Major League Softball Association

House Rules

2025

 

Note: All the following rules apply to both the Men’s and Women’s Divisions unless clearly indicated otherwise.

 

 

Article I. Name and Purpose

 

Section 1. The name of this organization shall be the Major League Softball Association hereafter referred to in this document as the MLSA, or the League. MLSA provides a competitive option for teams to play in our league where they can play softball, but also be active members of the communities we play in.

Section 2. Neither the MLSA nor any of its members or affiliates shall discriminate on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, creed, disability, veterans’ or marital status, age, parental status, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, gender expression, or gender identity. Failure to adhere to this will result in immediate removal from the league

Section 3. The Major League Softball Association has a zero-tolerance policy for Sexual Assault and Harassment. Any member who commits these acts will be expelled from the league immediately and report to the City Authorities

 

 

Article II. Board Of Directors, Executive Board and Board Members

 

Section 1. Executive Board

a. Chief Executive Officer: Luis Jimenez

b. Chief Financial Officer: Julie Jimenez

c. Director of Operations: Lucas Serrano

Section 2. Board of Directors

1. Commissioner: Luis Jimenez
2. Director of Officiating: Lucas Serrano
3. Director of Marketing and Mass Media: Lucas Serrano

Section 3. Board Members

1. Team Managers / Owners
   1. All team managers in the MLSA are the official voting members of the league who vote to create or remove policy in league gameplay with the Commissioner's final approval
   2. Only one representative, either the Manager or Owner, is permitted to vote at a single time, that person will be awarded speaking privileges in that meeting
   3. During the season, league meetings will be held every Monday night unless otherwise directed by the League Executive Board. Each team must have a representative present at each meeting
   4. The Executive Board reserves the right to make additions to the rules that may impact safety or reputation, remove rules for the same reasoning, or make any decisions on challenges to any rule.
   5. Player Representative or team captain
      1. Only act as a board and voting member when representing the Manager in a League meeting in his or her absence. If they are not voting in the absence of a board member, they do not have voting privileges
      2. Responsible for bringing player concerns to the Board
      3. Further new roles and responsibilities will be developed throughout the season

 

 

Section 1. Financial Responsibilities

1. League Fees are non-refundable as of February 28th, 2025, the official close date of the MLSA
   1. If a team wishes to withdraw after this date, there will be no refunds provided to the team.
2. Any team enrolling in the MLSA Men’s Division will be required to pay $X,XXX, the set franchise fee for the Men’s Division, by the final due date for payments April 15th, 2025
3. Any team enrolling in the MLSA Women’s Division will be required to pay $X,XXX, the set franchise fee for the MLSA Women’s Division, by the final due date of April 15th, 2025
4. Managers and Players must be debt-free to the league and other leagues who participate in Chicagoland Park Districts and suburbs by April 15th, 2025
   1. This includes but is not limited to debts from fees and all penalties
5. Managers are responsible for Franchise Fees and penalties as described in the penalty section of this rule book
6. MLSA is an amateur softball league and is not responsible for paying wages to players or providing jobs to the same. The League will not acknowledge any member or Manager/Owner that engages in said business and is subject to League sanctions. Any known player that has played college, minor league, or professionally is a 4-point player. Said paid player must be two (2) years removed from minor league or pros.
7. All money transactions within the League must be made through the MLSA Chief Financial Officer unless otherwise designated by the Chief Executive Officer

 

Article IV. Participation Requirements

 

Section 1. New Teams

1. Requests for entrance into the league shall be considered during the winter meetings. A majority vote by board members of active teams in the league is needed and will result in the expansion of the league. A new team, however, shall be received on a probationary basis for one year.
2. A second majority vote of active teams (the following winter) will result in a team becoming a full member of the league. Once a full member, a 2/3 vote of active teams is necessary to terminate a team’s business relationship with the league.
3. If a manager is ejected or suspended, they will receive a one game suspension as well as a fine. If they receive three suspensions their team will be considered a new team when it is time to vote to confirm a team for the next season

Section 2. Team Requirements for All teams

1. Aside from the financial requirements described above, it is mandatory for members to participate in all league functions and activities.
   1. Unexcused failure to participate will result in a fine for everyone not present.
2. Fine level plus suspension will be determined by the Commissioner.
   1. Each manager is responsible for the league fees owed for their specific team.
3. A ballplayer's contract is required to play in the MLSA and is valid for one season
4. All contracts are valid only when signed by CEO
5. Players cannot sign two contracts within the MLSA. If two managers have a contract conflict, that player will be suspendid for the season. If a player signs in another league of similar 12" softball, the player can be inelgible to play in MLSA
6. All contracts will be held by the MLSA board until the following season
7. Men’s Teams have until February 28th to recruit players; a player's contract must first be approved by the league board for the player to participate; after that date, rosters will be closed
8. Women’s Teams have until February 28th to recruit players; a player's contract must first be approved by the league board for the player to participate; after that date, rosters will be closed
9. Managers who have been eliminated from the playoffs are not permitted to recruit or sign players for the 2026 season who are still playing in the playoffs
   1. Any manager in violation of these rules will receive appropriate consequences from the Executive Board.

 

Section 3. Player Classifications

1. Team rosters will consist of a maximum of 25 players and must be approved by the MLSA Commissioner.
2. The Player Classification section and Playoff Eligibility section will apply to the Men’s and Women's division for the 2025 season
3. The 2022 season is the inaugural season for the Women’s Division, due to this the Women’s Division will adhere to the Player Classification section and Playoff Eligibility section beginning the 2023 season
4. Player Classifications for the Men’s/Women's Division are as follows:
5. Players will be ranked on a point system from 1-5
   1. Players are awarded points for Batting for Average, Batting for Power (SLG), Glove, Arm, and Speed
   2. In order to receive a point for Batting for Average they must hit over .450-M (425-W) in the 2025 season
   3. Players will receive a point for Batting for Power if their slugging percentage was over .500-M (450-W) in the 2025 season
   4. Players will receive a point for each: glove, arm, and/or speed based on the eye test and past play history for the 2025 season in conjunction with final Commissioner approval
      1. The League Commissioner has the final say on all classifications!
   5. New ball players who are unknown to managers and the executive board will automatically ranked a 2.5
   6. Individual winners of MLSA league titles, ex: batting avg., home runs, pitching records, and league MVPs will be awarded a half point toward their player classification number and will stay with player every year they participate in the League
6. Classifications on team rosters will consist of a maximum of:
   1. 50 Points
   2. For MLSA Teams who were present for the 2023 season and on
      1. Must adhere to the following rankings for position players
      2. Three players who are ranked as a “5”
      3. Five players who are ranked as a “4”
      4. Two players who are ranked as a “2.5”
      5. Individual winners (Impact Players) of MLSA league titles, ex: batting avg., home runs, pitching records, and league MVPs will be awarded a half point toward their player classification number and will remain in the league records going forward.
   3. For New Teams
      1. To qualify as a new team you may have no more than four known ball players to either the executive board or managers
      2. This includes players who have played in our league as well as any other leagues the board or managers may be familiar with
      3. New teams may only have a maximum of 50 points; however they are permitted to have more than two players ranked as “2.5”
   4. The rankings for Pitchers will be as follows
      1. “A” which will be awarded to players who pitch at an elite level in our league
      2. “B” which will be awarded to pitchers who pitch at an excellent level in our league
      3. “C” which will be awarded to pitchers who pitch at a great level in our league
      4. “D” which will be awarded to pitchers who are labeled as developmental
         1. Pitchers must be classified as a developmental pitcher for a minimum of two seasons in our league
   5. Teams may have the following pitching combinations
      1. One “A” pitcher, two “B” pitchers, two “C” pitcher, one “D” pitcher
      2. Two “B” pitchers, three “C” pitchers, one “D” pitcher
      3. Four “C” pitchers, one “D” pitcher
      4. All “C”s
      5. All “D”s
   6. Position players who are also a known pitcher and were not included in the final pitching roster is ineligible to pitch during the 2025 season
   7. Pitchers who dual as both a Pitcher and Position Player must be rated using the player classification system and applied to the 50-point total
   8. Teams will be allowed a maximum of five pitchers for the playoffs following the combinations listed above
   9. Classification of MLSA pitchers will require a historical review of statistics and performances in other leagues and/or classifications in other comparable 12” softball leagues. The MLSA Commissioner will make the final classification of pitchers.

Section 4: Playoff Eligibility

1. Position players are required to play a minimum of eight of the sixteen scheduled games for the 2025 season
   1. Three outs and/or an at bat that a player is present in a game may constitute a game appearance
2. Pitchers are required to pitch a minimum of eight games
   1. One batter may constitute a game appearance
3. Pitchers who dual as both a Pitcher and Position Player must play a minimum of eight games
   1. Six games must be as a pitcher
   2. Two games must be as a position player
4. Courtesy running does not count as a game appearance for playoff eligibility
5. This Addendum serves to provide clarity to Article IV Section 4.a. subsection i. “One inning that a player is present in a game may constitute a game appearance” As stated in the March 7^th, 2022, Managers meeting three outs and/or an at bat will constitute a game appearance. The section will now read as follows in order to reflect the exact wording of what was voted on in the Managers meeting.
6. Team Nucleus Rule will only apply to a defending championship team. Teams will be able to defend their title with their exact same team for one year. However, if said team has a returning player that moves up in the classification system to be a 5 or a 4 and thereby giving the returning championship team either four 5s or six 4s, the manager must choose which player to retain. If manager uses said option, he/she can only choose one 5 or one 4, not both. Then any new players the manager wants to add can only be a 3 or under rating. Overall the team must stay within the 50 point system. If this team wins back to back championships, for the third season said team will lose a 5 and a 4 classified players (two people) and can only sign 3s and under for any new players. NOTE: any 2.5 rated players will be intensely reviewed, vetted, and may be subject to combine type test. * Commissioner discretion in 2025 season

Section 5. Injured Reserve Status

1. Any player that is injured on or off the field must provide the league with a doctor’s note specifying his injury within one (1) week after injury. Doctors’ note shall be dated with date of injury and release date. Players that follow these steps will be eligible for the playoffs as injury will not be held against them.
2. If a player is lost for the season due to injury, that manager or coach does not have an opportunity to fill that player's spot on the roster. The injured player cannot come back to play after being declared out for the season by league
3. All First Responders and Military members will have special consideration per the Executive Board.

Article V. Uniforms & Equipment

 

Section 1: Equipment

1.  MLSA will use ASA/USA approved wood bats only (Bats must be registered for playoffs)
   1. Only all wood softball bats, no composite or bamboo
   2. ASA/USA logo must be displayed on the bat
   3. Bats cannot be more than 34 inches long
   4.  Bats cannot exceed 38 ounces.
   5.  The official bat shall not be more than 2.250 inches in diameter at its largest part, including any tolerance for expansion
   6. Managers will be provided with an approved bat brand list by their respective commissioners
2.  Softball to be used during the season will be the CF-12 DeBeer Clincher
3.  Teams may have Bluetooth music speakers for warmups and in between innings during a game but must not play music that can be deemed offensive and vulgar to others in and around the playing field and towards non-league members of the community.
   1. Music must be paused when there is a batter in the box ready to take a pitch
4. Mark all your own equipment; MLSA is not responsible for lost or mislaid team property
5. League DJ music supersedes team bench music playing.

 

Section 2. Uniform

1. Every player must have an MLSA patch permanently affixed to the uniform during all games may be sewn, glued, or screened on 
2. For the Men’s league: Every player must be in complete uniform after the second week of the season to compete in games. This includes the same hat, jersey, and pants, all the same color and style as the rest of the team
3. For the Women’s league: Every player must have a matching jersey
   1. Pants must be the same color but do not have to be the same style (appropriate athletic gear)
   2. Hats/ visors are optional and to the individual player preference if they are worn on the field and same colors
4. Only plastic cleats are permitted (gym-shoes and turf shoes for astro-turf fields)
   1. Metal spikes or gym shoes are not allowed at any time during the game
   2.  If a player is caught using either of these items while batting:
   3.  The at bat will be recorded as an out.
   4.  The ballplayer will be given a chance to change.
   5.  If the player does not have the proper equipment, he is out for the remainder of the game
5. No cover ups such as tape are allowed
6. If a ballplayer is found to have such items while batting, the at bat will be recorded as an out
7. No cut off t-shirts will be allowed as part of a uniform
   1. If a team has cutoff jerseys, they must wear an undershirt which has to display the league patch
   2. If a jersey is sleeveless the same color undershirt must be worn by all players of said team
8. No rolled up sleeves that cover up league patches and other uniform indicators will be allowed. Batter will be recorded as an out. Defensive players will be given one warning, second time out of the game.
9.  If you have two sets of uniforms, you may use (2) team names. They must correspond with each other. For example: “Arecibo” on one uniform, “Lobos” on the other.
10. If you put the players’ name on any uniform, then all the uniforms must have each player’s name on them.
11. No duplicate player numbers are allowed. All numbers must be same size and type style.
12. Ballplayers are not allowed to wear uniform items that are not approved by MLSA and do not conform to uniform standards mentioned above and if said uniforms brings unwanted attention and discredit to the league
13. All uniform protests must be done before the start of the second inning. Upon the start of the second inning there will be no uniform protest (unless a player enters the game as a sub later, at that time the team has the right to protest)
14. Pitchers are not allowed earrings or visible piercings and any jewelry that can cause a distraction to the batter. If jewelry is permanent, pitchers shall be substituted.
15. Pitchers cannot wear sunglasses unless they are prescription sunglasses or all black sunglasses
16. Pitchers can wear a dark colored batting glove under their mitt
17. Pitcher cannot wear white compression sleeve, or three-quarters or full-length sleeve undershirts

 

Article VI. Protests

 

1. All managers will receive protest sheets which are to be filled out properly in the event of a protest
2. It is the responsibility of the umpire to notify the opposing team that the game is being played under protest
3. All protests must be made in writing within 24 hours of the game ending
4.  Official time and status of the game authorized by the umpire will be noted
5. If protest sheet is not signed by the umpire, protest is not valid.
6. You must note all actions at that time such as outs, balls, runs, batters on base, and where player is in current lineup
7. Protest Fees and Procedures
   1. There is a $50.00 hearing fee for all protests
   2. To begin the protests process, the first $25.00 must be paid at the time of the protest and to the Umpire or respective Commissioner of your division
   3. The remaining $25.00 must be paid within 24 hours after the protest has been made and submitted with the official protest sheet
   4. If protest team wins, $35.00 will be refunded
   5. No refunds if you lose
8. The league will analyze the protest and decide using the ground rules set by the MLSA or ASA/USA rule book
9. You cannot protest a judgment call. Example: balls, strikes, foul balls, fair balls, and/or outs, illegal pitching
10.  If a team decides to protest and/or complain about the use of an illegal bat
    1. The umpire will confiscate the bat and hand over said bat to the league Board
    2. The team that protests will pay for the bat to be examined
    3.  If the bat is found to be illegal the team which was using it can be terminated from the league with no refund
    4. The team which protested will be refunded $50 from the guilty team’s franchise fees
    5.  If the bat is found legal the team that protested will lose their protest money and pay the winning team for any damages to the bat after inspection
11. Bats can and will be inspected by Board of Directors and Executive Committee members at any time during the regular season and playoffs

 

Article VII. Umpires

 

Section 1. Umpire Responsibilities

1. Umpires are represented on the Board of Directors via the League Commissioner
2. Umpires will report any and all incidents that occur before, during and, after the games have been played to the MLSA Executive Board
3. Umpire must hand out a verbal warning prior to ejecting a player or manager except for physical altercations and/or obscenities towards the umpire or other players
   1. This only applies for minor infractions
4.  In the event that an umpire does not show up to a game:
   1. Both managers may pick a qualified individual to take the scheduled umpire's place to officiate the game if Board does not assign one
   2. Both managers need to agree on the individual
   3. This individual will receive payment for their services
   4. The game will be postponed if no qualified individual can be found or agreed upon by the managers
5. If an umpire misses a game without being excused, he or she will officiate the next game at no cost to the league
6. If a paper scoresheet is used umpires will be responsible for collecting signed score sheets for each game they officiate in order to receive payment from the league. Umpires will hang a league banner on the backstop that contains League information and retrieve the same at end of game when necessary. Managers and Umpires will ensure that pitching carpet is secured at the end of game
7. The umpire is responsible for reporting any infractions to the Commissioner and the Director of Operations either verbally or in writing along with his recommendations for any disciplinary action

 

 

Article VIII. Discipline & Behavior

 

Section 1. Suspensions

1. The MLSA reserves the right to suspend or ban from league play, any player, manager, or coach that does not comply with any rules or regulations set by the League
2. Any player, coach or manager caught or seen using, selling, buying drugs before or after games with or without uniform, in the area of the playing field shall be suspended from the league for the rest of the season
3. All participants in the MLSA which includes players, coaches, Board Members, or managers are expected to conduct and carry themselves properly and respectfully. Inappropriate behavior will be dealt with swiftly and promptly
4.  Any player, coach or manager under suspension that plays in a game prior to his suspension period being over will be suspended for the rest of the season
5. If a member of the men’s division is participating in the women’s division, in the capacity of a coach or manager, and they are suspended in one league, they are suspended from both
   1. If a manager or coach in the women’s league is ejected and receives a two-game suspension, they must serve the suspension immediately and consecutively even if it overlaps in the men’s league
   2. Any other suspensions for reasons outside of ejection will be applied for both leagues
   3. This also applies to managers or coaches who are suspended in the Men’s league, they will not be permitted to be at any league event until their suspension is completed
6. Any player who has a history of unsportsmanlike conduct or poor behavior will be required to sign a Supervision agreement
   1. The Supervision agreement ensures the player is willing to work to improve their behavior
   2. A player may be put on supervision before or during the season
   3. The player will remain on supervision for exactly one year from the date they were placed on supervision
   4. Any player who refuses to sign the agreement will not be eligible to play in the MLSA
   5. There are no appeals for supervision agreements
   6. If a player on supervision commits a major infraction, they will be expelled from the league
   7. Players may only remain on supervision for one year
      1. If player behavior is not improved in one year, they will not be eligible to play in the league the following year

 

Section 2. Ejections

1.  All Players, Coaches and Managers that are ejected from a game must leave the playing field immediately. Failure to do so will result in your team forfeiting that game and you will be suspended for an additional three games
2. If ejection occurs before or during the fourth inning it will be considered a game served and must be 100 feet from diamond/game
3. As a player, if you are ejected for arguing a call, you get a minimum two games suspension, if you then refuse to leave the playing field, you will receive an additional three game suspension, meaning your total suspension will be 5 games minimum
4. A Manager that is ejected from a game for arguing will only be ejected for one game
5.  Any player, coach or manager that engages in a behavior that is offensive to an Umpire or Board member, will be suspended for unsportsmanlike conduct. Said player, coach or manager need not be ejected from a game for this rule to take effect. League Executive Board members shall have the power to protect the interest of the league and in making these rules effective. Suspension will depend on the situation
   1. Examples of Offensive Behavior: Cursing and swearing at umpires, fans, or other players or Board members
   2. Offensive gestures including middle fingers, grabbing of private areas, etc.
   3. Continual and persistent arguing/ complaining to an Umpire or Board Member (example: illegal pitching)
6. Any team caught cheating, for example, using illegal bats, playing illegal players, etc. will be removed from the league for the season (no refunds given). Manager and Coach of the violating team will have a 3-year ban from managing or coaching with an appeal after 3 years.
7. Any player, coach, or manager that physically contacts an umpire or league official which includes throwing objects, will be suspended from the league for 3 seasons. That suspended player, coach or manager could appeal his suspension after 3-years, and if the board approves the appeal, he will be put on a 2-year probation
8. Players removed from any game:
   1. Will have an automatic two game suspension.
   2. the suspension becomes effective immediately.
   3. The suspended player will serve the suspension away from the park, not within sight or sound.
   4. The games in question will not be counted as games played for the player.
   5. Said games will also not be counted as games played when games are tallied for playoff qualification purposes
   6. Will have a meeting with the Exec. board.
   7.   Suspension may be longer if both the Commissioner and Dir of Operations deem it necessary
9. Players suspended three times during the season can and will be suspended and or banned from the league indefinitely
   1. Players on supervision may be removed from the league sooner than the three-game ejection rule

 

Section 3. Conduct & Behavior

1.  The MLSA Association in conjunction with the Park District rules and regulations has a Zero Tolerance policy for verbal and/or physical threats against League staff, members, or fans!  Any social media comments or any forms of malice or false accusations without proof against the League or its members that brings discredit or shame as to create a negative appearance will result in the possibility of contract players or managers being banned indefinitely from the MLSA Association
   1. Striking an Umpire or League official is a federal offense
   2. Violators who engage in this behavior will deal with the City authorities
2.  Any disagreement with umpires shall be done by a manager or coach, not both, any player that attempts to persist on the disagreement with an umpire may be ejected from the game, this applies to regular season, playoffs, and championship series
   1. Only the manager and/or previously designated coaches (determination made prior to game start) can argue a play on the field.
3. Any player coming from the outfield /infield or bench area to disagree with a call, may be ejected from the game with no warning!
   1.  Infielders must meet in a central location away from the area where the dispute is taking place.
   2.  Meet at 2nd base for most plays.
   3. Meet on the mound for any plays being disputed at 2nd base.
   4. Keep in mind that only the designated person can dispute a play, no exceptions!
4. Any fan that interferes with the game in any way, shall deal with the City Authorities. The game will be stopped and suspended till further notice. I encourage managers to inform their fans to have some control. Again, the umpires have the right to stop the game if they feel they are in danger. Umpire also has the right to forfeit game
5. Mutual respect between the Umpires and Managers must always be maintained. No exceptions! Your cooperation and understanding in this matter will set the standards that players will follow during the season and for years to come
6. The Board of Directors, Umpires and The Park District are the only officials allowed to cancel scheduled games before they start. Once the game has begun, the Umpires may call games at their discretion or call a game due to inclement weather or danger in the vicinity. The Park District can suspend games without prior notice.
7. All incidents involving behavior of a manager or player will go before the MLSA Executive board. All decisions rendered by the board will be accepted and served as deemed appropriate
8. Physical violence will not be tolerated!
   1. This is grounds for automatic ejection from MLSA Assoc.
   2. This is also grounds for automatic ejection from MLSA Assoc. indefinitely.
   3. Any physical aggression towards an umpire or any league official will result in player or manager suspensions indefinitely from MLSA and the Park District. There are no exceptions!
   4. Any ballplayer involved in an altercation, verbal or physical, prior to, during, or following the game will be ejected for the remainder of the season after the incident has been investigated by the MLSA Executive Board
   5. All incidents will be investigated on an individual basis and on facts related to such event.
9. Obscenities and racist language will not be allowed or tolerated
   1. The use of obscenities will result in ejection from the game
   2. Continuation of said behavior can be grounds for suspension for the remainder of the season
10. Managers will be held liable for the discipline of their players with possibilities of suspension and fines
11. Major infractions are considered severe misconduct and will result in ejection from the game. The player and/or manager in question will automatically serve a two-game suspension and can or will be subject to temporary or permanent suspension from the league. If the infraction results in suspension for the remainder of the season and is committed after the first half of the season is completed, the suspension will carry over to the next season. Major infractions are considered a violation as to bring discredit to the League and will not be tolerated under any circumstance!
    1. Fighting: any player or manager involved in a hostile encounter or the physical striking of another player, umpire, or spectator, can be suspended for the remainder of the season after a board inquiry
    2. Bat throwing: any batter who intentionally throws his bat as a show of anger or disagreement or for any other reason and that action results in injury to another person will be ejected and automatically be suspended for the remainder of the season
    3. Taunting: any player or manager communicating with another player, manager, umpire, league official, or spectator in a demeaning manner (for example, using improper names or making fun of another's physical appearance or nationality or capabilities and this provoking results in a physical encounter) will be suspended for the remainder of the season
    4. Sliding: sliding into another player to intentionally cause injury; player must slide directly to the intended base (slide or surrender rule)
    5. Ball throwing: intentionally throwing a ball into the opposing team dugout to cause injury
    6. Ramming: intentionally ramming into another player to block a play
    7. Smoking, vaping and or using illegal substances and drinking alcoholic beverages by any person that has signed an MLSA contract. Smoking and/or drinking alcohol in view of general public before, during and after games is strictly prohibited by the  Park District, and the Major League Softball Association in and around the league fields and facilities can and will incur disciplinary action by the League. All uniforms with league patches and symbols signifying membership in this organization must be removed while in public view. Each case will be reviewed individually to determine the extent of the suspension
       1. Smoking cigarettes or vapes in the dugout is strictly prohibited with a warning and a one-game suspension. This is for non-smoker protection.
12. Minor infractions will result in a player or manager being ejected from a game. However, the said manager will be eligible to resume play in the next scheduled game. Players will serve 2 games. Ex. Unsportsmanlike Conduct!
    1. Minor infractions include but are not limited to disagreement with the umpire, arguing a call
    2. Repeatedly or constantly questioning the strike zone, arguing with other players, managers, or spectators, taunting without physical altercation, illegal pitching
    3. Umpires can apply an ejection after one warning
    4. Umpires will determine, at their discretion, whether a warning is warranted depending on the nature of the infraction
    5. Umpires will determine if the infraction also warrants upgrading to major suspension
    6. Exception to the above — if a player or manager incurs a second minor infraction during the season, a three-game suspension with fine will apply. If a third minor infraction is incurred by the same person, said person will be suspended from the league for the remainder of the season
    7. Suspension example for player:  1^st suspension= 2 games, 2^nd suspension= 3 games+$fine, 3^rd suspension= out for the season with no appeal
    8. All criminal activity occurring before, during, and after MSLA league games will be handled by the proper city authorities after being notified by league officials

Section 4. Fines, Forfeits, and Player Eligibility

1.  Illegal players used in a game will result in an immediate forfeit
   1. An illegal player is defined as one of the following
      1. A player who does not appear on the official team roster, including pitchers who are not ranked to play a position
      2. A player who has failed to sign a supervision agreement after being notified
      3. A player who is listed as inactive or not eligible to play in any of the Park District or MLSA league must sign a contract for one year and cannot play in other Park District leagues
      4. A player who is currently suspended by any mentioned league within the Park District
2. All contracts are valid only when signed by Chief Executive Officer
3. Any player who signs two contracts with two teams in MLSA and their contract is submitted with no agreement amongst the involved managers will result in that player being suspended from the league for the rest of the year
4. If a player decides not to play any longer with a team after signing a contract, the contract will remain with the MLSA Board, and he/she can no longer play for any other team for the remainder of the year. If found playing in another league the Commisioner has denied participation in, that player will be suspended the following year. (2 years, the current year and the next.) Player must also pay any team or league fees owed
5. Managers are responsible for ensuring all their players know these rules
   1. Any player who claims that these rules were not explained to them will still face their said suspension
   2.  Plus, a fine of $100.00 for manager carelessness.
   3.  If fines are not paid by the next game start, the team will forfeit that game and any future games until the fine is paid
6. NO unsportsmanlike conduct, no fighting, nor physical contact/altercations with players or umpires will be tolerated. THIS RULE HAS A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY. Game will be automatically forfeited by the offending team.
7.  If a team forfeits a scheduled game said team manager will pay the umpires fee of $70. Three games forfeited by said team, will required same to pay the league $300.00 before their next game

Article IX. Scorekeeping

 

Section 1. Rules for Scorekeeping

1. The MLSA will use GameChanger for the 2024 season. If not used, game will result in a forfeit. * Scoresheets only for 2025 season
2. Only in the event there is an issue with technology or an emergency, a paper score sheet may be used
   1. If scoresheet is used it must be signed by the umpire and manager has till Tuesday to enter the scores in Gamechanger. Paper sheet will then be submitted to league by the following Sunday. Failure to follow this procedure will result in team players not getting the appropriate game stats and game qualifications for playoffs and could forfeit said game
3. No team is permitted to edit plays after the game has ended
   1. Any errors that must be corrected should be communicated to the CEO who will correct the errors. League CEO will ensure that all stats manipulations are in compliance and accurate
4. Each team is only permitted to have three individuals as staff on their team
   1. The manager, the scorekeeper, and backup
5. All scorekeepers and backups must sign an MLSA contract
6. If a scorekeeper is not sure how to score a play, they must ask the Umpire and both teams must record that ruling

 

Article X. Field, Game, & Game Play

 

Section 1. Field

1. Games will be held every Sunday with the following stipulations:
   1. No grace period given on Saturday games. Games start at 6:00 PM for Makeup games.
   2. Double headers will be played on Sunday unless otherwise indicated by league officials.
   3. The second game of the double header will begin 15 minutes after the completion of the first game.
   4. if the first game on Sunday has been forfeited, the second game will be forfeited 30 minutes later.
   5. Saturday night games at any league park will start at 6:00 PM and if either team is not prepared to play by 6:20 PM, the game will be forfeited
2. Bases will be set up as follows:
   1. For the men's division:
      1. 65 feet distance between each base starting at home plate
      2. The mound will be set 46 feet and 6 inches from home plate with carpet
      3. Second base will be set 91 feet and 11 inches from home plate
      4.  Home plate: white body and black edges
      5.  Circle around pitchers’ mound is 8’ radius
   2. For the women’s division
      1. 60 feet distance between each base starting at home plate
      2.  The mound will be set 43 feet and 6 inches from home plate with carpet
      3. Second base will be set 84 feet and 10 inches from home plate
      4.  Home plate: white body and black edges
      5.  Circle around pitchers’ mound is 8’ radius
3. The home team will have the field first for 20 minutes then the visiting team will have the field for the next 20 minutes. All warmups must be completed 5 mins prior to game start
4.  Managers must work together to ready the field for play
   1. The home team is responsible for base setup and must have bases and equipment available for setup.
   2. The visiting team must also have bases and equipment ready and available for setup as a backup
   3. Last team on the field will pickup bases and secure pitching carpet with spikes

Section 2. Game Play

1. Any games delayed or suspended by inclement weather will be rescheduled during the next league meeting
2. The MLSA executive board and/or the umpire of that specific game, are authorized to suspend any official games before or during the game
3. Managers are not authorized to change any game times or dates after that have been listed in the schedule of the league without the consent of the Commissioner and or Dir of Operations
4. MLSA will provide two new softballs before the games begin
   1. In the event the two softballs become unusable during the game,
   2. The home team provides the next (3^rd) ball and
   3. The visiting team provides the ball after (4^th) and
   4. This pattern will continue for the duration of the game
5.  Games are deemed “Complete” after 5 innings or, 4 ½ if the home team is leading
6. If a team drops from the league during the season all their games will be canceled and any games already played will be subtracted from all team records, season, and league standings 
7. A first and a third base coach are required at their respective positions when the batter steps into the batter's box, is ready to bat and takes a pitch
   1. If either coach is not present, the current batter is automatically out
   2. This must be pointed out by the opposing team
   3. Player must be called out by the Umpire upon becoming aware
8. An On-Deck batter is required to be in the On-Deck Circle when the current batter steps into the batter’s box
   1. If the On-Deck batter is not present in the On-Deck circle, the current batter is automatically out
   2. An On-Deck batter does not have to be the next player in the lineup as long as someone, another player, is present in the on-deck circle
11. One DH is allowed in the lineup if the team chooses to have one with the following stipulations:
    1. Only the pitcher is allowed to have a DH.
    2. The DH can switch with any position player on the field at any time during the game.
    3. MLSA can use the DH for a pitcher (9 batters). The DH can also replace the pitcher. If the DH plays position, the pitcher, if classified as part of the 50 points, will then hit for himself in the spot of the player who was removed. The DH will stay in the same spot in the batting lineup.
    4.  If you change the pitcher, you do not have to change the DH, you can keep the same DH batting for the new pitcher.
    5.  DH cannot be removed from the batting order, just replaced by another hitter.
    6. If you take the pitcher out of the pitching position and put him to play another position then the pitcher (now position) must bat for himself (if classified in the 50 points). If you take a position player and put him to pitch, the DH is lost. As a result everyone in the game hits for themselves.
12. One Extra Hitter
    1. Each team is allowed one extra hitter in the line-up.
    2. The extra hitter can NOT play the field under any circumstances or at no point of the game.
    3. If a player gets ejected from a game and you do not have 9 position players then you lose by forfeit, EH cannot play field for ejected players.
    4. The EH may only enter the game to prevent forfeit for injured players
       1. Example: A team only has 10 total players including the EH a player who is playing a position gets injured, a manager may put the EH in for the injured player to avoid a forfeit
       2. The EH will bat in their same position in the lineup when the injured player is up in the lineup it is an out
    5. If a player is injured and you are unable to make a substitution it is an out when injured player is up to bat
    6.  It is the Managers option to use the EH!
13. Re-entry of a player is not allowed once that player has been taken out of the game
14. Teams will be allowed to use one courtesy runner per inning, off the bench and same runner only once per inning, at any time and any pitch count
    1. Teams will be allowed to use a courtesy runner for the catcher to help speed up play as follows:
       1. When there are already 2 outs in the inning.
       2. This courtesy runner must be someone from the bench
       3. Who has not already played in the game and is not currently playing in the game
15.  Runners are not allowed to take a lead before the pitcher's release to the plate
    1. If the catcher tries to catch a runner off the base, the ball is considered live until the pitcher receives the ball within the eight-foot circle around the pitcher's mound after runners have re-tagged all bases
    2.  Runners cannot steal on throws back to the pitchers mound

Section 3. Game Play

1. Umpire's calls on hits or errors are final and will be reflected in the scoresheet
2. The men’s division will play 7 innings with a 2-hour time limit
3. The women’s division will play 7 innings with a 2-hour time limit
4. All playoff games will be 7 innings
5. The men’s division is only permitted to have a maximum of 10 players
   1. 9 position players and 1 EH
6. The women’s division is permitted to have a short center or fourth outfielder (not infield)
   1. 11 players maximum for the women’s division
   2. 10 position players 1 EH
7. Any team leading the scoring by 12 runs by the 5^th inning will automatically win by the Mercy Rule
   1. The Mercy Rule is not in effect during the playoffs unless the managers agree for player safety
8.  There are no stealing bases in MLSA gameplay. You can tag-up and advance from any base at your own risk. Dead-Ball will be called by the official when the ball is with the pitcher within the pitcher’s mound circle or called by the umpire. MLSA will consider for 2025 stealing bases with bases moved to 70 feet.
9. Bunting of any kind or slap-hits/bunts are not allowed
10. Batter hit by a pitch will be called a ball except if the batter intentionally tries to contact the ball. Batter hit a second time in the same at bat will recieve a ball count and pitcher is to recieve a warning. Third hit will be a walk to batter and pitcher ejected for the current game. Three ejections for hitting batters will be consideration for the pitcher to be ejected from playoffs or season.
11. Overthrows. All overthrows are awarded one from the last base earned at the point of release. The last base earned will be at the discretion of the umpire (one base from anywhere).
12. When the ball leaves the playing field by way of the damaged fence along the first line, third base line and back stop the ball will be declared dead by the umpire and runners will be awarded the base they would have reached with no extra effort
13.  Double plays are Slide or Surrender rules
14. Under no circumstances will running into the catcher be allowed! Catcher must not block the base path and final call will be at the umpires’ discretion. Example: A runner running from third to home plate may slide into home or run through the plate, but there shall be no trunk-to-trunk contact between the runner and the catcher. Any violations of this rule will result in an immediate ejection with no protest
15.  One offensive timeout per inning, pitchers’ regular two visit limit for managers and/or base coaches
16.  Three defensive timeouts per game
17. No fake tags at any base the Umpire will call this as defensive interference
18. Orange safety bags are allowed. If home team uses the orange safety base runner must tag orange bag not the white bag
19. In the event of a forfeit game the winning team will be credited a score of 7-0. Teams must field 8 players to start a game. Each player will be credited with one hit. The scheduled pitcher will be awarded the win. Forfeiting team will be fined the cost of the umpire’s fee
20. Players must use a softball glove. Only the catcher and first baseman may use mitts. Pitchers cannot use a white/bright color glove
21. There will be retag and run from all bases on fly balls
22. Defensive shifts are allowed in MLSA
23. For the 2025, season all teams must vacate the park after their games. This rule is being instituted for safety reasons
24. Mar 23, 2018 — The California Tie-Breaker works as follows: If, at the end of regulation (6, 7, or 9 innings), the game is tied, each team begins their half of the extra ...
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    How it works:Runner on Second:.At the start of each extra inning, each team begins their half-inning with a runner on second base. The runner on second is typically the last batter who made an out in the previous inning. The inning begins with one out already counted, so the team only has two outs to work with. The batting order continues from where it left off in the previous inning. 
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Section 1. Pitching Regulations

1. MLSA is a 10-man modified pitching league (instruction on pitching addendum)
   1. The ball must not be released six inches from the hip with the wrist inside. Backswing cannot be higher than the shoulder. Therefore no slingshot or windmill pitching is allowed.
   2. When an illegal pitch is thrown the ball is dead, runners advance one base and the batter is awarded a ball.
   3. On the first illegal pitch a warning will be handed out
   4. On the second illegal pitch player will be removed from the game
   5.  If the pitcher is removed three times for illegal pitching, he will not be allowed to pitch in playoffs but can remain to play a position with the team
   6. Pitchers must have two feet on the mound and within the limits of the mound and use a forward motion to make a pitch
   7.  Pitchers are allowed 5 warm up tosses to start a game.
   8.  Pitchers are allowed 3 warm up tosses to start a new inning.
   9. Balls and strikes will be called by the umpires after all extra pitches.
   10. New pitchers entering a game as relief can warm up (umpire's discretion). No warmups if the pitcher was already in the lineup playing.
   11. After umpire calls “Batter up,” balls and strikes will be called if batter delays gameplay and has not received a timeout from umpire.
        

Section 2. Pitching Mechanics

1. Shoulders must be square with home plate to start
2. Arm must be straight out at his release point. 
3. Arm must not extend above the shoulder. 90 degree rule
4. Umpires cannot see the numbers on the back of their uniforms. 
5. Pitchers cannot make any kind of contact with their body, while delivering the pitch. 
6. Pitchers do not need to present the ball before the pitch is thrown.
7.  Both feet must contact rubber to start. 
8. Pitchers can't pitch from the side of the rubber. 
9. Pitchers cannot wear any long sleeve (white) shirt while pitching. 
10. Pitchers cannot wear any form of wrap on or around the arm unless he has a note from the doctor.
11.  No jewelry or du-rags
12. Everything must go forward, no step back allowed. Lean back is allowed
13. Elbow and wrist locked at bottom on release.
14. Arm not away from body (6” rule). NO SIDEARM.
15. Arm must not hit the body on the way down or after release.
16. Pitcher is only allowed to bring arm up to shoulder level only on the back swing.
17. No penalty on hand backspinning or curving ball upon release
18. The MLSA will use the pitching turf carpet on a trial bases for the 2024 season. Equipment will be used as instructed at Horner Park
19. 1) both feet have to be inside the mound - separate from middle line corresponding to the matt
    2) cannot cross lead foot across back foot over the center line staying opening when you land
    3) Upon finishing you must land with feet and shoulders square

 

Section 3. Pitching Example Per ASA/USA Rules

RULE 6 – PITCHING REGULATIONS (MODIFIED PITCH) Section

1. Before starting the delivery (pitch), the pitcher shall comply with the following:
2. The pitcher may not take the pitching position on the pitcher’s plate without having the ball in his possession.
3. The pitcher shall not be considered in the pitching position unless the catcher is in position to receive the pitch.
4. The pitcher shall take a position with both feet in contact with the pitcher’s plate. Both feet must be on the ground within the 24-inch length of the pitcher’s plate. The shoulders shall be in line with first and third bases.
5.  While on the pitching plate, the pitcher shall take the signal or appear to be taking a signal with the hands separated. The ball must remain in either the glove or pitching hand.
6.  The pitcher shall hold the ball in both hands for not less than one second and not more than 10 seconds before releasing it, and both feet must always remain in contact with the pitching plate prior to the forward step.

 Section 2. STARTING THE PITCH.

7. The pitch starts when one hand is taken off the ball after the hands have been placed together.

Section 3. LEGAL DELIVERY.

8. The pitcher must not make any motion to pitch without immediately delivering the ball to the batter.
9.  The pitcher must not use a pitching motion in which, after having the ball in both hands in the pitching position, the pitcher removes one hand from the ball and returns the ball to both hands.
10.  The pitcher shall not make a stop or reversal of the forward motion after separating hands.
11.  The pitcher may take the ball behind the back on the back swing.
12.  The pitcher must not use a windmill or slingshot-type pitch or make a complete revolution in the delivery.
13. Position of the ball: 1. Restriction on the backward swing (shoulder height) or on the downward motion and during the complete delivery.
14. The delivery must be an underhanded motion with the hand below the hip and the pitcher’s palm may be pointing downward.
15.  Arm, shoulder, hip:
16. The shoulders and driving hip must be squared to home plate when the ball is released. Diagram below:
17. On the forward swing of the pitching arm, the elbow must be locked at the point of release, and the shoulders and driving hip must be squared to home plate when the ball is released.
18.  The release of the ball must be on the first forward swing of the pitching arm past the hip. The release must have a complete, smooth follow-through with no abrupt stop of the arm near the hip.
19. In the act of delivering the ball, the pitcher must take one step simultaneous with the release of the ball. The step must be forward and toward the batter within the 24-inch length of the pitcher’s plate. The stepping foot must be pointed toward home plate and must not touch the ground in front of, or cross over a straight line between the pivot foot and home plate. It is not a step if the pitcher slides the pivot foot across the pitcher’s plate; provided contact is maintained with the plate. Raising the foot off the pitching plate and returning it to the plate creates a rocking motion and is illegal.
20.  Pushing off with the pivot foot from a place other than the pitcher’s plate is illegal.
21.  The pitcher shall not deliberately drop, roll, or bounce the ball to prevent the batter from hitting it.
22.  The pitcher has 20 seconds to release the next pitch after receiving the ball or after the umpire indicates “play ball”.
23. MLSA reserves the right to implement any equipment to assist pitchers and umpires in maintaining correct pitching style.

Section 4. INTENTIONAL WALK.

10. A. If the pitcher desires to walk a batter intentionally, all live play stops and the batter can advance to 1^st immediately. 

Section 5. DEFENSIVE POSITIONING.

25. A. The pitcher shall not deliver a pitch unless all defensive players are positioned in fair territory except the catcher who must be in the catcher’s box.
26.  A fielder shall not take a position in the batter’s line of vision or, with deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, act in a manner to distract the batter. A pitch does not have to be released. The offending player shall also be warned and could be ejected from the game if action continues.

 Section 6. FOREIGN SUBSTANCE.

1.  Any defensive player, including and especially the pitcher, shall not, at any time during the game be allowed to use any foreign substance upon the ball. Only approved ASA/USA chalk bags by pitcher can be used after said is shown to the umpire with its original plastic bag. Said item must be maintained in pitchers’ pockets. All other substances will be immediate grounds for a forfeit by offending team

 

Article XII. Awards

 

Section 1. Award details

1. MLSA is a travel league where finances permit as part of the championship prize. MLSA is not a tournament-style “win the cash pot” league.
2. At the end of the MLSA season league awards will be given to said categories:
3.  Regular Season:
   1. Pitcher (8 games min)
   2. Batting Avg. (75% of all AB to qualify)
   3. Home Runs
   4. Defensive Player (Manager’s selection)
   5. Rookie of the Year
   6. Humanitarian Award (Board)
4.  Championship Series:
   1.  Pitcher & MVP (Board)
5. Championship:
   1.  2^nd Place Trophy, 1^st Place Trophy
6. The Championship team will receive one hundred dollars per player towards rings for a total of up to 25 players and the manager
7. Champions will also receive a trip, if and only finances permit. If championship members are unable to go on the trip, they may be given the cash value equal to the airfare amount based on an amount to be determined and paid for traveling members
8. The remaining funds after awards are given and after the Board of Directors ensure that all league expenses are paid will use any remaining funds to a charity of the Leagues choosing
9. While traveling with the league the league code of conduct and house rules will still apply to all who are attending
10. Final year end stats and classification lists with new contracts will be available after the postseason
11. Only players that finish the full season on the winning team are eligible for travel or cash award. The league will note final roster members at the end of the regular season.
12. Travel parameters: $150 per night, double occupancy of two team members only for three nights while airfare allocation is subject to market conditions and funding
13. The league does not pay or makes arrangements for any “plus one” travelers that choose to travel with the league and/or members
14. No ground transportation is provided
15. League members must travel when commitments are finalized. Any travel cancelations will result in members only recieving paid airfare voucher. Members can also request to make their own accommodations and will recieve the amount as stated in the travel parameters above. Members that do not travel with league and do not return to MLSA are not entitled to championship rings and all items listed above

 

 

These rules are the official House Rules of the Major League Softball Association for the 2024 season ratified on 5/18/24, approved by the Executive Board and League Managers

 

Executive Board:

 

Luis Jimenez, CEO

Julie Jimenez, CFO

Lucas Serrano, VP

 

Board of Directors:

 

Luis Jimenez, Commissioner

Lucas Serrano, Director of Officiating

Lucas Serrano, Director of Marketing and Mass Media

 

Men’s League Managers:

 

Javier Crespo Jr., Arecibo

Eddie Jimenez, Juncos Jays

Uver Sanchez, Arepa Express

Nathaniel Vera, Coamo

Ricardo Narvaez, Thunder

 

 

Women’s League Managers:

 

Sydalie Calderon, Legends

Ana Frenchi, Stitches

Stephanie DeJesus, The Sandlot

Tiffany Jimenez, Juncos Jays

Diana Rios, Islenas

 

 

 

MLSA House Rules in Spanish

 

Reglas de la Cámara

 

 

Asociación de Softbol de Grandes Ligas

Reglas de la Cámara

2025

 

Nota: Todas las siguientes reglas se aplican a las divisiones de hombres y mujeres, a menos que se indique claramente lo contrario.

 

 

Artículo I. Nombre y propósito

 

Sección 1. El nombre de esta organización será la Asociación de Softbol de Grandes Ligas a la que se hace referencia en este documento como la MLSA, o la Liga. MLSA ofrece una opción competitiva para que los equipos jueguen en nuestra liga donde puedan jugar softbol, ​​pero también ser miembros activos de las comunidades en las que jugamos.

Sección 2. Ni el Ministerio de Asuntos Sociales ni ninguno de sus miembros o afiliados discriminarán por motivos de sexo, raza, etnia, origen nacional, religión, credo, discapacidad, veteranos o estado civil, edad, condición parental, condición social, orientación sexual, expresión de género o identidad de género. No cumplir con esto resultará en la retirada inmediata de la liga

Sección 3. La Asociación de Softbol de Grandes Ligas tiene una política de tolerancia cero para la agresión y acoso sexual. Cualquier miembro que cometa estos actos será expulsado de la liga de inmediato e informará a las autoridades municipales.

 

 

Artículo II. Junta de Directores, Junta Ejecutiva y miembros de la Junta

 

Sección 1. Junta Ejecutiva

a. Director General: Luis Jiménez

b. Directora Financiera: Julie Jiménez

do. Director de Operaciones: Eddie Del Valle

Sección 2. Consejo de Administración

Comisionado: Luis Jiménez
Director de Personal de Jugador y Suboficial: Freddie Molina
Director de Oficio: Eddie Del Valle
Director de Marketing y Medios de Comunicación: Lucas Serrano

Sección 3. Miembros de la Junta

Gestores de equipo / Propietarios
Todos los gerentes del equipo en la MLSA son los miembros oficiales electorales de la liga que votan para crear o eliminar la política en la jugabilidad de la liga con la aprobación final del Comisionado.
Sólo un representante, ya sea el Gerente o Propietario, puede votar en un solo momento, a esa persona se le otorgará privilegios de hablar en esa reunión.
Durante la temporada, los encuentros de liga se celebrarán todos los lunes por la noche a menos que la Junta Ejecutiva de la Liga se lleve a cabo de otra manera. Cada equipo debe tener un representante presente en cada reunión.
La Junta Ejecutiva se reserva el derecho de agregar adiciones a las normas que pueden afectar la seguridad o la reputación, eliminar las normas por el mismo razonamiento o tomar cualquier decisión sobre los desafíos a cualquier norma.
Representante de Jugador o Capitán del Equipo
Sólo actúa como miembro de la junta directiva y votante al representar al Gerente en una reunión de la Liga en su ausencia. Si no votan en ausencia de un miembro de la junta, no tienen privilegios de voto
Responsable de llevar las preocupaciones de los jugadores a la Junta
A lo largo de la temporada se desarrollarán nuevas funciones y responsabilidades.

 

 

Sección 1. Responsabilidades financieras

Las Tarifas de Liga no son reembolsables al 28 de febrero de 2025, fecha oficial de cierre de la MLSA
Si un equipo desea retirarse después de esta fecha, no habrá reembolsos proporcionados al equipo.
Cualquier equipo que se inscriba en la División de Hombres de la MLSA deberá pagar $X,XXX, la cuota de franquicia establecida para la División de Hombres, para la fecha límite final para los pagos 15 de abril de 2025.
Cualquier equipo que se inscriba en la División de Mujeres de MLSA deberá pagar $X,XXX, la cuota de franquicia establecida para la División de Mujeres de MLSA, para la fecha final de vencimiento del 15 de abril de 2025.
Los gerentes y jugadores deben estar libres de deudas con la liga y otras ligas que participan en los distritos de Chicagoland Park y suburbios para el 15 de abril de 2025.
Esto incluye, pero no se limita a las deudas de las comisiones y todas las sanciones.
Los gerentes son responsables de las Tarifas de Franquicia y las sanciones descritas en la sección de penalización de este libro de reglas.
MLSA es una liga de softbol amateur y no es responsable de pagar salarios a los jugadores o proporcionar empleos a lo mismo. La Liga no reconocerá a ningún miembro o gerente/propietario que se dedique a dichos negocios y esté sujeto a sanciones de la Liga. Cualquier jugador conocido que haya jugado universitario, ligas menores o profesionalmente es un jugador de 4 puntos. Dicho jugador pagado debe ser dos (2) años removido de ligas menores o profesionales.
Todas las transacciones de dinero dentro de la Liga deben realizarse a través del Oficial Financiero Jefe de la MLSA a menos que el Director General designe lo contrario.

 

Artículo IV. Requisitos de participación

 

Sección 1. Nuevos equipos

Las solicitudes de entrada en la liga se tendrán en cuenta durante las reuniones de i

invierno. Se necesita un voto mayoritario por parte de los miembros de la junta directiva de los equipos activos de la liga y resultará en la expansión de la liga. No obstante, un equipo nuevo recibirá forma de prueba durante un año.
Una segunda mayoría de equipos activos (el invierno siguiente) resultará en que un equipo se convertirá en un miembro de pleno derecho de la liga. Una vez un miembro de pleno derecho, una votación de 2/3 de los equipos activos es necesaria para terminar una relación de negocio con la liga.
Si un gerente es expulsado o suspendido, recibirá una suspensión de un juego, así como una multa. Si recibe tres suspensiones de su equipo será considerado un nuevo equipo cuando llegue el momento de votar para confirmar un equipo para la próxima temporada.

Sección 2. Requisitos de equipo para todos los equipos

Aparte de los requisitos financieros descritos anteriormente, es obligatorio que los miembros participen en todas las funciones y actividades de la liga.
El incumplimiento incumplido de la participación resultará en una multa para todos los que no estén presentes.
El Comisario determinará el nivel fino más la suspensión.
Cada mánager es responsable de los honorarios de la liga adeudados por su equipo específico.
El contrato de un jugador de pelota está obligado a jugar en la MLSA y es válido por una temporada.
Todos los contratos son válidos sólo cuando lo firma el CEO
Los jugadores no pueden firmar dos contratos dentro de la MLSA. Si dos directivos tienen un conflicto de contrato, ese jugador será suspendido por la temporada. Si un jugador firma en otra liga de softbol similar de 12", el jugador puede ser inelgable para jugar en MLSA
Todos los contratos estarán en manos de la junta directiva de la MLSA hasta la siguiente temporada.
Los equipos masculinos tienen hasta el 28 de febrero para reclutar jugadores; primero el contrato de un jugador debe ser aprobado por la junta directiva de la liga para que el jugador participe; Después de esa fecha, las listas se cerrarán.
Los equipos femeninos tienen hasta el 28 de febrero para reclutar jugadores; primero debe ser aprobado por la junta directiva de la liga para que el jugador participe; Después de esa fecha, las listas se cerrarán.
Los mánagers que han sido eliminados de los playoffs no están autorizados a reclutar o fichar jugadores para la temporada 2026 que todavía están jugando en los playoffs.
Cualquier gerente que viole estas normas tendrá las consecuencias apropiadas de la Junta Ejecutiva.

 

Sección 3. Clasificaciones de los jugadores

Las listas de equipos constarán de un máximo de 25 jugadores y deben ser Aprobados por el Comisionado de la MLSA.
La sección de Clasificación de Jugadores y la sección de Elegibilidad de Playoffs se aplicarán a la división de Hombres y Mujeres para la temporada 2025.
La temporada 2022 es la temporada inaugural de la División de Mujeres, debido a esto la División de Mujeres se adhiere a la sección de Clasificación de Jugadoras y la sección de Elegibilidad de Playoffs que comienza la temporada 2023.
Las clasificaciones de jugadores para la División de Hombres/Mujeres son las siguientes:
Los jugadores se clasificarán en un sistema de puntos de 1-5
Los jugadores reciben puntos para Batting for Average, Batting for Power (SLG), Glove, Arm y Velocidad
Para recibir un punto de Bateo por Promedio deben golpear más de .450-M (425-W) en la temporada 2025
Los jugadores recibirán un punto para Bateo para Power si su porcentaje de slugging fue de más de .500-M (450-W) en la temporada 2025
Los jugadores recibirán un punto para cada uno: guante, brazo y/o velocidad en base a la prueba ocular y la historia del juego pasado para la temporada 2025 en conjunción con la aprobación final del Comisionado
El Comisionado de la Liga tiene la última palabra sobre todas las clasificaciones.
Nuevos jugadores de pelota que son desconocidos para los directivos y la junta ejecutiva clasificarán automáticamente un 2.5
Ganadores individuales de títulos de la liga MLSA, ex: bateador avg., jonrones, récords de pitcheo y MVPs de la liga serán premiados con medio punto para su número de clasificación de jugadores y se quedarán con el jugador cada año que participe en la Liga.
Las clasificaciones en las listas de los equipos consistirán en un máximo de:
50 puntos
Para los equipos de la MLSA que estuvieron presentes para la temporada 2023 y en
Debes adherirse a los siguientes rankings para los jugadores de posición.
Tres jugadores que están clasificados como un número 5.
Cinco jugadores que están clasificados como un número 4.
Dos jugadores que están clasificados como un número 2,5.
Los ganadores individuales (Jugadores de Impacto) de los títulos de la liga MLSA, ex: bateo avg., jonrones, récords de pitcheo y MVP de

la liga serán premiados con un medio punto para su número de clasificación de jugadores y permanecerán en los registros de la liga en el futuro.
Para nuevos equipos
Para calificar como un nuevo equipo puede que no tenga más de cuatro jugadores de pelota conocidos para la junta ejecutiva o gerentes.
Esto incluye jugadores que han jugado en nuestra liga, así como cualquier otra liga con la que los gerentes pueden estar familiarizados con
Los nuevos equipos sólo pueden tener un máximo de 50 puntos; Sin embargo, se les permite tener más de dos jugadores clasificados como .
La clasificación para lanzadores será la siguiente.
A que se otorgará a los jugadores que lancen a nivel de élite en nuestra liga
Que se otorgará a los lanzadores que lancen a un excelente nivel en nuestra liga
C que se otorgará a los lanzadores que lancen a un gran nivel en nuestra liga
D que será otorgado a lanzadores que son etiquetados como desarrollo
Los lanzadores deben ser clasificados como lanzador de desarrollo por un mínimo de dos temporadas en nuestra liga.
Los equipos pueden tener las siguientes combinaciones de pitcheo.
Un lanzador, dos lanzadores, dos lanzadores, dos lanzadores de C, un lanzador de la D
Dos lanzadores, tres lanzadores de C, un lanzador de D.
Cuatro lanzadores de C, un lanzador de la D
Todos
Todos los D.
Los jugadores de posición que también son un lanzador conocido y no fueron incluidos en la lista de lanzamiento final no es elegible para lanzar durante la temporada 2025.
Los lanzadores que se dualizan como lanzador y Jugador de Posición deben ser calificados usando el sistema de clasificación del jugador y aplicado. al total de 50 puntos
Los equipos tendrán un máximo de cinco lanzadores para los playoffs después de las combinaciones listadas arriba
La clasificación de lanzadores de la MLSA requerirá una revisión histórica de las estadísticas y actuaciones en otras ligas y/o clasificaciones en otras ligas de softbol comparables de 12o. El Comisionado de la MLSA hará la clasificación final de lanzadores.

Sección 4: Elegibilidad del playoff

Los jugadores de posición están obligados a jugar un mínimo de ocho de los dieciséis partidos programados para la temporada 2025.
Tres outs y/o un en el bate que un jugador está presente en un juego pueden constituir una apariencia de juego
Los lanzadores deben lanzar un mínimo de ocho juegos.
Un bateador puede constituir una apariencia de juego.
Los lanzadores que se doblan como lanzador y Jugador de Posición deben jugar un mínimo de ocho juegos.
Seis juegos deben ser como lanzador.
Dos partidos deben ser como jugador de posición.
Cortesía corrida no cuenta como una aparición de juego para la elegibilidad para los playoffs
Esta adición sirve para proporcionar claridad a la sección 4a. del artículo IV, inciso i. Una entrada que un jugador está presente en un juego puede constituir una aparición de juego. Como se indica en el 7 de marzo de 2022, los gerentes se encuentran con tres outs y/o un bate constituirá una apariencia de juego. La sección leerá ahora la siguiente manera de reflejar la redacción exacta de lo que se votó en la reunión de los directores.
La Regla del Equipo Nucleus sólo se aplica a un equipo de campeonato defensor. Los equipos podrán defender su título con su mismo equipo durante un año. Sin embargo, si dicho equipo tiene un jugador que regresa que se mueve hacia arriba en el sistema de clasificación para ser un 5 o un 4 y por lo tanto darle al equipo de campeonato que regresa cuatro 5s o seis 4s, el gerente debe elegir qué jugador retener. Si el gerente usa dicha opción, sólo puede elegir uno 5 o uno 4, no ambos. Entonces cualquier nuevo jugador que el gerente quiera agregar sólo puede ser una calificación de 3 o debajo. En general, el equipo debe mantenerse dentro del sistema de 50 puntos. Si este equipo gana de nuevo a los campeonatos, para la tercera temporada dijo que el equipo perderá un 5 y un 4 jugadores clasificados (dos personas) y sólo puede firmar 3s y menos para cualquier jugador nuevo. NOTA: cualquier jugador de 2,5 clasificados será revisado intensamente, investigado y puede estar sujeto a una prueba de tipo combinado. * Nivel de discreción del Comisionado en la temporada 2025

Sección 5. Estado de la reserva lesionado

Cualquier jugador que se lesione dentro o fuera del campo debe proporcionar a la liga una nota de médico especificando su lesión dentro de una (1) semana después de la lesión. La nota de los médicos estará fechada con fecha de lesión y fecha de liberación. Los jugadores que sigan estos pasos serán elegibles para los playoffs, ya que la lesión no se mantendrá en su contra.
Si un jugador se pierde por la temporada debido a una lesión, ese gerente o entrenador no t

iene la oportunidad de llenar el lugar de ese jugador en la lista. El jugador lesionado no puede volver a jugar tras ser declarado fuera de temporada por liga
Todos los primeros en responder y militares tendrán una consideración especial por parte de la Junta Ejecutiva.

Artículo V. Uniformes y equipos

 

Sección 1: Equipo

MLSA usará bates de madera aprobados ASA/USA solamente (Bats debe ser registrados para los playoffs)
Sólo todos los murciélagos de softbol de madera, sin compuesto o bambú
El logotipo de ASA/EE.UU. debe ser exhibido en el murciélago
Los murciélagos no pueden tener más de 34 pulgadas de largo
Los murciélagos no pueden superar las 38 onzas.
El bate oficial no tendrá más de 2.250 pulgadas de diámetro en su parte más grande, incluyendo cualquier tolerancia a la expansión.
Los gerentes serán provistos de una lista aprobada de la marca de murciélagos por sus respectivos comisionados
Softbol para ser utilizado durante la temporada será el CF-12 DeBeer Clincher
Los equipos pueden tener altavoces de música Bluetooth para los calentamientos y en las entradas intermedias durante un juego, pero no deben reproducir música que pueda ser considerada ofensiva y vulgar para otros dentro y alrededor del campo de juego y hacia los miembros no ligas de la comunidad.
La música debe detenerse cuando hay un bateador en la caja listo para tomar un lanzamiento.
Marque todos sus propios equipos; MLSA no es responsable de la propiedad del equipo perdido o extraviado
La música DJ de la Liga supera la música del banco del equipo.

 

Sección 2. Uniforme