Baseball Comments on the Rules - 2027

Alternative to the Double First Base (1-2-9) (Effective January 1, 2027) – A larger 18-inch square single first base is permissible as an alternative to the double first base previously approved.  Either choice enhances player safety by reducing the risk of collisions between the batter-runner and the first baseman on close plays.

Bats, Balls and Gloves (1-3-2d) (Effective January 1, 2028) – The BBCOR .50 performance standard for non-wood bats has been transferred to USA Baseball and the permanent certification mark in a contrasting color will read, USA Baseball BBCOR or BBCOR .50. All -3 non-wood bats shall meet the BBCOR .50 performance standard with an addition of a new class of permissible bats labeled with a permanent certification mark in a contrasting color that reads, USA Baseball -4, USA Baseball -5, and USA Baseball -6.

Player Equipment (1-5-12) – Clarifies what type, frequency and position of eye shade is permitted on the face of a player.

Player Communication Equipment (1-6-2) – One-way communication equipment usage from a coach to the catcher has been extended to the pitcher as well. Either one or both player(s) may have one-way electronic communication access from the coach in the dugout or bench area.

Player Communication Equipment (1-6-3) – Additional clarity was provided with high school players not being permitted to wear any audio or video equipment for the purpose of broadcasting or live recording while actively participating in the contest. This rule protects safety, fairness, competitive integrity, privacy of others, focus on education and the educational mission of high school sports. In addition, the state associations have been permitted additional latitude in the enforcement of this rule.

Bench and Field Conduct (3-3-1h) – Expansion of the items permitted in the coach’s box for scoring the game.

Ending a Regulation Game (4-2-2) – Provide a tie-breaker option for state association adoption.