Courtesy Runner (Fast-Pitch)
Also known as: courtesy runner fastpitch, fastpitch courtesy runner rule, courtesy runner for the pitcher and catcher, courtesy runner for the catcher, pitcher and catcher courtesy runner
In USA Softball fast pitch, a team may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and the catcher after either one bats and reaches base. Neither player leaves the game. The same runner cannot run for both in one game. The courtesy runner must be reported to the plate umpire.
The rule saves the battery's energy. A catcher who reaches base can get a runner and then go straight to her gear. The pitcher can rest before the next inning. It is not a substitution, so the pitcher and catcher stay in the lineup.
Who counts as the pitcher and catcher is set by the rule. In the first inning, it is the players listed at those positions. After that, it is the last players who played there on defense. In most play, the runner must be someone who has not yet played in the game. Youth (Junior Olympic) pool play is an exception and allows any eligible player.
There are limits. A courtesy runner cannot run for the designated player (DP), even when the DP bats for the pitcher or catcher. A courtesy runner cannot run for another courtesy runner. A runner who fails to report or breaks the rule is an illegal runner and is disqualified.
Tips by skill level
Report the courtesy runner to the plate umpire before she takes the base.
Keep two bench players ready, one for the pitcher and one for the catcher, so you never need the same runner for both.
Example
The catcher doubles with two outs. The coach reports a bench player as a courtesy runner, and the catcher heads to the dugout to put on her gear.
Why it matters
Coaches use this rule almost every game. Knowing its limits avoids an illegal runner and a lost player.
Common mistakes
- Using the same runner for both the pitcher and catcher
- Forgetting to report the runner to the umpire
- Using a player already in the game outside pool play
- Running for the DP
Frequently asked questions
Can you have a courtesy runner for the catcher in fastpitch?
Yes. Under USA Softball rules, the pitcher and catcher can each get a courtesy runner once they reach base. They stay in the game.
Can the same courtesy runner run for the pitcher and catcher?
No. USA Softball does not let the same courtesy runner run for both in the same game.
Sources
Related terms
- DP/FLEX RuleThe DP/FLEX rule lets a fast-pitch team bat a designated player (DP) who does not field. The DP bats for the FLEX, who fields but does not bat. The FLEX is listed 10th on the lineup card. The two can trade roles under set limits, and each can re-enter once.
- Catcher's RoleThe fast-pitch catcher does far more than catch pitches. They call pitches, manage the pitcher's mindset, control the running game, and organize the defense.
- International Tiebreaker (Fast-Pitch)The international tiebreaker is the extra-inning rule in USA Softball fast pitch. If the game is tied after seven innings, or when a youth game's time limit runs out. Each half inning starts with a runner on second base. That runner is the player due to bat last in the inning, the hitter just before the leadoff batter. Teams keep playing full innings until one wins.
- Courtesy RunnerA courtesy runner is a substitute allowed to run the bases for a player who reaches base but is unable to run. That player stays in the game; common reasons include injury, age-based recreational-league eligibility, or a pitcher/catcher who needs rest between innings.
- Batting Order and Lineup Roles (Fast-Pitch)Most coaches bat a slapper first or second, where her speed and on-base skills set up the hitters behind her. A second slapper often bats ninth to lead into the top of the order. Power hitters usually bat third through fifth. No rule sets these roles, but the order you give the umpire must be followed all game.
Related guides & benchmarks
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