2026 Parent Guide.

Parent Guide & League Information

Welcome to East Mountain Little League

Welcome!

We are excited to have you! East Mountain Little League is committed to the Little League motto of character, courage and loyalty and will strive to uphold these ideals. One of the most important ingredients to making our League successful is adult volunteers! We need team managers, coaches, team parents, scorekeepers, and umpires. We will need all our parents to step forward to help in some capacity to make this a great season.

Our History

East Mountain Little League received its charter in 1989 from Little League Baseball Inc., the world’s largest organized youth sports program. From our humble beginnings on the dirt lot behind the Edgewood Fire Station to our current location at the Vista Grande Community Center in Sandia Park, East Mountain Little League is proud to provide Little League Baseball and Softball to the East Mountain community. EMLL is a member of New Mexico District 5, within Little League's Southwest Region. Each year we field 30 or more teams in divisions ranging from Tee ball to Senior in baseball and softball. Our home fields are located at the Vista Grande Community Center on La Madera Road off North Highway 14 in Sandia Park, New Mexico.

Our Mission

East Mountain Little League’s mission is to bring youth baseball and softball to the East Mountain community knowing that the lessons learned on the field extend beyond the fences. Little League believes in the power of youth baseball and softball to teach life lessons that build stronger individuals and communities. Joined together by one common goal, every local league is part of One Team. One Little League.

Calendar of Events

Our Calendar is posted on the home page, under Local News.

Date	Event
January 1	Online Registration Opens
January 31	Early Bird Discount Ends
March 7	Baseball Player Evaluation for players league 9-12. At Mile High Little League Fields.
March 8	Softball Player Evaluations for players league age 9-12. At East Mountain Little League Fields
March 21	Scorekeeper Clinic. EMLL Office 10 am
March 21	Field Maintenance. 11 am -2 pm.
April 18	Opening Day Celebration
May 16	East Mountain Little League Night at Isotopes
April 18	Opening Day Celebration

Important Policies

Background Screening Policy

Any person who provides regular service to the league or has repetitive access to players must annually complete a Little League Official Volunteer Application, submit to a background screening, and complete the Little League Adult Abuse Awareness training.
East Mountain Little League is committed to protecting all participants and have identified the following disqualifying convictions:

any crime involving a minor;
force or threat of force (including domestic violence);
sexual relations;
controlled substances (not paraphernalia or alcohol);
cruelty to animals;
and financial crimes (including fraud).

All approved volunteers must have a league-issued ID badge.

East Mountain Little League Code of Conduct

All managers, coaches, umpires, parents, and spectators must set good examples of sportsmanship and competition for all our children.
Any parent, coach, or spectator guilty of improper conduct at any game or practice will be asked to leave the sports facility and be subject to suspension. Repeat violations may result in multiple game suspensions, or forfeiture of the privilege to attend any games for the remainder of the season.
Parents/Guardians agree to:

Accept the policies included in this EMLL Parent Guide & League Bylaws Handbook.
Be a positive role model for every child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice and activity.
Respect all coaches and umpires and never question, discuss, or confront coaches or umpires at the game field; take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.
Not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; refusing to shake hands; or using profane language or gestures.
Teach children to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
Unless you are an official coach of the team, only offer positive encouragement and refrain from unnecessary coaching.
Never ridicule or yell at any child for making a mistake or losing a game.
Emphasize skill development and teamwork over winning. Agree to de-emphasize competition particularly in the lower age groups.
Promote a sports environment that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and refrain from their use at all Little League events.

Zero Tolerance Policy

While EMLL recognizes the need and desire for competition, it also believes that the values of sportsmanship, self-control, and personal responsibility are of much greater importance. Each and every adult has an obligation to exemplify these qualities to our youth. Anyone who is involved in a verbal or physical altercation or an incident of unsportsmanlike conduct at the game site or any other Little League activity will face disciplinary action by the League. Violators will be required to meet with the league’s board or disciplinary committee. The league has the authority to sanction or suspend any player, manager, coach, or parent.

Zero Tolerance Policy for Players

Any unsportsmanlike conduct, including the use of profanity, fighting, or bullying by a player shall result in ejection from a game or other disciplinary action. A player ejected from a game will be suspended from the following game played. A player ejected from a game or disciplined for a second time will be ineligible for the following two games played. The player and parent(s) will be required to meet with the Disciplinary Committee or League President prior to further participation.
Note: EMLL reserves the right to immediately expel any player if the severity of their actions warrants.

Zero Tolerance Policy for Adult Volunteers

Adult volunteers will only get one warning regarding unsportsmanlike conduct. Any violation of the EMLL Conduct Code may result in ejection, suspension, or other disciplinary action.

A coach who is ejected from a game must leave the game site and may not sit in the stands as per rule 4.07. The coach will be suspended for the following game played and shall not be present at the field either before or during the game, nor interact in any way with the coaches or players during the playing of that game.

The suspended coach will be required to meet with the Disciplinary Committee prior to further participation. The nature of the ejection may disqualify the coach from All-Star participation. A coach ejected from a game for a second time will be expelled for the remainder of the season.

Note: EMLL reserves the right to immediately expel any coach or volunteer if the severity of their actions so warrants.

Zero Tolerance Policy for Spectators

Any spectator who violates the EMLL Code of Conduct will be asked to leave the facility and may be required to meet with the Disciplinary Committee prior to further attendance. Failure to do so may result in more severe penalties up to and including revocation of league membership. He or she shall also be subject to trespassing laws.

ANY INFRACTION OF LITTLE LEAGUE RULES WILL BE GROUNDS FOR IMMEDIATE REMOVAL FROM THE GAME AND FROM THE EMLL COMPLEX. THE OFFENDER MAY BE SUBJECT TO FURTHER DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE EMLL BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

Safety

It is the goal of EMLL to make baseball and softball as safe as possible for all participants. Please do your part to help keep everyone safe. If you see an unsafe situation, notify a Board member, manager, or coach immediately. Important safety reminders:

The Little League Safety Code prohibits players from swinging or handling a bat, even while in an enclosure, until it is his/her time at bat during a game or practice.
No climbing on any fences, cages, or structures.
Batboys and/or batgirls are not permitted.
All players must wear Little League approved batting helmets when at bat and on the bases. Any non-adult base coach must wear a helmet. All catchers’ helmets must have a dangling throat protector.
In the event of lightning, all activities will be stopped and players shall be moved to a safe location. The sooner activities are stopped, and people get to a safe place the greater the level of safety. EMLL will immediately suspend all games when lightning is detected within 10 miles. EMLL officials will sound three air-horn blasts to alert everyone that lightning has been detected and all activities must be suspended. EMLL officials will sound one long air-horn blast to signal when it is safe to resume.
All managers and coaches must complete the Little League Abuse Awareness Trainings and the Heads Up concussion program.

Safety - Injury Reporting

Baseball and softball are relatively safe sports; however, accidents resulting in injury can happen.
If an injury is sustained during an EMLL practice or game, please refer to the following procedures:

Any incident resulting in an injury, no matter how slight, to a player, manager, coach, or other volunteer, whether it requires medical treatment or not, must be reported using the Incident Tracking Report to the Safety Officer within 24 hours.
If the injury requires any type of professional medical treatment, even minor treatment, or evaluation and diagnosis of the extent of the injury, it must be reported using the Accident Notification Form to the EMLL Safety Officer or President within 7 days of the accident.
The Incident Tracking Report and/or the Accident Notification Form may be obtained by scanning the QR code in the dugout, from the EMLL concession stand or on the EMLL website at: www.EastMountainLittleLeague.com
It is recommended that Joseph Allred, EMLL Safety Officer, be notified of any incident. Joseph can be reached by phone 505-803-6416 or by email at [email protected]

What You Should Know About Little League Insurance

The Little League Insurance Program is designed to afford protection to all participants at the most economical cost to the local league. The Little League Player Accident Policy is an excess-coverage, accident-only plan, to be used as a supplement to other insurance carried under a family policy or insurance provided by a parent's employer. If there is no primary coverage, Little League insurance will provide benefits for eligible charges, up to Usual and Customary allowances for your area, after a $50.00 deductible per claim, up to the maximum stated benefits.

This plan makes it possible to offer exceptional, affordable protection with assurance to parents that adequate coverage is in force for all chartered and insured Little League approved programs and events.

If your child sustains a covered injury while taking part in a scheduled Little League game or practice, here is how the insurance works:

The Little League Accident Notification Form must be completed by parents and a league official, and then forwarded directly to Little League Headquarters within 20 days after the accident.
Itemized bills and other documentation related to a claim must be provided within 90 days after the accident.
When other insurance is present, copies of the Explanation of Benefits or Notice/ Letter of Denial for each charge must be sent directly to Little League Headquarters.
Policy provides benefits for eligible medical expenses incurred within 52 weeks of the accident, subject to Excess Coverage and Exclusion provisions of the plan.
Limited deferred medical/dental benefits may be available for necessary treatment after the 52-week time limit as described in the full document.

Click Here for more info

Equipment

Players must have their own glove, appropriate shoes, baseball pants and protective cup. Cups can protect from injury and players are strongly encouraged to wear them. Mouthguards are strongly recommended.

Each team receives a bag of equipment which include balls, batting helmets, catcher’s gear, and one USA Baseball bat. All equipment must meet Little League specifications and standards.

ALL BASEBALL BATS MUST BE USA BASEBALL APPROVED. Click here for more Little League bat information.

EMLL provides uniforms consisting of cap and jersey for players. The league has a limited supply of baseball pants available to families in need. Contact the league for more info.

EMLL will not be responsible for lost, stolen, damaged or the replacement of personal equipment.

League Sponsorships

East Mountain Little League relies on the support from our local business community to help defray costs such as equipment, uniforms, and other costs associated with a quality and affordable program. Support from our generous sponsors also allows us to provide scholarships for children and families who would otherwise be unable to participate. Sponsorship benefits continue to provide a high level of visibility for your business throughout the season.
For complete information, contact our Sponsorship Coordinator.

NOTE: Individual teams, coaches, or parents are not permitted to seek or solicit sponsors for individuals or individual teams, nor may any coach, parent, or individual entity sponsor, promote, or donate to any single player or individual team.
Sponsorships or donations must be solicited or received at the league level for the benefit of the entire league.

Registration

Registration Fees

Registration fees are collected to help pay for uniforms, team equipment, league and player insurance, and for our charter with Little League. Our current fees are:
First Child: $75
Second Child: $65
Third Child: $55
Additional Children: $45

Each family will be charged a $25.00 refundable Field Maintenance deposit and a $25 Concession Volunteer deposit.
These deposits will be refunded to the family after participating in 2 hours of field maintenance and completion of an assigned concession stand shift.

T-Mobile Call Up Grants are available to help cover the costs of registration. Click here for more information or to apply.

Proof of Age Requirement

Little League requires an ORIGINAL birth certificate be presented for each player. You must show the original to the league President or a Board Member. Alternate documents for proof of age may be considered, please contact the EMLL President for requirements.

League Age

Your player’s league age is determined by the Little League Baseball® and Little League Softball® Age Charts. The dates for baseball and softball are different, but each determines the division in which your Little Leaguer will play this season
For Baseball, league age is determined by the player’s age on August 31, 2026.
For Softball, league age is determined by the player’s age on December 31, 2025.

Residency or School Enrollment Requirement

Players are eligible to play with EMLL only if they reside or attend school within our boundaries. Residence shall be established and supported by documents containing the full residence which includes parent/guardian name, address, city, state and zip code information, dated between February 1, 2025 and February 1, 2026, from one or more documents from each of the three groups outlined below:

Group 1	Group 2	Group 3
Driver’s license School records Vehicle records Employment records Insurance documents	Welfare/child care records Federal, state, or local record Support payments Homeowner/tenant records Military records	Voter’s registration Utility bill Financial record Medical records Internet, cable, or satellite

School enrollment/attendance shall be established and supported by a document indicating enrollment for the current academic year, the physical location of the school, from one of the following categories: (1) Official/Certified School enrollment record dated prior to October 1, 2025 or (2) A Little League-issued school attendance form completed by the principal, assistant principal, or administrator. Falsifying residency may lead to ineligibility to play Little League.

League Choice

Starting with the 2025 season, children at the youngest level of the Little League® Baseball and Softball program (League Age 4-7) will have the ability to register for any Little League program they choose, without respect to any geography- or school-related eligibility requirements. Those players who register under this option will also be fully eligible to participate in all aspects of league play, including International Tournament play, for the duration of their Little League careers provided they have continuous and unbroken participation within the specific league where initially registered and provided all other participation eligibility requirements have been met.

Divisions of Play: Baseball

East Mountain Little League offers a variety of levels of play for baseball, participation in a specific division is based on league age and experience.
Tee Ball: All players league ages 4-6 will be assigned to a coed Tee Ball baseball team. All first year players who are league age 5 or 6 must play in the Tee Ball division.
Baseball: Rookies Machine Pitch: Players who are league ages 7-8 will be assigned to a Rookie division team.
Baseball:Minors/Majors: All players league ages of 9-12 must attend player evaluations and will be drafted to either a Minor or Major division team. ALL players who are league age 12 will be drafted to a Major team.
Baseball: Teenage: Division of play for players league age 13-16 will be determined by the number of participants.

Note: Baseball league age is determined by the age of the child on August 31, 2026.

Divisions of Play: Softball

East Mountain Little League offers a variety of levels of play for softball. Participation in a specific division is based on league age and experience.
Tee Ball: All players league ages 4-6 will be assigned to a coed Tee Ball baseball team. All first year players who are league age 5 or 6 must play in the Tee Ball division.
Softball: Rookies Machine Pitch: Girls who are league ages 7-8 will be assigned to a Rookie division team.
Softball: Minors/Majors: Softball players league age 9-12 shall attend player evaluations and will be drafted to either a Minor or Major division team. ALL Softball players who are league age 12 will be drafted to a Major team.

Softball: Teenage: Division of play for players league age 13-16 will be determined by the number of participants. EMLL will only field a softball team for this age group if we have enough girls and a manager. There may be opportunities to combine with a league in Albuquerque if we do not have an EMLL team.

Notes: Softball league age is determined by the age of the child on December 31, 2025.

Get Involved! Volunteer!

Field Maintenance

A $25.00 refundable Field Maintenance Deposit is required per family and is refunded after working a minimum of 2 hours on the designated day(s). Tasks include raking, weeding, cleaning dugouts, and repairing equipment. Check the EMLL website or Facebook for field maintenance dates and opportunities.
Failure to participate in field maintenance will result in forfeiture of field maintenance deposit.

Concession Stand

New this season, a $25.00 refundable Concession Stand Deposit is required per family and is refunded after completion of the shift on the designated day. Teams will be assigned to staff the concession stand for up to 2 shifts. Each shift will require a minimum of three adults. More details will be shared with Managers and Coaches.
No children under age 13 are permitted in the concession stand. Teenagers working the concession must be age 13 or older and must attend concession stand training. Teenagers may be removed from the concession stand for misconduct at the discretion of a board member and may also be prohibited from working the concession stand for the remainder of the season.

Managers and Coaches

Anyone interested in being considered for a manager (head coach) or assistant coach position shall complete the volunteer application in their Sports Connect account. All manager and coach candidates are required to complete the 2026 Little League Abuse Awareness Course and upload their certificate of completion, dated after Oct.1, 2025, during the volunteer application process.
Additionally, it is highly recommended that managers and coaches complete the Diamond Leader course (required one time) and the Heads Up Concussion Program.
All coaches must be approved by the league. Previous service does not guarantee approval.
EMLL reserves the right to dismiss any head coach or assistant coach at any time.

Scorekeepers

Each team in the Rookies, Minors, Majors, and Teen Divisions of both baseball and softball must have a scorekeeper. Official scorekeepers are required to keep track of line-ups, runs scored, pitch count, etc. We will hold a training clinic on Saturday March 21 at 10am in the EMLL Office. We’ll cover keeping score in a book or on GameChanger, important details, and we’ll show you how to use the scoreboards. If you are interested in scorekeeping, please contact our Chief Scorekeeper for additional information.

Umpires

Umpires are essential for all games from Rookies through teenage divisions. Without umpires we cannot play the games and the children suffer. NO EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED. If you are interested in umpiring, contact the Chief UmpireChief Umpire for more information.

Team Assignments, Player Evaluation

Team Assignments: Baseball

All players league ages 4-6 will be assigned to a coed Tee Ball team. All first-year players who are league age 5 or 6 must play in the Tee Ball division.
All players league ages 7-8 will be assigned to a Rookie division team.
All players league ages 9-12 must attend player evaluations and be drafted to either a Minor or Major division team. ALL players who are league age 12 will be drafted to a Major team. Any qualified league age 11 player who is drafted to a Major division team must play in that division. Any players league age 9-11 who tryout but are not drafted to a Major division team will be drafted to a Minor division team. The Major division will use the Little League approved draft procedure. The Minor division will use the approved EMLL Minor Division Draft procedure.
Division of play for players league age 13-16 will be determined by the number of participants. Qualified players who are league age 12 are eligible under certain conditions for selection to a teenage team (dual roster). Players must be assessed by the league as capable of participation at a level higher than Majors.
Rookie and Tee-Ball team assignments should be completed around April 1st, but may be later. Parents will be notified by a team manager or coach.
EMLL does not guarantee requests for specific teams will be honored.

Note: Baseball league age is determined by the age of the child on August 31, 2026.

Team Assignments: Softball

All players league ages 4-6 will be assigned to a coed Tee Ball team. All first-year players who are league age 5 or 6 must play in the Tee Ball division.
All players league ages 7-8 will be assigned to a Rookie division team. If we have a committed manager and enough girls for a full team, the players will be assigned to a Rookie Softball team, otherwise they will be assigned to a Rookie Baseball team.
All players league ages 9-12 must attend player evaluations and be drafted to either a Minor or Major division team. ALL players who are league age 12 will be drafted to a Major team. Any qualified league age 11 player who is drafted to a Major division team must play in that division. Any players league age 9-11 who tryout but are not drafted to a Major division team will be drafted to a Minor division team. The Major division will use the Little League approved draft procedure. The Minor division will use the approved EMLL Minor Division Draft procedure.
Division of play for players league age 13-16 will be determined by the number of participants. EMLL will only field a softball team for this age group if we have enough girls and a manager. There may be opportunities to combine with a league in Albuquerque if we do not have an EMLL team.
Rookie and Tee-Ball team assignments should be completed around April 1st, but may be later. Parents will be notified by a team manager or coach.
EMLL does not guarantee requests for specific teams will be honored.

Note: Softball league age is determined by the age of the child on December 31, 2025.

Player Evaluation Information

Players in the Tee-Ball and Rookie Divisions DO NOT attend evaluations.
BASEBALL: All players league age 9-12 must attend the evaluation session. League age 8 players who would like to be considered for a Minor division team must also attend.
SOFTBALLAll players league age 9-12 must attend the evaluation session. League age 8 players who would like to be considered for a Minor division team must also attend.

Player evaluations consist of timed running of bases, catching fly balls, fielding ground balls, throwing and batting.

Player Evaluation Schedule: Baseball

League Age	Dates	Location
9 & 10 year olds	Sat. March 7	Mile High Little League Fields
11 & 12 year olds	Sat. March 7	Mile High Little League Fields
13 & 14-year olds	Sat. March 7 (If Needed)
15 & 16-year olds	TBD (If Needed)

NOTE: Any child failing to attend the evaluations will be assigned to a team at the Board's discretion. They will NOT be drafted. They are NOT eligible to be traded. They are NOT eligible for postseason play (All-Stars). Please contact the Player Agent or a Board Member for more information. If a Player is unable to attend, they should contact the President or Player Agent before the final evaluation date to make alternate arrangements.
NOTE: Any child failing to attend the evaluations will be assigned to a team at the Board's discretion. They will NOT be drafted. They are NOT eligible to be traded. They are NOT eligible for postseason play (All-Stars). Please contact the Player Agent or a Board Member for more information. If a Player is unable to attend, they should contact the President or Player Agent before the final evaluation date to make alternate arrangements.

Player Evaluation Schedule: Softball

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for your age group.
All dates are dependent on weather. Please check our website, Facebook, or Twitter for updates regarding player evaluations.
All dates are dependent on weather. Please check our website, Facebook, or Twitter for updates regarding player evaluations.

League Age	Dates	Time	Location
9- thru 12-year olds	Sun. March 8	TBD	Mile High Little League Fields
13-year olds & up	TBD (If Needed)

Regular Season Pool Players

Pool players play in a game for another team within the same division when a team is short of players. Anyone interested in being a pool player shall indicate their interest during the registration process.
Parents of a pool player will be called by the player agent as early as possible, please keep in mind that sometimes the request may be very short notice. The pool player may decline to play and be returned to the pool for another day. Pool players shall wear their own team uniform so that they are readily identifiable to all.
MANAGERS/COACHES MUST REQUEST POOL PLAYERS FROM THE PLAYER AGENT.
MANAGERS/COACHES MAY NOT CONTACT PARENTS OR PLAYERS DIRECTLY. FAILURE TO GO THROUGH THE PLAYER AGENT WILL RESULT IN THE MANAGER/COACH BEING SUSPENDED FOR ONE GAME.

EMLL Playing Rules by Division

East Mountain Little League Ground Rules [All Divisions]

These East Mountain Little League Local Rules supplement the official Little League Regulations, Playing Rules, and Policies. All Little League International rules apply unless a specific local exception is noted here.
ALL players, coaches, volunteers, parents and spectators must abide by East Mountain Little League local rules, Code of Conduct, and the 2026 Little League official regulations and policies.

The possession and/or use of firearms, any tobacco products, cigarettes, e-cigarettes/vapes, any controlled substances, and alcoholic beverages in any form are prohibited on the playing field, dugouts, bleachers or ANYWHERE within the Vista Grande Community Center premises; including all parking and surrounding areas.
Coaches or parents shall not seek sponsors for individuals, players or teams.
Only uniformed players, managers, coaches and umpires shall be permitted within the confines of the playing field during games.
At least one adult manager or coach must be in the dugout during games. No exceptions. All adult volunteers within the confines of the playing field must have submitted an annual Little League Official Volunteer Application, completed the Abuse Awareness Course, and must carry their 2026 photo ID badge.
The use of profanity by players, managers, coaches, umpires, spectators, and/or vehement disagreements with umpire’s decisions is prohibited.
Players, managers, coaches, parents, or spectators must not direct negative comments to any players, coaches, umpires, or other spectators or do anything to distract them.
Both teams must clean up the area on their side of the field including trash in and around the dugout, and empty and replace the trash liners after their games.
Managers and coaches must treat all players fairly, regardless of ability.
A maximum of 4 practices and/or games are allowed in a calendar week.
A pre-game meeting of Umpires and Managers is mandatory. The umpires are in complete charge during all games and have the authority to enforce all rules.
Bullpen cages shall only be used by the teams that are playing but may not be used for batting practice during games.
EMLL strictly upholds the mandatory play rule for all divisions. For more information see Little League Regulation IV (i).
Each team must have an official scorekeeper. The home team is responsible for keeping the game’s official scorebook. All scorebooks and pitching records must be kept for the duration of the season and available to be presented to the league. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of All Star eligibility for players and/or coaches.
The Tee Ball and Rookies Baseball divisions are coed. All softball divisions are girls only. Rookies baseball and softball are machine-pitch programs.
Postponed games will be rescheduled for the next open day, regardless of the advantage or disadvantage to either team. All make-up games are the responsibility of the managers.
Each team will have a basic first aid kit; additional kits are available in the EMLL office.
Pre and Post Game Field Work:
The Home Team will prepare the field before each game, including dragging, raking, watering, chalking, and setting up the bases. The home team shall occupy the third base dugout.
- The Visiting Team will be responsible for repairing the field after each game, including raking the mound and the home plate area. The infield must be dragged and watered after each game. Bases must be put away. The mound and home plate area must be covered. All gates and storage containers must be locked.
- On Saturdays, the home team of the first game of the day will prepare the field and the visiting team of the last game of the day will put away the bases and drag the field.
Protests will only be considered when based on violation of a rule or use of an ineligible player. Protests will be handled in accordance with official Little League rules.
Players in Tee Ball, Rookie, or Minor Divisions may be moved up or down to the next division for safety reasons. Moves will be determined by the Player Agent, Safety Officer and the League President with input from the parents but the final decision will be made by the League.
Games will be suspended for safety reasons to avoid risk of injury to players (i.e.: lightning, the sun hitting the horizon, darkness, etc.)
Games MUST STOP at the Official Sunset Time. The umpire will keep the official time. Official Sunset Times are posted at the concession stand. All games must stop at the Official Sunset Time regardless of the score or innings played. Rules 4.10 and 4.11 are then used to determine regulation games.

Tee Ball Playing Rules

Tee ball games shall be a maximum of 1 hour, preferably 45 minutes, regardless of the number of innings played.
No player shall handle or swing a bat, even while in an enclosure, until it is his/her time at bat.
Bullpen cages shall only be used by the teams that are playing but may not be used for batting practice during games.
At least one approved adult must be in the dugout at all times during games.
Managers, coaches, and approved volunteers may be on the field for instructional purposes.
There are no umpires or scorekeeping in Tee Ball.
There is no bunting in Tee Ball.
The batting order shall be continuous. However the batting order may be changed during games.
The side is retired when all players on the roster have batted one time in the half-inning.
Coach pitch is allowed during practices from the start of the season. Once the halfway point of the season is reached (after 5 games have been played) coaches may elect to coach-pitch to all or some of their players (if a player or their parent does not want to participate in coach-pitch, they shouldn’t be forced to). The coach pitching shall stand 10 to 15 feet from the plate and soft-toss, underhand to the batter. The batter will receive a maximum of three pitches including swings and misses and all foul balls. If after three pitches, the batter has not put the ball in play, the batter must switch to the tee.
It is strongly encouraged that you teach the players the concept of making defensive putouts.
All players present at the game should be assigned a defensive position, however not more than one player may occupy any infield position. After assigning infield positions, all remaining players shall be assigned an outfield position.

IMPORTANT: All Tee Ball games must end 20 minutes prior to the next scheduled game. All games on Fields 1 & 5 may be impacted by an EMHS game.
All Official Ground Rules, Sunset, and Weather restrictions stated elsewhere in this handbook apply to Tee Ball.

Rookies-Machine Pitch Playing Rules

There is a two-hour time limit on games. Games might be shorter if they reach 15 minutes prior to a following game, or the posted sunset time, or due to the mercy rule.

No player shall handle or swing a bat, even while in an enclosure, until it is his/her time at bat. Bullpen cages shall only be used by the teams that are playing but may not be used for batting practice during games.

An approved adult must be in the dugout at all times during games. Only three coaches are permitted on the field when a team is at-bat (offense) and only one coach on defense for instructional purposes. Coaches shall not physically assist runners or touch a live ball.

Each team MUST have eight (8) players to start and/or continue a game. No exceptions. Not having 8 players does not automatically constitute a forfeit. The Board of Directors will determine forfeits. If a team starts with nine players, but a player leaves or is injured, there is no penalty (see below).

A 10th defensive player may be used in the outfield provided both teams field 10 players on defense.

Mandatory play will be in accordance with Little League Regulation IV (i).

The Batting Order is continuous (all players listed on the Team’s Roster will bat). If a player drops out of the game prior to the end, that player is simply skipped without penalty. It is not an automatic out. Once a player is removed from the lineup, he/she may not return for that game. A player who arrives late for a game may be added at the end of the batting order. Late arrivals may not be inserted in the middle of the lineup. Batting out of order rule applies.

Home team supplies the plate umpire; visiting team supplies the field umpire. Plate umpires must wear protective gear if positioned behind the batter/catcher.

The pitching machine shall be placed 45’ away from home plate. The speed of the pitching machine shall be set to no less than 35 mph and no more than 40 mph. A ball that comes to rest under the machine is dead.

A 2’ to 3’ chalk mark shall be placed equally between first and second base, second and third base, and third base and home plate.

Coaches shall show the ball to the batter before feeding the ball into the pitching machine.

Each batter shall receive no more than 5 pitches. EXCEPTIONS: A pitched ball that is not swung at by the batter that hits the plate or hits the ground in front of the plate or is clearly over the batter’s head shall be declared a NO-PITCH. If swung at and missed it will be declared a strike. Only the UMPIRE can declare a NO-PITCH. Any declared NO PITCH will not count toward the 5-pitch total. The batter may foul off balls (including bunts) indefinitely until he/she hits the ball in fair territory or strikes out. Three (3) missed swings constitutes a strike out.

Fielders must play their respective positions including the pitcher. Once the ball is put in play, play shall continue until:

A put out is made (or multiple outs are made—double plays count). A play is not dead on popups or fly outs; base runners can legally retouch their base (tag-up) and advance at their own risk once a fair or foul ball is legally caught.
An attempt to make a put out is made at any base. An attempt is defined as a clear effort by the fielder to: throw the ball to any base where a put out can be made, or attempt to tag a runner. A ball that comes to rest under the machine is dead. A batted or thrown ball that caroms off the machine is live.
The pitcher has possession of the ball on the pitcher’s mound, in the umpire’s judgment.
On balls hit to the outfield, outfielders must return the ball to the infield. If the thrown ball from the outfield is caught by a player in the infield, the ball is live and the infielder may attempt to make a put out on any runner attempting to advance or return. If the thrown ball from the outfield is not caught by a player in the infield, PLAY STOPS WHEN THE BALL REACHES THE BASE PATH. Runners who are at or beyond the halfway mark when the ball becomes dead may advance to the next base. When a ball is thrown from right or left field toward second base and is either behind or over the second baseman into either left or right field, play shall stop at once. The overthrow rule below shall apply.

NOTE REGARDING OVERTHROWS: On any overthrow to any base the ball is dead. On overthrows to first base, the batter-runner is awarded second base only. All runners on base at the time of the overthrow advance only one base if forced. Runners who are not forced may not advance, unless they are past the halfway mark.
An overthrow is defined as a throw from a fielder that is so high, or so wide that it cannot be caught with ordinary effort and goes well beyond the player who is attempting to catch it. This shall be a judgement call by the umpire.

Bunting is allowed. There are no base-on-balls (walks) or hit-by-pitches. The ball is dead if a batter is hit by a pitch.
Base stealing is not allowed. Base runners may not leave their base until the pitched ball reaches the batter.
The side is retired when: three offensive players are legally put out; or when the offensive team scores five runs, or when all players on the roster have batted one time in the half-inning. Five runs, or all players batting as noted above constitutes three outs for the purposes of mandatory play. The five-run limit applies to all innings.
Run Rules: Each game will end on the run rule when: One team is ahead by 15 runs after 3 innings (or 2½ if the home team is ahead); one team is ahead by 10 runs after 4 innings (3½ innings if the home team is ahead); or one team is ahead by 8 runs after 5 innings (4½ innings if the home team is ahead). Note: if the visiting team has a lead of 15, 10, or 8 runs in any of the above circumstances, the home team must bat in its half of the inning.
All games shall continue until they have met the requirements for an official game as defined in rules 4.10 (six innings) and 4.11 in the Little League Baseball rulebook. If a game is called, it is a regulation game if four innings have been completed (or 3 1⁄2 innings if the home team is ahead). If the game is called for any reason during an incomplete inning (i.e. an inning in which the visitors have tied the score or taken the lead and the home team does not complete its turn at-bat) the game ends and the score reverts back to whatever it was at the end of the last previously completed inning.
Tied games stand. There are no extra innings.

IMPORTANT: All games must end 15 minutes prior to the next scheduled game. All games on Fields 1 & 5 must end 60 minutes prior to any EMHS game. Fields 1 & 5 are shared with EMHS, Field 5 is shared with EMLL Softball Divisions and both which may impact games.
DARKNESS/WEATHER RULE: Sunset Times are available on Google and are posted at the concession stand. Games must stop at the Official Sunset Time. If in the umpire’s opinion it becomes too dark to continue play, games may be stopped earlier than the official sunset time. The umpire or league official may suspend the game due to any dangerous conditions including lightning, severe weather, or the sun hitting the horizon. EMLL officials will sound an air horn when lightning has been detected.

Minor Baseball Playing Rules

There is a two-hour time limit on games. Games may be shorter due to darkness or the run rule.
No player shall handle or swing a bat, even while in an enclosure, until it is his/her time at bat.
Bullpen cages shall only be used by the teams that are playing but may not be used for batting practice during games.
An approved adult must be in the dugout at all times during games. No exceptions.
Mandatory Play will be in accordance with the Little League Regulation IV (i).
Teams must adhere to the Little League Pitching Regulation VI and Rule 8.00. Teams are required to maintain an accurate pitching affidavit for every game. There is no maximum number of pitchers that may be used in a game. Any 12 year olds who receive a waiver to remain in Minors may not pitch.
Home team supplies the plate umpire, visiting team supplies the field umpire.
A game may not be started with less than 8 players nor can a game continue with less than 8 players. No exceptions. This does not automatically constitute a forfeit.
The batting order will be continuous. The manager will determine the lineup for each game and give a copy of the batting order to the umpire and opposing team prior to the start of the game. A player who arrives late for a game may be added to the end of the batting order.
When a child is injured, becomes ill, or must leave the game site after the start of the game and prior to its completion, that player’s position in the batting order is skipped without penalty. This must be announced when it happens. A player whose injury or illness prevents him/her from taking their turn at-bat shall be considered to have left the game and may not return to the game that day—if this leaves a team with fewer than 8 players, the game may not continue.
For substitution purposes, a player may be entered and/or re-entered defensively in the game anytime provided he/she meets the requirements of mandatory play by the end of that game.
Base runners must stay in contact with a base until the pitched ball has reached the batter as per Rule 7.13.
The side is retired when three offensive players are legally put out, or when the offensive team scores five runs, or when all players on the roster have batted one time in the half-inning. Five runs, or all players batting as noted above constitutes three outs for the purposes of mandatory play. The five-run per inning rule ends after the 5th inning. Runs are unlimited in the 6th inning or beyond. If the player at bat has not completed his/her turn at-bat when the fifth run scores, then he/she bats first in the next inning.
Run Rules: Each game will end on the run rule when: One team is ahead by 15 runs after 3 innings (or 2½ if the home team is ahead); one team is ahead by 10 runs after 4 innings (3½ innings if the home team is ahead); or one team is ahead by 8 runs after 5 innings (4½ innings if the home team is ahead). Note: if the visiting team has a lead of 15, 10, or 8 runs in any of the above circumstances, the home team must bat in its half of the inning.
All games shall continue until they have met the requirements for an official game as defined in rules 4.10 and 4.11. If a game is called, it is a regulation game if four innings have been completed (or 3 1⁄2 innings, if the home team is ahead). If the game is called for any reason during an incomplete inning (i.e. an inning in which the visitors have tied the score or taken the lead and the home team does not complete its turn at-bat) the game ends and the score reverts back to whatever it was at the end of the last previously completed inning.
Extra innings are allowed, if needed, as per rule 4.10(b) but only if the game can be completed within the time limit.

IMPORTANT: When another game is following on the same field, games must end 15 minutes prior to the next scheduled game.
DARKNESS/WEATHER RULE:
Sunset Times will be posted in the dugouts, storage sheds, concession stand, and the EMLL office. Games must stop at the Official Sunset Time. If in the umpire’s or league official’s opinion it becomes too dark to continue play, games may be stopped earlier than the official sunset time. The umpire or league official may suspend the game due to any dangerous conditions including lightning, severe weather, or the sun hitting the horizon. EMLL officials will sound 3-air horn blasts to alert everyone when lightning has been detected and all activities must be suspended.

Interleague Divisions

The Majors, Intermediate, Junior, and Senior Baseball divisions and the Rookie, Minor, Major, and Junior Softball divisions participate in District 5 Interleague play. Interleague rules apply and supersede local league rules. Resolution of issues concerning Interleague rule interpretations will be handled by District 5.
The following East Mountain Little League Ground Rules apply for games played at the EMLL fields:

For Rookies, Minors & Majors divisions in both Baseball & Softball, no player shall handle or swing a bat, even while in an enclosure, until it is his/her time at bat. There is no on-deck circle.
Bullpen cages shall only be used by the teams that are playing and may not be used for batting practice during games.
The EMLL home team will prepare the field for the game. After Interleague games, the EMLL team will also put away the bases and drag the field. When EMLL teams play each other, the visiting team will put away the bases and drag the field after the game. On Saturdays, the home team of the first game of the day will prepare the field and the EMLL team of the last game of the day will put away the bases and drag the field.

NOTE: Games on field 1 and 5 may be delayed or otherwise impacted, due to EMHS games. All games must end 20 minutes prior to the next scheduled game, under the umpire’s discretion.
All East Mountain Little League Ground Rules, Sunset, and Weather restrictions stated elsewhere in this handbook apply to interleague games hosted at the EMLL facility.

Post Season

Postseason District Tournament Teams

Postseason Tournaments commonly referred to as All-stars, is an extended season for highly-qualified players to compete against teams within our district.
EMLL has the option to field tournament teams in any division excluding Tee Ball and Rookies.
The EMLL Board of Directors reserves sole discretion in determining the division(s) to field teams based on the number of interested and qualified players in any given age group.
The intent of the All-Star selection process is to choose the players who will best represent EMLL with sportsmanship and a competitive attitude during the tournament. While our goal is to put the best team on the field, players with exceptional skills may be excluded from the team due to his/her attitude or behavior which could be detrimental to the team.
A $100 fee per player for tournament participation must be paid prior to uniform distribution.
All-star tournament play is highly competitive and requires a commitment for an extended season.

Tournament Team - Player Selection Process

All players interested in playing in a tournament must submit a tournament commitment form. The parent(s) will state that the player is willing to be considered for All-Star nomination and will be available to attend all practices and games. Tournament participation starts mid-June and may continue into late August. Submitting commitment forms late will not automatically disqualify any player. Late commitment forms will be considered by the Board.
Tournament players will be selected by votes from other players, managers, coaches within each respective age group. Umpires and league officials may also cast votes. Ballots will be counted by the President, Player Agent, and/or League Secretary. The top seven vote-getters in any age group will make the team. The All-Star managers will select the remaining players to complete their rosters.
After each All-Star team has been selected, the President or Player Agent will present the list of the selected players to the Board of Directors for approval.
Once the Board has approved the teams, the players will be notified by the All-Star Manager. The names of the players may not be announced prior to the official Little League All-Star release date. Players not selected to All-Stars will be notified by the league prior to public announcement of the teams.
Players selected to represent EMLL in All-Stars will be required to provide proof of age (original birth certificate) and proof of residency or school attendance documents for verification by the District 5 Administrator before tournament play begins.
Any changes to the All-Star roster must be approved by the League President, Player Agent, and the Board of Directors.
The intent of the All-Star selection process is to choose the players who will best represent EMLL with sportsmanship and a competitive attitude during the tournament. While our goal is to put the best team on the field, players with exceptional skills may be excluded from the team due to his/her attitude or behavior which could be detrimental to the team.

Tournament Team - Manager/Coach Selection Process

Tournament managers and coaches will be selected and approved by the Board of Directors. This selection shall be based upon the recommendation of the President. The All-Star manager must be a current manager or coach within the appropriate division. The following factors shall be considered:

Managerial skills and performance
Overall experience
Conduct, attitude, and dependability
Final record of the managerial candidate’s regular season team
Previous experience as a tournament manager or coach
Availability and willingness to manage a tournament team

Upon approval as a tournament manager, each manager will select his or her coaches and present them to the Board of Directors for approval. The tournament coaches must be current managers or coaches within the appropriate division and must have submitted an annual volunteer application, passed a current background check, completed the Little League Abuse Awareness Training, and any additional training as required by the district.

Fall Ball Information

Fall Ball is an opportunity for players to practice skills and gain experience at the next division of play. To be covered by insurance, all East Mountain Little League participants will be required to register through the EMLL website. Players must play in the division determined by the following year’s league age. The Fall Ball season runs mid-August through mid-October. Fall Ball games are hosted by various District 5 leagues in Albuquerque. Most games are played in Albuquerque. When Fall Ball teams are composed completely of East Mountain players, practices will be held at the East Mountain Little League fields at Vista Grande Community Center. If you are interested in Fall Ball please contact us at [email protected] for information.

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