Rules

Little League Substitution Rules — Re-Entry, Free Subs & More

Little League Substitution Rules

Little League allows free defensive substitution in divisions using the continuous batting order (Majors and below) — meaning any player can move to any defensive position between innings without restriction. The batting order remains fixed, but fielding positions can change every inning. In Juniors and above, standard substitution rules apply with limited re-entry.

Substitution Rules by Division

Division	Defensive Substitution	Batting Order Impact	Re-Entry
Tee Ball through Majors	Free — change positions any inning	None (continuous order stays fixed)	N/A (all players remain in batting order)
Intermediate / Juniors	Standard — must report to umpire	Substitute enters at the replaced player's spot	One re-entry allowed for starters

How Free Substitution Works (Majors and Below)

In a typical Little League Majors game with 12 players, all 12 bat in the continuous order. Only 9 play defense in any given inning. Between innings, you can shuffle all 9 fielding spots however you want — move your shortstop to right field, bring a bench player in to play third base, rotate your outfielders. The batting order never changes.

This is what makes Little League lineup planning both flexible and complex. You're essentially building a new defensive alignment every inning while keeping the batting order intact. Rizzler's AI fielding positions generates these rotations automatically, ensuring every player gets their minimum playing time.

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Substitution and the Catcher-to-Pitcher Rule

Free substitution means you can move a catcher to pitcher mid-game — but the catcher-to-pitcher rule still applies. If the catcher has caught 4 or more innings, they cannot pitch. Track catcher innings carefully when planning substitutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move my pitcher to another position and bring them back to pitch later?

Yes, in Majors and below. A pitcher can move to shortstop for two innings and return to the mound — but their pitch count continues from where they left off, and rest day requirements are based on total pitches for the day.

Do I need to report substitutions to the umpire?

In Majors and below with continuous batting, you're technically not "substituting" — you're repositioning defenders. You should still communicate your defensive alignment to the umpire each inning. In Juniors and above, all substitutions must be formally reported.

What happens if a player is injured during the game?

If a player is injured and cannot continue, they're removed from the game. In continuous batting order divisions, their spot in the lineup is skipped. No replacement batter is inserted.

Can I substitute a player for strategic reasons in the middle of an inning?

In Majors and below, you can change defensive positions between innings. Mid-inning defensive substitutions are allowed but less common and should be reported to the umpire.

Plan your substitutions with confidence. Rizzler's game planning tool handles fielding rotations and flags any rule conflicts. Sign up free.