ASA shorthanded rule...

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In ASA slow pitch, you can start a game with 9 or you can continue a game with one less than you started with (9 if you started with 10, or 10 if you started with 11), assuming the playing leaves for any reason other than an ejection. If there is an ejection and no sub, it's a forfeit. Otherwise, it would be an automatic out every time that spot comes up in the order. Rule 4, Sec. 1.

Some leagues modify their rules to avoid forfeits or to even let teams play shorthanded without having automatic outs. I happen to think that's a good idea in rec leagues, as opposed to tournaments or championship play -- especially avoiding forfeits in a rec league (why penalize the other 20 players and send everyone home, including those on the opposing team, when someone loses their cool).