PIAA Softball Rules

The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association rules follow the standard American Softball Association rulebook and are designed for the safety and enjoyment of all participants. As the sport continues to evolve, there is often a need to update the rules to correct any reoccurring problems or discrepancies. What follows is a summary of some of the rule changes that have occurred in the past year.

Substitution Rule

In situations where the Flex player bats for the Designated Player without first reporting to the umpire, the DP is removed from the game, but is allowed to reenter if she has substitution privileges remaining. The umpire will note the change on the lineup card, and will issue the team a warning. For a second substitution infraction, the unreported player as well as the team's coach will be restricted to the dugout.

Unauthorized Bats

If a team is found to be using bats that contain the 2000 or 2004 ASA certification mark, but do not appear on the non-approved bat list, they are permitted for use as long as each bat has at least the 2004 certification mark.

More Than Three Outs

If play continues after three outs are recorded in an inning due to umpire oversight, all activity that occurred after the third out is nullified, and in the next inning the batting order reverts back to the player who would have batted after the third out.

Eye Shields

Attaching an eye shield to a catcher's helmet is permitted as long as it is constructed of clear, non-tinted material that is molded to the helmet.

Delivering Pitches

The 20-second time frame for when a pitcher must deliver the next pitch begins as soon as the ball is received from the catcher, and the pitcher is required to deliver the pitch when the hands are brought together.

Undergarments

All undergarments such as T-shirts must be of a solid color. Stripes, logos or drawings are not permitted.

Umpires

For all games that are played within the boundaries of Pennsylvania, PIAA umpires must be used, whether an out-of-state team is involved or not. When a PIAA team travels out-of-state, the home state's rules and umpires will be used.