Managing Line-Up Cards
By Craig Hughes
One of the challenging tasks for new baseball umpires is understanding all the requirements and responsibilities for managing lineup cards, and the mechanics of doing so. Rule 10-2j of the 2025 NFHS baseball rules book notes that the umpire shall keep a written record of defensive and offensive team charged conferences for each team and notify the respective coach each time a conference is charged to the coach’s team. The UIC shall also be responsible for keeping a lineup card and recording all substitutes, courtesy runner, participation, and warnings.
Umpires are to keep their lineup cards accurate, but “how” do you do it? There are no set ways to “keep” the lineup card, and we can all learn from our partners by looking at how they do it, but let’s look at some common lineup card mechanics. Collect the lineup cards at the pregame plate meeting, starting with the home team coach.
The umpire is then responsible to ensure the lineup cards are accurate, all substitutes are listed, and you understand what the coach intends to do that game with the lineup and designated hitter role. Keep the lineup card accurate throughout the game (to do so in a way that doesn’t needlessly slow the game), and to use the information as a tool for your overall game management.
There is no set way to track courtesy runners and visits. A common practice at most pregame conferences is to ask the field umpire to assist to ensure accuracy. It is also important to note that not both umpires should be writing at the same time. We always want one set of eyes to be on the field and players during dead balls.
One of the many goals of high school sports is to provide an opportunity for all legal players to participate. Umpires ensure the game is played safely and according to the applicable rules. Strong lineup card mechanics can help to achieve both goals, and more. Good luck to you!
Excellent Video on Managing HS Line-Up Card
Sample HS Line-Up Card
