Generated by AI.  AI Script admin Vic Silvestri

BABL +38 Division 2026 Second Winter Meeting

• Where: Zoom Remote Meeting (Link to be provided)
• Time: 2/24/26 from 7:30 PM – 8:15 PM
• Agenda:
• Team fees for 2026. Includes field permits, 38+ Division - 18 - 20 games - league fee $3000
• DRAFT 2026 Game schedule update - see attachment
• All schedule updates changes and final approvals go through BABL league President Paul Harrington
• Revisit game rules

Team representatives are present for all teams except the Pirates

1.      Victor Silvestri, (Host) also league advisor

2.      richm71366@gmail.com - Nine

3.      Steve V. _ Astros

4.      Gary V. also 60 division advisor

5.      Daniel Bolton - Nine

6.      Dana L. - Reds

7.      Ike 38 -CARDS also 38 division advisor

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• Draft Schedule Review and Adjustments: Gary led a detailed review of the draft schedule with input from Gary, Dana, Steve, and other coaches, discussing game dates, field availability, rainout contingencies, and the process for making schedule changes before final posting.
• Draft Schedule Structure: Gary explained that the draft schedule consists of 20 games per team, with each team in the five-team division playing every other team five times. The schedule is front-loaded with games primarily on Tuesdays and Thursdays, allowing flexibility for rainouts and rescheduling.
• Field Availability and Permits: Dana noted challenges in securing permits for Saint Peter's field until late August and discussed alternative options such as Libby in Weymouth, which they expect to secure for Tuesday games from late June onward. Adjustments to field assignments will be made as permits are confirmed.
• Rainout and Makeup Game Procedures: The group confirmed that rainouts will be handled by converting the next meeting between affected teams into a doubleheader of two five-inning games, as agreed in a prior in-person meeting. This approach avoids altering the posted schedule and ensures all games are played.
• Posting and Modifying the Schedule: Gary stated that the draft schedule will be posted online for coaches to review, with the understanding that changes can be made over the next two months before the season starts. Coaches are encouraged to check their team schedules and request adjustments as needed.
• Authority for Schedule Changes: Victor clarified that all schedule changes must go through league President Paul Harrington, who has final authority, and that this directive was the reason for the meeting. Coaches can propose changes, but nothing is finalized without Paul's approval.
• Playoff Format and Eligibility Rules: Gary, Dana, Ike, Dan, and other participants discussed playoff scheduling options, player eligibility requirements, and the process for handling exceptions, with input from division advisors and reference to prior agreements.  ADD to +38 Leagues rules for 2026 (Vic)
• Playoff Scheduling Options: The group considered starting playoffs in mid-August, with options for best-of-three or best-of-five series, depending on how the regular season concludes. August and September are available for playoff games, allowing flexibility based on rainouts and team preferences.
• Eligibility Requirements: Eligibility for playoff participation is set at half the regular season games (e.g., 10 games for a 20-game season), with adjustments if the total number of games changes. The group agreed to maintain clear records to avoid disputes over player eligibility. ADD to +38 Leagues rules for 2026 (Vic)
• Attendance Tracking: Coaches discussed the importance of accurately tracking player attendance, including whether to record appearances for both their own and opposing teams. The consensus was that players in uniform who are present should receive credit for attendance, but not those in street clothes. ADD to +38 Leagues rules for 2026 (Vic)
• Handling Exceptions: Dana raised the issue of medical or other exceptions to eligibility rules. Gary explained that, per Paul's directive and a new rule approved at the in-person meeting, exceptions are not allowed, and any playoff eligibility disputes will be decided by a panel of division advisors. ADD to +38 Leagues rules for 2026 (Vic)
• Field Assignments and Alternative Locations: Dana, Steve, and Gary discussed field assignments, challenges with securing permits, and the possibility of using alternative fields such as Libby, Natick High School, and DCR-managed locations.
• Securing Permits: Dana reported difficulties in obtaining permits for Saint Peter's field before late August and outlined plans to pursue permits for other local fields, including Libby in Weymouth, which is expected to be available for Tuesday games from late June.
• Alternative Field Options: Steve and Dana discussed the potential to use Natick High School and DCR-managed fields, with Steve offering to contact connections for access. The group agreed to remain flexible and update field assignments as new options become available.
• Budget and Payment Procedures: Victor reminded coaches about submitting deposits to Paul for field fees and clarified that teams paying for their own permits should deduct those costs from their league payments.
• Deposit Collection: Victor requested that each team send a deposit of at least $500 to Paul to cover upcoming field fees, and Steve confirmed that their team's payment had already been sent and received.
• Permit Reimbursement: Gary clarified that if a team pays for its own field permits, those expenses should be deducted from the amount owed to the league, as the league is responsible for covering permit costs.
• Rules Review and Posting: Victor demonstrated where the current league rules are posted online and confirmed that any changes will be updated on the website for coaches to review.
• Accessing League Rules: Victor showed participants how to access the current rules on the league homepage and noted that the posted rules are from the previous year, with updates to be made as necessary.

Follow-up tasks:

• Schedule Review and Posting: Review the draft schedule and provide feedback or approval so it can be posted online for coaches to review and suggest changes if needed. (All coaches)
• Field Permits and Availability: Confirm field availability and permits for Saint Peter's and other local fields for August, and update the group if alternative fields are secured. (Dana)
• Libby Field Confirmation: Obtain confirmation on Libby field availability for late June onwards and communicate the secured dates to the group. (Dana)
• Libby field DCR Field Options: Contact the DCR representative to inquire about additional field options with lights and report findings to the group. (Dana)

• Playoff Eligibility Rule Clarification: Clarify and communicate the finalized playoff eligibility rule (number of games required, handling of exceptions, and process for disputes) to all teams. (John-Ike (as 38 advisor), Paul, Division Advisors) ADD to +38 Leagues rules for 2026 (Vic)

• Down Payment and Permit Reimbursement: Ensure all teams submit their down payments to Paul and clarify the process for permit reimbursement if a coach pays out of pocket. (All coaches)