other metal items, or hard decorative items, while playing. Take them off before the game.
All male players must wear an athletic supporter. Male catchers must also wear a protective cup, in games, at practice and when warming up pitchers.
Yes. If you're at the game when it starts, you must play at least six outs in the field and bat at least once. You might not start every game, so stay ready on the bench.