Section 7: Violations & Penalties
Kicking Violations
- Bunting: Deliberately stopping or tapping the ball short instead of a full kick results in a foul ball (strike). Repeated intentional bunting may result in an automatic out at the umpire's discretion.
- Double kick: Kicking the ball more than once before it passes a base is an automatic out
- Kicking out of order: If a player kicks out of turn, the at-kick is void and the correct kicker is called; any advance by runners is nullified
- Kicking with the hands or arms: The ball must be kicked with the foot or leg below the knee; using hands is an automatic out
Baserunning Violations
- Leading off: Leaving the base before the ball is kicked results in the runner being called out
- Stealing: Advancing on an unkicked pitch results in the runner being returned to their original base (or called out in some rule sets)
- Running out of the baseline: A runner who deviates more than 3 feet from the direct path between bases to avoid a tag or throw is out
- Interference: A runner who deliberately obstructs a fielder or kicks/swats a thrown ball is out
Fielding Violations
- Headshot: Deliberately throwing the ball at a runner's head or neck is strictly prohibited. If a runner is hit in the head by a thrown ball, the runner is safe and advances one base.
- Obstruction: A fielder who blocks a base or the baseline without possession of the ball commits obstruction; the runner is awarded the base they were advancing to
- Illegal pitch: If the pitcher bounces the ball excessively, throws it in the air, or pitches too fast, it is called a ball
- Encroachment: Fielders (except the catcher) must remain behind the pitching strip until the ball is kicked; violation results in the kicker being awarded first base
Unsportsmanlike Conduct
- Arguing excessively with officials or opponents may result in a warning or ejection
- Intentionally injuring another player results in immediate ejection from the game
- Taunting, profanity, or disrespectful behavior may result in warnings, ejection, or team penalties as determined by the officials or league rules