2025 FAABL OFFICIAL RULES

The Fairbanks Adult Amateur Baseball League follows a modified version of Major League Baseball rules tailored for our adult wood bat league in Fairbanks, Alaska. These rules are designed to keep games competitive, respectful, and fun for everyone involved.

Here’s what you need to know before stepping onto the field. FAABL plays competitive, wood bat baseball under MLB rules, with a few local adjustments to keep the game flowing and fair. These rules are built to help everyone — rookies and veterans alike — play hard, stay safe, and enjoy the summer.

If you have questions, talk to your team manager or contact the league.

INTRODUCTION

The FAABL is dedicated to providing a competitive and enjoyable baseball experience for all participants. By adhering closely to MLB standards while tailoring our gameplay to the unique needs of our community, we ensure a balanced, fair, and exciting league.

GENERAL GAME RULES

Our league follows the standard MLB rules with the following key adaptation:

  • Game Length: All regular season and playoff games are 7 innings, except in cases where extra innings are necessary due to a tie.

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY

  • Age Requirement: Players must be at least 18 years old by the first game of the season.

  • Residency: Players should be residents of Fairbanks or the surrounding areas.

TEAM COMPOSITION

  • Roster Limits: Teams are limited to 25 players, with a minimum of 8 players to start a game.

  • Positions: All standard baseball positions are observed.

FAABL Icemen and blizzard, play at second base - Fairbanks, AK

EQUIPTMENT REGULATIONS

  • Bats: Only wooden bats approved by the league are allowed.

  • Uniforms: Teams must wear matching uniforms during games.

GAMEPLAY MODIFICATIONS

  • 7-Inning Structure: Reflecting our adaptation of MLB rules for shorter gameplay suited to our league's schedule and player availability.

OFFICIATING & SCORING

  • Umpires: Games are officiated by certified umpires who ensure that MLB standards are enforced.

  • Scoring: Official scorers keep track of runs, hits, and errors, according to MLB guidelines.

SAFETY PROTOCOLS

  • Equipment: The use of helmets and protective gear is mandatory.

  • Emergency Procedures: All teams must be familiar with field-specific emergency response plans.

SPORTSMANSHIP & CONDUCT

  • Behavior: We expect all participants to display high standards of sportsmanship.

  • Penalties: Unsportsmanlike conduct may result in ejections or suspensions.

SEASON & PLAYOFF STRUCTURE

  • Regular Season: Consists of 12 games, leading to playoffs based on team standings.

  • David Jant Tournament: All teams participate in a one—week tournament.

  • Goldpanner Game: A team of the league’s all-stars competes against the Alaska Goldpanners.

  • Playoffs: All teams compete in a round-robin, then knockout format to win the championship.

  • View Schedule Here

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

  • In-Game Disputes: Should be resolved by the umpire in charge.

  • Post-Game Issues: Can be formally addressed through a complaint to the league office.

AMENDMENT TO THE RULES

  • Procedure: Rule changes are considered annually before the season starts, based on feedback from participants and observed challenges.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information or to address any concerns, please contact us. We are here to ensure your baseball experience in Fairbanks is rewarding and fun.

THINK YOU ARE READY TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE?

Join FAABL this season and put these rules into action. Sign up to join a team!