Weather and ending games
MLB · 2025Regulation games, suspensions, resumptions and forfeits.
An interrupted game
A called game ordinarily qualifies as regulation after 5 innings, or an appropriate shorter home turn when the home team leads or ties. Qualification does not always mean a final result: a tie, or a visiting comeback during an unfinished inning without the required home response, can require suspension. The Commissioner may determine exceptional cases, and postseason provisions can differ.
Resuming or forfeiting
A suspended game continues from the exact stopping point with the same lineup and batting order, subject to substitutions. Previously removed players cannot return. Refusal to play, persistent violations or inability to field 9 players can lead to forfeiture. The source expressly disallows game protests; this is distinct from asking an umpire to reconsider a rule application during play.
Sources & approach ↗