DP/FLEX MADE SIMPLE

The rules are a powerful ally to every coach. It's important to know the rules. One of the most misunderstood rule rule is the Designated Player / Flex Rule. Below is an explanation of how the rule works:

A team may use the DP/FLEX rule option provided it is made known prior to the start of the game.  If the game starts with the option, it is never terminated.

The DP

• The DP is an OFFENSIVE (batting) player listed in the starting lineup and is so indicated on the lineup card.
• The DP must remain in the same position in the batting order for the entire game.
• A starting DP and any substitute for the DP cannot be in the game at the same time. 
• A starting or substitute DP can re-enter one time.
• The DP may be replaced by a pinch hitter, pinch runner or the FLEX.
• The DP can play defense at any position.  If the DP plays defense for any player other than the FLEX, that player will continue to bat in their original position and is not considered to have left the game.  The DP stays on offense.
• If the DP plays defense for the FLEX, the FLEX is considered to have left the game reducing the number of players from ten to nine.  If the FLEX re-enters or a substitute enters as the FLEX, the DP can return to batting only, play defense for another player or leave the game if the FLEX plays offense for the DP.
• The DP can never play on defense only.

 The Flex

• The FLEX is the DEFENSIVE player who starts the game and is listed in the starting lineup in the 10^th position.
• The FLEX is the defensive player who plays in the field for a player listed in the batting order. 
• The FLEX may play offense (bat) for the DP.  The DP is considered to have left the game.  This will reduce the number of players from ten to nine.
• If the FLEX was batting in the DP’s position and the DP re-enters or a substitute enters as the DP, the FLEX can return to the number 10 position (this returns the number of players to 10) or leave the game if the DP plays defense for the FLEX.
• If replaced by a substitute, the FLEX position remains in the lineup.  The FLEX may re-enter one time provided she returns to the 10^th position.
• Placing the FLEX into one of the first nine positions for someone other than the original DP is considered an illegal substitution.  The illegal substitute will be removed from the game and restricted to the dugout/bench.
• The FLEX can never play on offense only.
• Both the DP and the FLEX cannot play offense at the same time.