<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section possibly contains original research . Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding inline citations . Statements consisting only of original research should be removed . (September 2015) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This section possibly contains original research . Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding inline citations . Statements consisting only of original research should be removed . (September 2015) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> Generally, Major League Baseball (MLB) teams will continue play in light to moderate rain but will suspend play if it is raining heavily or if there is standing water on the field . Games can also be delayed or canceled for other forms of inclement weather, or if the field is found to be unfit for play, and for other unusual causes such as bees . Bee delays and cancellations have occurred in games such as the spring training game in 2005 that was canceled, as well as the 2009 Houston Astros - San Diego Padres game that was delayed in the ninth inning . However, rain is by far the most common cause for cancellations or stoppages of play . In case of rain out after the game has begun but before it is official, a rain check is issued; this dates to the 1870s, but did not become widespread until the 20th century . </P> <P> Before a baseball game commences, unless it is the second game of a doubleheader, the manager of the home team is in charge of deciding whether or not the game should be delayed or canceled due to rain or other inclement weather (see Rule 3.10 of baseball's Official Rules). Once the home team manager hands his lineup card to the umpire shortly before the game is to begin, the umpiring crew chief has sole discretion to decide if a game should be delayed or canceled (see Rule 3.10 and Rule 4.01 of the Official Rules). This also applies to the second game of a doubleheader . Umpires are required by rule to wait at least 30 minutes to see if conditions improve; this is referred to as a rain delay and is not counted as part of the length of the game listed in the box score . In practice, umpires are encouraged to see that games are played if at all possible, and will most of the times wait as long as three hours before declaring a rainout . </P>

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