Umpires Responsibilities
Before a game starts, the umpire shall:
● Check equipment in dugouts of both teams, equipment that does not meet specifications must be removed from the game.
● Make sure catchers are wearing helmets when warming up pitchers.
● Run hands along bats to make sure there are no slivers.
● Rule 1.1 Check bats to ensure it meets USA Baseball Bat standard (USABat) as adopted by the Little League.
● Make sure that bats have grips. Make sure that there are NO WHITE BATS.
● Make sure there are foam inserts in helmets and that helmets meet Little League NOCSAE specifications and bear Little League’s seal of approval.
● Inspect helmets for cracks.
● Walk the field for hazards and obstructions (e.g. rocks and glass). Check players to see if they are wearing metal cleats.
● Rule 1.11 (3) Any part of the pitcher’s undershirt or T-shirt exposed to view shall be of a solid color. The pitcher’s undershirt sleeves, if exposed, shall not be white or gray. Neoprene sleeves, if worn by a pitcher, must be covered by an undershirt.
● Make sure that all playing lines are marked with non-caustic lime, chalk or other white material easily distinguishable from the ground or grass.
● Secure official Little League balls for play from both teams.
● Use the FIELD SAFETY CHECKLIST to document that all of the above was carried out.
During the game the umpire shall:
● Govern the game as mandated by Little League rules and regulations.
● Check baseballs for discoloration and nicks and declare a ball unfit for use if it exhibits these traits.
● Act as the sole judge as to whether and when play shall be suspended or terminated during a game because of unsuitable weather conditions or the unfit condition of the playing field; as to whether and when play shall be resumed after such suspension; and as to whether and when a game shall be terminated after such suspension.
● Act as the sole judge as to whether and when play shall be suspended or terminated during a game because of low visibility due to atmospheric conditions or darkness.
● Enforce the rule that no spectators shall be allowed on the field during the game.
● Make sure catchers are wearing the proper equipment.
● Continue to monitor the field for safety and playability.
● Make the calls loud and clear, signaling each call properly.
● Make sure players and spectators keep their fingers out of the fencing.
After a game, the umpire shall:
● Check with the managers of both teams regarding safety violations.
● Report any unsafe situations to the Safety Officer by telephone and in writing.