administrative handbook - Dallas Baseball Alliance

ADMINISTRATIVE HANDBOOK
Includes JR. RBI Handbook
Office of the Commissioner
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
ALLAN H. (BUD) SELIG
Commissioner of Baseball
March 8, 2011
Dear RBI Program Coaches and Administrators:
On behalf of Major League Baseball, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 22nd
season of the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) program.
The commitment
displayed by hundreds of communities around the world makes the RBI program a truly
special endeavor for Major League Baseball.
All of us with Major League Baseball thank you for your dedication and hard work in
providing underserved young people with opportunities to play baseball and
softball. Some participants will have the extraordinary experience of competing in
the 2011 RBI World Series.
Away from the diamond, there are more important virtues to be imparted. I commend
your efforts to encourage academic success and to teach the values of teamwork,
sportsmanship and other important life lessons.
Once again, we are thrilled to
support the “RBI for RBI” Scholarship Fund, which was created by Major League
Baseball to provide college financial support to 12 scholarship recipients who
participate in an RBI league.
Major League Baseball has been delighted to see the reach of the RBI program
expand.
Over the past two years, MLB launched the Jr. RBI playing divisions so
that the program could provide the same opportunities to 5-to-12 year-old children
from underserved areas.
These new divisions helped the RBI program reach a
milestone, as nearly 300 RBI leagues supported approximately 171,000 young people
in 2010.
Some notable alumni of Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities have gone on to great
accomplishments in Major League Baseball.
Active MLB rosters feature RBI alumni
such as CC Sabathia of the New York Yankees, Carl Crawford of the Boston Red Sox,
Yovani Gallardo of the Milwaukee Brewers and James Loney of the Los Angeles
Dodgers, among others. There were also 10 RBI program alumni selected in the 2010
First-Year Player Draft, bringing the total number of RBI participants drafted
since its inception to more than 190.
The devotion and enthusiasm of the players, coaches, league administrators and
supporters at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Major League Baseball are
crucial in continuing to grow and strengthen this very important program.
I hope you have a wonderful season, and I wish all of you the best of luck.
Sincerely,
Allan H. (Bud) Selig
Commissioner of Baseball
777 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 3060, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 225-8900 / FAX (414) 225-8910
RBI TIMELINE (Subject to Change)
October
December
January
February/March
RBI Institute (bi-annually)
February/March Regional and World Series Tournament locations, dates, and state
alignments announced
Deadline for return of previous season league recap
League application for affiliation available (for new leagues and leagues
that have returned season recap)
RBI for RBI Scholarship information and application available
March
Deadline for return of application for affiliation
March
Local league marketing, player recruitment, and registration
March
Signed league agreements due to RBI National office (prior to the start
of local league activities, including registration)
March – June
April
April/May
Pitch, Hit & Run Local competitions
Early June
Local league rosters due to MLB (specific date announced annually)
June July
August
August – September
Suggested start of regular season play
(suggested for 13-18 age division tournament eligibility)
RBI for RBI Scholarship applications due to RBI National office
Tournament application, fees, and documentation due to RBI National office
(specific dates announced annually)
Regional tournaments
RBI World Series
Local league play continues
© Major League Baseball Properties, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Major League Baseball trademarks and copyrights are proprietary to MLB entities. Visit MLB.com
CONTENTS
RBI Program Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
League Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Managers and Umpires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Equipment and Uniforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Sponsorship and Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
RBI League Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Major League Baseball Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Levels of Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Age Verification Charts
Baseball/Softball 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Baseball/Softball 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Baseball/Softball 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
RBI League – Code of Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
League Obligations to the Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
RBI League Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
RBI League – Manager and Coach Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Game Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
RBI Sectional, Regional and World Series Tournament Rules . . . . . . . 15
RBI League Participation Sample Press Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
RBI League World Series Sample Press Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Four Team Round Robin Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Five Team Round Robin Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Six Team Round Robin Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Four Team Single Elimination Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Five Team Single Elimination Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Six Team Single Elimination Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Jr. RBI Program Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Jr. RBI Playing Rules – Baseball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Jr. RBI Pitching Rules – Baseball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Jr. RBI Playing Rules – Softball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Jr. RBI Pitching Rules – Softball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Welcome to the RBI™ - Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities™ - Program. RBI offers boys and girls, primarily from under served
areas, the opportunity to learn and enjoy baseball and softball. On the field, RBI stresses fundamentals, sportsmanship, fair
play, teamwork and competition. Off the field, citizenship and academic achievement are key elements of the program.
Whether as a league official, coach, or umpire, the dedication, time and hard work of leaders, volunteers, and parents
are essential to the success of the RBI program, both in your community and beyond. Please take a few moments to
review the RBI Administrative Handbook, which details the spirit of the RBI Program.
Thanks for getting involved with the youth of your community. Major League Baseball wishes you and your program
the best success on and off the diamond.
Thomas C. Brasuell
Vice President, Community Affairs
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) entered its 22nd year of play in 2011. From its inception in 1989, RBI has grown
from a local program for boys in South Central Los Angeles to an international campaign encompassing more than 200
cities and as many as 170,000 male and female participants a year. In 2010, Jr. RBI was launched to create new playing
divisions that provide baseball and softball opportunities for children ages 5-12 that also serves as a feeder to the current
RBI 13-18 year old baseball and softball divisions.
RBI is a youth outreach program designed to increase participation and interest in baseball and softball, encourage
academic participation and achievement, increase the number of talented athletes prepared to play in college and
professionally, promote greater inclusion of minorities into the mainstream of the game and teach the value of teamwork.
Typical RBI leagues operate from April to August and provide five divisions of local league play for older participants:
Freshman Boys (13-14 year olds), Junior Boys (15 – 16 year olds), Senior Boys (17 – 18 year olds) and Girls Softball
(14-and-under and 18-and-under). Tournament play typically begins in late July with Regional qualifying tournaments
for advancement to the RBI World Series in early August. Jr. RBI (ages 5-12) can operate in spring, summer, or fall to
accommodate maximum participation.
The RBI program stresses life skills and educational components to help make “Major League Citizens.” Local RBI programs
have the opportunity to provide a variety of resources, including:
Breaking Barriers: In Sports, In Life: A multicultural character education program developed by Major League Baseball
and Scholastic
BGCA’s SportSMART! Program: A condensed version of BGCA’s award-winning SMART Moves program designed
to assist young people in learning how to resist alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and premature sexual activity
Partnership at DrugFree.org: Character education programs aimed at preventing and addressing drug, alcohol,
and performance-enhancing drug (PED) abuse
The RBI for RBI Scholarship Program: A $5,000 per year competitive scholarship program for college-bound
RBI participants
P.L.A.Y.(Promoting a Lifetime of Activity for Youth) Program: PBATS (Professional Baseball Athletic Trainer
Society) provides programming to promote an active lifestyle and educate young people about the dangers of
performance-enhancing substances
The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation: Helps to build character and teach critical life lessons to disadvantaged young
people residing in America’s most distressed communities through baseball and softball themed programs
Thanks to support from our partners and donors such as the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and Pitch in for Baseball, the RBI
program has developed a comprehensive package of support for affiliated leagues. Assistance may be provided in the
areas of:
•
•
•
•
•
1
Equipment and uniform acquisition
Capital improvement projects
Training and educational clinics and resources
Volunteer and player recruitment and retention
Marketing and Public Relations
LEAGUE ADMINISTRATION
INITIAL STEP
Set up a Steering Committee whose tasks will be to:
•
•
•
•
•
Determine the demographics of the area
Determine the possibilities of recruiting volunteer board members, managers, coaches and officials
Determine the financial resources available to start and sustain the league
Determine prospective sponsors
Determine the availability of fields
The local parks or school district can help in these tasks or may have already explored such questions. Members of these
organizations should be part of the Steering Committee.
Once the Steering Committee has completed its preliminary survey, a number of small sub-committees should be
established:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Facilities
Administration
Managers and Umpires
Equipment and Uniforms
Sponsorship and Finance
Tournament
Education
Security
FACILITIES
This committee will seek to secure sites for play, conduct tryouts and clinics, and plan registration. It will also work with the
Equipment Committee to acquire bases, home plates, pitching rubbers, etc. If the field site is to be used entirely for RBI
play, and to be maintained by the RBI league, maintenance equipment such as brooms, rakes, shovels, etc. will have to
be secured.
FIELDS
RBI Baseball uses Major League base and pitching dimensions - 90 feet between bases and 60 feet, 6 inches pitching
distance. RBI Softball uses ASA regulation distances, which vary according to age group. Jr. RBI field dimensions range
from a maximum 60-foot basepath for the 5-7 age division to 60-foot basebaths and a 46-foot pitching distance for the
8-12 age divisions. Infields for baseball or softball may be grass or skinned (all dirt).
Several fields are not necessary to run a successful RBI league. One field, available for a full day on a Saturday or a Sunday,
can accommodate an eight team league, or ten teams if the field is lighted.
Parks and Recreation fields, school fields, and private land are all possibilities. Although the presence of an RBI league
has often led to increased maintenance commitments by public authorities (in the case of publicly owned land), RBI
leagues should make a commitment to develop and maintain fields.
The most important consideration for any facility is safety. Dugouts must be fenced, and playing surfaces and surrounding
areas should be free of obstructions.
ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITIES
Boys & Girls Clubs, community centers or schools are needed to conduct the educational components. A small office
equipped with a phone and file storage space may or may not be located at the same facility but is also necessary.
2
ADMINISTRATION
This committee will conduct the recruitment and registration process, develop the budget, handle league PR and
promotions, and formulate the game schedule. An administrator may also need to be hired.
PROMOTION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
Announcements, including flyers and posters regarding league activities, should be distributed among schools, churches,
libraries, community centers, housing projects and in neighborhood parks. A press release or news conference with
local elected officials or other prominent individuals may lead to local newspaper, radio or television coverage. Sample
Press Releases are available on the RBI Portal. A Parent and Community Briefing Meeting should be scheduled.
RECRUITMENT
Outreach efforts should extend to neighborhood parks, junior and senior high school baseball and softball coaches,
physical education teachers.
REGISTRATION
Registration should begin at least one and possibly two months before the first instructional session. Parents can be
given the RBI Program Application and Medical Consent Form/Player Release and Waiver (available on RBI Portal) at this
time. These forms must be completed and returned to the RBI league before a player can participate.
Registration can be held over a period of several days, or on a given day (i.e, Tuesdays) for a number of weeks. Registration
forms can also be made available at schools, churches, libraries, community centers, housing projects and in neighborhood
parks. Although no child should be turned away, and arrangements for late registration made, a registration cutoff date
should be set.
Parents should be sent a follow-up letter detailing the practice and team placement schedule.
GAME SCHEDULE
A game schedule should be formulated using a round-robin format (see form A).
MANAGERS AND UMPIRES
This committee should seek to recruit managers, coaches and umpires from several areas. Churches, PTAs, civic organizations,
high school and college baseball programs are just some areas where potential coaches may be found. Managers,
coaches and umpires should all receive training in how to conduct a practice, how to work with children and parents,
first aid, risk management, etc. The National RBI office can help direct leagues to training resources. This committee
should also establish a game protest committee.
MANAGERS, COACHES AND UMPIRES
Each team should have at least two adult coaches. General criteria for managers, coaches, and umpires are: • Punctuality (games, practices, meetings, etc.)
• Preparation
• Positive role model
• Appearance
• Courteousness
• Knowledge of baseball/softball
3
EQUIPMENT AND UNIFORMS
This committee will determine the type and amount of uniforms, bats, balls, helmets, etc. to purchase. The committee will
solicit bids for the purchase of equipment. No fewer than two bids from local sporting goods dealers should be sought.
The amount of equipment to be purchased will depend on the number of registrants. Equipment and uniforms should
last for at least two or three years. In the case of a large registration or a limited budget, sweatpants and T-shirts should
be considered as uniforms. A first aid kit is a must, and may be donated by a local hospital.
More details regarding RBI-approved equipment and specification can be found on the RBI Portal.
SPONSORSHIP AND FINANCE
The Sponsorship and Finance Committee is possibly the most important committee. This committee will organize
sponsorship and endorsement activities and contact potential sponsors. Once funds have been raised, it will approve
and make expenditures. This committee may also consider submitting grant applications.
If a small number of sponsors are to be contacted, one individual should contact potential sponsors. If a large number
of potential sponsors are to be contacted, the task should be divided among the committee members. There should
be as many local sponsors as there are teams in the league. This allows the sponsor to feel ownership as it can be
quickly pointed out where their dollars have been spent.
A “sponsor letter” should be developed. It should offer different levels of sponsorship and outline what sponsors are
getting for their money (e.g.: $1,000 purchases uniforms and equipment for one team and gets your business name
imprinted on the jerseys, $500 purchases uniforms for 1 team, $100 purchases insurance for one team, etc.).
Potential sponsors should be met in person, if possible, and be told of the goals and benefits of the RBI program. Sponsors
should not be automatically accepted. The committee should be certain that an individual or business sponsor will not
reflect negatively on the RBI league or program. Sponsors should not have any undue influence in the operation of the
league or the team(s) they are sponsoring.
Local businesses, merchants and civic and service organizations are just a few potential sponsors. A written sponsor
agreement for each should be drawn up. This agreement should outline, without limitations, the amount the sponsor
is contributing, whether the agreement is for one or more years, and what benefits, if any, the sponsor is receiving.
EDUCATION
This committee ensures that the league implements the educational components and life skills initiatives. The league will
identify a facilitator to conduct the program, recruit mentors, volunteers, and secure materials necessary to implement
the program. More information on educational programming can be found on the RBI Portal.
SECURITY
This committee ensures that the league will enforce local league rules and safety around playing fields and in surrounding
communities. This committee ensures that the league will work with local law enforcement to develop policies and
procedures to ensure the safety of its participants and spectators.
4
TOURNAMENT
This committee will delevop a selection process for choosing an All-Star team(s) to participate in RBI tournament
season. They will ensure that all criteria for selection of players, managers, and league participation is in compliance
with RBI National tournament rules and regulations. It will also be responsible for submitting all required and requested
tournament documentation. Tournament resources and eligibility requirements are available on the RBI Portal.
RBI LEAGUE RESPONSIBILITIES
1. You must field a minimum of two teams (four teams if entering tournament play) in one or more RBI age divisions
by December 31, of the current year that complete a minimum of twelve (12) games per team, per season, unless
otherwise agreed upon in writing by MLB.
Different criteria regarding the minimum number of regular season teams/games in order to be eligible for tournament play may apply.
2. You must acknowledge MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL and use only RBI-approved marks and/or logos in any promotional materials, press releases or literature publicizing/promoting your RBI league in accordance with MLBP approval process.
3. You must conduct your league according to the standards and guidelines set forth by Major League Baseball in the
RBI Administrative Handbook, and comply with the following:
A. Complete and submit annually all requests from Major League Baseball for league information including league
operation summaries, application for affiliation, league agreement, and participation data.
B. Furnish a copy of your league’s roster and game schedule, including dates, times and locations, to Major League
Baseball by annual deadline;
C. Have liability and/or medical insurance, with coverage satisfactory to Major League Baseball, for all participants,
execute indemnification and other agreements insuring all of the above and provide proof of such upon request;
D. Agree to programmatic and fiscal monitoring, evaluations and observations by Major League Baseball and/or its
designees;
E. Have each participant and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) execute the “RBI Program Player Release and Waiver”
and “RBI Program Application and Medical Consent Form”;
F. Provide or participate in a training session/clinic/orientation for all coaches, volunteers and others who will be
associated with your league;
G. Assure no discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin or gender;
H. Comply with all terms of the annual Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities League Agreement
4. The league will ensure that educational components and life skills initiatives are implemented. The league will identify
a facilitator to conduct the program, recruit mentors and volunteers, and secure materials necessary to implement
the program. More information on educational programming can be found on the RBI Portal.
5
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL RESPONSIBILITIES
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
1. Provides national administration of program
2. Provides technical assistance to help leagues become self-sustaining
3. Offers access to clinics for coaches, players, umpires and officials
4. Coordinates all levels of tournament play
5 . Reserves the right to suspend and/or discontinue the program or any part of the program.
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL may require your league to disassociate itself from RBI if your program fails to meet its
responsibilities with respect to the program or because continued association with your league reflects or will reflect
adversely on the name, reputation, or goodwill of MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
6
LEVELS OF COMPETITION
LOCAL PLAY
GIRLS SOFTBALL*
14 and under
15-18 year olds
BOYS BASEBALL
1 3-14 year olds (Freshman Division)
15-16 year olds (Junior Division)
17-18 year olds (Senior Division)
*modified or fast pitch is recommended
TOURNAMENT DIVISIONS
GIRLS SOFTBALL
18 and under (no player younger than league age 13)
BOYS BASEBALL
1 3-15 year olds (Junior Division)
16-18 year olds (Senior Division)
7
AGE VERIFICATION CHARTS - 2011
For Baseball Divisions Only
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
AGE
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2006
2006
2006
2006
5
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2005
2005
2005
2005
6
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2004
2004
2004
2004
7
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2003
2003
2003
2003
8
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2002
2002
2002
2002
9
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2001
2001
2001
2001
10
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
2000
2000
2000
2000
11
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1999
1999
1999
1999
12
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1998
1998
1998
1998
13
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1997
1997
1997
1997
14
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1996
1996
1996
1996
15
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1995
1995
1995
1995
16
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1994
1994
1994
1994
17
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1993
1993
1993
1993
18
For Softball Divisions Only
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
5
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
6
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
7
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
8
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
9
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
10
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
11
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
12
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
13
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
14
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
15
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
16
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
17
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
1992
18
8
AGE VERIFICATION CHARTS - 2012
For Baseball Divisions Only
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
AGE
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2007
2007
2007
2007
5
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2006
2006
2006
2006
6
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2005
2005
2005
2005
7
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2004
2004
2004
2004
8
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2003
2003
2003
2003
9
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2002
2002
2002
2002
10
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2001
2001
2001
2001
11
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
2000
2000
2000
2000
12
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1999
1999
1999
1999
13
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1998
1998
1998
1998
14
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1997
1997
1997
1997
15
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1996
1996
1996
1996
16
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1995
1995
1995
1995
17
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1994
1994
1994
1994
18
For Softball Divisions Only
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
9
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
5
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
6
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
7
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
8
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
9
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
10
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
11
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
12
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
13
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
14
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
15
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
16
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
17
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
1993
18
AGE VERIFICATION CHARTS - 2013
For Baseball Divisions Only
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
AGE
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2008
2008
2008
2008
5
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2007
2007
2007
2007
6
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2006
2006
2006
2006
7
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2005
2005
2005
2005
8
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2004
2004
2004
2004
9
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2003
2003
2003
2003
10
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2002
2002
2002
2002
11
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2001
2001
2001
2001
12
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
2000
2000
2000
2000
13
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1999
1999
1999
1999
14
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1998
1998
1998
1998
15
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1997
1997
1997
1997
16
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1996
1996
1996
1996
17
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1995
1995
1995
1995
18
For Softball Divisions Only
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
5
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
6
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
7
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
8
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
9
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
10
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
11
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
12
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
1999
13
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
1998
14
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
1997
15
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
1996
16
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
1995
17
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
1994
18
10
The following recommended Code of Ethics, League Rules, Manager’s Responsibilities, and Game Procedures are based on
models from local RBI programs. They are intended for use as a guide, and may be amended.
RBI LEAGUE - CODE OF ETHICS
PURPOSE
The purpose of RBI is to maintain and promote the teaching of fundamentals, sportsmanship, character and appropriate
behavior among all participants. This Code of Ethics is to insure that emphasis is placed on motivation and development
of the total individual and not on winning.
THE CODE
Youth and adults connected with the RBI league are “living heroes.” Their actions will affect hundreds of players; therefore,
it is imperative that those connected with the league always engage in conduct that is representative of the league.
C1. Under no conditions should anyone “curse out” a player on or off the field.
This is not our right. Explain rather than complain.
C2. Under no conditions swear, commit, or imply a vulgar act or motion.
C3. Do not bait or ride umpires, opposing players, managers, and coaches. Appropriate conduct should prevail. The
manager may inquire as to the nature or interpretation of a rule, but after an explanation, there should be no further
questions or actions.
C4. Do not “ride” or belittle the opposition. We are building character and togetherness.
C5. Please refrain from smoking at all practices and during games.
C6. Do not use words of instruction to a player or team which are disrespectful, malicious or defamatory, such as “go in
with high spikes”, “take them out”, “throw at his head”, etc.
C7. Do not drink any alcoholic beverages or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at any time in the presence of
players or in any context involving the league.
C8. Speak in the collective about a game. Use as examples: “The team won” or “We won.” All victories are team victories
and team spirit should be exhibited at all times.
C9. Never use a player who has been injured until you are certain that the player has fully recovered. If a player has been
injured, be certain that the player is fully recovered before he/she plays.
C10. All teams should play every player in as much of every game as possible. Mandatory play applies in Jr. RBI playing
divisions.
C11. Do everything possible to ensure that playing RBI is a rewarding experience for the players. ENCOURAGE YOUR
PLAYERS TO BE GOOD SCHOLARS AND EQUALLY GOOD CITIZENS.
C12. Make certain that managers, coaches, and your team shake hands with the opposing team before and after each game.
C13. Never make a statement that constitutes a racial slur or that is demeaning to any person. Encourage respect and
tolerance for all people.
C14. Never let your personal desire to win take precedence over the RBI Code of Ethics.
C15. Do not hesitate to remind others of the RBI Code of Ethics and do not be offended when you are reminded.
11
LEAGUE OBLIGATIONS TO THE CODE
CO1. Make certain that umpires, managers, coaches, players, and all persons affiliated with your league are fully aware of
and comply with the RBI Code of Ethics.
CO2. Publicize the RBI Code of Ethics as a Major League Baseball commitment and review periodically the RBI league’s
progress toward its full implementation.
CO3. Demonstrate leadership by working actively with the RBI league volunteers and teams to resolve problems and
challenges facing the league.
CO4. Communicate to the various communities from which teams are organized the need for them to become involved
and make them aware of the RBI league’s efforts.
CO5. RBI recognizes its obligation and responsibilities to each team. To this end, the RBI league and others in a position to
influence the thinking of individuals should work to achieve adherence to the Code of Ethics.
RBI LEAGUE RULES
L1. ELIGIBILITY
Play is open to any youth who is the appropriate league age for his/her respective age/playing division (see league
age chart). Minimum participation is age 5 (baseball and softball).
L2. PLAYER REGISTRATION
Have each participant and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) complete the “RBI Program Player Release and Waiver”
and “RBI Program Application and Medical Consent Form”
L3. RECRUITMENT/CHANGING TEAMS AND/OR LEAGUES
No team or manager may actively recruit a player currently playing with another team and/or league. After a player
has signed an official roster, the player will not be allowed to move to another team.
L4. ROSTERS
Rosters are due, complete with all names and accompanying documentation, by (local RBI league sets deadline).
Original rosters will be kept on file by the local RBI league.
L5. PROOF OF BIRTH
A copy of the birth certificate, passport, alien registration card, or a letter from school on school stationary verifying
birthdate must be submitted for each player on the roster. If a player’s eligibility comes into question, the original
document, with seal, may be requested and must be furnished.
L6. INELIGIBLE PLAYERS
No league shall use any player who is over age or otherwise ineligible. It is the league’s responsibility to know the
correct age of his or her players. If it is found that a team has been using an ineligible player, the player will be
expelled, the manager suspended, and the team will forfeit all games previously played. A player may not play in
more than one local RBI league.
L7. SCHEDULES
Distribution of the final schedule is the responsibility of the local RBI league. L8. REJECTION OF MANAGERS, COACHES OR OTHER PERSONNEL
RBI National reserves the right to reject any manager, coach, or other league volunteer/personnel who does not
meet the criteria and standards of the RBI National office.
L9. AGREEMENT TO RULES
Any and all players, managers, coaches, umpires, and officials of the local RBI league must agree to abide by the rules
and regulations of RBI. Any player(s), manager(s), coach(es), or official(s) that violates these rules and regulations are
subject to suspension or expulsion from the league.
12
RBI LEAGUE - MANAGER AND COACH RESPONSIBILITIES
M1. MANAGER’S CONDUCT
Each manager, coach, and team follower is expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflect favorably
on the RBI program.
M2. OFFICIAL RULES
Each manager and coach must be knowledgeable of the current Official Baseball and/or Softball Youth League
Rules and current applicable Official High School Rules. Full knowledge of the rules will avoid problems with players and umpires.
M3. MANAGER’S AND COACHES CLINIC ATTENDANCE
All managers and coaches are expected to attend a coaches’ clinic.
M4. RESPONSIBILITIES
Every manager and coach is responsible for the conduct of his or her players, coaches, and the followers of his or
her team.
M5. IMPROPER LANGUAGE
No manager or coach shall use improper language at any time. Use of improper language may result in disciplinary
action which may include a written reprimand, suspension or expulsion.
M6. ABUSE
No manager or coach shall abuse, verbally or physically, any player, spectator, umpire, opposing manager or coach at
any time. Violation may result in disciplinary action which may include a written reprimand, suspension or expulsion.
M7. SUSPENSION
Any manager or coach who receives disciplinary action from an umpire in any game will be warned by letter with
a description of the infraction. This warning from the local RBI league will state that the manager or coach must
correct his or her behavior immediately or face suspension.
M8. FIRST AID AND CPR TRAINING
Managers and coaches should make every effort to receive training and certification in both first aid and CPR.
M9. EQUIPMENT
Managers and coaches are responsible for equipment the league may assign to his or her team. Managers should
collect all equipment after each game or practice to ensure proper care, storage and safekeeping. All necessary
steps should be taken to prevent abuse, misuse, or destruction of equipment. Equipment is not to be distributed,
loaned or sold to program participants for their storage or ownership.
GAME PROCEDURES
G1. SIGN IN PROCEDURE
Prior to the start of the game, all players in attendance from both teams must be entered into the official scorebook
(note: managers may not print absent players’ names). It is important that players be entered into the scorebook,
as this will be the only means used to determine whether a player appeared in enough games to be eligible for
the post season.
G2. FIELDS
All league games must be played on the fields designated and approved for use by the local RBI league. Pitching
and base distances are to be within RBI age-appropriate specifications.
G3. WEATHER CONDITIONS
It is the decision of the Facilities committee as to whether or not to play if there is an inclement weather condition.
First consideration should be the safety of the players and the playing field. Once a game has started, the umpires
may either call the game or impose a delay.
13
G4. SPECTATORS AND CROWD CONTROL
All spectators must be kept a reasonable distance from the dugout and the playing field. When stands are available,
all spectators must remain in the stands. The players, coaches, managers, statisticians, and league officials are the
only individuals allowed on the field and in the dugout area.
G5. SUSPENSION OF PLAYER OR MANAGER
Any player or manager ejected from a game by the umpire for any reason shall be automatically suspended from
his or her team’s next scheduled game. Two ejections in one season shall result in suspension for the remainder
of the season. Any manager or team found to be in violation of this rule will be subject to league action.
G6. UMPIRES
Two umpires will be assigned to each baseball game (one umpire for each softball game). Games may be played
if only one umpire is present.
G7. UNIFORMS
Every player must be in uniform. The umpire has the right to deny a player or team participation if not properly
attired. All uniforms shall have the RBI logo patch on the left jersey sleeve (mandatory for tournament play); for
sleeveless uniforms, the RBI logo patch shall be affixed to the front left chest of the uniform. Leagues may place a
patch with their organization’s logo on the right sleeve. Other sponsorship of teams may be recognized on the
back of uniform tops with MLB’s prior approval.
G8. EQUIPMENT
All teams must have helmets, bats, and catcher’s equipment in good, safe condition. This equipment must meet
standards in accordance with the current Official Baseball and/or Softball Rules and the current applicable Official
High School Rules.
G9. BASEBALLS/SOFTBALLS
The home team must provide at least three new baseballs or two new softballs for each game. Only Rawlings
baseballs (Rawlings RO - N, RO - A, PLB, etc) are to be used. Examples of acceptable softballs include Rawlings ASA
12Y47L and Wilson A9031BASA - LOW.
G10. HELMETS
Helmets must be worn at all times by batters, baserunners, on-deck batters, catchers and base coaches (baseball
13-and-above divisions only; for Jr. RBI, all youth must wear a helmet when in coaches box). Players refusing to
comply shall be removed from the game.
G11. FIRST AID KIT
Each team must have a first aid kit in their dugout during all games.
G12. PROTECTIVE GEAR
Any player and/or coach warming up the pitcher must wear a face mask. All boys must also wear protective cups.
G13. SCOREKEEPING
Each team is required to have an official scorebook at all games.
G14. JEWELRY
Jewelry, except medical identification, may not be worn during games.
G15. PLAYING RULES
A combination of the current youth (12U), High School Baseball Rules published by the National Federation of
State High School Associations, the current Official Playing Rules of Major League Baseball and the current ASA
Fast Pitch Rules shall serve as the official playing rules for RBI, with the exception of those rules published by the
RBI National office.
14
RBI SECTIONAL, REGIONAL AND WORLD SERIES TOURNAMENT RULES
WS1. JURISDICTION
All tournaments shall be under the jurisdiction of Major League Baseball’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI)
Program. The current tournament structure is Regionals (eight tournaments) and the RBI World Series. The RBI
National office reserves the right to add additional levels of tournament play (district sectionals) as deemed
necessary in any respective state and/or region. The team winning the Regional Championship shall compete
with other Regional Champions in the RBI World Series.
WS2. ENTRY FEE
For each team participating in tournament competition, a non-refundable entry fee must be posted by no later
than a date that is to be determined annually. Leagues are limited to one team per age division.
WS3. LEAGUE ELIGIBILITY
Each RBI league is eligible to participate in the RBI Tournaments leading to the RBI World Series, pending approval from the RBI National office. The RBI tournament regulations dictate that league tournament eligibility is
approved on the following criteria:
• The league has a minimum of four (4) regular season teams in the divisions it is submitting tournament teams
• Your tournament team shall be an all-star team comprised of representation from as many teams in your
league as possible, not a league first place, championship, or select team
• Your RBI league has played a regular season schedule of at least twelve games per age division
WS5. TEAM COMPOSITION
Teams representing the cities in each age category should be all-star teams (as opposed to a first place or championship
team). Each all-star team should be comprised of representation from as many teams in the league as possible.
This may be achieved by allowing a pre-set number of players from each league team to be on the all-star team or
by having open tryouts for league participants. These teams should be selected early in the season. Should it be
determined that a tournament team consists of players who did not meet the above requirements, penalties
could include forfeiture of games played and/or immediate suspension from tournament play. (see also WS8).
WS6. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY
All participants must have a signed consent form from their parent(s) or legal guardians in order to participate in
the tournament play. All tournament forms are available on the RBI Portal and will additionally be made available
to league administrators prior to the start of tournament play. The 2011 RBI tournament regulations dictate that players’ tournament eligibility is approved on the following criteria:
• A player shall have participated in an amount of games near 50% of the league’s regular season games
• No player may play on more than one team.
• No player may play under an assumed name.
• All tournament team members must appear on a local team roster submitted to the RBI National office.
• Waivers of any tournament eligibility requirements can only be granted (in writing) by the RBI National office.
NOTE: Players who have been drafted are eligible to participate, provided they have not yet signed a professional contract.
WS7. ADULT SUPERVISION
Teams must always be accompanied by at least two adults.
WS8. DOCUMENTATION
The following forms and documents must be submitted prior to being granted individual tournament eligibility:
15
• RBI Tournament Application form
• RBI Medical Waiver/Application with two current photos and proof of birth*
• RBI Program and Release Waiver form
• RBI Medical Form
• RBI Code of Conduct form
• RBI Background Check Authorization form
• Regular season game scorebooks
• Hotel rooming list
* Only legible copies of birth certificates, passports, and Alien Registration Cards will be accepted. Do not send
originals. These documents become the property of RBI and will remain in the possession of tournament officials
at each level. Teams should keep a copy of these documents and carry them as they advance.
If there is concern that a tournament team consists of players who did not participate in your local RBI league
and/or did not participate in at least ½ of your regular season scheduled games, your tournament roster, local
league rosters, and regular season scorebooks will be requested and reviewed to determine a team’s and/or
individual player’s eligibility. Should it be determined that a team and/or players participating in tournament
play did not meet the above eligibility requirements, penalties could include forfeiture of games played and/or
immediate suspension from tournament play.
WS9. ROSTERS
Rosters are limited to fifteen (15) players and four coaches. All accommodations, entry to events, and complimentary items are based on this number.
WS10. TOURNAMENT DIVISIONS
Junior Baseball
For league players ages 13 - 15
Senior Baseball
For league players ages 16 - 18
Softball
For league players ages 18-and-under
Any game in which an ineligible player has been used will be forfeited by the offending team.
WS11. UNIFORMS
All-star teams should wear uniforms which display the name of their league and/or city. The RBI logo patch must be
worn on the left jersey sleeve. For sleeveless uniforms, the RBI logo patch shall be affixed to the front left chest
of the jersey. League logo patches may be placed on the right sleeve. NO OTHER PATCHES OR COMMERCIAL
SPONSORSHIP (EXCEPT MANUFACTURER’S EXTERIOR LABELS) WILL BE ALLOWED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN
APPROVAL OF MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL. Managers and coaches must be in full uniform or proper coaching attire.
WS12. PATTERN OF PLAY
Regional Tournaments
Regional tournaments will be played in a format guaranteeing teams at least two games.
In the event of absolute inability to complete tournament play:
• If a portion of the first round has been played, a champion may be determined based on tie-breaking rules.
• If no games have been played, all teams shall participate in elimination by the toss of a coin. Flipping sequence
shall be as teams were paired in the original bracket.
• In a double elimination tournament, if the winner of the losers’ bracket defeats the previously unbeaten team
from the winners’ bracket, and it is not possible to play the “if” game, a coin toss between the two remaining
teams shall determine the winner.
World Series
Teams will be placed in a bracket within the appropriate age division. You will play a round robin schedule
against the teams in your bracket. There will then be an inter-bracket playoff. The playoff bracket winners will meet
in the championship game. All teams are scheduled to play a minimum of four games to a maximum of nine.
WS13. RULES AND CODE OF CONDUCT
• Teams must always be accompanied by at least two adult coaches.
• Players are not to leave sites or hotels without a team-certified chaperone.
• No fraternizing at hotels with non-tournament participants.
16
• All players must be in their rooms by 11:00pm or immediately upon returning from an event, whichever is later.
• RBI tournament staff reserve the right to disqualify and return any and all players, coaches and teams to their
home city for failure to adhere to any of the Rules of Conduct or for other behavior which may reflect negatively
upon the RBI program.
• Teams are responsible and will be billed for any damage to hotel rooms, facilities, grounds, or any other tournament
site or venue.
• Gambling is not permitted at tournament venues.
• Smoking and/or the use of tobacco products is prohibited at all games and practices.
• The use of alcoholic beverages and/or drugs is prohibited at all games, practices and off-site.
• No swearing, taunting, or ethnic slurs will be tolerated.
• No gang signs, slogans, or paraphernalia are allowed.
• No jewelry is to be worn during games, with the exception of medical IDs
• All players and coaches must sign a Code of Conduct Pledge agreeing to abide by the above rules.
WS14. PLAYING RULES
A combination of the High School Baseball Rules published by the National Federation of State High School
Associations, the Official Playing Rules of Major League Baseball and the ASA Girls 18 and Under Fast Pitch Rules
shall serve as the official playing rules for the RBI World Series with the exceptions noted below.
17
All games are seven (7) innings. However, a game is legally complete after five (5) innings if the visiting team is
ahead and after 4 ½ innings if the home team is ahead. Any game not completed due to weather, darkness, or
power failure or otherwise, shall be a suspended game and play resumed from the point of suspension.
At any level of tournament play, if inclement weather forces drastic schedule changes, teams may be scheduled
to play three (3) games in one day, but such games will be limited to five (5) innings.
No inning may start after two hours and fifteen minutes have elapsed from the start of the game (NOTE: In the
event of a tie after seven (7) innings in the preliminary round, games will continue until one team is ahead or the
time limit is reached. This means that preliminary games could end in a tie.)
Baseball: a ten (10) run mercy rule will be in effect after five (5) innings, fifteen (15) runs after three (3) innings.
Softball: an eight (8) run mercy rule shall be in effect after five (5) innings, fifteen (15) runs after three (3) innings.
Unless indicated, the home team will be determined by the toss of a coin.
All participants must wear RBI logo patches on their left uniform sleeve or on the front of the uniform jersey (if
sleeveless). Patches should be ironed in place and then sewn on.
BASEBALL ONLY: Pitchers may not pitch more than fourteen (14) innings in the entire Series or seven (7) innings
in one day (unless he or she is pitching at the time a game goes into extra innings, then he or she may pitch
until relieved, the game’s conclusion, or he or she has reached the tournament limit of 14 innings), or make
more than four (4) pitching appearances in total (these restrictions do not apply to softball). In the event that a
tournament game extends beyond midnight, pitching shall be charged on the day the game began.
Use of the EH (Extra Hitter) is not permitted during tournament play.
No protests shall ever be permitted on judgment decisions by an umpire.
No protests, except eligibility, shall be honored after a game has been completed.
A forfeit at any time shall be treated as a win for the benefiting team and not a bye.
No forfeit will be granted due to a team’s late arrival.
Any team failing to appear for a tournament game or leaving the field before a game has been completed will
be barred from further tournament play.
Only coaches and players are allowed on the field.
Any player or coach who is ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct is suspended for his/her team’s next game.
Tie-breaking procedures: head-to-head (two teams, unless one team has beaten all others they are tied with),
followed by lowest defensive runs allowed ratio (total number of runs allowed divided by number of 1/2 innings
played on defense), followed by coin toss.
Note new rules including face mask requirements (softball).
Metal spikes are not permitted in softball.
WS15. FORFEITS
A forfeit at any time shall be treated as a win and not a bye for the benefiting team. If pool play is being utilized,
it will be scored as a 7-0 win in seven (7) innings.
No forfeit will be granted due to a team’s late arrival.
Any team failing to appear for a tournament game or leaving the field before a game has been completed may
be barred from further tournament play.
WS16. SCOREKEEPING/STATISTICS
There will be an official scorekeeper at all games. Cumulative statistics will be available each evening to all players, coaches, and series personnel at the RBI World Series.
18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For further information contact:
(Name and phone number)
(Date)
(Your City) JOINS THE MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL RBI PROGRAM
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL announced today that the (name of program) will be launching their first season as part of
the RBI program. Joining the (name of program) in making the announcement was (list of attendees and affiliation).
Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, (RBI) is administered by MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL. Organized in 1989, RBI gives
youngsters the opportunity to combine athletics and academics. Encouraging academic performance, several RBI
leagues require school attendance and performance as a condition to play; others offer homework help, computer
classes and mentoring. A number of leagues have established scholarship programs and links with colleges and universities.
“We are pleased to join forces with the city of (your city) and (name of program),” said Timothy J. Brosnan, Executive
V.P., Business, MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL. “RBI will give kids a chance to play ball, while developing their character and
teaching them sportsmanship.”
“This partnership with (name of program) is good for MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL, the city of (name of city) and most
importantly the kids,” said Thomas C. Brasuell, Vice President, Community Affairs, MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL.
The goals of the program are to increase participation and interest in baseball; develop greater self-esteem by the players
while they learn the value of teamwork; motivate these young athletes to study more effectively; provide participants
with a strong incentive to stay in school; provide communities with the opportunity to become actively involved with
the kids; develop talented athletes to participate with high school and college teams; and increase the number of ethnic
minorities in the game of baseball.
RBI participants are invited to sectional and regional tournaments to compete for inclusion in the annual RBI World
Series in August. The first RBI World Series in 1993 was hosted by the St. Louis Cardinals, followed by the California
Angels in 1994, the Philadelphia Phillies in 1995, the Cleveland Indians in 1996, and the Colorado Rockies in 1997. From
1998 – 2001 the RBI World Series was held at Disney’s Wide World Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, FL. The RBI World
Series was hosted by the Chicago White Sox in 2002, the Houston Astros in 2003, the Detroit Tigers in 2004 and the
Pittsburgh Pirates in 2005. In 2006, the Series moved to Major League Baseball’s Urban Youth Academy in Compton, CA.
The Series remained in Compton through 2009, when the event moved to Jupiter, FL., hosted by the Florida Marlins.
RBI programs reach more than 170,000 boys and girls and have been started in over 200 cities worldwide.
19
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For further information contact:
(Name and phone number)
(Date)
(Your City) TO BE REPRESENTED IN RBI WORLD SERIES
(Boys and/or Girls) from (your city) will represent (your state) in the RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) World
Series. The Series will be held from August______to______in______,_____.
The national championship for inner-city boys and girls has two baseball divisions: junior boys (ages 13 -15) and senior
boys (ages 16 - 18), and one girls fast-pitch softball division (ages 15 -18). The (your city) team qualified for the Series by
winning its Regional Tournament held earlier this month at (location).
The main contact for the (your city) team(s) is (name of contact person, organization, address and phone number).
The teams competing were determined through regional tournaments. The finals for girls softball and both divisions of
boys baseball will be held at (location).
The first RBI World Series was hosted by the St. Louis Cardinals, followed by the California Angels in 1994, the Philadelphia
Phillies in 1995, the Cleveland Indians in 1996, and the Colorado Rockies in 1997. The Series was held in Florida from
1998 – 2001. The RBI World Series was hosted by the Chicago White Sox in 2002, the Houston Astros in 2003, the Detroit
Tigers in 2004 and the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2005. In 2006, the Series moved to the Major League Baseball Urban Youth
Academy in Compton, CA. The Series remained in Compton through 2009, when the event moved to Jupiter, FL.,
hosted by the Florida Marlins.
RBI programs reach more than 170,000 boys and girls and have been started in over 200 cities worldwide.
20
FOUR TEAM ROUND ROBIN SCHEDULE
TEAM 1
TEAM 2
TEAM 3
TEAM 4
DAY
TIME
TEAMS
FRIDAY
LOCATION
1 VS 4
2 VS 3
SATURDAY
1 VS 3
2 VS 4
1 VS 2
3 VS 4
SUNDAY
BEST RECORDS
STADIUM
FIVE TEAM ROUND ROBIN SCHEDULE
TEAM 1
TEAM 2
TEAM 3
TEAM 4
TEAM 5
DAY
FRIDAY
TIME
TEAMS
LOCATION
1 VS 5
2 VS 3
1 VS 4
2 VS 5
3 VS 4
SATURDAY
4 VS 2
1 VS 3
4 VS 5
1 VS 2
5 VS 3
SUNDAY
21
BEST RECORDS
STADIUM
SIX TEAM ROUND ROBIN SCHEDULE
TEAM 1
TEAM 4
TEAM 2
TEAM 5
TEAM 3
TEAM 6
DAY
FRIDAY
TIME
TEAMS
LOCATION
1 VS 6
2 VS 5
3 VS 4
SATURDAY
1 VS 5
2 VS 4
3 VS 6
1 VS 4
2 VS 6
3 VS 5
SUNDAY
BEST RECORDS
STADIUM
22
FOUR TEAM SINGLE ELIMINATION SCHEDULE
TEAM 1
G1
WINNER G1
TEAM 2
WINNER G3
G3
TEAM 3
CHAMPION
G2
WINNER G2
TEAM 4
FIVE TEAM SINGLE ELIMINATION SCHEDULE
TEAM 1
TEAM 1
BYE
G2
WINNER G2
TEAM 2
TEAM 2
BYE
G4
TEAM 3
CHAMPION
TEAM 3
BYE
G3
TEAM 4
G1
TEAM 5
23
WINNER G4
WINNER G1
WINNER G3
SIX TEAM SINGLE ELIMINATION SCHEDULE
TEAM 1
TEAM 1
BYE
G3
WINNER G3
TEAM 2
G1
WINNER G1
TEAM 3
G5
TEAM 4
WINNER G5
CHAMPION
TEAM 4
BYE
G4
TEAM 5
G2
WINNER G4
WINNER G2
TEAM 6
24
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Launched in 2010, Jr. RBI was designed to create new playing divisions that provides baseball and softball playing opportunities to boys and girls, ages 5-12. Stressing the “FUNdamentals” of the game and providing an earlier baseball/
softball skill development program, Jr. RBI invokes an early positive experience for coaches, parents and participants.
The three recommended divisions of play for Jr. RBI - 5-7, 8-10 and 11-12, promote the continued participation in RBI
in the 13-18 competitive divisions. Each playing level in Jr. RBI has its own set of playing rules designed to develop
young players.
Player safety is a top priority for Jr. RBI. For baseball programs, playing rules highlight the importance of protecting
pitchers’ arms. For baseball, pitch count is utilized in order to accurately track the stress on young players developing
bodies. For softball programs, playing rules highlight the introduction to the game at the earliest ages.
Other key components of Jr. RBI include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
60-foot basepaths and 46-foot pitching distance for baseball
60-foot basepaths and 35-foot pitching distance (10 & under) for softball
60-foot basepaths and 40-foot pitching distance (12 & under) for softball
Transition from an 11” (10 & under) to 12” (12 & under) ball for softball
Mandatory play
All players are assigned to a team
Assistance may be provided in areas of equipment acquisition, training/educational clinics and resources and capital
improvement projects
Jr. RBI is an early skill development program in a positive non-competitive environment with player safety of high priority.
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Jr. RBI PLAYING RULES - *Baseball
Division/Age Group
5 -7
8 – 10*
11 - 12
Structure
Instructional
2 inning minimum; no score
*Instructional
2 inning minimum/6 max
Scoring optional
Competitive
6 inning maximum
Maximum 15; Open all season
Maximum 15; Open all season
Minimum 10; Maximum 12
Set roster
No try-out; all assigned
Try-out option; all assigned
Try-out; draft; all assigned
Continuous batting order
All play defensively
Continuous batting order
6 defensive outs
Open substitution option
1x at bat
6 consecutive defensive outs
minimum
Starter can re-enter
In eld layout minimum
60ft base path maximum
In eld cut-out
60ft base path x 46ft pitching distance
minimum
60ft x 46ft x 200ft out eld
minimum
Rosters
Mandatory Play
Field Dimensions
*8-10 year old Instructional divisions may vary based upon league structure
Jr. RBI PITCHING RULES - *Baseball
Division/Age Group
5 -7
8 – 10
11 - 12
Pitching Format
Machine Pitch, Tee, or Coach Pitch
Pitch count or Coach Pitch
Pitch count
NA
8: Maximum 50 pitches per game
9-10: Maximum 70 pitches per game
Maximum 85 pitches per game
Player can not pitch in consecutive games
AND
a day ’s rest must be observed
If a player pitches 60 or more
pitches in a game: 3 calendar days
rest must be observed
40-59 pitches in a game: 2 calendar
days rest
Pitch count guidelines
NA
Days rest
21-39 pitches in a game: 1 calendar
days rest
Player can pitch in consecutive days
if 1-20 pitches thrown previous
game/day.
Pitch count will be kept by both teams and official scorer (if applicable)
If no scorer, home team book is official count
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Jr. RBI PLAYING RULES - *Softball
Division/Age Group
5 -7
8 – 10*
11 - 12
Structure
Instructional
2 inning minimum; no score
*Instructional
2 inning minimum/6 max
Scoring optional
Competitive
6 inning maximum
Maximum 15; Open all season
Maximum 15; Open all season
Minimum 10; Maximum 12
Set roster
No try-out; all assigned
Try-out option; all assigned
Try-out; draft; all assigned
Continuous batting order
All play defensively
Continuous batting order
6 defensive outs
Open substitution option
Starter and sub can re-enter one time
2x at bat
3 consecutive defensive outs
minimum
Starter and sub can re-enter one
time
11”
white or optic yellow
red stitch
11”
white or optic yellow
red stitch
12”
white or optic yellow
red stitch
In eld layout minimum
60ft base path maximum
In eld cut-out
60ft base path
35ft pitching distance
60ft base path
40ft pitching distance
200ft out eld fence minimum
Rosters
Mandatory Play
Ball speci cations
Field Dimensions
*8-10 year old instructional divisions may vary based upon league structure
Jr. RBI PITCHING RULES - *Softball
Division/Age Group
5 -7
8 – 10
11 - 12
Pitching Format
Tee, Machine Pitch, or Coach Pitch
ASA Fast, Modi ed, or Slow Pitch
ASA Fast or Modi ed Pitch
Legal Pitch guidelines
NA
Both feet must be on the pitchers plate
when pitch begins
Both feet must be on the pitchers
plate when pitch begins
The pitcher must take the pitching
position on the pitchers plate with hands
separated and the ball in the glove or
pitchers hand
(Fast & Modi ed pitch only)
The pitcher must take the pitching
position on the pitchers plate with
hands separated and the ball in the
glove or pitchers hand
(Fast & Modi ed pitch only)
The pivot foot must remain in contact
with the pitchers plate until the ball
leaves the hand
The pivot foot must remain in
contact with the pitchers plate until
the ball leaves the hand
Pitch count will be kept by both teams and official scorer (if applicable)
If no scorer, home team book is official count
28
NOTES
RBI National Headquarters
Contact Information
RBI National Office
Major League Baseball
245 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10167
(212) 931-7800
Fax: (212) 949-5695
[email protected]
Website: MLB.com/rbi
Facebook: search ‘MLB RBI’
RBI portal: mlb411.mlb.com