The 80th AAABA Tournament will include a new rule allowing teams the option of using an Extra Hitter in the lineup.
The Extra Hitter (EH) Option will be used on a trial basis this summer, with the option of adding the EH to the rulebook officially in the future.
The rule, which was implemented by various leagues throughout their respective regular seasons, follows:
17.09A Extra Hitter (EH) Option
(Trial Basis for the 2025 AAABA Tournament)
“This rule will be in use on a trial basis in 2025 and inserted as permanent rule if approved by the Board of Directors at the October 2025 AAABA Annual Meeting. If a manager decides to use an EH, it must be designated on the lineup card before the game. The EH can also play any position in the field with the exception of pitcher. His spot in the lineup never changes. The Designated Hitter must be used first. The EH can change position in the field once and no re-entry will be allowed.”
The AAABA also addressed the use of Baum (composite) bats, following the MLB rule:
Baum (Composite) Bats in Major League Baseball
Major League Baseball (MLB) rules do not allow composite wood bats, as they do not meet the criteria of a single piece of solid wood unconnected to any other materials.
Accordingly, Baum or composite bats are not permitted for use in AAABA Tournament play.
Additional rules regarding bats:
17.08 WOODEN BATS: All colors of bats may be used during AAABA tournament play. EXCEPT FOR WHITE, the only part of the bat may be white is the gripping handle where a gripping or tape is used. PENALTY: if the umpire discovers that the bat does not conform to any of the above rules, when the batter comes to bat, or while is batting, or after he has completed his at bat, he is declared out and the batter and the manager will be ejected from the game.