What is the CMBA?

The Chicago Metropolitan Baseball Association (CMBA) is an amateur baseball league dedicated to offering the finest competitive baseball experience in Illinois and the Midwest. Our league provides opportunities for young prospects to develop, veterans to enjoy top-tier competition, and all participants to build camaraderie in a respectful and sportsmanlike environment.

How Does the League Operate?

The CMBA season runs from May through August, culminating in playoffs. Each team plays a regular season schedule of 24-30 games. Games are played under official Major League Baseball rules, with some modifications specific to our league. Fields are located across Chicago and Chicagoland.

Who Can Join?

The CMBA welcomes both individual players and entire teams. Players must be at least 18 years old by their team’s first game. Teams can join as long as they meet the league’s standards for conduct, financial responsibility, and roster requirements. Whether you’re a seasoned player, someone returning to the sport, or part of an established team, we have a place for you. Players experience is generally high school to D3/D2/community college level, although there are exceptions.

How Can a Team Join the League?

New teams must apply for membership by submitting a formal request to the CMBA President. Teams are evaluated on leadership, past conduct, player ability, and financial responsibility.

How Do Individuals Join?

Individual players can contact the league to be placed on a team. The league works to match free agents with teams in need of additional players.

What Does Membership Entail?

• Teams: Teams must submit a roster of at least 16 and no more than 26 players by June 1. Teams are also responsible for providing their own equipment, including baseballs, bats, bases, and uniforms.
• Players: Individual players may join as free agents and will be placed on teams based on roster needs. Players must pay team fees and adhere to league rules, including eligibility for postseason play (minimum of 5 regular-season games).

How Much Does it Cost?

League fees cover field rentals, umpires, and other operating costs. Teams are required to pay an annual league fee determined by the CMBA President. Additional costs may include fines for forfeits, uniform expenses, and other operational needs. Late payment of fees incurs penalties.

What is the Skill Level of the League?

The CMBA offers a competitive environment, with most players having experience ranging from high school to Division III, Division II, or community college levels. Pitchers typically throw in the mid-to-upper 70s, with some reaching the low 80s. All pitchers possess at least two different pitches, and routine fielding plays are generally executed well. While the league is competitive, most games are closely contested, with any team capable of winning on a given day. There is a range of performance levels, with 1–2 teams typically rebuilding each season.

How do CMBA Rules Differ from MLB Rules?

• Game Length: CMBA games are typically 7 innings instead of 9.
• Extra Innings Rule: The MLB’s extra-innings rule (starting with a runner on second base) is not used. CMBA games continue until a winner is decided without artificial adjustments.
• Slaughter Rule: If a team leads by 15 runs after 4 innings (or 12 runs after 5 innings), the game is called. This applies to both regular season and playoffs.
• No Pitch Clocks: CMBA does not implement MLB’s pitch clocks or limits on pitcher disengagements (e.g., pick-offs).
• Bats: Only wood or BBCOR-certified bats are permitted in the CMBA. Aluminum and composite bats (other than BBCOR) are not allowed. Use of an illegal bat results in penalties as outlined in league rules.
• Courtesy and Designated Runners: Courtesy runners may be used for pitchers and catchers, and a designated runner may be assigned to replace a player on base.
• Free Defensive Substitutions: Teams may freely substitute players in defensive positions during the regular season without affecting their spot in the batting lineup. However, this rule does not apply in the playoffs.
• Batting Lineup Flexibility: Teams may use additional hitters (EH) or shared “A/B” lineup slots during the regular season. These options are not permitted during postseason play.

See Bylaws and Rules for the most up-to-date information.

What Equipment is Required?

Players must have proper baseball pants, cleats, and a glove. Teams are responsible for matching jerseys with numbers, caps. Only wood or BBCOR-certified bats are allowed.

How Does the CMBA Handle Sportsmanship and Discipline?

The CMBA prioritizes respect, ethics, and fair play. Fighting, unsportsmanlike conduct, and alcohol on the field are strictly prohibited and can result in fines, suspensions, or expulsion. Umpire decisions are final, and any protests must be submitted in writing within 48 hours.

How Does the League Handle Inclement Weather and Scheduling?

The home team is responsible for determining field conditions and notifying the league of cancellations at least two hours before game time. Postponed games must be rescheduled promptly with the approval of the CMBA President.

Are There Playoff Opportunities?

Yes! The postseason format is determined annually, and all teams in good standing are eligible to compete. Players must meet the minimum game appearance requirements to qualify for playoff rosters.

What Are the Responsibilities of Managers?

Team managers are responsible for ensuring compliance with league rules, submitting rosters on time, paying fees, and managing team conduct.

How Do I Register or Learn More?

Contact the CMBA at cmbabaseball@gmail.com to get started. Whether you’re an individual looking to play, team ready to join, or an umpire looking for work, we’ll help guide you through the process.