I heard something about a new ball? Is this correct? If so, what will it be?

NOPE. Same official ball as has been in use. Suggest a better source for rumors. BSN STOTE/Trump microcell Technology 44 cor/375 comp optic yellow in play. NO ROCK balls.

Dave: "suggest a better source for rumors." Loved it! Great comeback.

Yes Omar...Dave is playing chess, while the rest of us are just playing checkers!!

I find this a common attribute of those who are extremely knowledgeable about the arcane rules of softball/baseball and their interpretation. As we know, experienced umpires on this site often disagree about an interpretation or how to handle an issue. Dave is a chess player when it comes to rules...and evidently rumors.

Although, to give wa45ve some credit, he may have heard of the "new ball" in reference to the recent use of the Stote and not be thinking of the Rock.

Omar, I had a bit of an "unfair advantage" on the softballs issue ... They come right out of the back warehouse part of our office, and we only stock one flavor of softballs on site! ... That, and THE ROCK is used only in the two Las Vegas events, of which this is not one ... The ball should hold up quite well next week ... Forecast high temperatures are downright chilly for this time of June .. Good luck, all! ...