1. My pitcher was curious if she could wear a compression sleeve on her throwing arm (I assume it’s like a "shooting sleeve" for basketball)
According to ASA R/S 41, a wrap on the pitching arm is legal providing it is flesh colored or the wrap is covered with soft flesh colored material.
2. I have a JV player with a prosthetic lower leg. Does she need and extra protection for it etc.?
NYSSO makes conscious efforts to accommodate players with disabilities and/or special needs, and with individuals with unique and extenuating circumstances. However, hard and unyielding items including braces and hinges must be padded with closed-cell, slow-recovery foam padding no less than ½" (one half inch) thick.*****
3. Pitcher has a mouthpiece with a permanent string attached. The string goes around her neck - Legal or not?
The mouthpiece is legal, however, the string around the neck is illegal in NYSSO softball. However, we do allow the mouthpiece to be attached to the uniform shirt.
4. Pitcher in the circle holds ball (with control), then puts the ball elsewhere (under arm, between legs, etc.) Can runners leave base or run?
In NYSSO softball, based on ASA ruling, to be considered in possession of the ball, the pitcher must be holding the ball in her hand or glove. Therefore, the runners can legally run if the pitcher holds the ball under her arm or between her legs.
5. A rubber o-ring approx. 1/2" thick is at the safety knob end of the bat. Is this considered a flare cone and therefore is the bat considered altered or is it considered an attachment and therefore illegal? It appears to be used for the players comfort of their hand.
NYSSO rules that rubber o-rings are legal. It is a pliable gel cushion that covers the palm area of the hand and attaches over the fingers(much like a ring) used to soften the impact of the ball hitting the bat.