USSSA Altered Bats Procedure

Source: Don DeDonatis, Executive Director, USSSA

As a result of rule changes implemented during the 2004 USSSA playing season, USSSA is intent on removing all altered bats from play.

Altered bats are those which have had:

1. The surface of the barrel or the taper changed in any way such as by sandpapering or applying a solvent to the surface.

2. The plug removed/replaced in any way.

3. The knob removed/replaced or changed in any way.

4. Anything removed or added to the inside or outside of the bat other than the tape at the handle or knob.

Applying Sanctions:

■ The responsibility for knowing whether a bat is altered is that of the user and the owner of the bat.

■ If an individual utilizes a bat in USSSA play or is the owner of a bat that is brought into a USSSA facility, the suspensions will be imposed without regard to what the individual knew about the bat being altered.

■ An individual must know that his/her bat is not an altered bat. If not, the individual may be suspended from USSSA activities.

■ The fact that the individual did not know if a bat is altered is not a factor in imposing a suspension. The question is only whether the bat is altered or not.

Cracked, worn, or damaged bats are not considered altered but will also be removed from play by USSSA directors and umpires. Such cracked, worn, or damaged bats will not result in a players suspension unless the player returns the offending bat into USSSA play after it has been removed or the bat is also altered.