Question:

Bases loaded, ball is hit, throw goes to home plate. Can the catcher touch home plate for the forced out or does he have to tag the runner to get him out? Thanks.   (John from Crystal River, FL)

Answer:

This is a force play and no tag is needed. A tag is needed if the play is not a force. - J.R.

Question:

The batter hit a grounder towards the first basemen. The first basemen fielded the grounder with his hand. He had the ball firmly in his hand and stretched over to the base and touched it with his glove right before the batter stepped on it. The umpire called the batter safe because the first basemen did not touch the ball on the base. When you get a force out all you need to do is step on the base. What is the difference between your cleat touching the base or your glove touching it with the ball in your other hand?   (Emed from North Hollywood, CA)

Answer:

This situation has been debated for a bit here and in umpire circles for some time. The actual truth is that the runner is out. There is no difference whether the ball is caught inthe glove and the foot is on the base. HOWEVER, if it is a tag play and the ball is in the bare hand and the runner is touched with the glove, the runner is safe. This is a different play.

In the play you saw, the out should have been recorded. - J.R.

Question:

I've some troubles in determining what a pitcher on his mound is permitted to do.

1. The runner on 3d base tries to steal home plate. When the pitcher "gives" the ball to the catcher, does he throw or pitch? I believe that on OBR nothing is cleary said: so is it a judgement of the umpire? and what I must evalue? Or it's enough calling the same action always in the same way (always a pitch, for example)?
2. The pitcher throws the ball to a base from the rubber and then ask the umpire for an appeal play. Did the pitcher do the right mechanic or must the umpire refuse his request, for I may think that defence tried a pick off indeed?

Answer:

1. I do not understand the question. "Gives", dose that mean "Handing the ball" to the catcher? A pitch must be a thrown ball by the pitcher. See Rule 2.00 of the OBR for the definition of a pitch. A pitch is a thrown ball.
2. For a proper appeal, the pitcher must step off the rubber and throw to the base he wishes to make an appeal. If he steps from the rubber and throws, this is not a legal appeal. - J.R.

Question:

No runners on. You're in BU position A. B1 grounds to short and the throw pulls F3 off the base toward the homeplate side. You try to adjust, but you just don't get a good look at the swipe tag attempt. What would you call?   (Jason from Waterbury)

Answer:

In this case, if you are out of position and could not adjust (Shame on you) you can go to your partner for some help before you make a ruling. Point and ask "Do you have a tag?" and if he says no, rule safe. If there is a tag, then there is an out. If he tells you that he did not see and you did not see the tag, then the runner is safe. - J.R.

Question:

There are 2 outs with a man on 2nd and 3rd base. The batter has 3 balls. A 4th ball is pitched and the runner on 3rd attempts to steal home. The catcher makes the tag and the runner is called out. Does the batter taking the 4th ball bat again at the start of the following inning?   (Mike from Arlington, TX)

Answer:

Nope, his turn at bat has ended when the 4th ball was called. Next batter is the one that follows. - J.R.

Question:

Is there a limit as to how many time-outs a coach or players may call in a major league baseball game, and what information do you have about why the majors don't challenge calls like football does on certain calls?   (Courtney from Denton)

Answer:

The short answer is no, there is no limit. However umpire judgement needs to be used. A player may request time, it is not given automatically. If the umpire feels he wants to grant it, so be it. Most umpires try to keep the ball alive as much as possible, this makes the game go faster.

As to video replay in the majors, well baseball is a game of tradition, tnough there has been debate on this and so far it has not been used. If you wish more information with regard to MLB feelings on video replay, contact the MLB directly. - J.R.

Question:

Nobody on, no outs, two strikes, batter swings at pitch, misses, catcher misses/drops ball. Batter beats catchers throw to first. Next batter hits into a double play, does that end the inning? Since the first batter, even thought he reached, was technically a strike out.   (J.W. from Baltimore, MD)

Answer:

No out is recorded on the advance to first on the strike out (Dropped third strike) if the runner beats the throw. However the pitcher will get the K. So in your play there are only 2 outs, no one on after the double play. - J.R.

Question:

Scenario: Runner on first takes a small lead. Pitcher attempts pick-off. Runner gets his foot back on the base. First baseman catches the ball and tags the runner. In doing so, this nudges the runner off balance and his foot leaves the base, thus now being tagged off the base and given out. What's the correct ruling on this - the baseman in reality pushed (accidentally) the runner off the base? Thanks.   (David from Sydney, Australia)

Answer:

Runner is safe. The fielder cannot push the runner off the base either on purpose or accidently. - J.R.

Question:

I have always been under the impression that a righthanded pitcher had to remove his pivot foot from rubber - either by stepping behind rubber or in front of rubber during a jump pivot move - to make pickoff attempt to first. A friend insists that it is not a balk for right hander to simply turn and step directly towards first with his free foot (pivot foot still on rubber) and make a throw. Surely this is not correct. Along those same lines - can a right hander from the stretch position STEP OFF the rubber and FAKE a throw to first? I was also under the impression that the rules state a fake throw to first is never allowed, even if off the rubber. Lastly, if such a fake is allowable, if men are at first and third, can pitcher in stretch step off rubber, fake throw to first, then immeidately wheel to make play on man at third? A lot of balk questions, I know. Thanks.   (D.C. from Cincinnati, OH)

Answer:

The rules are quite clear on what is a balk move and what is not. A pitcher must step ahead of the throw or remove his pivot foot by stepping off the rubber. A right handed pitcher will have a very difficult time throwing to first without stepping in the direction, therefore he almost has to, physically, remove the pivot foot from the rubber in order to twist. However, you friend is correct if he just steps ahead of the throw, this is a legal move.

Once the pitcher removes his foot from the rubber he is an infielder. He therefore remove his foot first and then is free to do just about anything he wants. If he is in contact with the rubber and fakes a throw to first with a runner there, it is a balk.

The pitcher while off the rubber can fake to first and throw to third if a runner is there or a play is being made on an advancing runner. - J.R.

Question:

Man on first goes on pitch. Ground ball to second baseman, who is charging and about to field ball in basepath. Runner sees that he might hit fielder so goes out of basepath (behind fielder) to avoid contact. 2Bman fields ball cleanly and tries to quickly tag runner, but runner is now out of reach (2Bman could have gotten runner were he not out of basepath). He then makes poor throw to 1B and batter is safe. Should runner have been out for leaving base path or was he justified in doing so? In talking with the runner afterwards, he didn't even know ball was hit towards 2Bman, he only knew that fielder was in his path. Ump called him out.   (Dan from Union, KY)

Answer:

The runner is allowed to avoid contact with the fielder while fielding the ball. If this means taking a step either in front of or in back of the fielder making the play, so be it. In your play the umpire seems to have made the wrong call, but it is umpire judgement in this case. - J.R.

Question:

Pick off question. Bases loaded. Pitcher addresses plate from full windup position with ball in hand down to his side. On a planned play with shortstop, he lifts ball to small of his back, waits 2 seconds, then steps off mound and fires to second base (surprising the heck out of the runner). Does pitcher's motion to start pickoff (movement of ball handing at side to small of back) constitute any type of balk?   (Dan from Union, KY)

Answer:

What you have to ask yourself is when does the pitching motion of the pitcher start? Also you must ask is the movment/motion purposly deceiving the runner. See Rule 8.01. Any natural motion in the windup commits him to pitch to the batter. If you deem the first movment to the small of the back and is not associated with his natural movment, this is a balk. - J.R.

Question:

Man on first and third, no outs. Runner on first takes huge lead attempting to draw throw from pitcher. Pitcher steps off, looks back runner to third, and heads towards runner between first and second. Meantime, the second baseman has come into basepath between runner and second base. As pitcher throws ball to second baseman, runner takes off and plows (inadvertantly) into fielder, who misses ball and run scores. Clearly there is interference on play, but on whom? Runner had no way of guessing fielder would be standing a few feet from him in the basepath as he quickly turned and took off to 2B, yet I assume fielder has right to be in basepath to field ball. Thanks.   (Dan from Union, KY)

Answer:

If the fielder is in the act of fielding the thrown ball (Umpire Judgement) then there is interference on this play, the runner must avoid the fielder in this situation. If the ball is not inflight or the fielder is not in the act of fielding the ball the obstruction is on the fielder. By your description I read it as the ball has yet to be inflight when this happens, so I read it as obsruction, let the play continue and see what happens. You can make any awards as necessary after playing action ceases. - J.R.

Question:

When a batter is swinging through the strike zone and the ball hits him on the hand, is this considered being hit by the pitch?   (Trevor from Lake Arrowhead, CA)

Answer:

No this is not considered hit by a pitched ball. This is a swinging strike. Also, since this struck the batter the ball is dead so nothing else can happen such as a stolen base. On strike three the batter is out, even if the ball is dropped by the catcher. - J.R.

Question:

A batter may switch sides of the plate at any Ball-Strike Count, but must stay on whichever side of the plate he is on once the pitcher is "on the mound". Does this same rule apply to a Pitcher with the capability of throwing Right or Left, or may the pitcher throw whichever way he wants per pitch? Of course the pitcher must make up his/her mind before starting the wind-up/stretch to avoid a balk.   (Kurt from North Springfield, VT)

Answer:

There is no rule about an ambidextrous pitcher under rule 8.00. However, looking at the practical things like a glove that is fitted for a right or left hander, is the pitcher going to keep two gloves out on the mound? He can't. - J.R.

Question:

I saw this called in a game with the New York Mets but I need to find the official ruling. Bases loaded....firstbaseman in playing on the infield grass way in front of the runner at first not holding him on. The pitcher comes to his set correctly and throws to first base surprising the firstbaseman who is not making any play at the runner, watching the batter with no chance to make a play at first. There is no play made at first, he is not covering the base nor making any intent to go to the base or towards the runner.

I told the umpire it was a balk, (just like I saw it called a couple of times this year on MLB because the pitcher threw the ball to a base where there was NO play intended or possible. The umpire unaware of the rule told me that it was not a balk because there was a runner on first base. The rule says there must be a possibility of a play or an intent...There was neither, it was not possible, he was too far away....

Considering he was in front of the runner/base and had no intention of moving towards the runner, am I correct? If not, then the Mets and Cardinals got "screwed" and it's hard to believe that Valentine or LaRussa let them get away with it......Valentine as a matter a fact appealed the ruling to the league and the league agreed with the balk ruling. Please clarify and if possible, what and where is the correct ruling?   (David from Henderson, NV)

Answer:

Look at OBR 8.05d. This states basically that a pitcher cannot throw to or fake a throw to an unoccupied base. Keep in mind the balk rule is there so that the runner is protected from a pitcher trying to deliberately deceive a runner.

In your play the base was occupied therefore no balk. - J.R.

Question:

I've read the 2.0 definitions on fair and foul balls, but I'm still not sure about this one. A ball is popped up between home and 1st. The pitcher, who is in fair territory, drops the ball into foul territory. Is it a fair ball if the ball is fair when it pops out and then flys over the foul line into foul territory? Thanks.   (Mark from Libertyville, IL)

Answer:

The position of the ball is where you judge fair or foul when it is touched. Remeber the definition, a foul ball is a ball that settles, is touched (sic) over foul ground. In your play the ball was first touched in fair ground, hence fair ball. - J.R.

Question:

If while umpiring you must call "Infield Fly, Batter's out, if fair"...what if the following occurs...early season game in NJ at the end of April (note: a windy day/night) runners at 1st and 2nd with one out, batter hits major league pop up just behide infield (say five yards) between first and second, at the apex of its flight the infielder is position under the ball - umpires calls "Infield Fly, Batter's out, if fair" however, the ball carries to fence in fair grounds and a) caught and not caught by infield/outfield or b) carries over fence in fair grounds (Home Run, of course, however, we did call the runner out at the proper time!!!). HELP!   (Doug from Springfield, NJ)

Answer:

Had to do a bit of practical research on this one. One has to remember that an infield fly is one that can be caught with reasoanble effort. During games when there is a wind condition it is best to wait a bit longer to call it. I wait until the fielder is actually camped out underneath the ball and will catch it before I envoke the rule. In your play, the umpire should wait and make the call since it is possible that reasonable effort portion of the rule may not come to pass. If the umpire rules at the apex and did invoke the infield fly and the ball did carry due to wind over the fence in fair territory, the batter is out, runners will move one base on the dead ball. - J.R.

Question:

I am aware of the Infield Fly Rule and how it works. What I don't know is the purpose of the rule, why not just let everything play out and make the infielders field the ball?   (Justin from Orillia, ON)

Answer:

It exisits because it can put the offensive team at a disadvantage with runners on. What this does is eliminate the possibility of a double play by having an infielder purposly drop the ball. - J.R.

Question:

I was pitching out of the stretch with a runner on 1B and came to the set position while holding the runner on. After delivering the pitch, the base umpire informed me that my front (left) shoulder was slightly open and not pointing directly toward home plate. Therefore, I was gaining an unfair advantage on the baserunner and could be called for a balk. I was unaware of such a rule. I assumed that as long as the shoulders remained still in the set position until the pitch was delivered home, it was a legal delivery. Must the shoulders be pointing directly towards home while in the set position with runners on base? Thanks.   (Joe from Silver Spring, MD)

Answer:

Things are always open to umpire's judgement. However, one must also seek as to which set of rules the game is played under. Under pro rules, 8.01 this is not a balk. However, if the ump deems you are intentinally trying to deceive the runner, it is a balk. Once you come set, tho, you cannot move unless your motion is to the plate, set toward the base ahead of the throw or remove your pivot foot.

Under federation (HS rules) after you come set, and if you move your torso (Twist) toward first base, this is a balk. - J.R.

Question:

NO runners on, lazy pop fly behind 1st base, 1st baseman standing with both feet in foul ground. Ball hits off his glove in fair territory. Is this ball fair or foul? Thanks.   (Nick from Topeka, KS)

Answer:

It is not where the player is but the ball in relation to the line. This is a fair ball. - J.R.

Question:

A difficult situation occured in a baseball game last summer and I would like your advice as to what should have happened. With two outs, runner at third, and a 2-0 count on the batter, the pitcher delivers strike one. The plate ump calls out a count of 2-2. On the next pitch, the ump rings up the batter with a very deliberate call, he removes his mask, and walks up the first base line. The catcher rolls the ball toward the mound and leaves the field. The third base coach holds his runner until the field is clear, then sends the runner home. The umps get together and count the run giving the reason that they caused the screw up and cannot penalize the offensive team (also the home team) for their mistake. It was my contention that they could not penalize the defensive team either, but they stayed with the initial call of counting the run. HELP!   (Kevin from Billings, MT)

Answer:

Hmmm, very touchie indeed. My spin and this is my opinion only. This is a correctable mistake at the time the umpire gives the count when the batter is at bat. I try to give the count on every third and fith pitch or when there is the possibility of a significant change in the count. I also contend that the coaches, manager and batter should keep the count and question it if they feel it is wrong. Hey, we all lose it every now and again. So when the ump gave the 2-2 count and his partner at the time did not dispute the count or anyone else question it, we go with that count. The next pitch is strike 3 batter is out. When the coach comes to me and says hey blue, the count was this and you lost the count, I would gently remind him the count was given and not disputed by both my partner and himself at the time before the pitch, the call stands, end of inning we go from there. He had an oppertunity to correct the mistake at the proper time. - J.R.

Question:

With runners at first and second the pitcher from set position and foot in contact with the pitchers plate steps and turns toward first base and fakes a throw as he akwardly continues towards second base. Umpire does not call a balk. The pitcher contends he was making a pick off play to second. What would the call be?   (Phil from Soquel, CA)

Answer:

Let's look at rule 8.05 of the OBR and see what we can come up with. First, this is indeed an awkward move, the pitcher has stepped toward first and has faked a throw and then continues to second base with his motion. You cannot fake a throw to first base and any motion that is in the judgement of the umpire an attempt to decive the runner is a balk. In your play it sounds like the umpire missed the call. - J.R.

Question:

Federation softball - With two strikes, the batter hits a foul tip that hits the tip of the catcher's glove, deflects to her chest protector, then rebounds into the catcher's glove. Strike three or foul ball?   (Kevin from Billings, MT)

Answer:

A tip must go directly to the glove or the hands of the catcher and caught. In your play this is only a foul ball. - J.R.

Question:

Batter at the plate with 2 outs, runner on third, the batter swings and hits a fly ball, the runner charges to the plate and gets home before the fly ball is caught for the final out.....Does the run count ? Thanks.   (John from Glasgow, Scotland)

Answer:

No runs can score on the third out. Therefore, even though the runner crossed the plate before the catch, the run does not count. - J.R.

Question:

A fly ball to left field. The ball hits the left fielder's glove in fair territory and then goes over the fence in foul territory. Homerun? Ground rule Double?   (Peter from Poughkeepsie, NY)

Answer:

Under pro rules, 6.09 (h), the batted fly ball deflected by a fielder while in fair territory and then leaves the playing field over the fence in foul territory is entittled to second base. - J.R.

Question:

I am unclear on how much of the rear foot a right-handed pitcher must move off the pitching rubber to make a pickoff attempt to first base. A friend says the entire foot must be off the plate, but I thought only the heel had to be lifted to begin the turn and throw. Any insight would be appreciated. Also, is there any way at all a balk can be made to second base?   (Dan from Union, KY)

Answer:

Look at the how the right handed pitcher must pick off, he literally has to turn 180 degrees around in order to throw to first. The requirements by the rules are he must disengage the rubber to do so. Disengage means the whole foot. A jump turn should be judged as disengaging the rubber.

A balk is any move that in the umpire's judgment, is purposely trying to deceive the runner on base out side the scope of the rules. It is therefore possible to balk with a runner on second, however it is very unlikely that will happen. Consider if a pitcher is on the rubber with a runner on and he drops the ball which does not cross the foul line. This is a balk. - J.R.

Question:

If a legally batted ball hits the pitching rubber and then crosses the foul line without touching any player or umpire, is this a foul or fair ball.   (Kelly from Canton, TX)

Answer:

This is a foul ball. - J.R.

Question:

My son plays Cal Ripkin baseball. I asked his coach why he didn't have his infielders call time after a play stopped with runners on base (runners were on the bases, infielder was holding the ball, action had stopped.) He told me the league required the pitcher to have the ball on the mound in order for time to be granted. I asked the league president if this was a local rule. He informed me it was a rule at all levels of baseball. I disagree. Who is correct?   (Kevin from Lexington, KY)

Answer:

In all levels, "Time" can only be requested by a player and then granted by the umpire. The umpire DOES NOT have to grant time.

Keep in mind, most umpires would like to keep the ball alive and in play. Most infielders will ask for time and then throw to the pitcher. If time is granted, this freezes the runners, they cannot advance thus giving an advantage to the defense should the throw go out of play or it is over thrown. The only time I grant time is if there is a purpose to it such as a player dusting himself off, base out of position, etc. Hope this helps. - J.R.

Question:

In little league baseball 14/15 year old or high school baseball, does the pitcher need to wear a certain kind of glove on the mound?   (Ralph from Old Bridge, NJ)

Answer:

High school rules: rule 1 Article 6 states the pitchers glove must be uniform in color, neither white nor gray. - J.R.

Question:

Once a batter has hit the ball, must he keep the batting helmet on until he is put out or comes home? Can he take it off?   (Elise from San Diego, CA)

Answer:

In high school ball both base and softball, the helmet must remain on unless it falls off during the course of play. The runner or batter/runner may not purpously remove the helmet. If they do, it is an out. In pro ball, there is no such rule other than the batter and runners must wear a helmet. - J.R.

Question:

Minor League - Bottom of the eighth, two outs, runner on third, score is 7 (home) to 1 (visitors). Batter hits a home run over right field wall. Play stops, teams change sides, no runs count. What happened?   (Shawn from Lemoyne, PA)

Answer:

This could only be that the batter has stepped on the plate the moment he struck the ball. This is an out. Or it sounds like an incomplete play description. I would suggest that you look to review the particulars. - J.R.

Question:

I have a question regarding suspended games and would appreciate your help. Here's what happened. A regular nine inning game had to be stopped due to rain in the bottom of the sixth inning, 2 outs and the home team trailing 6-2. Actually the visitors always were ahead and the home team never tied the game. Is this a suspended game, which needs to be resumed? If yes, the resumed game should then be played until 9 innings are complete? If no, what score would count? The one after completion of the fifth inning, when the game has becom regular? Thank you very much for your help.   (Stephan from Switzerland)

Answer:

Suspended game rules require some thought to know when the game is suspended or completed. See the OBR 4.11 and 4.12 for rules with regards to suspended games. A game is official after 4.5 innings or 5 innings depending on the status of the home team, i.e. if they are ahead or not. In the example you give this is a suspended game. Here is why: Under 4.12, (5) weather has caused the game to become suspended however, the visiting team is ahead and the home team is batting and has yet to finish its turn at bat.

The game will resume from the point it was stopped at the next scheduled game between the two clubs.

If the home team finished its at bat and the game was called, it would be complete game. - J.R.

Question:

Situation: Runner on first, two outs, slow grounder hit to second baseman, batter beats the throw to first base. Meanwhile the runner heading toward second slowly jogs infering the runner at first will be 3rd out. After being called safe at first must the team tag the runner going to second or can they just touch the base?   (Ron from Maumee, OH)

Answer:

This is a force play all the way. All the team has to do is touch the 2nd base bag for the force. - J.R.

Question:

After the offensive team gets three outs, leaves the dugout to take their position as defense. A fielder not the pitcher, enroute to their defensive position, sees the ball on the mound (18 foot circle) stops picks up the ball and steps on the rubber (holding the ball), waiting for the pitcher to arrive. Does this action change the pitching order?   (Robert from Thousand Oaks, CA)

Answer:

Nope. - J.R.

Question:

Fast Pitch Men's Softball. 2 strikes on the batter. The batter swings and the ball hits his hand (which is on the bat) and then hits off his foot which was still in the batters box. The umpires called him out. I always thought the hand was part of the bat so it should be a foul ball off his foot. What is the correct call?   (Corey from Alton, IL)

Answer:

The same as in baseball, if the hands were part of the bat, then when the bat was thrown after a hit, the hands would go with it. The hands are NOT part of the bat. In this case the umpire had it right. The swing consitutes an attempt at hitting the ball. The ball then strikes the hands, ball is dead, strike is assessed on the batter. - J.R.

Question:

If there's a runner on 1st base and the batter hits it to the 2nd baseman, if the runner stalls between him and 1st base and the 2nd baseman throws to first. Is the force off and can the runner return to 1st base?   (Jamie from London, ON)

Answer:

In a word, yes, the force is removed and the runner on first base can return to first. - J.R.

Question:

Is there a fourth out in baseball?   (Jerry from Los Angeles, CA)

Answer:

Yes and no. Only 3 are recognized to retire the side. However during a time play a 4th out can be recognized on appeal in order to cancel a run. Case in point, bases loaded 2 outs. Ball is hit and the runners on second and 3rd score. Runner on first moves to third but misses second base and is taged at third. The runner who was on second crosses the plate before the tag. Run scores, three outs....now the defense appeals the runner missed 2nd going to third. The out is now at second, runner did not cross the plate before the out so no run counts. - J.R.

Question:

One out with a runner on 3rd base. A high fly ball is hit in foul territory along the 3rd base line near the dug out. It is unclear if the ball will remain in play or carry over the fence. The runner on 3rd base, off the bag when the ball was hit realizes it could be cought by the 3rd baseman, turns to return to the bag. At this time the runner and 3rd baseman bump into each other, but does not hinder the 3rd baseman from setting up to make the catch. However, the 3rd baseman over ran the ball, which was difficult to judge, and failed to make the catch. Should interference have been called in this situation on the 3rd base runner? What should the end result have been? In this case, interference was not called and the runner remained on 3rd base.   (Marc from Evansville, IN)

Answer:

This is a judgement call by the umpire. If there was clearly a legitimate shot by the third baseman, you might have interference. but since there was no hinderance, no call. - J.R.

Question:

if the batter swings on a strike three and the ball hits the ground but the catcher catches the ball off the ground and if first base is not occupied can the batter make an advance to first base?   (Don from New Baltimore, MI)

Answer:

Yes. The ball must be caught/fielded cleanly. - J.R.

Question:

This concerns a balk ruling in a Junior League division (Age 13). Under Section 8.03 of the rules, it does not specifically address the widely-known issue of the pitcher (most commonly a left-hander with a runner on first) breaking the "plane" of his back leg with his front leg - once he does so he is supposed to be committed to deliver the pitch. Is this not so at the Junior/Senior league level? Do you know if it generally applies to interscholastic ball in the US as well? If that rule is not in place at this level, a smart lefty can basically keep a runner anchored to the base, if he is allowed to break the plane and still throw to first. Thanks.   (Jim from East Greenwich, RI)

Answer:

We only comment on Federation (High School) Official Rules of Baseball and in some cases NCAA baseball, ASA softball, NCAA Softball rules. Most leagues play using a derivation of these rules.

If your Junior League division does not have it listed in the rule book then you are correct, the lefty has a distinct advantage. However, an umpire may also call the balk by stating that the move is "Deceiving the runner" and is illegal. I suspect it is buried in the book somewhere

For the most part, Federation rules on the balk are the same as in pro baseball except for some minor differences as to the time of the pitch, going to the mouth on the mound, when the ball is dead on the balk, glove above chin and shoulder turning when in the set position after the strech is made. - J.R.

Question:

Men on 1st and 3rd. Catcher receives the pitch and the runner at 1st bluffs a steal. The catcher throws to the short stop in the hope the man on third thinks the play is at 2nd and he can steal home. Both runners figure out what's happening and don't move. Is this a catcher's balk? Thanks.   (Jim from Ancaster, ON)

Answer:

No this is not a catcher's balk. A catcher's balk is actually the catcher recieving the pitch before it crosses the plate and the batter has a chance to hit the ball. Or the catcher is outside the catcher's box prior to the pitch being released. - J.R.

Question:

Okay, an outfielder is playing the outfield and then a baseball is hit to him in the air and his shoe is loose and then his shoe flies off and then the shoe catches the ball in the air and then before the shoe hits the ground the outfielder catches the shoe and then holds on to the shoe with the ball inside the shoe and then what is the correct call?   (Steve from Red Lane)

Answer:

Other than a "Dream Play" we have here, this is detached equipment and constitutes a 3 base award. - J.R.

Question:

This happened at a little league game. Bases loaded, 2 outs, the batter hits the ball down the third base line, he ends up on third base with a triple. An appeal is asked for at first base and the umpire calls the batter out for missing the bag. Now the argument begins, Do the runs count?   (Ted from New London, WI)

Answer:

No they do not. The third out, even on appeal was made at first base. - J.R.

Question:

Runners are at second and third, one out. Fly ball hit to fairly deep right field. Runner at third sees he has plenty of time, tags up properly, and runs home. Runner at second leaves before the catch and makes it to third. Relay throw is off line, and by the time the infielder gets the ball and steps on second base (doubling up the runner there for the third out) the runner from third has already touched home plate. Does that run count?   (Dave from Medicine Hat, AB)

Answer:

This is a time play. The catch is the second out. The runner tags and scores before the runner on second is doubled off. Count the run. The third out was made after the run scored. - J.R.

Question:

A runner on third, fly ball to left field. The runner goes to the bag to tag and leaves the base to advance as soon as the ball touches the left fielders glove. The left fielder bobbles the ball before finally "catching" it. Can the runner be called out for leaving before the catch or can he leave as soon as the ball touches the fielders glove? Thanks for your response.   (Paul from Lincoln, RI)

Answer:

The runner can leave at "First touch". He does not have to wait until the ball is caught. - J.R.

Question:

We recently began playing some serious pickup games and a situation occurred where a runner was advancing home and the catcher lowered his shoulder and "took out" the runner. The question is can the catcher block the plate even if the ball is not on its way in and can he intentionaly "kill" a runner just cause? Thanks.   (Cory from North Port, FL)

Answer:

No. The catcher must have the ball or inthe act of fielding the ball to have any right to be in the runner's baseline. This is called obstuction. The call is "That's obstruction." And then wait for the play(s) to be completed before making any awards. - J.R.

Question:

Adult Softball- Runner is on first in the bottom of the seventh inning. The home team is down by one run,(3-2) the next guy up hits a homerun, what is the final score?   (Ken from Beloit, WI)

Answer:

Home team is batting with a runner on and the batter hits a dinger.....score is now 4-3, game over unless there is more to this question. - J.R.

Question:

My son pitched four complete innings at which time the score was the other team 1 and us 0. The top of the fifth our team scored 2 runs to go ahead 2 to 1. Then my son did not pitch the bottom of the fifth inning another pitcher came in and finished. My question, since my son was relieved after the team went ahead, is he the winning pitcher of record or is the second pitcher. The game ended after 5 innings with us winning 2 to 1. Thanks.   (Dale from Lakeland, TN)

Answer:

This is a scoring question and not within the scope of this site. However, consult Rule 10 of the OBR for all scoring answers. - J.R.

Question:

Runner on 3rd, ball hit to short outfield, runner advances to home, the outfielder throws home and the catcher gets the ball but does not tag the runner because he thinks that the runner already reached home plate. The runner misses the plate but has no idea that he missed it and proceds to the dugout. The umpire makes no call as no tag has been made and the runner missed the plate, on every other run that scored the umpire pointed at the plate to inform the official scorer that a run has scored, on this play the umpire makes no such movement. This is a Little League game and the age is 11-12. My question is, once the runner has entered the dugout should the umpire declare him out for base abandonment? Since the defensive team did not see him miss the plate there will not be an appeal and since no one on the offensive team saw the runner miss the plate, the umpire is the only one that saw the whole play. What call should the umpire make?   (J.G. from C.S.)

Answer:

Old adage of no ball, no call can come into play here. Since the runner is already in the bench area he has "Abandond his effort to run the bases" but this only would come into play if the catcher was going after him to tag for the out, as per the PBUC manual. The onus is on the defense here to make an appeal before the next pitch or play on the runner who missed the base. If they appeal, the ump will make the proper ruling. No appeal, count the run and play on. - J.R.

Question:

My friends and I are wondering what the rules are as far as pitchers are concerned in the Triple A PCL & the IHL leagues. Obviously, both leagues are comprised of teams from the A.L & the N.L. Do the pitchers hit, a la the normal N.L. rules, or do they sit out a la the D.H. rule in the A.L.? There is a case of beer riding on the answer, please help a few die-hard baseball fans with nothing better to talk about! Thanks.   (Jack from Phoenix, AZ)

Answer:

All minor league teams follow the Official Rules of Baseball as followed by the major leagues. The DH is believe it or not optional. As you know, only the AL uses it which leads me to think that those minor league teams affiliated with American League will use the DH. Those affiliated with the National League will bat. However, I will confirm this. - J.R.

Question:

Runner at 2nd, brakes for 3rd on attempted steal, catcher throws and tag is late. However, the runner overruns 3rd continuing directly past his coach and on a straight line ends his overrun approx. 12ft past the 3rd base at the field's side fence. Player (3rd baseman) has to walk past the coach to attempt a tag, but runner starts his run from the fence and in a diagonal run to the plate, there is a bad throw and the runner scores. What is the ruling and why? I thought the runner should be out for overrunning the base by over 3ft. Umpire in chief after the game, said the runner is safe due to an assumed baseline that comes into play? Also, is coaches position between the runner and the baseman after the overrun not deemed interference or obstruction? Thanks.   (Brad from Kitchener, ON)

Answer:

Good question. Again, judgement by the umpire is necessary in cases like this. By your play the runner did not slide and misjudged his speed and attempt at stopping. Also it seems that the fence/wall on the third base side is rather close. So things like this do have an effect on the game.

Let's deal with the coach. First he cannot intentionally hinder the defense in making the play, nor can he assist the runner by touching him. From all indications in your play, neither was the case.

Base line: there are two definitions of "Base Line." First is the book definition of the distance under Rule 2 of the OBR, which is the measurement of the distance. Next is the practical definition of the runners base line he himself establishes going from base to base. In your play, the base runner overran third and then proceeded in a direct and straight line toward home. He established this line. Had he run out of his established line to avoid a tag or play then the runner would be out. - J.R.

Question:

What are the official dimensions of home plate?   (David from Houston, TX)

Answer:

Rule 1.05 of the OBR: Home plate is 5 sided slab of whitened rubber. It is 17" square with two of the corners removed so that one edge is 17 inches long, two adjacent sides are 8.5" and the remaiining two sides are 12" and stay at an angle to make a point. The 17" edge faces the pitcher's plate and the two 12" edges coincide withthe first and third base lines. - J.R.

Question:

Runners on first and third with one out. The batter swings at strike three and the pitch hits the batter. This causes the the ball to go past the cather. I then sent the runner on third home to score and the runner on first moved over to third. The umpire called the batter out and then called the ball dead and had the runners return to first and third. Was this the right call from the umpire? *note* Our league uses American League Baseball rules.   (Ryan from New Richmond, WI)

Answer:

Once the ball strikes the batter the ball is dead, nothing can happen. Since the batter offered at the pitch, it is a strike. Being the third strike, the batter is out. Now the ball is dead, no runners may advance. The umpire did the correct thing in sending everyone back. - J.R.

Question:

There's a runner at second base. The batter hits a low liner that the second baseman traps. The runner sees this and heads for third. The base umpire does not and says the batter is out. Thus, the second baseman flips the ball to the shortstop for the assumed double play. However, the plate umpire sees the trap and calls the batter --- and the runner now on third --- safe. The fielding team's manager argues that his second baseman acted according to the call he heard from the base umpire. The plate umpire says the play stands as per his ruling. Was that correct?   (Alan from Seattle, WA)

Answer:

Hmm, we do have a problem when one umpire has a different call than the other umpire. This is where a good pregame between umpires comes in. What should happen at the pregame is a discussion about who takes what play in the infield.

Typically, the plate umpire will take all line drives and pop-ups to the infield. Some crews will work so that the umpire with the best angle will take the call.

What now has to happen is a discussion between the two umpires and one coach is not going to be happy. Mechanically it is the plate umpire's call and the object is to get it right. If the coach asks the base umpire to go for help and he does, the plate umpire will give him his opinion on the play and leave the base umpire to make the final call. In some cases where the error is glaring, the plate umpire will talk to the base umpire without a coach asking for help.

It is not uncommon for the base umpire after all said and done, is to say to the coach, it was the plate umpire's call, it stands and I was wrong to make the call.

Long and short of it, it is a judgement call, what was called stands, let's play ball. - J.R.

Question:

I umpired a youth game 11-12 (Cal Ripkin) the other day. They basically use the same rule as MLB.

It was the bottom of the sixth inning. two outs, and a man on base. The score was tied. The batter hits a home run. As the batter approaches first base he is jumping up and down. He jumps right over first base and then proceeds to touch 2nd, 3rd and home. Lucky for me the defensive team did not see the missed base. But I was thinking about this and was wondering what is the correct procedure for making the appeal of a missed base if it is in the scenario mention above?. As I understand it that the ball becomes dead after it goes over the fence. And since there is not next batter because the home team hit in the winning run.

What is the correct way to appeal the missed base? and can you reference that in the rule book? I have not found any type of scenario in the rule book when it comes to ending the game in this fashion.   (Floyd from Sandy, UT)

Answer:

This appeal is handled like any other dead ball appeal. A new ball has to be thrown in by the umpire, the umpire must make the ball live and the appeal must be properly executed from the rubber. This appeal must take place before all of the defensive team leaves the field. Team in this case is defined as infielders and pitcher cross the foul line. See Rule 7.10 OBR. - J.R.

Question:

A friend of mine was telling me in little league baseball, at the junior level, 13-14 year olds, that a pitcher can re-enter the game as many times as he wants, as long as he does not leave the field. In other words, the coach can take him out, and he goes to play first base, then a couple hitters latter, he returns to the mound. Then, in his theory, the player can then go back to first base after a hitter or so, then return to the mound later. I told him that was not the case, but I don't know for sure. Thank You.   (Derek from Lincoln, CA)

Answer:

Under Major League rules this is not possible. However, local league rules may differ. Under Federation rules (high school) the pitcher may be moved from pitching to another position and then back to the pitching position once per innning. See Article 3-2 of the NFHS rule book for more information. - J.R.

Question:

This happened once in a local game and has sparked a long (not heated, but good) discussion. Bases Loaded, no out. Batter hits a sharp grounder down the line that the third baseman fields cleanly. Before the runner on third can leave the base he is tagged by the third baseman. Then the third baseman steps on the base for the force out. The umpire ruled two outs (first a tag saying the runner on third had to leave and go home) and then the force. The discussion is over when the runner on third loses the "safety" of standing on the base. I'm wondering about this call, what rules in the rule book would effect this ruling? Your help would be greatly appreciated.   (Bob from Green Bay, WI)

Answer:

This is a force play. See Rule 2.00 of the OBR for the definition. The runner on third looses the right to occupy third due to the batter becoming a batter/runner and thus forcing all runners to advance. It is generally agreed the right to occupy a base when a force condition exists, is when the ball is struck and judged fair. The force is removed when a fly ball is caught, or when a base runner is tagged. In this case the force would be removed if the runner from second or first were tagged or the ball went to that base first.

Now what happens when the runner does not move and you have two runners on the base? Well, the runner who has the right to the base is safe, the runner who has lost his right to occupy the base is out when tagged or the base he is going to is tagged. One sees more than one runner on base in rundown situations mostly. - J.R.

Question:

I was reading some of the questions below and I noticed one situation that I'm pretty sure you were wrong about. A guy named Craig metioned the hidden ball play, and the pitcher remained off the slab, but the umpire called it a balk, because he was on the mound. I have checked the book several times in regards to this rule, and it states that the pitcher can be on the mound, but must remain off the slab. Maybe there's a different ruling in the states than in Canada?   (Steve from Moncton, NB)

Answer:

It is a balk if the pitcher is on or astride the pitching rubber without the ball. He can be on the mound, dirt area only. Think of it this way, it is a balk if the pitcher trys to deceive the runner purposely. - J.R.

Question:

Batter fake bunts and steps in front of the plate with both feet, while man on first attempts to steal. The catcher has to double pump to get the trow off around the hitter. I truly believe this is interference. THe umpire behind the plate told me that a batter can step in front of the plate.   (Tim from Hudson, WI)

Answer:

Judgement call by the plate umpire. If he felt that the batter interfered with the throw, then enforce the penalty. If not, the play stands. - J.R.

Question:

When the coach makes a second visit to the mound in the same inning he must remove the pitcher. Does remove mean from the game or can he make a double change and put the pitcher at another position? If the pitcher is allowed to play another position can he then come back to pitch later in the game?   (Jim from Philadelphia, PA)

Answer:

Under 8.06 of the OBR the pitcher is removed from the game, also see the PBUC umpire manual, since "From game" is not listed in rule 8.06. So there is no moving the pitcher to another position in "Real" baseball. Local leagues may have an adaptation to this rule.

In high school ball (Federation) the pitcher can leave the pitching position, see Rule 3-1 Art. 2 and 3, may be moved and returned as a pitcher once per inning provided no other pitching rules are violated. - J.R.

Question:

I have heard that only the starting pitcher of a game can reenter a ballgame. Is this true at all levels?   (Scott from Chicago, IL)

Answer:

No. Under OBR 3.03, once taken out of the game, he cannot return. - J.R.

Question:

I recently umpired a game where a ball bounced in the dirt and hit the catcher in the groin. He had to leave the game. I have taken some hard shots behind the plate and still not flinch when the ball comes. However, I have never been hit in the groin and now when the ball is in the dirt I flinch and think it's gonna hit me in the groin. Have you been hit in the groin during a game and is it as painful as I think? How did you regain your composure and not flinch after being hit in such a sensitive part of the body?   (Dale from Detroit, MI)

Answer:

Most all umpires have been hit in various parts of the body, arms, shoulder, mask and yes the groin too. I have been hit there and even with a cup, it does hurt. One must concentrate on the ball after it happens. Flinching is a natural reaction and takes time to overcome this. One just has to bear down and concentrate. - J.R.

Question:

Another dropped third strike question. Runners on second and third. Right handed batter swings at a third strike in the dirt that hits the catcher and bounces down the first base line. While running down the line the batter/runner is hit in the leg by the ball causing it to get further away and not be fielded by the catcher in time to make a play on the runner at first or on the runners stealing their respective bases. The call was batter was safe and runners allowed to advance. Was this the proper call?   (Kevin from Louisville, KY)

Answer:

So long as the runner is not trying to intentionally kick the ball away from the catcher or other fielder, in my opinion this is a no call. If he is trying to prevent the defense from making a play, this is interference. - J.R.

Question:

Bases loaded, no outs. Batter pops the ball up to the infield. The umpires fails to call Infield Fly, so the 3rd Baseman allows the ball to fall. He then picks it up, tags the runner on 3rd, steps on 3rd, and throws to second. Triple Play, or is it?   (Chet from Marietta, GA)

Answer:

The infield fly rule is there to prevent such an occurance. The batter is automatically out when an infield fly is declared, thus taking the force off the runners. In your play, no triple play, only one out, bases loaded. - J.R.

Question:

1. Bases are loaded - 2 outs. Batter hits a home run. Runner on second fails to touch third base and is ruled out after an appeal is made. Do any runs count? If so how many?

2. Bases are loaded - 1 out. Batter hits a home run. Runner on second fails to touch third and is ruled out after an appeal. What happens to the runners and how many runs count?   (Warren from Natchitoches, LA)

Answer:

One must remember no runs count on the third out.

In play A: Once the runner at second base is declared out on appeal at third, any runs after the out is made are not valid. So count one run in from third, since he scored prior to the appeal.

In play B: Count only 3 runs, the runner from third is one run, the runner from first and the batter-runner who hit the shot. The runner from second is declared out on appeal and since only 2 out, the other runs score. - J.R.

Question:

Is using a softball bat for a 11 year old boys little league game legal? Isn't there a limit on the length of barrel of the bat? The sweet spot and barrel are about twice the size of a regular little league bat. Thank you.   (Clint from Seattle, WA)

Answer:

We only comment on the Major League rules for baseball and Federation rules for baseball, as well as the ASA, Federation and NCAA rules for softball. Local leagues for baseball will usually use the OBR with modifications that are age and safety appropriate.

I would look at the local league rules in this case. Both softball and baseball have bat rules regarding length, diameter, construction, finish and weight, etc., but this is for adults. - J.R.

Question:

I am an American Legion Baseball coach. During a recent game the opposing teams pitcher used a black glove with red colored laces. I know this is illegal but I have not been able to find the rule covering this. Please help.   (Leon from Lynn, MA)

Answer:

Under the OBR, look at 1.15 and 1.14. While 1.14 states that the glove must be uniform in color, i.e red laces and black glove, the only real restriction is having the glove either white or gray. The rule does not state that the laces must be the same color as the glove. So long as the glove is not white or gray, we play. - J.R.

Question:

In Major League Baseball, how far is the pitcher's mound from home plate?   (A.L. from Salt Lake City, UT)

Answer:

Field dimensions are under OBR rule 1.04. The dimension from the rubber to the plate is 60 feet 6 inches. - J.R.

Question:

N.J. High School rules: A pitcher is on the rubber but has not come to a set position. Can he turn his front shoulder to get a better look at the runner? Where can I get a copy of N.J. High School rules? Thanks.   (Russ from Verona, NJ)

Answer:

If he is not yet set, i.e. the hands together in front of the body, he can turn his shoulders. Once set he cannot.

You can get a copy of the Federation Rules from the NJSIAA on Route 130, Robbinsville, NJ. - J.R.

Question:

There is a runner on first base. Left handed pitcher from set position, what is the breakoff point of right leg to decide when pitcher must throw to batter? How far forward can pitcher's motion carry before a balk is called?   (Russell from Lockport, NY)

Answer:

A lefty must step ahead of the throw and step directly to the base or step off the rubber. Usually an imaginary line from the corner of the rubber at a 45 degree angle is the best reference point for the umpire to gauge the step. - J.R.

Question:

What is the rule on first, or third basemen having one foot in foul territory when pitch is made to batter?   (Dwight from Bardwell, KY)

Answer:

Technically speaking, this is an illegal pitch when no runners are on base a a balk if runners are on. However, it is usually not enforced to the letter. According to the PBUC Manual of Umpiring, the umpires are to enforce this only if a manager or coach complains and then to make sure both sides adhere to the rule. - J.R.

Question:

Batter hits the ball fair, runs down the first base line, steps on and crosses first base, turns left toward second however runner begins to return immediately to first base but runner not yet on first. The defense (fielder) retrieves the hit ball, throws to the first baseman. First baseman successfully catches the ball but the throw is late, initially the runner is safe, but watching the runner and the runners turn the first baseman tages the runner with ball in mit befor the runner returns to first base. Ball is still alive, Play has not stopped. Is the runner out or safe?

Vice versa.... The Runner turns right and returns to first. The first baseman tags the runner befor the runner reaches first base. Is the runner safe or out?

This occured during a little league control pitch game this evening in Royal Oak, MI during the Padres vs Phillies 8/9 yr. old league. Much friendly debate but no resolution. Phillies said runner turning left is out and runner turning right is safe.   (Brian from Royal Oak, MI)

Answer:

It does not matter which way the runner turns so long as he does not show intent on running to second base. If he crosses first and turns left and proceeds back to first base, no problem. If on the other hand he fakes a step or two toward second base, this is intent and he must be tagged to register the out. - J.R.

Question:

Please clarify this situation as it has occurred twice in the span of two weeks in my sons' 9-10 year old division (the first time in a league playoff game, the second in an All-Star Tournament game): Runners on second and third, batter hits a ball to the shortstop who throws to the third baseman, runner who was trying to advance from second to third is tagged out. In both instances the umpires counted the run from third. Following the first occurrence, I browsed your website and found the identical situation in Archives II. Your response was that the run should not count - the exception being a time play (which I interpret to be a rundown). In my second example, the circumstances are identical except that the ball was hit directly to the third baseman who bobbled it then tagged the runner coming down from second. When the umpires counted the run from third, I immediately sprung from the bleachers and pleaded my case. The umpires maintained that because the third out was a tag play the run counts if the runner crosses the plate before the other runner is tagged out. I countered with the time play argument. Their position was the tag out consitutes a time play. What is the basis for your opinion? I have researched OBR and the closest example I can find is cited in Rule 7.09 (tag out play). I would like to be able point to something in black and white as I continue to plead my case to anyone who is willing to listen! Thanks!   (Rich from Evergreen Park, IL)

Answer:

No run will count on the third out if the out is a FORCE out. In the case you have cited, since there is no force this is now a time play when the throw goes anywhere but first base. (Batter-runner is forced to first base.) If the runner has not crossed the plate at the time the tag is applied and the out recorded, no run. On the other hand, if the out is made after the tag is applied, count the run.

One of the responses on a similar play in the archives may have been incorrect and following a flurry of responses exposed the error. - J.R.

Question:

I actually have two rule related questions:

Rule 7.08(F) says that if a runner is touched by a fair ball in fair territory before the ball has passed or been touched by an infielder, the runner is out, the ball is dead, no runner may score, and no runners may advance unless forced to advance. Assume the bases are loaded with one out. A ground ball between 1st and 2nd hits the runner moving from 1st base to 2nd base. Does this mean that the runners who previously occupied 2nd base and 3rd base are no longer being forced to advance and therefore cannot advance to 3rd base and home base respectively? Does the "unless forced to advance" in my example apply only to the runners behind the runner who is hit by the ball?

Rule 6.05(L) says that a batter is out when an infielder intentionally drops a fair fly ball or line drive, with first, first and second, first and third, or first, second and third base occupied before two are out. The ball is dead and runner or runners shall return to their original base or bases.

I'd appreciate it if you could reconcile this rule against Rule 6.05(E). I'm confused by the inclusion of the first and first and third situations and the "line drive" wording in 6.05(L) since these seem to be directly at odds with the way I understand the Infield Fly Rule to work. What real life situations would result in 6.05(L) taking precedence over Rule 6.05(E)?   (Michael from Minneapolis, MN)

Answer:

Rule 7.08(f) when broken down is very simple. When the runner is struck by a batted ball, that runner is out in accordance with the rule 7.08(f). Since the ball is dead on this play nothing can happen. All runners return to the last base legally occupied, except the batter-runner, he gets first base. In your example, the runners on second and third would return to their last base legally occupied at the time the runner was struck between first and second. The batter gets first. No runners would be forced in this situation. Looking at it from this point, if the runner running between 2nd and 3rd is struck, ball is dead, nothing can happen. All runners return to thier last base, except for the batter-runner who gets first base, which then forces the runner currently on first to second base.

Rule 6.05(e) is almost like the infield fly rule but not quite. For an infield fly rule you need less than 2 outs, 1st, 2nd, or 1st, 2nd, 3rd occupied. An intentionally dropped ball is a player on defense trying to cheat in order to create a double play situation, that is why the line drive is included in this and not in the infield fly. Both those rules are to protect the offense. - J.R.

Question:

Today, I observed a game where an 11 year old pitcher was throwing curves. This was in a Cal Ripken All Star Tournament. Is this allowed?   (Juliana from Elmwood Park, NJ)

Answer:

We only comment on the Official Rules of Baseball, Federation Rules of Baseball, ASA rules of softball. Consider htat most of the rules that local leagues are derivations of these with those modifications with regard to safety and age.

With that said, I would not think there would be a prohibition against throwing curves. The kids have to learn to hit it sometime. And then again, sometimes a pitcher may throw a curve unintentionally. - J.R.

Question:

Can a pitcher wear sunglasses? And do you know what rule number this falls under?   (Wally from Mt. Airy, MD)

Answer:

In the OBR, I cannot find a specific reference against wearing sunglasses. - J.R.

Question:

2 outs, catcher drops third strike. Batter does not attempt to run to first. Man on third runs home and crosses plate, Catcher then picks up ball and tags the batter that did not run. Out called and inning over. Does the run count that came across the plate before the batter was tagged? Thank You.   (B.C. from White Plains, NY)

Answer:

Good question. In my humble opinion, this is a steal of home. Since the runner has not headed for the dugout or otherwise abandoned his effort to run the bases, this is a time play and not a force play. Since the out was recorded after the run crossed the plate, count the run. - J.R.

Question:

This one came up the other day. I am unable to locate "ruling" in Sporting News. We are Not using HS Fed rules, and if so, a dead ball. Pitcher releases pitch to plate (after feigning to 1st base). Balk called by Home Plate Umpiring making it an illegal pitch with penalities assessed.

With bases unoccupied, it's a ball (since penalty to move runners is moot).

With any bases occupied, batters and runners entitled to move up one base w/o liability.

Questions:

1. Where's the paragraph in the book that explains penalty?
2. Is the illegal pitch a live ball (vs dead)?
3. Should hitter swing at "free pitch", and tries to extend a double and is throw out at 2nd, does the team at bat really get a choice in the balk penalty?
4. With bases occupied can the pitch ever be called a ball?

Answer:

1. Look under pro rule 8.05, this will explain the balk. Matter of fact, the 8.05 will answer all of the questions.
2. The pitch is not illegal and the ball is in play.
3. If the batter hits the ball and it is fair all runners and the batter must advance at least one base in order for the balk to be ignored. If the batter goes for more than one and is thrown out, the play stands as well as any base runner trying for more than one base. Same thing if the pitch is wild, the runners may advance one base with no liability to be put out, anything beyond that one base, they can be put out.
4. If th pitcher balks with runners on, it is a balk, runners must be awarded the balk penalty. With no runners on it is a ball.

Question:

My question concerns the balk rules. If a pitcher receives his signs from the catcher without being on the rubber and without quick pitching, is this considered a balk?   (Mark from Chesterfield, MO)

Answer:

Under the OBR rule 8.00 which covers the pitching regulations, there is nothing that states taking the signs off the rubber is a balk. - J.R.

Question:

Situtation: 2 outs runner on 2nd. Batter hits a grounder that goes past the 2nd baseman. Runner on 2nd turns past 3rd and goes for home. The batter is thrown out going for 2nd. The base runner scores while the runner is being put out on 2nd, therefore ending the inning.

My question is does the base runner's score count? I think the play at second was made slightly before the runner scored, therefore the score does not count. If the runner scored before the out at second then the run would have counted. What is the correct ruling on the score?   (Greg from Clover, SC)

Answer:

If the out is made before the runner crosses the plate, no run. However if the runner crosses the plate and then the out is made, count the run. - J.R.

Question:

In ASA men's softball, how do you appeal a man left the base early and while you are doing that, can a man that's still on base run (is it a dead ball or live ball)?   (Jeffery from Michigan)

Answer:

This can be done two ways, either as a dead ball appeal or live ball appeal. If doing a live ball appeal, by throwing to that base and then letting the umpire know what you are doing is the appeal. Of coure, when done this way, any runners on base can move and are in jeopardy of being put out. The other way is, after all playing action has ceased and the umpire calls time. The ball is now dead and nothing can happen except for one thing. If an infielder makes a verbal appeal stating that the runner left a base or did not tag a base and wishes to appeal, the umpire can make a ruling on this while the ball is dead. - J.R.

Question:

In Little League Rules, what determines when a game should be suspended by darkness?

In an All Star Game in the Minors, the teams were at 6-6 in regulation 6 innings... then went two more innings during which the sun set. The umpire went to suspend the game, and the tournament official and chief umpire told them they had to play on... until they couldn't see anymore. We complained but they played two more innings and finally after that suspended the game... like they should have two innings earlier. Is there a clear definition of suspension because of darkness... becacause it was certainly dangerous! The reason I complained emphatically was because the tournament official's reasoning for jeapardizing the kids was so he didn't have to deal with scheduling difficulties in finishing the game the following day before another scheduled game with different teams in the tournament.

Any "official" clarification available?   (Gary from San Diego, CA)

Answer:

I cannot comment on Little League rules, only on Federation and the Official Rules of Baseball, the latter of which most other organizations follow except for rules that may pertain to safety and the like.

In the OBR there is nothing that specifically states when the game is suspended due to darkness. Common sense would urge that when the umpire and/or the players can no longer see the ball, the game should stop and pick up where it left off.

The umpire is bound to follow the chief umpire. However, if safety is an issue the umpire should have at least brought the point to his chief. While I can sympathize with the tournament director and his scheduling, nothing should compromise safety of the players when possible. - J.R.

Question:

Man on first, left-handed pitcher is called for a balk during his attempted pick-off of the runner on first. The pick-off throw goes into right field and the runner goes all the way to third. Does the running get to stay at third or does he need to go back to second and only advance the one Base?   (Bob from Seaside, MA)

Answer:

If a pitcher balks and throws wild, either to a base or to home, a runner or runners may advance beyond the base to which they are entitled to at their own risk. See rule 8.05 notes. - J.R.

Question:

Does a baserunner have to return and re-tag the base he occupies between pitches, such as after a ball, strike or foul ball?   (Gary from Phoenix, AZ)

Answer:

No is the general answer. On a caught foul, he is obligated to tag up if he wishes to advance. - J.R.

Question:

Major League Baseball Rule 5.09 f is confusing to me the way it reads. The two statements that are confusing are, "the ball is in play" and "runners advance if forced". Below are the two scenarios I would like your answers for:

1. Bases loaded, first baseman playing in, ball is hit sharply on the ground, the first baseman dives to his right and it goes under his glove. Runner, who was being held at first, is going to second and inadvertently kicks the ball, which ends up in deep right center field. All runners' score and the batter stops at third. Does the play stand as is since "the ball is in play"?
2. Same Scenario as in 1 above except for where the ball is kicked: Bases loaded, first baseman playing in, ball is hit sharply on the ground, the first baseman dives to his right and it goes under his glove. Runner, who was being held at first, is going to second and inadvertently kicks the ball to the second baseman. The second baseman who was going toward 1st base catches the ball tags the runner who kicked the ball going from 1st to 2nd for one out and beats the batter to 1st base for the second out. Does the play stand as is, or do all runners advance one base and the batter gets first base since "runners advance if forced"?

Answer:

I agree the wording can be a bit confusing in the rule as written. However in practice it is relatively easy.

In both your situations with the fielder playing up and the ball is hit to him and he has a chance at the ball and the ball then strikes the runner, no interference is called UNLESS another fielder, "in the opinion of the umpire" has a chance to make a play. So your situations: in both the ball is alive and in play, no interference should be called. Results of the play will stand. - J.R.

Question:

Is a batted ball that hits the plate first and then enters fair territory fair or foul? I don't see anything in the MLB rules that addresses this.   (Brian from Columbus, OH)

Answer:

Look in at rule 1 of the OBR that shows the layout of the baseball diamond. It shows that home plate is in FAIR terrirtory. Any ball that hits the plate and then stays fair is a fair ball. - J.R.

Question:

If the pitcher trys to pick the runner off 1st base and the first basemen obstructs the runner going BACK to the base is the runner awarded 2nd base..under the premise that the obstructed runner gets one base past the last one reached before the obstruction or do you just call him safe at first?   (Mike from Little Ferry, NJ)

Answer:

Obstruction in this case is very rare, since you have the ball in flight and the fielder could be judged as in the act of fielding the ball. What is now common is the first baseman does not give the runner any part of the base to get back to. Under pro rules, 7.06, the runner gets the base he is entitled to and one beyond. In this case first base but since he was obstructed, he will be awarded 2nd base. - J.R.

Question:

A ground ball is hit in fair territory down the first base line crossing the bag in fair territory landing in foul territory in the outfield, fair ball or foul?   (D.H. from South Vienna, OH)

Answer:

We have a bounding ball that is on the line in fair territory that now crosses over the base and lands in foul ground. We have a FAIR ball. Remember that the base is in fair ground. See Rule 2.00 under definitions of a foul ball. - J.R.

Question:

There is a runner on first. When ball four is delivered to the batter the ball bounces off the catchers glove and goes out of bounds. What base is the batter and runner on 1st awarded?

Note: The ruling on the field was the runner on first was awarded third base (one plus) and the batter that walked was awarded second. Was this the correct ruling?   (Bud from Rochester, NY)

Answer:

Ball is dead, only award is the walk on the batter and the runner at first gets second base. - J.R.

Question:

A batter bats out of order, who is out? The batter who batted out of order or the batter who was supposed to bat?   (Bill from Sullivan, MO)

Answer:

The proper batter who was supposed to bat would be out on a proper appeal by the defense. - J.R.

Question:

Here's my situation, I have a runner on first and a hitter. The hitter cranks one into right field and they both take off. Now the front runner makes it to third and rounds it to go home, realizing he can't make it he returns to third, but the hitter is also on third. So the second runner returns to second after he and the first runner have been on third. I call the first runner out and give the second runner third because he had already had the base. What was the right call? Were they both safe because the second runner made it back to second even though both players occupied third or is the lead runner out because he returned to third? I couldn't find this dilemma in the rule book.   (Gino from Newfane, VT)

Answer:

Well, sounds as if you had a mess. Since the runners did not pass each other and no tag was made on any of them, they were both safe. If you have 2 runners on a base the out is not immediate, a tag must be made on the runner that does not belong there. Since no play, and the trail runner retreated, you have nothing. - J.R.

Question:

I am a high school coach. With less than two outs and a runner on 1st, batter hits a fly ball to any outfielder. Runner goes half way to 2nd. The outfielder bobbles the ball but does make the catch on the second attempt. Does the runner still have to tag or does the bobble nulify the tag up rule? Thank you.   (Dennis from Tacoma, WA)

Answer:

Runner must tag, but he can leave at first touch. - J.R.

Question:

After the pitcher comes to a stop at the set position and proceeds to deliver the ball to the batter is it a balk or illegal pitch if the pitcher touches his glove with the ball (prior to releasing the ball from his hand)?   (Jim from Palmer, MA)

Answer:

I have a little difficulty in understanding your question. More accurately, envisioning how the pitcher works from the set position and for him to do as you describe. Ok, once the pitcher brings his hands together, in the set (stretch) the ball is in the glove. If he breaks his hands at this point and moves the ball from the glove and then back to the glove while in contact with the rubber, it is a balk. His only moves at this point are to pitch the ball or step off the rubber. - J.R.

Question:

Full count to batter, Runner on 1st and 3rd, 1 out. Runner on 1st takes off on the pitch. Catcher misses third strike. The batter takes off to 1st and the catcher makes a play, runner on 3rd scores. My call was the batter was out and tricked defense into making the play. The team argued that base was unoccupied becuase runner was stealing. Field umpire agreed with them. What is the call? This was a Babe Ruth game which follows in the most part baseball rules.   (Jim from Hagerstown, MD)

Answer:

You were correct. One must look at the play from the start. At the time of the pitch, first was occupied and that is when this rule is enforced from. Batter out, the steal is valid and the players should know that. - J.R.

Question:

What does "WBBA" stand for?

Also what are "INFIELD FLYS" and do you use them in Little League Baseball?   (Amanda from Salt Lake City, UT)

Answer:

WBBA: I do not know what it stands for. Maybe someone who reads this site may be able to comment.
[Editor: Could this be the Western Boys Baseball Association of Utah?]

An infield fly is a batted ball that is fair that is popped up and can be caught with reasonable effort by an infielder when there is less than 2 outs with runners on first and second or first, second and third. Little League rules may use it depending on age level. - J.R.

Question:

This question pertains to a Little League game situation. With a man on first and less than (2) outs the batter with less than (2) strikes on him squares around to bunt. The ball goes off the bat with no arch to the foul territory side and behind the batters box. In this case it was a right hand hitter and the ball went in foul direction to the first base side of the batters box. The catcher dove over and caught the ball. Is this an out or just a foul tip stike? The ball did not come staight back to catchers area.   (Chris from Sidney, NY)

Answer:

By rule, and paraphrasing, the tip is a sharply struck ball that goes directly to the catcher's glove. So by this definition, this is not a tip, but rather a caught foul ball. In this case, the out would be the award. - J.R.

Question:

In mens softball: If there is a play at the plate and the on deck batter at the time of this play is walking toward the plate and is struck by the ball in play and this happens before the runner touches the plate what would be the ruling? On deck batter was about 10 feet from the plate umpires ruling was it had no bearing on the play but person who was throwing the ball thought on deck batter was at the plate which lead to the throw being off the plate. The throw was coming from first base.   (Nick from West Caldwell, NJ)

Answer:

Judgement call by the umpire who must see if the on deck batter willfully caused the defensive player to throw the ball to him. If the umpire does not feel a call for interference is warranted, score the run. If on the other hand he makes that call, ball is dead, the runner who is being played upon is out, all others return to the last base touched. - J.R.

Question:

In NFHS and / or American Legion baseball, can a starting pitcher, after having pitched in the game and removed from the mound and replaced with a new pitcher, return to the mound and pitch in the same game? What if he was substituted for and had left the game for an inning?   (R. from Louisiana)

Answer:

The answer is yes, this is the re-entry rule which allows the starter to be replaced for a time and then the starter can re-enter the game. If I am not mistaken, the pitcher can be removed from the pitching position once per inning to move to another defensive position. - J.R.

Question:

Less than two outs - runner on first. Runner takes off on the pitch and the batter lines out to the pitcher. The pitcher attempts to double up the runner on first - but inadvertantly throws the ball over the first baseman's head and the ball goes out of play. Runner goes to second without tagging up. Player retrieves the ball - then tags first base. Is the runner out? Is he awarded second because of the dead ball? Is there no action until the ball becomes "live" again- and the pitcher throws to first and appeals the play at first? Any and all answers are appreciated. Thanks.   (Jay from Farmington, CT)

Answer:

Once out of play the ball is dead and must be put back in play by the umpire. So in the play above, we have th out on a line drive, the overthrow, ball is now dead. The proper award to the runner is 3rd base, since the catch by the pitcher is considered a play, and the base award is two bases. Even on the award, the runner must tag up. If not, and appealed properly, the runner is out. The proper appeal proceedure is when the pitcher has the ball and on the rubber, the batter is in the batter's box, and the umpire indicates "Play", the ball is now alive and the appeal can take place. - J.R.

Question:

By rule (2.00 definition of terms) the catcher SHALL remain in the "catchers box" until delivery of the pitch, but I can find no penalty for violation of this rule. I always thought this to be a "catchers balk" and any base runners would be awarded a base. You see this violation continuously during "intentional" walks when the catcher steps out of the box well before the delivery. Thanks.   (Bruce from Las Vegas, NV)

Answer:

You need to look at the book a little closer, the penalty is there and is indeed a balk with runners on. As for the intentional walk, if you notice the catcher is in the box at the time of the pitch, one foot in the box, is considered in. When the pitcher releases the pitch, only then does he move out totally. - J.R.

Question:

After a girl swings the bat, she is looking at me (third base coach) with one foot still in the box, when one of my girls steals third. The catcher hits the batter with the ball and it rolls out of play. Heres the question. Is the ball dead? Is the batter out? This may help. The umpire did say that the batter did not show the intent to interfere. Even so the umpire called the batter out. Could this have been the correct call?   (Kevin from Levittown, PA)

Answer:

Not the right call, though this is a difficult call to make. The batter's box is not totally "Sancutuary" for the batter. If the batter moves with or impedes the throw by the catcher, this is interference. It is up to the catcher to make the play, not rely on the batter to move out of the way for the catcher to make the play. If the ball should strike the batter and it is not judged interference, ball is alive and in play. - J.R.

Question:

A coach called me last night complaining that he could not take infield practice because the opposing team's pitcher was warming up on the mound. Now we encourage the pitchers to warm up in the designated warm up areas but the caoch's question was: "is there a rule that prohibits or limits the pitcher from warming up on the field prior to the game?"   (Steve from Mount Laurel, NJ)

Answer:

While there is no specific rule in the OBR, in the PBUC Umpire Manual, section 1.3 prohibits the home pitcher from warming up on the mound. He is entitled to his 8 warm-up pitches when he takes it for the game. The idea is to have the pregame practice equal for both teams. The pitchers should warm up in the designated warm up area. - J.R.

Question:

My son's 13-15 year old Babe Ruth team went into the 6th inning of a game trailing 12-6. They came back to tie the game 12-12 with the bases loaded and one out in the top of the sixth. As soon as the tying run was scored the umpires called the game on account of darkness and awarded the win to the other team by a 12-6 score as they said you go back to the last completed inning. Upon reading the rule book, it was determined that this was an improper ruling and the game should have been picked up exactly as it left off, with a 12-12 score, the bases loaded with one out (there are no local rules saying otherwise). When they actually completed the game today they went back to the beginning of the sixth inning with my son's team behind by a 12-6 score. Although it is too late to correct any misinterpretation of the rule book, I am hoping you could let me know what the correct ruling should have been.   (Laurie from Dover, NH)

Answer:

We can only comment on the Official Rules of Baseball, Federation Rules of Baseball, ASA and NCAA rules of softball. However, the rules used by your baseball league are adaptations of the major league rules with changes for safety and level of play.

The OBR rule 4.12 d states that a game that has been suspended for reasons other than curfew, weather, time limit will be played from the point where it was suspended from. That means when the game resumes, those individuals that were on the lineup card are there, in the proper batting order, those individuals who were on the bases are there and the outs, if any, are good. The batter who was at bat returns to bat. - J.R.

Question:

My question, count shows 2 and 2 both score keepers have count. Man on second base 2 outs. Pitch is made and batter swings and misses ball. Ball goes to screen and batter runs to first because third base coach yells for him to run. Catcher throws runner out at first, the umpire calls him out. Player from second goes to third and continues to go home. Team on field goes to dug out thinking inning over. Other coach appeals that it was not third strike and run should count. Umpire initiates team back on....and batter goes back in box and continues his bat. The umpire said that runner from second scores run, an argument insues because fielding team says that runner should go back to third due to count error by all in concern. What is the answer?   (Lance from Rowlett, TX)

Answer:

This is a mess, needless to say. First off, what count did the plate umpire have? That is the key factor in this mess. The score keepers record in this case does not count. And it is imperative that the coaches and players also have a notion on what the count is. So now we have this mess, let's sort it. Runner goes down to first on the dropped third strike (Or what one thinks as a dropped third strike) where the base umpire rules an out. Meanwhile the runner on second is stealing third and scores. The defensive team thinks 3rd out and leaves the field of play. As an umpire, if the mistake is on us, then we must rule in such a way that prevents any team gaining an advantage. Also any team that is "Cheating" we must punish. To me in my estimation this is on the coach for not having his head in the game and getting the correct count. Since the base umpire called the out, which put the defensive team at a disadvantage, since they could no longer make a play, we bring the batter back with the correct count and put the runner on third. - J.R.

Question:

I was umpiring a little league junior minor game, when the batter hit a ball which stayed in the batter's box. The catcher threw the batter-runner out at first. The offensive manager stormed out onto the field and yelled that the batter's box was not fair territory. I said that an imaginary line extended through the box from the plate to the third base line, but he kept yelling. I asked the defensive manager what he thought the rule was. He said "You didn't call it so I let him go." I then I called it a foul ball and brought the batter-runner back. But later I checked the rule book, and still think I was right. Which is it?   (Joe from Los Lunas, NM)

Answer:

If the ball settles in the fair portion of the batters box, that is that part that is in front of home plate, it is a fair ball.

Look at the layout of the field in the OBR Section 1 and the definition of a foul ball in Rule 2.00. - J.R.

Question:

Okay, in a pony league game there were runners on first and second. The batter hits a line drive that hits the second base umpire on the shoulder and it is caught by the shortstop who throws to second and second to first. It was ruled a triple play, was this the right call? To my knowledge the umpire is part of the field so it should not have been a fly out and subsequencely a triple play. What should have been the right call? The coach argued that the runner at second had made third so he was safe but the runner at first was forced as well as the batter and it should have been ruled a double play and not a triple play. So I would like to know what your call would have been. Thank you.   (Joseph from Bayamon, PR)

Answer:

OBR 5.09 f will give the answer on this one. Since the ball went past the pitcher or any other infielder the ball is now dead, unless the infielders were playing up, OBR 6.09 d, the ball is in play but it is no longer in flight and if caught it is not an out. In your play, the base umpire should have been in the infield on the third base side positioned halfway between the mound and second base. The ball did go past the pitcher and now strikes the umpire. Since the ball did not pass any other infielder we need to make an award here. The umpire is considered part of the field on thrown balls, bounding balls or after it passes an infielder. And on fly balls, he is part of the ground, so no catch on a batted ball is possible. OK, back to the play: The award is dead ball, batter gets first base all runners advance one base if forced. So now we have in your play bases loaded no outs. - J.R.

Question:

A batter has taken an "illegal batting position" by having his back foot completely out of the rear portion of the batter's box. The pitcher delivered the pitch, that was inside and the pitch hit the batter. The batter did not try to swing and hit the ball and the ball was not in the strike zone when it struck the batter. I have always been under the impression that on coming in contact with the ball in any manner while in an "illegal batting position" would result in the batter being called out. What is the correct call under 6.08?   (Steve from Minden, NE)

Answer:

Preventive umpiring could go a long way here. He should have been told to move into the box. The award of first base for being struck by the pitched ball should stand. Philosophy is if the ball is out of the zone and way inside as to contact the batter, the pitch has no business being there, give the advantage to the batter. If on the other hand, the ball is close to the plate and he is crowding the plate and makes no effort to move, and the ball is out of the zone but close, award a ball and keep the batter at bat. Judgement call by the umpire. - J.R.

Question:

Runners are on first and second with one out. Ground ball is hit towards second and hits runner before getting to second baseman. Runner is out. Does the runner on second go to third because he was forced to advance or does he go back to second because when the runner was hit with the batted ball he no longer is forced to advance? If he is allowed to advance it would seem to me to put the defense at a disadvantage especially if the bases were loaded. This would mean the runner on third would automatically score. If there was a ground ball to short that hit the runner going to third, he would be out and the runner going to second would be forced to advance because of the batter runner.   (Rick from Florence, WI)

Answer:

Once the ball strikes the runner and interference has been judged, the ball and play are dead. Nothing can happen. Since the rule is to punish the team at fault, we take all runners and place them on the base they last legally had, except for the runner at fault. He is out. The batter will get first base. - J.R.

Question:

A runner on first steals second safely and asks for time out. Time was granted by umpire. Upon throwing the ball back to the pitcher, the second baseman over-throws the pitcher. Runner takes off to third base. Result was safe at third. Is this correct or is the play dead until pitcher toes the rubber since time was called. I say the play was dead once time was called and runner should return to second. Not 100% sure. What's the rule?   (Anthony from St. Amant, LA)

Answer:

Once the umpire (Base or Plate) grants time, nothing can happen until the ball is made live again. The ball is alive when 1) the batter is in the batter's box, 2) when the pitcher takes his proper position on the mound with the ball and is in contact with the rubber and 3) plate umpire says "Play."

So in your play, tell the runner to get back on second. - J.R.

Question:

Bases loaded no outs. Ground ball fielded by shortstop. Runner from second unintentionally collides with shortstop in basepath. Runner is not tagged. Shortstop looks like he would have thrown home had contact not occurred. Is the runner out with no run scoring?   (Andy from N. Caldwell, NJ)

Answer:

Whether unintentional or not, the runner must yield to a fielder making a play. In your case the runner has not done so so this is interference. Ball is dead, the runner is out, the batter gets first base, all other runners return to the last base occupied, unless forced by the award. - J.R.

Question:

The batter fouls the first pitch directly into the catcher's mitt. Is this considered an out or a foul ball? I always thought that the ball had to be over the batter's head on the first two strikes in order to be a legitimate caught ball, but the third strike would be an out if it was hit directly into the catcher's mitt.   (Jim from Palmer, MA)

Answer:

What you describe is a foul tip. Any ball that is struck sharply and goes directly to the catcher is considered a tip. This is simply a strike and if strike three, the batter is out. A foul fly is a ball that goes to an appreciable height and if caught is an out, if not it is just a foul ball. See OBR, Rule 2.00 for the definitions. - J.R.

Question:

Situation: 2nd & 3rd, 2 outs, batter hits the ball to the 3rd baseman, runner on 3rd goes home, crosses the plate, runner on 2nd heads to 3rd as third baseman bobbles the ball, when runner realizes that 3rd baseman has control he stops running and is tagged out. He never made any attempt to go back to 2nd, does the run score?   (Chris from Erial, NJ)

Answer:

This is now a time play. No force is involved. If the runner crosses the plate before the out is made, count the run. In your play, the run counts. - J.R.

Question:

The discussion at lunch today focused around the diamond. If it is 70ft from home to first and 70ft from home to third how far is it across the pitcher's mound from home to second? Thank you.   (Phyllys from Patoka, IL)

Answer:

Keep in mind the bases in baseball is 90 ft. If one remembers their high school algebra or geometry, the Pythagorean theorem is used to calculate the hypotenuse of a right triangle. For 70 ft. between bases, the distance from home to second is 98.995 ft. For 90 ft. base paths, 127.28 ft. - J.R.

Question:

You replied to a question about a foul tip: "See OBR 7.08d Note. The runner does not have to retouch his base after a foul tip that is caught, they can steal. If the "Tip" is not caught, then it is an ordinary foul ball. The players would then need to retouch the base." Are you stating that, after any foul ball, a baserunner must retag his base?   (Joe from Silver Spring, MD)

Answer:

The only foul ball a base runner needs to retouch on is one where they are tagging up to advance to the next base on a caught foul fly ball. - J.R.

Question:

This is from a little league baseball game but rule 7.06 reads identical in the major league book as is usually the case. Single to mid depth center field. Runner from second heads around third for home. Catcher sets up squarely in front of home blocking the plate. Runner slides into catcher coming up about a foot short of the plate. One to two seconds later ball arrives hitting the catcher right in the chest all the way from center in the air. Catcher tags runner. Ump thinks of obstruction but in the act of fielding comes to mind and "safe call is made". Ump should retire? Ump got lucky?   (Tim from Seattle, WA)

Answer:

This call, like most calls, is umpire judgement. However, in the play as you describe above, ump made a very good call. The catcher had no business blocking the plate without the ball. In the act of fielding, or the catch is imminent, means that the ball is about to be in the glove. By rights the only way for the catcher to legally block the base path is with the ball, but over time the interpretation of the rule has been expanded. Give the ump a pat on the back for a good call. - J.R.

Question:

When a batted ball hits home plate, is it considered a fair ball? This has been argued every year my son has played organized ball.   (Jim from Oak Lawn, IL)

Answer:

Depends. First thing one should know, that home plate is located in fair territory. Second thing one must realize is that the call is where the ball is. If it settles in fair ground, it is a fair ball. If it settles in foul ground or passes 1st or 3rd base in foul territory, it is then a foul ball. If the ball settles on the plate, it is fair. - J.R.

Question:

In Babe Ruth baseball is the pitcher required to have any rest time if he pitches three innings or less?   (Larry from Benton, OR)

Answer:

We only comment on the Federation, official rules of baseball (OBR) and ASA softball. Most other rules are derived from these. I would think that Babe Ruth would have a mandatory rest period after so many innings. - J.R.

Question:

When a fielder attempts to apply a tag to an advancing base runner, and the base runner is mid-way between bases, can the base runner attempt to dislodge the ball from the fielder's hand or glove? If so, are there limitations as to how this can be done?   (Robert from Arlington, TX)

Answer:

No. The base runner cannot purposely try to "Slap" with his hands the ball from the fielder's glove or hand. He can only try to avoid the tag legally. - J.R.

Question:

A batted ball is popped up short of 1st base and lands in foul territory and bounces into fair territory. The ball is not touched by any player. Is this ball fair or foul?   (Mike from Salem, OR)

Answer:

See OBR rule 2 for definition of a fair/foul ball. Since it settles on FAIR ground, it is a fair ball. - J.R.

Question:

The batter swings and makes contact hitting the ball. The ball comes down and hits home plate then goes into the field of play. Is in fair or foul?   (Dave from Odessa, TX)

Answer:

Fair ball. - J.R.

Question:

If the catcher drops the third strike, and the bases are loaded, can the batter advance to first base?   (Jenny from Adairsville, GA)

Answer:

The only time a batter may advance on a dropped third strike is when, with less than 2 outs, first base is not occupied. With two outs, the batter may advance when first base is occupied. - J.R.

Question:

Is there any limit pertaining to a batter switching sides at the plate? Can he jump from one side to the other between pitches if he wants?   (Hugh from Baton Rouge, LA)

Answer:

Yes, he can change sides as often as he wants provided he does so between pitches and does not do so when the pitcher, in the judgemnet of the umpire, is pitching the ball. - J.R.

Question:

Little League game. Ball hit off the pitcher's glove. Runner going from second to third gets hit by ball. I call the runner out makes it third out of inning. Reason is the shortstop playing behind runner has a possible out from runner going from first to second. Is this correct?   (Randy from Glastonbury, CT)

Answer:

OBR 7.09m, will give you the answer. Once the pitcher delivers the ball he can be considered an infielder. On the deflected ball the umpire shall not declare the runner out for being touched by the batted ball. The umpire must be convinced that no other infielder had a chance to make a play. - J.R.

Question:

A batter has two strikes on him. He hits a foul tip which the catcher traps between his forearm and chest protector and eventually in his throwing hand. The ball never touches the ground. Is the batter out or is it a foul ball? Thank you.   (Mark from Joliet, IL)

Answer:

Under OBR, this is just a foul ball. For it to be a tip, it must go direct to the catcher's hand or glove and be caught. - J.R.

Question:

This has happened 3 times in the last 2 weeks and we would like to receive an "official" interpretation.

Runner on 2nd base. Batter hits the ball in the gap between the 1st and 2nd basemen, into right field. The runner from 2nd base is attempting to score. The right fielder fields the ball and throws to home. The catcher has positioned himself in front of home plate, basically within the the confines of the batters box. The throw from the right fielder is up the 3rd base line and the catcher moves up the line approximately 15 - 20 feet. Our league has a crash rule which states that the runner must either slide and/or avoid contact with the fielder (catcher in this case). To me, this is very simple but trying to explain this to coaches and some umpires, is becoming difficult. Some coaches feel that if the runner runs around the catcher (avoiding contact), they will be called out for running out of the baseline. Other coaches feel that the catcher can not come up the line, even to field the ball and that it is promoting a collision. And the third scenario (which happened last night) was the catcher was coming up the line to field the ball, the runner was rounding 3rd (paying attention to their coach and concentrating on the home plate area) and the two kids (runner and catcher) ran into each other. In this situation, one coach wanted the runner called out (and thrown out of the game) for the collision and the other coach wanted obstruction on the catcher. Again in this specific situation, neither kid meant to run into/collide with the other kid, it just happened.

Thanks for your help.   (Steve from Valley Center, KS)

Answer:

Quite a number of the local leagues use this rule for safety, the "slide or veer." Others use "Malacious contact" as the governing factor. What one must state to the coaches when rendering a ruling are the magic words of, "In my judgement." The way I explain slide or veer at ground rules is...

If the runner is approching the base and the fielder has the ball and is awaiting the runner, the runner must somehow give himself up and avoid a collision. The tail end of this also if the fielder is in the act of feilding the ball, again the runner must do something not to injure the fielder, umpire judgement as to what one considers "in the act of fielding the throw."

Ok, some things to consider.....if the throw is off the mark, one cannot punish the runner if a collision occurs, this is just a mess and not a violation of the rule. If the fielder is blocking the basepath without the ball and is not in the act of fielding a thrown ball, the fielder has no business in the established runner's line to the base. An obstruction call could be made here. One should again, not punish the runner for going around the fielder in this case by calling him out for going out of the base path. On the other hand, if the fielder has the ball and the runner moves out of the base line by more thn 3 feet to avoid him, ring the out. - J.R.

Question:

Today I played in a travel team baseball game, the bases were loaded and there were 2 outs, I was playing 3rd Base, I go to the pitchers mound where my friend is not on the rubber he is on the dirt, he hands me the ball and I go back to 3rd where I tag the runner, the umppire calls it a balk because he said my friend was not on the grass, is this the right call?   (Craig from Schenectady, NY)

Answer:

Yes, good call by the umpire. This is purposely deceiving the runner and illegal. If you have the ball by the base, with runners on, the pitcher cannot be on the mound without the ball. - J.R.

Question:

A left handed pitcher attempting a pickoff on a runner on first base is called for a balk by the plate umpire. The plate umpire rules that the pitcher "shoulder moved toward the plate" to make a pitch. The base umpire which should have a better view did not call the balk. I can not find anthing in the rule book that address the movement of the lead shoulder "toward home plate."   (Jim from Wichita, KS)

Answer:

First, lets look at mechanics. As a general rule, the plate umpire is responsible for the hands and the base umpire for the feet. Both umpires can call a balk if they see it, or one can call it if he sees it. Keep in mind the following, "In the judgement of the umpire." If the plate umpire saw something, he can call the balk.

Once the pitcher comes set, the pitcher can step toward the base and throw to that base, step off the rubber and throw, or pitch to the batter. If in the judgement of the plate umpire the pitcher made a move that he thought would deceive the runner, he can call the balk...even if the base umpire may have had a better view. One of those things. - J.R.

Question:

During an attempted squeeze play, the defense guesses correctly and calls a pitchout. In an attempt to protect the runner, the batter steps on home plate. The batter is out, but does play continue, or is the play dead and the runner sent back to third?   (Mark from Downingtown, PA)

Answer:

You have not stated several things we need to know in order to make a judgement. Such as, did the batter strike the ball? Was the catcher with the ball obstructed from making a play with the batter in the way? Did the catcher step in front of the plate?

If the batter touched the ball while on the plate, the ball is dead, batter is out and runners go back. If the batter missed the ball and interferes with (Umpire judgement) the catcher from making a play, again batter is out, runners return. If the catcher jumps in front of the plate before the pitch has crossed the batter, this is an obstruction call. Let the play continue to see what happens. If everyone advances at least one base, play stands. If not, coach has a choice of the result of the play or putting the batter/runner on first, with other runners advancing only if forced. - J.R.

Question:

My question deals with the third strike dropped by the catcher. What if the ball bounces off the ground to the catcher's mit and he does not drop the ball, is the batter out or can he run to first base? Where can I find this in the rules? All I have been able to find is "a ball not caught by the catcher."   (Blake from Northport, AL)

Answer:

Look under OBR 6.05b and notes, for the definition and the subsequent note. Legally caught means in the catcher's glove before the ball strikes the ground. Also check the following rule references: 6.05c & j, 6.09 b, notes, 7.09a and 7.08a. - J.R.

Question:

Can a runner steal on a base on balls in Little League? Situation- Man on second. Fourth ball to batter gets away from catcher. Runner at second advances to third. Is he able to advance or is ball dead?   (R.W. from Short Hills, NJ)

Answer:

We can only comment on the Official Rules of Baseball and the Federation Rules of baseball. Little League more than likely has adapted its rules from the Major League rules (OBR) and made changes to suit safety and the skill level.

With that said, I seem to recall that some of our local youth leagues in the 9 to 10 year old range play the steal except for home. So, you can steal a base on a walk. - J.R.

Question:

Bases loaded, infield fly rule in effect. A fly ball is hit along the third base line between third base and home. The umpire calls infield fly if fair. The third baseman charges to catch the ball and stops. The ball lands untouched in fair territory, and begins to roll towards the foul line. The third baseman throws his glove at the ball. The glove hits the ball in fair territory. I know each base runner is awarded 3 bases, what happens to the batter?   (John from Kennesaw, GA)

Answer:

Interesting question. Ok, let's break this down. First off look at OBR 7.05c. All awards are from the time of the pitch. In this case we have a batted ball that could be an out if the infield fly stays fair and in the umpire's judgement, could be reasonably caught. Ball lands in fair territory but rolling towards the foul line. So, the ball has not passed first or 3rd base and could end up stopping in foul territory, thus being a foul ball. The third baseman then throws his glove and strikes the ball while in fair territory. Since the ball still has a chance to go foul, the infield fly ruling must wait to see what the ball does, since it is neither fair or foul. The moment the glove strikes the ball this now makes it a 3 base award with the ball still in play provided the ball was struck in fair ground. Enforce the infield fly in this case and move everyone up 3 bases. That is how I would interpret this. - J.R.

Question:

Runners at first and second. Pitching from the stretch position. Can pitcher throw directly to third or is this a balk? Pitcher is right-handed.   (Wilf from Winnipeg, MB)

Answer:

OBR 8.05d, states that a pitcher cannot not throw to an unocuppied base, unless he is making a play. A play would be defined as a runner who is breaking to that base. In this case it is a play. In your question, it is a balk. - J.R.

Question:

Is there anyway that a pitcher may return to pitching after they have been taken out of the pitching position? I have always believed that there was no way to return to pitching but I have since been told that if the pitcher stays in the game and does not return to pitching before at least one out is recorded then they may return to the mound. Is this true?   (Jay from Red Deer, AB)

Answer:

Under OBR 3.03. the pitcher can be removed from the pitching position to play another position on the field once per innning. So, say in the 5th he is moved to short during the inning and the short stop pitches. In the 6th, the original pitcher can come back and pitch.

Under OBR 3.05a, the pitcher must pitch to the first batter until that batter or substitute batter until that batter is put out, reaches base unless the pitcher sustanins an injury. - J.R.

Question:

The batter hits a fly ball and it lands in foul territory short of 1st base and bouces into fair territory also short of 1st base. Is this a fair ball or a foul ball?   (Mike from Salem, OR)

Answer:

Under OBR rule 2.00, Definitions, a foul ball is any ball that settles on foul territory between home and 1st, home and 3rd, or that hits foul ground beyond 1st or 3rd or while over foul territory touches a player, equipment, umpire, etc. So to answer your question, this is a FAIR ball. - J.R.

Question:

In baseball, if there is a man on 1st and 3rd...one out, a pop fly is hit to left field and caught. The runner on third tags but the man on first just runs on contact. The man on third scores before the throw back to first but the runner is thrown out going back to first for a forced out...does the run count? This happened in a local playoff game yesterday. Thanks.   (Chris from Atlanta, GA)

Answer:

This is a time play. If the run crosses the plate before the runner is doubled off of first base, count the run. - J.R.

Question:

My son, as catcher, was attempting to make a play to get the runner stealing home out. However the batter made no attempt to move, obstructing the catcher's view. What is the right call?   (Kelly from Murray, KY)

Answer:

The batter has a right to the batter's box at all times. He does not have to move. However, if he hinders play by moving with the catcher to block him from seeing the play or his actions alter the play, he is guilty of interference. In your play, it sounds like the batter stood still and did not attempt to affect play. I have nothing on the batter, play continues. - J.R.

Question:

There are two outs, man on first base and the batter has a 1 and 2 count when the runner is thrown out stealing second base. My question is, does the 1 and two count carry over to the next inning on this batter?   (Jim from Palmer, AK)

Answer:

Nope. He starts with a fresh count. - J.R.

Question:

Visiting team calls time out. The pitcher goes to the mound, not the pitching plate. The catcher is in the box. Our man steps off second base and is tagged out. Is the ball in play without the pitcher not having the ball after a time out? Also isn't it a balk, if the pitcher is on the mound? Thank you.   (Ed from Meriden, CT)

Answer:

If time was granted, then there is no play, nothing can happen. In order for play to start, the batter must be in the batter's box, the pitcher must have engaged the rubber, and the catcher is in his position and all other players are in their legal playing positions.

In OBR, if the pitcher is on the mound a balk can be called if the pitcher does not have the ball. This is deceiving the runner and a balk should be enforced. - J.R.

Question:

Youth baseball. Batter at plate, runner on 3rd, and a passed ball. Runner is stealing home. The catcher retrieves passed ball and attempts to throw it to the pitcher who ran-in to cover homeplate. The batter remains in the batter's box, back to the catcher (so he does not "purposely" hinder or otherwise move to disrupt the throw) but the catcher's throw hits the batter and the runner reaches home safely.

What applicable rules apply? In youth baseball, we try to teach the batter to move "out of the way" for plays at home, but is there a rule that compels him to do so?

Finally, if an out is warranted, is it applied to the base-stealing runner, or the batter, or does it matter if there are 2 outs when the play occurs? Many thanks.   (Stan from Blackwood, NJ)

Answer:

This is a judgement call by the umpire. While the batter has a right to the box and does not need to move, if he, in the judgement of the umpire, by his position, hindered the play, an out can be called due to interferance. The ruling would be Ball is dead, batter is out and the runner returns to third. The rules in this case are to punish the offending person, in this case, the batter for not getting out of the way. - J.R.

Question:

Please explain the infield fly rule in little league baseball.   (Marvin from Oklahoma City, OK)

Answer:

This has been answered here before. The infield fly in little league would be the same as the major leagues. It states that if there are runners on 1st & 2nd, or bases loaded with less than 2 out, any fly ball that is popped to the infield that can be caught with reasonable effort, the batter is out. Runners may advance at their own risk.

The rule is to prevent the defense from dropping the ball (on purpose) and then turning a double play. - J.R.

Question:

At the babe ruth and calripken 13-15 year old level of baseball, what is the rule governing a runner advancing to a base where a tag play is being made on the runner? Is the runner required to slide? Who has the right to the base path?   (Perry from Phoenix, AZ)

Answer:

In most youth ball, a "Slide or veer" rule has been put into place for safety. What this means is that the runner is required to somehow give himself up if the fielder has the ball awaiting the runner. This is umpire judgement if the ball is in flight. There is no requirment unless local league rules state that he must slide. The OBR has no such rule. - J.R.

Question:

Two outs, runner on second. Batter receives ball 4 (walks) while runner at 2nd attempts to steal 3rd. Runner is thrown out at 3rd before walked batter reaches 1st base. Does the Batter receive a walk, or bat as the first batter in the following inning?   (Matt from Romeo, MI)

Answer:

The batter's turn at bat was complete with the ball 4 call and award of first base. Therefore the proper batter next inning is the person who follows the batter who walked. - J.R.

Question:

If a ball is hit into foul territory, can a player tag and advance to the base if the ball is caught?   (Brian from Fort Thomas, KY)                                            

Answer:

So long as it is a caught fly ball, he can advance. - J.R.

Question:

Catcher drops third strike, first base unoccupied, runner on third comes home, but batter/runner goes to dugout, then tries to advance to first base. Is he out for leaving playing field and trying to advance? One out at the time, runner from third was safe at home. Catcher tried to throw down to first for out. Thank You!   (Jerry from Gainesville, FL)

Answer:

Run counts because that is a steal. The batter who went to the dug out has abandoned his effort to run the bases, ring the out. The catcher did not have to throw to first to record the out, my judgement. - J.R.

Question:

Batting our of order (Little League). Proper Line-up at top of inning- 1, 2, 3, 4. #2 comes up to bat and strikes out, #3 is at bat, before the pitch is thrown, defensive coach call improper batter. Should then #1 have been called out, the strike out on #2 stand and then #2 up at bat again?   (Cathy from Gillette, WY)

Answer:

Batting out of order is one of those things that rarely happens but can, especially in youth ball. Under the OBR 6.07(b), in your scenario, once the defensive team appeals the batting order, batter #1 is called out for not batting in his/her proper spot. The out on batter #2 stands, batter #2 would bat since he is the proper batter. - J.R.

Question:

I have a question concerning the illegal bat. Player was discovered batting with an illegal bat. The bat was not altered just the wrong diameter for the league we were playing in. The umpire ruled the batter out. Nowhere in the rulebook have I found where the batter is out on this, simply that the offending equipment is removed from the game. Matter of fact, so far the only place I've found it addressed is in a Little League rule book on protesting the game. Section 4.19 says that the illegal equipment shall be removed from the game but makes no mention of the batter being out. Any help?   (Rob from Lusby, MD)

Answer:

Depends on the local league that you are in or the governing body you are playing under. Under Federation rules (high school) the equipment is removed and the batter is out. If this were softball the same would be enforced under ASA rules. Part of the reason is that this concerns safety. A bat that is -10 or -7 (Aluminum) can cause injury. Now with the BESR rating, any bat that is unused must meet certain criteria or it cannot be used. In OBR there is no such thing because you can only use wood bats and they are all made for the league. Sounds like a softball bat was used in baseball or vice versa. In either case, remove the bat from play and if the local governing body calls for the out, enforce the rule. - J.R.

Question:

Is there any rule in Little League that says how many batters a pitcher is allowed to hit before the pitcher must be taken out of the game?   (Nicole from Vernon, NJ)

Answer:

We can only comment on the Official Rules of Baseball, Federation Rules of Baseball and the ASA rules of softball. In most cases the rules for youth ball are variations of the OBR with modifications for safety and age appropriate play.

To my knowledge there is no such rule. - J.R.

Question:

What is the rule governing bad calls on pitches when the umpire behind the pitcher knows and admits that the umpire behind the plate is making poor calls? (calling balls when they should be called strikes)   (Martha from Dothan, AL)

Answer:

No rule. That is bad form by the umpire in the field. Umpires have only one friend on the field and that is his partner. If you have some comments, one needs to address those after the game, not during and certainly not with the participants in the game.

The bad calls, if one is made or a poor umpire, both teams suffer but they suffer equally. - J.R.

Question:

I am a long time coach and I saw something while scouting a future opponent that was really strange. The team batting had the bases loaded with 2 outs and 2 strikes on the batter. The pitcher is in the stretch position and on first movement the runner at 3rd breaks for home. The catcher sees this and steps in front of the plate and catches the pitched ball before it gets to the plate and then touches the runner. The umpire calls strike 3 on the batter. I am sure that is not the proper call. What would the proper call be? I believe it should be catcher's interference and the batter should be awarded first and the run score. Thanks for the help.   (C.H. from Baton Rouge, LA)

Answer:

If it is indeed a pitch the catcher must wait until the ball has crossed the plate before he can make the play. It is, really a balk in this case due to catcher's obstruction. - J.R.

Question:

If the pitcher attempts to field a ball in front of a base runner and misses the ball, then the ball hits the base runner trying to advance to the next base, is the base runner out? I know this would seldom if ever come up at the older age groups..... but, we had this happen in my sons 8 year old game the other night where the pitcher is not pitching just fielding the position. I understand the rule when it concerns the other infielders and would assume the pitcher to be an infielder. So if in the opinion of the umpire the pitcher made an attempt to field the hit ball, would the runner be out if the ball hits him without first touching the pitcher in this case? You can imagine the discussion this created...... Thanks for your HELP!   (Debbie from Houston, TX)

Answer:

7.08(f) of the OBR states that the runner is out if he is touched by a fair batted ball before the ball has touched or passed an infielder. In your play it can be construed that the ball has passed the pitcher who attempted to field the ball and then the ball touched the runner. Therefore, the runner is not out, play continues. - J.R.

Question:

In a high school baseball game that has already started but rescheduled for next day due to rain, does the same pitcher have to go back in to pitch?   (Melissa from Wrightsville, GA)

Answer:

In Federation Rules, a pitcher is limited to a certain amount of innings per week. If he has not exceeded these innings he can go back on the hill. - J.R.

Question:

If an outfielder catches the baseball but falls over the fence is it a homerun?   (Scott from Faribault, MN)                                            

Answer:

Nope. It is an out and if anyone on base, moves up one on the catch and carry rule. - J.R.

Question:

1. Is there any rule as to how many times a batter can switch batting sides? Can he take one pitch from the left, one from the right, etc.?

2. Right handed pitcher from "set" position spins on his left foot & throws to first. Is this a balk? His right foot does extend to first during the throw. If so, what is the rule it breaks?   (Hugh from Baton Rouge, LA)

Answer:

1. So long as he does not switch sides during the pitch itself, he can switch sides as many times as he likes.

2. In the set position the pivot foot with a right handed pitcher is the right foot. So if the pitcher spins on the left foot this is a "jump turn." The jump turn is legal. - J.R.

Question:

If two players running in between the bases touch each other, is an out declared? If so, which player is out? Thank you.   (Wilson from University Place, WA)

Answer:

Nope. The rule is the runners must pass each other. Touching is not considered passing. - J.R.

Question:

Pitching from the windup position with nobody on base, the right hander begins his delivery by stepping backward with his left foot, raising his hands over his head as he does so. A few batters later, with two out, bases loaded, and the infield back, the same pitcher steps backward with his right food, raising his hands the same way. Then he fires to the first baseman sneaking in behind the runner there for a successful pickoff. When the pitcher steps off he becomes an infielder, but is the raising of the hands "naturally associated" with a pitch? Is this a balk?   (Craig from Portland, OR)

Answer:

In your question you had stated that the pitcher, during normal pitching from the windup, starts the motion with his left foot which establishes his pivot foot as the right foot. It is stated later that a runner is on and the pitcher brings his hands together, steps off with the right foot and throws to pick the person off of first base. While the pitcher did disengage the rubber, and yes for the most part he is now an infielder, he is also required, if in the windup position, to drop his hands to his sides. To do anything else is deceiving the runner and is a balk. - J.R.

Question:

Man on first and second, one out. Batter hits a pop up between the pitcher and catcher. The umpire calls infield fly batter is out. The fielders allow the ball to hit the ground but the backspin forces the ball to roll into foul territory BEFORE it is touched by a defensive player. Is the batter out or must the ball be fair for the infield fly rule to apply? Thank you.   (David from Mount Laurel, NJ)

Answer:

For the infield fly to be called by the umpire, he must have judged that the ball was able to be caught with reasonable effort. In most cases that means the player is already under the ball waiting. If the ball is near the foul line the umpire will say, "Infield fly, if fair." In your case, this is just now a foul ball. No out, let's keep playing. - J.R.

Question:

Runner is coming in fast to home. Runner slides past plate without touching it. Catcher takes the throw, swipes at runner and misses. Runner runs in a cirlce more than 3 feet from the plate and then makes it to the plate before being tagged. I called him out under 7.08(a)(1) , but that really is for between bases. Should he have been safe or out?   (Cliff from Livermore, CA)

Answer:

You were correct in your call, the runner is out. He must return in a direct line to the plate. - J.R.

Question:

Must a player's name be listed on the line up card that is submitted to umpire, scorekeeper and opposing manager prior to the start of the game in order for that player to enter the game? For example, prior to the start of the game a manager listed his 9 starters and 2 substitutes on the line up card. The 12th player for what ever reason arrives to the game late and while the game is in progress. Is that player allowed to enter the game as a substitute? I'm trying to rule on a protest and can not find where this situation is covered in the MLB Rule Book.   (Steve from West Covina, CA)

Answer:

The major league line up card will have the names of the starting 9 listed on the card along with the listed subs for that game. OBR 4.01(c) says that once the game begins, no other subs are permitted unless the proper rules are followed. If you are following major league rules to the letter, no subs could be added. Most leagues allow for some provision on this, just as a way to cushion against the guy stuck in traffic. - J.R.

Question:

Another dropped third strike question! First base is not occupied, on the third strike (called or swung), if the pitch hits the ground before the catcher touches it and the catcher then gloves it cleanly (in other words she short hops it), can the batter run on the dropped third strike rule?   (Rene from Ojai, CA)

Answer:

Yes. - J.R.

Question:

Runners on 1st and 2nd, batter hits ball to deep right field and to the fence, runners on 1st and 2nd score, the batter misses 3rd and touches home. Runner comes out of dugout touches 3rd, (without going back to home first) and returns to the dugout. We appeal the runner missed 3rd, go over and touch 3rd base, the umpire said safe (homerun), he said we should of appealed home since that was the last base he touched.   (Monty from Deer Park, TX)

Answer:

Umpire better do a bit of reading on this, I am sorry to say. Once the runner has passed a base beyond one which he missed, he cannot go back to retouch. In the case of the runner touching home, but missing 3rd, the runner cannot go back (OBR 7.10). The appeal should have been honored at 3rd. - J.R.

Question:

Under what circumstances can an umpire throw out a coach or spectator for under 12 league? Where would I find information regarding umpire's rules?   (Nancy from Tulsa, OK)

Answer:

12 and under, 12 and over, it does not matter what age, an umpire can remove someone from the game for anything he wants to, basically (OBR 9.01d & e). Most umpires will warn first. As a general guideline, ejectable offences are: Cursing, rule violation by player that would cause manager to get ejected like on an intentionally thrown pitch at a batter, arguing a call to a point where it gets personallized, arguing balls and strikes, etc. - J.R.

Question:

Runner at third base. Batter swings at pitch, but no contact, and ball gets past catcher. Can runner at third steal home legally? Thanks!   (Jim from Plano, TX)

Answer:

Yes. - J.R.

Question:

Just wanted to know if a batter fouls off a bunt attempt with two strikes, is it a strikeout? Why?   (Vincent from Clementon, NJ)

Answer:

Yes it is a strike out. Because the rules say (OBR 6.05d). As far as I understand the history of the rule, it is that just tapping the ball is far less difficult than swinging and hitting the ball. That is why the rule makers decided to make it a strike out. - J.R.

Question:

Can a coach for Babe Ruth also be an umpire in the same league? I think this could cause serious conflict if he thinks his team isn't doing as well as the others. He would have the power to call every ball a strike or whatever he wanted to make a team lose the game. What is your opinion? They say that there is no rule saying that it is not allowed. He is also the coach for the Babe Ruth president's son, so she is no help on this matter. Thanks.   (Mrs. Clark from Fallon, NV)

Answer:

While I cannot offer guidance in this matter because this is an admistration type rule and is not part of the OBR, I can say in essence, you may be correct there is a conflict. However, games are assigned by assignors in most high school and recreational ball. The assignor should make sure that this umpire is not assigned to games in that league. I also must point out that you are now getting into an area that umpire's pride themselves on and that is integrity. With out it, we are affecting the game and that is not our purpose. We are there to ensure the game is played fairly under the rules written by others.

It always seems that we get comments from coaches and parents that we made their team lose a game. Not true. Games are lost by teams not hitting or fielding.

If you feel this is a conflict, then you must do the following - Become an umpire and see for yourself what it entails and the individuals who do the job. - J.R.

Question:

A batter bunts the ball, after he is out of the box the ball bounces back and hits the bat still in the hands of the batter/runner. Is he out?   (Steve from Berthoud, CO)

Answer:

While I can't see how this could happen even on a drag bunt, especially when coaches teach the batter to drop the bat after the ball is struck and that BOTH feet must be out of the box for the rule to be enforced. This is considered hitting the ball a second time and since the batter is now out of the box it is an out. - J.R.

Question:

Little league age 11 & 12 - On a base on balls, runner runs down to first base, the catcher returns the ball to the pither who is standing on the rubber before the runner reaches first base, the runner continues on to second base. Is this legal? What is the ruling on this play?   (Tom from Pennsauken, NJ)

Answer:

I cannot comment on Little League Rules, only the Official Rules of Baseball. Most rules are taken from these and are modified for age and safety. Unless something appears in the LL rules, this is a legal play. The batter is entitled to first base without liability to be put out. Anything after that is a steal and the runner is at risk. - J.R.

Question:

A batter swings at a pitched ball and "nubs" it landing barely foul along the first or third base line. Due to the spin on the ball it rolls back into fair territory and stops in the infield. Is the ball Fair or Foul?   (Foster from Raceland, LA)

Answer:

Fair ball! - J.R.

Question:

In baseball if the catcher drops the ball on the third strike, and the batter makes it safely to first, does the team still get an out for the 3 strikes? And does it matter if someone is on first base or not?   (Eddie from Sykesville, MD)

Answer:

Drop third strike rule allows the batter to run to first with less than two outs and first base unocupied or with two outs and first base occupied. If the runner makes it to first safely, no out is recorded, however the pitcher gets credit for the strikeout. - J.R.

Question:

This situation occured in a Little League game this season. Bases are loaded, one out, the batter hits the ball which then hits the runner advancing from first to second. The umpire called dead ball and called the runner out. The player on third had scored and was made to go back to third base. Is this the proper ruling?   (Dave from Pottstown, PA)

Answer:

Yes, this is correct. Once the ball strikes the runner who is then out for interference, the ball is dead. All runners return to the last base legally occupied and place the batter on first. Result in this case, 2 outs bases loaded. - J.R.

Question:

Is there any such thing as a 'fielder's balk'?... I find only in rule 4.03 "When the ball is put in play at the start of, or during the game, all fielders other than the catcher shall be ON fair territory."

"ON" to me means one foot... but there seem to be a bunch of folks who think if the first or third baseman puts a foot in foul territory and takes a pickoff throw, it is a balk... nothing in the rule book says this. Is there such a thing? And what rule is it? Thanks.   (Allen from Washington, PA)

Answer:

By the book, with runners on, this is a balk if the first or third baseman are in foul ground and that is BOTH feet. Check page 6 of the PBUC Umpire Manual for their spin on things. - J.R.

Question:

In a Pony league game this evening a pitcher took the mound wearing a batting glove on his throwing hand. I know this is prohibited but I can't seem to find the specific rule in the rule book. Could you point me to the right section? Thanks.   (Gary from Buffalo Grove, IL)

Answer:

Let's split hairs here. The batting glove on the pitcher's pitching hand is considered a foreign substance. Look under rule 8 of the OBR. - J.R.

Question:

Runners on first and second, one out. Batter hits ball to third base, runner on second base stays put on second base. Third baseman throws to second, runner going to second base is forced out. What is the call on the runner who stayed put on second base and did not go to third? Is the force out the only out at second base?   (Steve from Lincoln, CA)

Answer:

The runner must move due to the force. If he stays on the base and refuses to move, this is considered abandoning his effort to run the bases. The intent of him doing so is to prevent the double play in this instance, which is illegal and he is trying to cheat. Ring the runner at second on the force as stated in your play, and then call out the person that did not make an effort to run. - J.R.

Question:

If a batted ball first hits in foul territory and then rolls fair without touching anybody, is it fair or foul?

Also, I was at a game where with runners on first and second with nobody out, the batter hits a high pop fly to the infield and the umpires all forgot to call the infield fly rule. The ball drops in the middle of the infield and all the runners are safe on the play. The manager for the defensive team comes out to complain. After the complaint the homeplate umpire called the batter out. Did the umpire do the correct thing by calling the batter out after the play had ended, even though nobody called the infield fly during the play?   (John from Livingston, NJ)

Answer:

A ball that hits foul and then settles in fair territory is a FAIR ball. A ball that is hit foul comes into fair ground and goes beyond 1st or 3rd in FAIR territory is a FAIR ball. For the ball to be foul it must be touched by a player or object, umpire, bounds past 1st and 3rd, settles on foul ground

The infield fly rule is in effect even if the umpire does not verbalize it, if in the judgement of the umpire that any infielder with reasonable effort could have caught the ball. - J.R.

Question:

When I as a manager would like to make a substitution like put in a pinch hitter do I call timeout and ask the umpire? How do I do this? Thanks.   (Jim from Whitefield, NH)

Answer:

Two ways:

1. Go to the scorer and make the change if the teams have a scorer and and announcer.
2. Request time and give the change to the plate umpire. - J.R.

Question:

In regards to girls softball - modified slow pitch - if the ball is pitched, it dies out, hits the ground, barely hits the batter in the ankle, she makes no attempt to get out of the way - is she therefore, awarded first base? This is grammar school softball.   (Lucy from Bayonne, NJ)

Answer:

We can only comment on ASA, NCAA and Federation rules for softball. In NCAA and Federation, thee is no modified pitch category, it is all fast pitch. ASA has a modified pitch category and deals mostly with the pitching regulations.

However, to give you a general answer, any pitched ball that strikes the batter, the batter can be awarded first base. There are some exceptions such as if the batter swings at the pitch, she is in the strikes zone, or in the umpire's judgement the batter has not made a reasonable attempt to get out of the way. - J.R.

Question:

College division III game. Ball is hit in fair territory to deep left field. Ball enters fielders glove as fielder goes over the outfield fence in fair territory. No evidence the ball stays in the glove when fielder hits ground outside of fence, as there is a cover over the chain link fencing which obscures view of outside of ballpark. The base umpire signals a homerun. Meanwhile, the left fielder emerges onto unobscured portion of field (out of play) with ball in glove. Umpires confer and reverse the call to "out". Out or homerun?   (Mary from Hampton, IA)

Answer:

This is an interesting play. If the fielder had the ball prior to him leaving the park it is an out. And any other runners on base move up one base since the fielder is now in dead ball territory. - J.R.

Question:

On a foul ball that is caught by the catcher with less than 2 strikes on the batter, what determines whether it is classified as a foul ball or a foul-tip? It seems that it must be based on how high the ball travels, but I don't know. Please help.   (Bill from Santa Clarita, CA)

Answer:

A foul ball is a ball that is struck by the batter and settles on, or is touched by a defensive player prior to the ball passing 1st or 3rd base or bounds past 1st or 3rd in foul territory. A foul tip is a ball that is struck and goes direct to the catcher. If he misses it, it is then a foul ball. If he catches it, it is a tip. A foul pop fly is a ball that goes up in the air and stays in foul ground and is not a foul ball untill either caught or it strikes the ground or a player in foul ground. - J.R.

Question:

Can you slide into first base?   (Robert from New Rochelle, NY)                                                                                                                                                        

Answer:

Yes. - J.R.

Question:

On an appeal concerning a runner leaving early, from the rubber following a dead ball or a live ball from the outfield, can other runners advance at their own risk? At a clinic a few weeks ago we had a variety on opinions and really no one could find it in the rules or case books. Can you help? Thanks.   (Dave from Loup City, NE)

Answer:

If I read your question correctly, you are asking if other runners may move during the appeal process after the umpire puts the ball in play from the rubber. Once the ball is in play and the proper proceedure starts, i.e. the pitcher steps off the rubber and now becomes an infielder, throws to the base or starts the appeal play, any runner may move and is at risk. There is nothing in the book that "Freezes" the runner to prevent an attempt at an advance. Same as a live ball, the runner is always at risk when he is off the base. - J.R.

Question:

During the April 22nd game between Cleveland and Chicago, umpire Runge was hit by a thrown ball while making a play at 2nd base. Runge sent the runner back from 3rd to 2nd and allowed the runner to stay at 2nd base. My interpretation and also "Knotty Problems" interpretation is that the player should have remained at 3rd. What is your opinion?   (Dan from Newport, NH)

Answer:

I did not see the play but heard about it. In my group, the consensus was that the runner should have stayed at third or beyond depending on the playing action. The base umpire is part of the field. The only person that can cause umpire interference is the plate man as I understand the rules. But will look further into it. - J.R.

Question:

Pitcher, stepped off rubber, and Fakes a throw to first... is this still a balk in Little League Junior & Senior Division?   (Bruce from Cross Lanes, WV)

Answer:

I can only comment on Official rules of Baseball and Federation rules. Most other rules are gleened from the OBR with age appropriate or safety modifications of the rules. Under OBR 8.05b, it is a balk if the pitcher fakes a throw to first base. - J.R.

Question:

Does a runner have to touch their occupied base on a foul ball in order to advance or resume play? For highschool baseball in NJ. Thank you.   (Fred from Oceanview, NJ)

Answer:

Most high schools use federation rules in NJ. Look under Rule 8-2 article 4. This is the answer. The only time a runner must retouch his base is if on a caught foul fly he is "Tagging up" to advance. - J.R.

Question:

Could you explain the courtesy runner rule as it relates to high school rules?   (Rick from Keyser, WV)

Answer:

This is an optional speed up rule and can be used by state adoption. It is not mandatory.

A courtesy runner can be used for the pitcher and catcher at any time the team is at bat. It may not be the same runner for both positions. Players who have participated in the game cannot be courtesy runners. Also a courtesy runner cannt be used as a sub for another player in that half inning. Exception to this is that if there is an injured player or ejection, then that player who was a courtesy runner can be used as a sub. - J.R.

Question:

There are two outs in the inning with a runner on second. The batter hits a ground ball to short, who makes a high throw to first. The first baseball catches the ball and comes down on the bag. The field umpire ruled the runner out and the play stopped with both teams leaving the field. The coach for the offensive team runs onto the field and demands the play be appealed to the home plate umpire. The home plate umpire then called the runner safe at first, ruling that the first baseman was off the bag and allowing the run to score, although the runner never crossed home plate. The defensive coaches then argued that since both teams had left the field AND the runner had not crossed homeplate, the ball was dead and the inning was over. The umpires discussed the play and ruled that since the offensive players had returned to the bench, the play was over, three outs.

What would or should have been the correct call?   (Rick from Valdese, NC)

Answer:

We have a mess on our hands. First off, was time called by either umpire? That was the first thing they should have done. The real objective is to get the call correct, but in this case a can of worms can be opened. It is customary to only go for help when the umpire rules a runner safe. The request to the plate umpire would be made for a pulled foot or otherwise off the bag. As the base umpire, when you ask for help you have judged the ball beat the runner and you are only looking to see if there was contact with the bag. Secondly, with a runner on second the base umpire would be on the shortstop side of the infield where he may have a problem in seeing the pulled foot and can go to the plate umpire for help on the call if he needs to.

When the coach came out to ask the base umpire to go for help and did go to his partner and they talked and gave the base umpire information he may not have known, the base umpire may then change his call.

As far as the runner on second goes, it is up to the plate umpire to see where the runner may have been at the time of the out, before the appeal was made. In most cases, that runner, unless he is "The Flash" has just made 3rd base. So, as far as judgement goes, the runners would then be placed at 1st and 3rd. Two outs, next batter and some lost credibility.

On the issue of awarding the out on abandoning the base path, this is a moot point. The umpire called time for the discussion with the coach. You can't penalize a team for an infraction that occured during a stoppage in play that was initiated by the umpire.

See what I mean about a can of worms? I would think it be best handled like this: Coach, your runner is out, there is no appeal on the out and it stands. - J.R.

Question:

In Major League Baseball, what is the ruling if a batted ball hits the pitching rubber on a line (without touching any other part of the ground prior) and then goes into the stands? Is it a different ruling if it goes into the stands in fair territory or foul territory? Thanks.   (John from New York, NY)

Answer:

If the ball hits the rubber and goes into the stands in foul territory, it is a foul ball. If it hits the rubbber and goes into the stands in fair territory, it is a ground rule double. Can't be a home run since it did touch the ground and is no longer in flight. - J.R.

Question:

Can a pitcher be charged with a balk if the bases are empty (no runner)? If a balk can be called, is the pitcher charged with a ball? Thanking you in advance.   (Tom from Baltimore, MD)

Answer:

No balk can be committed with no runners on base. However, an illegal pitch can be declared and would be charged as a ball. - J.R.

Question:

By the way, I am a NJ native and played basball at Bergenfield HS in North Jersey.

In a recent game of my Pony Pinto team, a ball was hit fair into left field and, without being touched by our left fielder, rolled under a gate in the fence which had just a bit too much space between the bottom of the gate and the grass.

To me and all the coaches I talked with that should have been a ground rule double. The runner had rounded 1st base and was headed to second when the ball went under the gate. The umpire awarded the runner 2 bases from where he was, i.e. 2nd and 3rd. Was this the correct ruling?

Look forward to your response. Thanks.   (Rick from Austin, TX)

Answer:

Most problems like this should have been covered in ground rules. This is up to the home team on how they wish to play things, so long as the ground rules do not contradict the OBR or other governing rules.

In most cases this is a ground rule double and should have been awarded as such. - J.R.

Question:

On a steal attempt at third base, the batter simply stepped back without changing his stance. The catcher stood to throw the ball and hit the batter's bat. The batter was not attempting to interfere, but the incident was ruled as interference and the batter was called out. Is this the correct ruling?   (Jamie from Altamonte Springs, FL)

Answer:

This is umpire's judgement. In moving backward, the batter did affect the play. We as umpires cannot read minds but we can sometimes read intent. In the play you describe, there was an intent of the batter to somehow obstruct or interfere with the throw to third. If the batter stayed still, no call would more than likely have been made.

The award is the batter is out and the runner returns to the last base legally occupied. - J.R.

Question:

Can a pitcher change his pitching hand back and forth depending on which side the batter is on? I saw a major league umpire stop a pitcher that did this several years ago - but I believe it was because he hid the fact that he was changing his pitching arm.   (John from Alabaster, AL)

Answer:

In OBR under rule 8 which governs pitching, I found no reference to an ambidextrous pitcher. However, if the changing of the batter and the pitcher delays the game the umpire can step in to remedy the situation. The batter can only change his box prior to the pitch and cannot do so while the pitch is on the way. - J.R.

Question:

Texas High School Game. A batter squared to bunt, put his part of his big foot on the plate and fouled it off. What is the call?   (Norman from Houston, TX)

Answer:

A batter that strikes at or bunts and hits the ball while in contact with the plate, whether fair or foul is an out. - J.R.

Question:

I have seen games played in the rain to an extent, what is the rule or guideline when lightning is seen? Pony, Little League, or High School. When do we stop and startup again? Thanks.   (David from Villa Park, IL)

Answer:

While this question does not meet the requirements of or the intent of this web site in dealing with umpire mechanics and rules questions, it does however have merit and deserves a response.

Common sense should prevail in making the decision to clear the field when lightning is in the area. Lightning was a point of emphasis in the Federation this year. They amended the rulses so that the umpire is not the only person who makes the call to clear the field when lightning is in the area.

When lightning is seen, it is a good idea to clear the field at that point. It is so unpredictable that I would not chance anything. And this goes at any level of play, no matter what the score is or who is on base. To see how far away the storm is use the flash/bang method. That is, see flash, count in seconds the time it takes to hear the thunder. I THINK it is one mile for every 5 seconds but not sure. The current guideline is not to let players on the field for 30 minutes after the last flash is seen.

Short answer is: Stop when you see it. Don't start untill 30 mins have past after the last flash has been seen. - J.R.

[Editor's note: See the National Weather Service's Lightning Safety web page for more information.]

Question:

I was at Spring Training in Arizona last week with some friends. A buddy of mine stated that umpires were calling the runner "safe" more often this year at second base (on the front end of a double play) because the umpires were not enforcing the 'in the vicinity' rule. I stated that there was no such thing in the baseball rule book about a fielder 'being in the vicinity' of a base to have the runner be safe or out. The runner is out only if the fielder has the ball (under control) and "touches" the base before the runner arrives. Please comment.   (Dennis from San Diego, CA)

Answer:

In baseball the runner can be put out by a tag, tagging the base if forced, or the base runner interferes with the play. There never has been any rule in the books that stated "In the vicinity" of the base.

In my opinion they have not called any more outs or safes than in the past. It just may be one of those things. - J.R.

Question:

In a high school game, 1 out, bases loaded. The batter hits a sac fly to center field. Runners at 2 and 3 tag up and r3 scores. The batter then runs past his own runner at first and goes in to second to draw a tag from the shortstop who has taken the relay and looking to make a play on the runner at third to keep him from scoring. Seeing the runner coming into second, he opts for the easy tag and the third out, which the umpire calls. The offensive coach points out that he tagged the batter who was already out and couldn't be put out again. He then made the argument that the batter didn't know he was out, even though he passed the runner on the basepath, and was running out the fly ball. After a long delay, the umpires agreed and two runs scored and we continued the inning with 2 out. NO PENALTY?! We know the call was wrong, but we need to know what the right call is. My thinking is interference by confusion, but what do you do with the runners? How may outs? Since the interfering player had not officially reached first, do you reset all the runners? We need to know the chapter and verse in the rulebook (HS) for this one. Thanks.   (David from Durant, OK)

Answer:

Ok, let's break this down.

We know on the sac fly the batter is now out for the second out and with a proper tag, the runner from 3rd scores.

The bone of contention is the batter runner who is retired passing the runner at first and went to second and drew a throw.

In my mind and my way of thinking, the umpires would call and signal out on the batter runner. The defense should know who is out, who is not and the total situation. However, looking under rule 2, definition of interference, section 21, Article 1 which states that offensive interference is an act physical or verbal which interferes with, obstructs, impedes, hinders or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play.

With that being the case, since the runner was retired, you can't call the same guy out twice, the runner closest to home is now out.

So, I have one run in and three outs. - J.R.

Question:

If a runner is running from 1st to 2nd do that runner have to slide?   (Victor from Kingstree, SC)

Answer:

In pro rules, no. There is no rule that says any runner must slide. Most individual leagues may make a "Slide or veer" rule. In HS there is a rule that states when you do slide it must be a legal slide that is directly to the bag and not one of a rolling action. - J.R.

Question:

What is the length of the pitcher mound from home plate in girls softball?   (Victor from Kingstree, SC)

Answer:

ASA rules now state the distance is now whatever the Internatiional Softball Federation is. Right now it is 43 feet. That was a change this year. - J.R.

Question:

What is the official batting stands? And what is the rule for running with the pitcher in the cicrle but not on the mound "softball"?   (Victor from Kingstree, SC)

Answer:

The "Stands" for the batter, I have no idea what you are referring to, I'm sorry.

There is no mound in softball. The circle is for the "Look back rule." Once the pitcher has the ball in the circle and under control and the batter has touched first base, the runner can make one stop and must go back to the base she had or advance forward. - J.R.

Question:

HS Federation Baseball question. Is the pitcher required to disengage from the rubber from the set position to make a throw to a base in an attempt to put out a runner heading to that base or can the throw be made while the pivot foot is still on the rubber. Thanks.   (Tom from Bremerton, WA)

Answer:

Rule 6 covers the pitching regulations in the Federation book. One must look at whether the pitcher is right handed or left handed. One also must look at the feet. During the set position if his stride foot breaks the plane of the rubber, he is committed to the pitch. If he is attempting a pickoff, and he is a lefty, he must step towards the base he is throwing to or step off and then throw. The right hander will need to step off and throw on a pick to first. If the pitcher is throwing to an unoccupied base, that being defined as no play being made, no matter how well he follows the regulations, this is a balk. If a runner breaks and he throws to a base ahead, even if it is unoccupied, this is considered a play. As long as the pitcher steps towards the base the play is at, he can still be in contact with the rubber, provided he has not committed to the pitch by his foot work. - J.R.

Question:

With runners on 1st and 3rd, on an attempted squeeze play, the pitcher threw the pitch outside of the plate. The hitter step over the plate, but made no contact with the baseball. The catcher step out to receive the pitch, but was called for interference with the hitter, and the hitter awarded 1st base. What is the proper call?   (Thomas from Wichita, KS)

Answer:

If in the opinion and judgement of the umpire the catcher prevented the hitter from hitting the ball, catcher's obstruction may be called. Coach then has some options as to taking result of play or putting the batter at first.

Conversely, if in the judgement of the umpire, the batter was trying to prevent the catcher from making a play, batter interference can be called. Play is dead, runner returns and the batter is out.

This is one of those "you need to be there" plays. I can't venture a guess. - J.R.

Question:

If a pitcher is on the rubber in the set position when runner on 2b breaks for unoccupied 3rd, must the pitcher disengage prior to throwing to 3rd to attempt the putout? I say no, but we have a member who believes this would be throwing to an unoccupied base and because of that, the pitcher must disengage prior to attempting the putout at third. Thanks!   (Tom from Bremerton, WA)

Answer:

Lets look at OBR 8.05d. It says, in a nutshell that the pitcher throws to an unoccupied base it is a balk unless a play is being made. While I agree that 3rd is unoccupied, a runner is stealing. Therefore a "Play" is being made upon this runner who has left 2nd base enroute to 3rd base. Now let's look at the physics required. If the pitcher is a right hander, he will in order for his throw to be accurate, step towards the base. If he steps towards the base, the pivot foot can still be engauged with the rubber. If a lefty, he needs to, physically disengage in order to pivot around to throw to 3rd. Just think of first base, only it is opposite.

The intent of the balk rule is to prevent the pitcher from deceiving the runner. If we keep this in mind and reward good baseball play, we will get into few arguments with players and coaches.

In the play you describe, I have no balk, I have whatever the judgement will be at third base. - J.R.

Question:

The bases are loaded with two(2) outs. The batter hits the ball directly to the first baseman, who steps on the bag to get the batter out. Meanwhile, the 3rd base runner ran across home plate before the out at 1st. Does the run count or not.   (Don from Austin, TX)

Answer:

No run will score when the 3rd out is made on a force. Run does not count. See OBR rule 2, defintion of a force play and 4.09a, How a Team Scores. - J.R.

Question:

In a game I was watching yesterday, the pitcher had an 0-2 count on the first batter. He threw a curve ball that hit the front of the plate and bounced up an hit the batter on the top of the helmet. The batter was awarded first base for being hit with the ball. In all my years of coaching I have never seen this happen and I thought if the ball hits the dirt or in this case the plate prior to hitting the batter it is not a hit batsman.   (Bill from Rowland Heights, CA)

Answer:

OBR 5.09a states that a batter that is hit by the pitch while in his legal batting position is awarded first base. No mention is made of the ball being in flight for this to be true. Also see 6.08b. The ruling is correct. - J.R.

Question:

May a first baseman legally use a catcher's glove while playing first base, or is he only allowed a regular fielding glove/first baseman glove?   (Shannon from Fallbrook, CA)

Answer:

A first baseman may only use a first baseman's mit or glove while fielding the 1st base position. - J.R.

Question:

I umpire at my town's little league and this has happened a couple of times. Batter bunts, the ball goes straight down and comes back and hits the bat again before the batter releases his grip. Is this considered a "double hit" and the batter is out?   (Kevan from Kennewick, WA)

Answer:

If the batter is still in the batters box and this happens, it is just a foul ball. If a 3rd strike, batter is out. - J.R.

Question:

If there is an illegal pitch as in 8.01(d) Little League rules where the ball slips out of the hand and crosses the foul line and the batter becomes guilty of 6.06(a) by stepping out to golf at it, and hit it, what is the correct mechanic to call the play? Illegal pitch - ball, illegal action - batter out?   (Jeff from Coloma, MI)

Answer:

I can only comment on major league rules and high school rules. Keep in mind that that Little League rules will mirror the major league rules for the most part.

Since the pitch did cross the foul line in your play this is not illegal pitch. It is a pitched ball, albeit a poorly pitched one. If the batter offers at the pitch, the offer deserves a call. Since the batter did offer at the ball and he did touch the ball and he was outside of the confines of the batter's box, he did illegally bat a pitched ball. So, we have an out. - J.R.

Question:

I umpire high school softball and my son plays high school baseball. My question is, what is the rule in baseball governing substitutions and starting players?   (Judy from Ore City, TX)

Answer:

Federation Rule 2-36 deals with the definition of what a substitute is and Rule 3-1 goes into the meat of the substitute. Generally, a substitute is a person that goes into play for another person. The high school rule allows the starting player to be taken out once via substitute and the starting player can then re-enter the game later on. The only restrictions are on the pitcher in facing a batter and the designated hitter. - J.R.

Question:

My son (11 years old-5th grade) was at bat and was hit in the hand by the pitch. He made no attempt to swing at the pitch and immediately trotted off to first base. The umpire called him back ruling that the hand is considered part of the bat and therefore it was not a hit batsman. Should he have been awarded first base?   (Ernest from Baton Rouge, LA)

Answer:

Under OBR, the hands are NOT part of the bat. Therefore the batter would get the following:

1. First base if he made an attempt to get out of the way when struck by the pitch.
2. Strike, and the ball is dead if his hands were in the strike zone at the time he was struck.
3. If he was swinging at the time he was struck, it would be the same as above.
4. Ball, the ball is dead and he remains at bat if he made no attempt to get out of the way. - J.R.

Question:

Where can my son attend umpire school to get certified? Thank you.   (Ed from Mountainside, NJ)

Answer:

If he is looking to go pro, there are two schools in Florida, Jim Evans and Harry Wendelstadt. Both offer the basics to build upon. However, attending either one of the schools does not get you a job in the pros, that is earned afterward at the Pro evaluation and advanced school.

If he is looking local and depending upon age, contact the athletic director at your local high school and see who they use for their games. This is probably a local association that will have their own classes. - J.R.

Question:

My son will soon be playing his first year of high school baseball. He is a pitcher and I am trying to set up a place for him to pitch in our yard. What is the distance from the pitcher's mound and home plate in high school baseball? Also, what is the height of the pitcher's mound? Thanks.   (Kevin from Hampton Falls, NH)

Answer:

The pitching distance and height of the mound in highschool baseball is the same as in pro baseball, 60 ft- 6" and a height of 10" above the plate. See OBR rule 1. - J.R.

Question:

I have been asked the following question many times and have no concrete answer to give. In calling an infield fly, is there a certain height the ball must go before an infield fly is, or should be called? Is there a specific height? My answer is, there is no certain height, and more or less it is umpires judgement. Am I answering this correctly? Please let me know.   (Terry from Winder, GA)

Answer:

In OBR Rule 2.00 definitions, it goes into what defines a fly ball and a line drive. There is no numerical "Height" designation in what a fly ball is other than "Appreciable height". That being defined in the judgement of the umpire. One must remember that the other criteria used is "Reasonable effort" by the infielder to catch the ball. On windy days this can get tricky. - J.R.

Question:

The definition of interference in 2.00 mentions that runners should be returned to the last base legally touched, but what if a runner misses a base on a play with interference? Example- Runners on first and second, one out. The batter hits a fly to right, both runners, thinking the ball may be caught, stop halfway to the next base. The ball caroms off the RF's glove and towards the fence, and the runners proceed. R2 smashes into the catcher as the throw home is in flight and is out for interference. Meanwhile R1 missed second base and reaches third as a result of the interference, the batter reaches second safely, likewise due to the interference. A) Where should the runners properly be put? B) If R1 is sent to second base, thereby acquiring legal possession of it, may the defense still appeal at second? If so, what's the right call? Thanks for your time, not to mention your thoughts.   (David from Menlo Park, CA)

Answer:

Good question. The way I look at this play, once the runner who takes out the catcher causes the infraction, the ball is dead, nothing else can happen. Sell the out. Award the batter runner first base due to the interference, he stays put. Award R1 second base. His last legally touched base is first base in this case since he missed 2nd base, he is forced over by the award of the batter runner getting first base. Key phrase is "Legally touched." - J.R.

Question:

Can a baserunner be called out after a foul tip if he does not retouch the base that he currently occupies? If so, when exactly would the umpire make the call?   (David from Chicago, IL)

Answer:

See OBR 7.08d Note. The runner does not have to retouch his base after a foul tip that is caught, they can steal. If the "Tip" is not caught, then it is an ordinary foul ball. The players would then need to retouch the base.

Enforcement of this rule is via the appeal process. Either a live ball appeal by tagging the base after the play or if time has been called, and the ball must be put into play by the umpire, the defensive team can do it from the mound. - J.R.

Question:

Love your site. Little League 9/10 Division. Men on first and third with one out. Runner on first steals, hoping to draw throw from catcher. No such throw is made, however. The runner contacts second base, then returns to basepath between first and second base, again hoping to draw throw from the catcher (or pitcher). Can a runner do this after having made contact with base?   (Dan from Union, KY)

Answer:

I can only comment on the Official rules of Baseball, not little league per se. The only reference I have is OBR 7.08i, in which a runner runs the bases backwards to confuse or make a travesty of the game. It is possible to invoke this here, but I would be very careful due to the age/skill of the players. I think I would say something to the coach first before I would rule an out and take a person off the bases on this. - J.R.

Question:

I need to know how far it is in girl's softball from 2nd base to home plate. I also need to know the formula you used to get this. This might help: the bases are all 60 feet apart.   (Heather from South Carolina)

Answer:

84 feet 10 and 1/4 Inches. The formula used is in the rule book, or if one is not handy, the Pythagorean theorem in finding the hypotenuse of a triangle. - J.R.

Question:

I'm having a hard time understanding where to place runners when an umpire is hit by a battered ball, and when to call a batter out or, if you call a batter out? And are the rules different when a batted ball hits a runner?   (Herbert from Merrimac, MA)

Answer:

The answer to this question is based upon the umpire's position in the field when he is hit by a batted ball. If the umpire is inside the diamond with runners on and the umpire is struck before it has passed an infielder excluding the pitcher, the award is the following: The ball is dead and the batter-runner is awarded first base. See OBR 5.09f, 6.08d, 7.09m, 7.08f, 6.09c.

If the ball touches an infielder or goes by or through and then touches the umpire, the ball is alive and in play.

If the ball strikes the runner while he is on base (other than the infield fly rule) or is running the bases and an infielder has a chance to make a play on the ball, the runner is out.

If the base runner is running behind the infielder and the infielder has a chance for the ball, which is deflected off the infielder, the runner is not out. - J.R.

Question:

2 outs, runner at third. Batter strikes out, but catcher drops 3rd strike. He picks up the ball and throws out runner at first base. However, before the out was recorded at first, the runner from third scored. I called the runner out at 1st and allowed the run to count. Did I make the right call or do I get a hand slap? It turns out the run didn't mean anything, but the coach gave me the evil eye.   (Cory from Phoenix, AZ)

Answer:

We turn to OBR rule 6.05j. People think this is a time play and it is not. This actually is defined as a force play. The batter/runner, due to the dropped third strike with first unoccupied can run (is forced, by rule) to first. If he is tagged or the ball is thrown to first ahead of the runner, we know the runner is out, but since this is the third out and no run can score on the third out if it is the result of a force play, no run will score. - J.R.

Question:

The distance between home and first base is 90 feet. How is that measured? From the tip of the back of the plate to the front of first? From the front of home to the back of first? I am installing bases and want to get the measurements correct. Could you please help me with this? Thank you.   (Carl from Harrisburg, NC)

Answer:

Consult Rule 1 of the OBR, under the Field. You will measure it from the tip of the plate to the front edge of the base. - J.R.

Question:

What are the dimensions of a softball batter's box? I mean like length and width. Also what is the width of home plate for softball? Thanks for your help.   (Jessica from Meriden, CT)

Answer:

The plate is 17 inches across. The batter's box starts 6 inches to the side of home plate. The box is 7 feet long and 3 feet wide. The catcher's box is 10 feet long and 7.5 feet wide. Please reference the ASA rule book, rule 2. - J.R.

Question:

I note that in both cricket and rounders, there are rules against verbally misleading or distracting opponents. Other than the use of generally abusive or profane language, are there such sanctions in baseball? In a game that permits hidden balls, dekes, and willful misdirection [catcher sets up outside for an inside pitch, etc.] I somehow doubt that saying, "Watch it, Jim, there's a safe falling on your head" would be a hardball infraction. Thanks for any help.   (Larry from Arlington, VA)

Answer:

According to the rules, any offensive player that causes the defense to alter play by verbally misleading him can be penalized. The penalty for interference is the runner is out and all runners return to the last legally touched base.

Conversely, any defensive player that causes an offensive player to alter his path of progress around the bases can be penalized for obstruction. This penalty is different in that we allow play to continue to see where the runners will end up. We will protect the runners to at least one base, the one that they are going to. Any bases after that, is usually at the runner's risk but this is up to the judgement of the umpire. The wording of the rule is to protect the runner to that base he would have normally attained had obstruction not occured, in the judgement of the upmire. See OBR 2.00 definition of Obstruction. This is for pro rules. Rules for High School and NCAA may be slightly different. - J.R.

Official Baseball Rules - Major League Baseball

NFHS Baseball Rules

NFHS Softball Rules