GENERAL INFO
Pitching…
- We are slow pitch which means players must throw the ball on an arched trajectory. You're welcome to pitch the ball underarm or overarm, whatever you’re more comfortable with.
- Our best advice for pitching is to throw balls you’d like to hit and let your defense have some fun behind you.
- On the very rare occasion we have punters who like to get tricky - throwing loopy curveballs etc. If this sounds like you, it's probably best you stay clear of pitching.
- Pitchers are the closest fielder to the batter and on the rare occasion we have ‘comebackers’ (balls hit in the direction of the pitcher). While our balls are softer than regular baseballs/softballs it is our advice that if this concerns you then avoid pitching.
- If you’re struggling to throw strikes that’s perfectly fine. But perhaps ask a teammate to replace you and have a crack the following week. It can slow the tempo of the game when someone is not able to throw hittable pitches, which moves us onto our next piece of advice…
Tempo is Key…
Our games are timed so tempo is important. That doesn’t mean hussle on and off the field, quite the opposite. Enjoy good company in your own time but here are some tips to keep the game moving…
Fielding teams, don’t go chasing after foul balls as it causes an unnecessary pause in the game. We have plenty of extra balls plus our umpire will ask the batting team to retrieve the fouls.
Know when it’s your turn to bat. It can get a little frustrating when the umpire is constantly asking “who’s up?”. We understand that on occasions you get caught up in a convo with a teammate or you've ducked off to the loo. But please keep track of when it’s your turn in the batting line-up.
Base Running & Safety…
- Fielders have eyes for the ball therefore it’s the base runners job to apply a duty of care, simply put - don't run the bases like a lunatic!
- Players are permitted to run though 1st base but must stop on 2nd & 3rd (you don’t need to stop if you plan on advancing to the next base).
- Avoid colliding with a fielder, even if the fielder is clogging up the whole base (our umpire will have a word with them).
- The tagging up rule… A tricky one to explain but if you’re a base runner occupying 1st, 2nd or 3rd and a flyball is hit & caught you must wait until the ball hits the fielders glove before advancing to the next base. But if there’s already 2 out, disregard this because if the ball is caught that’s inning over and sidaway.
Fielding & Positional Tips…
- When occupying a base, leave as much room as possible for the incoming base runner. That means use as little as the base as possible
- High traffic and/or key positions… Pitcher, 1st base & shortstop
- Low traffic and/or good drinking position… Right field
Batting Order…
- Teams are asked to manage this themselves. A simple way to do this is by writing numbers on hands. We’ll have a marker you can borrow.
- And although we don’t officially monitor this, if we notice any unfair discrepancies (i.e big boppers always up to bat when the bases are loaded) then we’ll automatically issue your team with a forfeit.
FAQ
I’ve never played baseball or softball before, is that okay?
Yes, many of our punters are giving it a bash for the first time. And our staff are always available to answer any questions.
We also have a good mix of current & former players who enjoy getting into something a little more social.
What’s the approx age of players?
Our age demographics are extremely broad. 20’s, 30’s, 40’s & 50’s. We even have 1 or 2 in their 60’s.
How big are the teams?
We recommended teams with 11+ players but many go bigger to ensure they can cover for when folks are away.
Do we need team tops?
No, not required but they are a nice touch. At the very least we like teams to wear matching colours.
What do I wear?
Regular activewear - shorts, runners, leggings… Just be comfortable!
Do I have to be a drinker to enjoy Social League?
Absolutely not, we simply provide the option. Many of our players are non drinkers.
Is it BYO?
No, Social League is licensed. But we always do our best to keep prices as reasonable as possible.
What’s your rainout policy?
We notify Team Captains and post on our socials. We aim to give at least an hour's notice but more if possible. We understand that many of you are coming from work and/or would like to make other plans. In the event of a rainout we play double headers (x2 games) the following week.
Can I bring my own equipment?
While we do provide everything you need to play, some folks like to bring their own gear. Bats, gloves stc. That’s perfectly fine!
What type of balls do you use?
Bigger than a baseball and slightly smaller than a softball. Our ball is firm but slightly softer than both a BB & SB.
Can I join the season late?
Individuals can join any time but teams must be registered by round 1.
Do teams have training sessions?
Generally speaking, no. Social League is a ‘show & go’ league. Although some teams do organise a light hearted hit & giggle at their local oval in between seasons