I am still pretty new to senior softball. Can someone please explain how the Equalizer Rule works. For example, if one team is one higher in age groups, but they are also one skill rating higher, is it then an even playing field?
Thank you.
From the rulebook (a PDF version is available on this website)
1.21 • EQUALIZER
When teams of a single unequal age or skill rating play, the older or lower-rated team receives an equalizer, at its election, of five runs (allocated at one run per inning played for innings two through six) OR an 11th defensive player. If the teams are two or more age or ratings levels unequal, the older or lower rated team will receive both the five-run equalizer and the 11th defensive player. In age divisions that already play 11 defensive players, the equalizer shall be five runs only for a single rating or age difference, and seven runs (allocated at one run for each of the first seven, only, innings played) in the case of two or more age or rating differences. EXCEPTION: Men’s 40 Masters division shall have a runs-only equalizer, and not an 11th defensive player option. NOTE: The team giving the equalizer shall be designated the home team.
Yeah, that’s pretty clear. But in a case like my example above, is it a wash? Let’s say a 55AA is playing a 60AAA?
The 55s team gives an equalizer for being younger. The AAA gives one back for being more talented. Net zero, so no equalizer required
