Without stealing, if a batter does not hit the ball can you make a play against a base runner?

Question
QUESTION: I am coaching a 10u softball team.  Some of the coaches are arguing over a particular scenario.  We do not have stealing in this league.  Runners can take a lead off the base after the pitcher releases the ball.  The question is, if the batter does not hit the ball and the base runner takes a lead, can you try to make a play on the base runner?

ANSWER: I'm sorry Robin since you've already deviated from the national rules I can't answer your question.  Your LD should have a answer, hopefully written out, as should be all local deviations from national rules so there are no questions.  In strict ASA play you can attempt to pick off a runner

mark

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the quick response.  Is the deviation from the national rule the fact that we allow runners to leave the base at the release of the pitch but we do not allow stealing?

When I grew up playing softball through the Little League affiliation (many years ago). Leagues for younger aged girls did not allow stealing. Base runners had to wait for the ball to cross the plate before they could leave the base.  Leagues for older girls allowed stealing.  In this league, base runners could leave upon release of the pitch.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Robin,

Yes, the fact that you do not allow stealing is a local rule, which is fine.  If pick-offs were not allowed you could have every runner leave at everye pitch a good long distance and if the ball wasn't hit safely return, wouldn't work in my opinion.

Mark