ON DECK CIRCLE
QUESTION: In high school, baseball and softball, must the offensive team’s circle be occupied? If occupied, how many players are permitted in circle?
ANSWER: Team is not required to occupy its own on deck circle but if occupied, only one offensive player is permitted. Neither team’s players may occupy its opponents circle to warm up. (BB- Rule 1, Sec. 2, Art. 3 and Rule 2, Sec 23; SB- Rule 1-1-6).
QUESTION: What devices are allowed to be used to warm up in the circle?
ANSWER: (BB only) Bats, weighted bats, donuts and wind-resistant items are permitted. (Rule 1, Sec. 3, Art. 4). (SB only) No more than two softball bats, including weighted bats, are permitted as well as commercially-manufactured devices. (Rule 1-5-3 and 7-5-2).