Dakota Diamond Youth Softball Rules

Rule Changes for the 2026 Season

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8U & 8U Transition

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• Defensive teams are limited to 12 players on the field.

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10U

• The drop third strike rule will be in effect for the entire season.

• The “steal one base per pitch” rule has been removed. Runners may continue advancing on an overthrow when stealing throughout the season.

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12U

• Players are no longer required to rotate every two innings, except for pitcher and catcher positions, which must switch after two consecutive innings.

• Teams may score up to 7 runs per inning, with the final inning open (no run limit).