Not sure if it is effective this coming season, but I think it is. Here it is:
Proposal: Adjust the consecutive day note within the pitching restriction regulations for the sport of baseball. (Bylaw 7.12.1.D)
Currently Reads: Consecutive Day Note – if a player pitches on consecutive days, the cumulative pitch count from those two days must be used to calculate the required rest period. Example = Pitcher A throws 27 pitches on Friday and 35 pitches on Saturday, which is 62 pitches cumulatively – required rest after day two would be 3 calendar days.
Change to: If a player pitches on consecutive days and accumulates more than 60 pitches total during those two days, the cumulative pitch count must be used to calculate the required rest period. If a player pitches on two consecutive days and is eligible to pitch a third consecutive day, the maximum number of pitches allowed on day three will be 60. The pitcher will be allowed to finish a batter if they hit this maximum limit during an at bat, but must exit the game after the batter.
Rationale: New pitch count regulations were implemented by the NFHS for the 2017 high school baseball season. Although the policy adopted by the NMAA was fairly well received, one area of concern was common, especially with smaller schools. This dealt with the consecutive day note within the regulations and how that impacted short relievers during tournament play. Coaches asked the sports specific committee to look at ways to change this rule so that a true short reliever could pitch three days in row, while still looking out for the health and safety of the student-athlete. The above proposal was put together to address this situation and is supported by the majority of coaches, along with the NMAA Baseball SSC.
Budget Impact: N/A
NMAA Staff Recommendation: Approve
Baseball Sports Specific Committee Recommendation: Approve