Unfortunately, we cannot escape the reality of the continuing risk presented by COVID-19. As we are all aware, the guidelines and policies for COVID-19 are still evolving. But one thing is certain, baseball will not look exactly the same as it did this time last year. Limited sharing of bats and equipment, etc. All things considered, we will do our best to keep it fun and safe.

Here are the current policies and practices to help us cope with the presence of the COVID-19 virus. Please keep in mind that everything is subject to change as knowledge and guidance evolve.

FACE MASKS/COVERINGS

Regarding who should wear them, it seems that no two sources completely agree, but the following seem to align with best practices.

a)    All adults should wear a mask when within 6 feet of other people. 

b)    Children and players under 10 years old (TB1 through MP3) are encouraged to wear a mask, but are not required to do so.

c)     Children and players 10 and older (12U through 18U) are requested to wear a mask in the dugouts or otherwise likely to come into close proximity of others. While on the field of play, the mask can be dropped below the chin when not engaged in conversation.

DUGOUTS & Player Distancing Recommendations

Teeball 1 & 2 (ages 3, 4, 5)

When on offense (i.e., batting),

a)    Start each inning with 3 runners on base (the last 3 who batted).

b)    There should be 1 batter at the plate,

c)     4 players in the dugout (with 1 adult) and

d)    the other players outside the fence (a parent with each child), beyond the dugout, properly distanced and with a coach to queue up the batters as needed. 

TCP & MP1 (ages 6 & 7)

When on offense (i.e., batting),

a)    [If both managers agree] Start each inning with 3 runners on base (the last 3 who batted).

b)    There should be 1 batter at the plate,

c)     4 players in the dugout (with 1 adult) and

d)    the other players outside the fence (a parent with each child), beyond the dugout, properly distanced and with a coach to queue up the batters as needed. 

MP2 & MP3 (ages 8 & 9)

When on offense (i.e., batting),

a)    There should be 1 batter at the plate,

b)    4 players permitted in the dugout (with 1 adult) and

c)     the other players outside the fence, beyond the dugout, properly distanced and with a coach to queue up the batters as needed and maintain order. 

12U through 18U (ages 10 & up)

When on offense (i.e., batting),

a)    There should be 1 batter at the plate,

b)    1 player in the on-deck cage,

c)     4 players permitted in the dugout (with 1 adult) and

d)    the other players outside the fence, beyond the dugout, properly distanced and with a coach to queue up the batters as needed and maintain order. 

PRACTICES

No close-quarter gatherings.

Masks are optional as long as social distancing is observed. 

BLEACHERS & RESTROOMS

Will be sanitized daily or as needed.

CONCESSION STAND

a)    Additional surface cleaning will be conducted.

b)    Masks will be worn by everyone working in the stand.

c)     Minimal staffing will be used.

d)    Maintain social distance while in line.

ACTIVE COVID-19 CASES

Parents, please notify the team manager and the league president if a member of the household is tested positive for the virus. The team manager and the league president will notify, by email, all members of the team. The affected family should self-quarantine until cleared by medical professionals. Other team members can make whatever decisions they deem proper for their family. 

Please make us aware of any instances of flagrant disregard for the safety of others.

BATB Board of Directors