What is the rule regarding catchers' helmets with attached faceguards?

Catchers are required to wear helmets that conform to safety standards as part of the rules established for player safety in baseball. This regulation is designed to reduce the risk of head injuries that can occur during play, particularly due to foul tips and other impacts that can happen behind the plate.

Helmets worn by catchers must be equipped with attached faceguards to provide additional protection for the face. The emphasis on safety standards ensures that the equipment not only fits appropriately but has also been tested for performance during play. Adhering to these standards is vital because catchers are in a unique position where they face the action directly, increasing exposure to potential impacts.

The other choices do not align with the safety emphasis inherent in the rules. For example, stating that catchers cannot wear helmets entirely contradicts the safety-focused requirements. Allowing any type of helmet disregards the need for performance benchmarks defined by safety standards, and suggesting that helmets are optional fails to recognize their critical role in player safety.