General Rules
- All games will be played under NFHS (National Federation of High School) rules unless otherwise noted.
- Home team is determined by coin flip or schedule designation.
- Teams must be ready to play 30 minutes before scheduled game time.
- Each team must have matching uniforms with visible numbers.
- Metal cleats are permitted for 14U and above.
Game Format
- Pool play games are 7 innings or 1 hour and 45 minutes, whichever comes first.
- Championship bracket games are 7 innings with no time limit.
- Mercy rule: 10 runs after 5 innings, 15 runs after 3 innings.
- International tiebreaker will be used starting in the 8th inning (runner on 2nd base).
Pitching
- Pitch count limits follow applicable state high school rules.
- Teams are responsible for tracking their own pitch counts.
- No re-entry for pitchers who have been removed from the mound.
Lineup & Substitution
- Teams may use a DH (Designated Hitter) or an EH (Extra Hitter) lineup.
- Free substitution for defensive positions only with a standard lineup.
- Courtesy runners are permitted for the pitcher and catcher.
Conduct
- Unsportsmanlike conduct will result in immediate ejection.
- Ejected players/coaches must leave the facility for the remainder of that game.
- Two ejections in a tournament results in removal from the event.
- No alcohol or tobacco products on the playing fields.
Weather & Cancellations
- ScoutBall USA reserves the right to modify schedules due to weather.
- Every effort will be made to complete the guaranteed number of games.
- Games called due to weather after 4 innings are considered complete.
- No refunds for weather-shortened events where minimum games are played.
Protests
- Judgment calls cannot be protested.
- Rule interpretation protests must be made before the next pitch.
- A $100 protest fee is required (refunded if protest is upheld).
Rules are subject to change. Tournament directors reserve the right to make decisions
on any situations not covered above. Contact us with any questions.