Softball Rules 4: Appeals & Substitutions

What is an appeal in softball?

A play or rule violation ruled on only when requested by a coach or player.

Can base runners advance during a live ball appeal?

Yes.

Can base runners advance during a dead ball appeal?

No.

When must appeals be made?

Immediately after the third out.

How many players must each team have in the game at all times?

At least 9 players.

What is the maximum number of players a team can start with in the lineup?

10 players (using DP/Flex).

How many times can a starter be replaced and re-entered?

1 time.

Can a substitute who is replaced re-enter the game?

No.

What is a Designated Player (DP)?

A player in the batting order not in the defensive lineup.

What is a Flex player?

A player listed in the defensive lineup only, not in the batting order.

What is a Pinch hitter?

A player inserted into the lineup in place of a batter.

What is a Pinch runner?

A player inserted into the lineup in place of a runner.

How many times can the Flex go into the DP spot?

An unlimited number of times.

What constitutes an improper player?

Batting out of order, inaccurate lineup, unreported change, illegal status, or suspension.

When are substitutes officially in the game?

When the request is made and recorded by the plate umpire.

What happens if a player is removed for a concussion evaluation?

A substitute enters, and if cleared, the player may re-enter without penalty.

what is a live ball appeal

made by a fielder who has a live ball and either tags a runner or touches the base missed / left early

what is a dead-ball appeal

made by a coach or player requesting the umpire to make a decision after time has been called or the ball is dead

where can the pitchers be when requesting a dead ball appeal

the pitching rubber

A runner may not return to touch a base she missed or left early from once:

- she has left the field of play

- a following runner has scored

- time is called, and she is standing on a base beyond the base missed

if your team starts with 9 players, can you use the DP/flex option for the rest of the game?

no

what is a starting player

those players listed in the batting order on the lineup card at the pre-game meeting

what is a substitute player

a player listed on the lineup card but not in the batting order at the pre-game meeting