Lafayette Little League — Playing Rules & Regulations

Official Rulebook

Lafayette Little League follows the Little League International Rulebook for both baseball and softball. With only a few local exceptions noted below, the official Little League rules govern all play in our league.

All parents, coaches, and volunteers are strongly encouraged to download the free Little League Rulebook App, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. This app is the definitive reference for rules questions throughout the season.

Softball Rules

All Lafayette Little League softball divisions are governed entirely by the Little League International softball playing rules. There are no local rule modifications for softball — the official Little League Rulebook (accessible via the app above) applies in full.

Key Rules to Know (Baseball)

Below are a few commonly asked-about rules that parents and coaches should be familiar with.

Batting Helmets & Face Protection

Little League International does not require batting helmets to include a face mask or C-flap (jaw guard), but all helmets must be NOCSAE-approved. The decision on whether to add a face mask or C-flap is left to each family based on the player's age, skill level, and comfort.

📎 More information on helmet modifications

Curveballs Are Permitted

Little League Baseball officially allows pitchers to throw curveballs at all levels. The decision to teach or throw breaking pitches rests with individual coaches, players, and parents. We encourage families to discuss what is appropriate for their child's physical development and skill level.

📎 Little League article on pitch types and arm safety

No "Must Slide" Rule

Little League does not have a "must slide" rule. Instead, the rule states that a runner must slide or attempt to avoid a fielder who has the ball and is waiting to make a tag. If the fielder does not have the ball and a collision occurs, the runner cannot be called out. However, any runner who deliberately attempts to injure a fielder may be ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct.

📎 More on the slide rule

Lafayette Little League Local Rules (Baseball)

The following are the only areas where Lafayette Little League rules differ from the official Little League Rulebook. In all other cases, the Little League Rulebook App is the definitive guide.

1. Pitch Count Limits

Lafayette Little League enforces pitch count maximums that are more restrictive than Little League International's official limits. (Note: Our mandatory rest requirements match Little League's official rules.)

2. No Run Rule (Mercy Rule)

Lafayette Little League does not adopt the optional 10-run rule. Instead, each division follows these end-of-inning conditions:

3. Minimum Playing Time

Lafayette Little League requires more playing time than the Little League minimum. Every player must play a minimum of nine (9) defensive outs in a six-inning game, and no player may sit for two consecutive innings.

Additional Resources

• 📱 Little League Rulebook App

• ❓ Common Little League Rule Misconceptions: What Parents Need to Know

Questions? Reach out to your team manager or contact league leadership. Our goal is to provide a safe, fun, and positive environment for every player to learn and love the game.