•Game Length
6 innings is a standard game. 4 innings constitutes an official game if weather or time requires early stoppage.
•Runs Per Inning
Maximum of 5 runs per inning. Once a team scores 5 runs, the half-inning ends and teams switch.
•Mercy Rules
Game ends early if one team leads by 11+ runs after 4 complete innings, or by 6+ runs after 5 complete innings.
•Time Limits
No new inning starts after 1 hour 45 minutes. Hard stop at 2 hours regardless of inning. Games in progress when time expires are considered complete.
•Pitch Count
6 pitches maximum per at-bat. If the 6th pitch is fouled off, the batter continues until a fair ball, strike, or walk.
•Batting Order
Continuous batting order - all players on the roster bat in rotation, regardless of fielding positions. No traditional lineup card needed.
•No Bunting
Bunting is not allowed in coach pitch. Batters must take full swings at the ball.
•On-Deck Circle
There is no on-deck circle. Only the current batter may handle a bat. All other players must stay in the dugout until their turn.
•Sliding
Head-first sliding results in an automatic out (except when diving back to a base already occupied). Players must slide feet-first when advancing bases.
•Coach Pitcher
A coach from the batting team pitches to their own players. Must pitch overhand from at least 30 feet away.
•Pitching Form
Coaches should preferably pitch from one knee. Use "dart-like" pitches - firm and accurate, not slow lobs.
•Hit by Batted Ball
If the coach pitcher is hit by a batted ball, it's a dead ball. The batter is awarded first base and all runners advance one base.
•No Leading Off
Runners must stay on their base until the ball is hit by the batter. Leaving early results in the runner being called out.
•No Stealing
Base runners cannot steal bases in coach pitch. Runners advance only on batted balls or awarded bases.
•Sliding or Avoiding
When a fielder with the ball is attempting a tag, runners must either slide OR make a clear attempt to avoid contact. Failure to do so may result in an out call.
•Bats - USABat Standard
All bats must meet USA Baseball's USABat standard (marked with USA Baseball logo). Non-compliant bats are not allowed.
•Helmets
Helmets are required for all batters and base runners at all times. Helmets must be worn properly and remain on until the play is over.
•Cleats
Metal cleats are not allowed. Players must wear molded rubber or plastic cleats, or athletic shoes.
•Catcher Protection
Male catchers must wear a protective cup. All catchers must have a throat protector attached to or built into their mask.
💡 Quick Tips for Coaches
- •Keep a printed copy of these rules in your coaching bag for quick reference during games.
- •Review base running rules with players before each game to prevent confusion.
- •Communicate time limits and mercy rules to parents so they understand game scheduling.
- •Check all equipment before games to ensure compliance with safety requirements.