Mercy Rule
12 runs after 3 innings
10 runs after 4 innings
8 runs after 5 innings
Courtesy Runner
Last out of previous inning.
Pitcher/Catcher only.
Dropped 3rd Strike
Can run on uncaught third strike in qualifying situations.
Time Limit
1.5-hour limit.
No new inning after time.
Obstruction
Umpire judgment determines placement.
A batter-runner awarded first base on a walk may advance to second at her own risk provided the advance is made in one continuous motion.
If the runner rounds first and immediately continues toward second without stopping or hesitating, the advance is legal.
If the runner stops, hesitates, or otherwise commits to first base, she may not subsequently attempt to advance once the pitcher has possession of the ball in the circle and the Look-Back Rule is in effect.
If the pitcher motions, fakes, or makes an attempt to throw to a runner, the Look-Back Rule is suspended.
Once the pitcher regains possession of the ball in the circle, the Look-Back Rule becomes active again.
Dropped Third Strike Rule
If the catcher fails to catch the third strike before it touches the ground, the batter can run to first base if there are fewer than two outs and first base is not occupied at the time of the pitch.
If there are two outs, the batter can run to first base regardless of whether first base is occupied.
Batter Out of the Box
A batter is called out for being out of the batter’s box if their foot is outside the box at the moment of bat-ball contact.
The entire foot must be out of the box to be considered an infraction. A line is part of the box.
Mercy Run Rule
The Mercy Run Rule for GGSL is 12 runs after 3, 10 runs after 4, and 8 runs after 5.
In 13U and 18U, teams are allowed to score 8 runs per at bat. 5 runs for 10U at bat.
5-Minute Rule
There is no 5-minute rule for the regular season.
This only applies to the Early Bird Tournament and Postseason play if required.
Courtesy Runner
A courtesy runner may be used only for the pitcher or catcher.
The courtesy runner shall be the last out recorded in the previous inning.
If no out has been recorded in the previous inning, use the last out from the most recent inning where an out was recorded.
Obstruction
Obstruction occurs when a defensive player hinders or impedes a runner’s progress without possession of the ball or without making the initial play on a batted ball.
This is a judgment call. The umpire determines whether the runner was affected and what base should be awarded.
⏱️ What is the GGSL game time limit?
1.5 hour time limit for all GGSL games. A new inning may not be started after 1.5 hours of playing time has elapsed.
When time runs out, the inning currently in progress may be finished unless the mercy rule comes into play or the home team has the lead.
⚖️ Can a game or umpire judgment call be protested?
No. GGSL does not provide for protesting an umpire’s judgment call or the outcome of a game.
Umpire decisions during a game are final. Coaches, parents, and players are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. Concerns regarding sportsmanship, team conduct, or umpire behavior should be reported to the appropriate Area Coordinator.
🧢 Coach Code of Conduct
GGSL coaches are expected to lead by example, demonstrate fair play, and remember that youth softball is for the players.
Coaches may not verbally abuse players, fans, umpires, or opponents, including arguing calls. Coaches may not direct taunts or challenges at opposing teams, coaches, umpires, or league officials.
Unsportsmanlike behavior, bullying, abusive language, cheating, or repeated misconduct may result in disciplinary action under the GGSL Coach’s Code of Conduct.
❤️ Remember Why We Play
The game is for the players — not the coaches, parents, or fans. Our goal is to provide a positive environment where girls can learn, compete, have fun, and develop a lifelong love of the game.
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