Little League USA Rules

Rules for 12U (Grade 6-7)

1.     6 Inning game

2.     No new inning starts after 1 hour 45 minutes

3.     12-inch yellow, raised seam ball

4.     Pitch distance: 40 feet, no raised mound

5.     Continuous batting order

6.     Dropped 3^rd strike rule in effect

7.     9 defensive fielders (10 permitted if coaches agree)

8.     Steals after pitcher releases the ball. 1^st early release (team warning), 2^nd early release (runner is out)

9.     5 run cap per team/per inning recommended but, not required.

10.   Mercy rule: 15 runs after 3 full innings, 10 runs after 4 full innings

11.   No infield fly rule

12.   Runner must slide, avoid contact or give up if defensive fielder has ball and is waiting to apply tag at any base except 1^st base. (Runner is out otherwise)

13.   Teams must have 8 players to start a game. Teams may use substitute players from other teams within the same division or call up from lower divisions. Teams may also borrow defensive players from the opposing team to meet minimum requirements.

14.   Substitutions and call-ups shall not pitch

15.   Call-ups must play the outfield and bat last. Substitutions may play any position (except pitcher/catcher) and bat anywhere in the lineup.

16.   Pitchers and Catchers may be pinch run for at any time

17.   Pitchers limited to 3 innings per game (not required to be continuous). Teams are required to play at least 2 pitchers per game. Pitchers must demonstrate ability to throw consistent strikes.

18.   No practice swings are allowed until the player is the current batter. On deck batter does not take practice swings while waiting.

19.   Cheering is permitted and must be positive and supportive of own team and players. There must be silence when the pitcher begins windup.