New and Updated Rules Summary for 2024
Home Run Rule:
JSA will be following the USA Softball Home Run rule moving forward. This rule allows for the following number of home runs for each division:
- 5 HR for any C division
- 3 HR for any D division
- 1 HR for any E/REC division (E and below)
Strike Mat Rule:
JSA is implementing the use of strike mats for all leagues and tournaments moving forward.
A strike mat is a designated and standardized rectangular mat placed either up against the back of home plate or covering home plate which defines the strike zone. The strike mat dimensions shall conform to 24” in width and 36” in length. The outer edges of the mat will be clearly marked to assist both players and umpires. If a pitch meets the height requirement and lands on either home plate or the strike mat, it is called a strike.
Commitment & Safety Lines: All leagues (Coed, Men’s, and Women’s) will now use the Commitment Line and Safety Line Rules that have been previously used in Coed leagues only.
Stealing: Due to the addition of a strike mat, stealing will no longer be permitted in the men’s division.
Good Samaritan Rule:
In the event of a person experiencing a medical emergency or sustaining an injury during a game, a medically qualified participant acting as a Good Samaritan may leave their current game to assist someone at the fields. The Good Samaritan is encouraged to inform their team or the umpire before leaving the current game. If the team of the Good Samaritan has an eligible rostered player, they must replace the Good Samaritan. In this situation, the player entering will not be considered a substitute and the Good Samaritan will reenter the game when able. If the team has no additional rostered players on their bench, no compression outs will be assessed for the Good Samaritan’s spot in the batting order. In the event the Good Samaritan is their team’s only pitcher or the loss of the Good Samaritan causes their team to drop to less than 8, the game will stop for no more than 10 minutes to wait for the Good Samaritan to return. If the Good Samaritan is unable to return, the game will be rescheduled from the point of the delay.
+1 Strike Rule:
The +1 strike (also known as the half strike or the courtesy strike) has been removed. A batter with two strikes will no longer be allowed an additional foul ball.
Pitcher Courtesy Runner:
JSA will be following the USA Softball rule regarding courtesy runners for pitchers. An additional courtesy runner is allowed anytime the pitcher is on base. The courtesy runner for the pitcher does not count towards the one courtesy runner per inning and must be the same gender as the pitcher.
Questions? Please contact your Board/League Representative regarding these rule updates. The list of JSA Board Members can be found HERE.
JSA Player Handbook
Please take moment to read through the JSA Handbook. All players and managers should be familiar with the rules and guidelines outlined in this document. Click the button below to download a copy:
Approved Equipment
Planning to purchase a new bat? Multi-wall/composite bats are allowed for all players in all leagues. Only ASA/USA certified bats may be used during JSA league play and in JSA tournaments. Please refer to USA Softball guidelines and the yearly listings of legal bats. Click here for more information regarding USA Softball-approved bats.
Metal cleats are not allowed. All pitchers are required to wear a protective mask. Beginning in 2023, JSA will no longer provide pitching masks to players. Managers and pitchers – please plan accordingly.