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College Softball Mercy Rule Explained. Here's When It's Used

College Softball Mercy Rule Explained. Here's When It's Used

Is there a college softball run rule? Yes, here's what to know.

Jun 5, 2024 by Leanza Pieroni
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College Softball games are full of exciting moments that often has us on the edge of our seats well past the standard seven innings. 

On occasion, however, that action can be one-sided, and a run-ahead rule is used if a team has taken a significant lead against the competition.

Here's everything you need to know about the run-ahead rule in college softball:

When Is The NCAA Softball Run Rule Used?

The run-ahead rule, often referred to as a "mercy rule" or "run rule" states that if one team is up by eight or more runs after five or more equal innings, the home plate umpire can declare a run-ahead rule and end the game.

Is There A Run-Ahead Rule In The WCWS?

Yes, the college softball run rule remains the same in the NCAA Tournament and the Women's College World Series with the exception of the WCWS Championship Series.

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