British Baseball Federation Umpire Handbook

responsibility of the field decisions continues all the way through to the end of the second game of the day in case of a doubleheader.

On a wet day, you have to use your best judgement to decide whether the game should go ahead or not. Please remember that safety is most important to decide if you should start the game. Things to look for that could indicate that play may not be safe are:

1. Standing water anywhere in the basepaths, infield, or outfield

2. Slippery mud on mound, batter’s boxes, or base paths

3. Sufficient rain to make balls or bats too slippery to hold safely

When playing in wet conditions, make sure the home team has sufficient dry game balls and someone standing by to dry the ball after each play.

Again, safety first!

Acceptable Field Conditions

If the field is in a condition where you judge that it’s not safe to play, give the home team a reasonable amount of time to remediate. If this is not possible, then you can declare the game a forfeit by the home team.

All baseball fields should at a minimum have fencing (permanent or temporary), enclosed dugouts (permanent or temporary), fixed bases, and marked foul lines and batter’s boxes. More information about BBF field requirements can be found in the Seniors Handbook.

If any of these minimums are not met, or the field is not maintained to a reasonable standard, you must report this to BBF via online form (https://www.britishbaseball.org.uk/officials).