From: TASO Baseball Rules Interpreter
To: TASO Baseball Umpire Membership
Subject: Baseball Weekly Bulletin 24-3
Many times I have heard it said for umpires, “They have done a good job when they leave the field, and no one remembers them being there.” An idealistic situation and one that seldom occurs over a career. And if it were to happen, it usually is the result, not of the umpire, but of that game itself. Pitchers threw strikes, batters swung the bat, fielders made the plays, and the game basically called itself; a rare occurrence in a baseball game. And on the rarest of occasions when I had one of those games, I almost wanted to give back my next game as the baseball gods have this way of evening things out.
Games do not call themselves. That is why umpires are needed. A good friend of mine who umpired over 4500 games in the MLB for 35 years said many times, “The mark of a good umpire is one who makes those unpopular, tough, hated calls because they had to be made.” In his mind, the umpires he respected left the field with many fans, players and coaches absolutely knowing they had been there; because they did their job and made that call.
We have had some plays lately, where it would have easier on the umpires and their ears to have not made a call. No one might have known, but they did their job with the rules, and heard about it.
1. Running Lane Interference: A few years ago, a national survey was taken and this rule was overwhelmingly the Number 1 rule not enforced and/or ignored by umpires. Additionally, it was also the Number 1 rule that, when enforced, created the most “discussions” and eventual “paperwork.” It seems most coaches don’t want the rule enforced when on offense, but are unhappy when their defense cannot make a throw to first base for an out. Umpires, are hesitant to enforce the rule because it most often results in unpleasant moments of coach interaction along with vocal fan discontent. The rule exists for good reasons, as without it, the offense can weave and run all over the foul line from home to first base, thus making a throw from behind the batter-runner to first very difficult.
Some important aspects of the rule for us to remember:
A) the rule only applies for the last 45 feet of the distance from home to first base and the ball is being thrown to first from basically behind the batter-runner. In other words, on a throw from second base to first, the running lane is not important and not enforced when the batter-runner is still in the first half of his run to first base. While in the running lane, the batter-runner should have both feet in the running lane (a foot on the running lane line is considered being in the running lane).
B) If the throw is made from foul territory, the batter-runner must be in the running lane or can be outside the running lane in fair ground. If the throw is made from fair ground, the batter-runner must be in the running lane or can be outside the running lane in foul ground. (If a fielder is in the running lane attempting to field or catch the batted ball, the batter-runner may run outside the running lane).
C) For interference to be called, a throw must be made. The throw does not have to be a “quality” throw, but does have to be made for interference to be called. Interference occurs when the throw is made.
D) When interference is called, the ball becomes dead, the batter-runner is out, and other runners are returned to their bases. It is the home plate umpire’s call. So here is the play of issue:
Play: The batter bunts the pitch out in front of the plate. The catcher gets to the ball, picks it up and goes to throw to first base. Meanwhile, the batter runner is running outside the running lane on the side from which the throw will be made. As the throw is being made, the umpire, who is well aware that if he calls a running lane violation at this moment, he will unleash the gates of hades, stays quiet and hopes the out is made at first, which it is. Satisfied, the umpire goes back to home plate; no one is any wiser. Everyone thinks what a great job he is doing.
But, he should have called the running lane interference, and called the batter-runner out and also, returned the runner, who advanced to third, back to second. By not making the call, a runner advanced when he should not have. In this particular play, the runner (who should be at second but is now at third) goes home on a passed ball and ties the game, which goes 16 innings before a winner is determined.
The umpire can be silent on the call and no one knows any difference or he can make the call the rule required and everyone will offer opinions about his officiating ability; and everyone now definitely now knows he is there. But in which case has he done his job?
2. Umpire Interference: Both the plate umpire and the base umpire can, under certain circumstances, commit umpire interference. When it happens, we are definitely noticed.
Plate Umpire: The plate umpire creates umpire interference when he hinders, impedes or prevents a catcher’s throw attempting to prevent a stolen base or retire a runner on a pickoff play. When this happens, if an out is not made at the end of the catcher’s initial throw, the ball shall be dead and all runners shall return to the bases occupied at the time of the interference. If the out is made, the ball stays in play. In Rule 2-21-2, the verbiage states that the umpire must move to create the interference, but that is not how the NFHS is ruling. The wording should be changed at the next Committee Meeting.
Base Umpire: It is umpire interference when a fair batted ball touches an umpire before touching any fielder and before passing any fielder other than the pitcher. When this happens, the ball is dead, the batter-runner is awarded first base and other runners are returned to the base occupied at the time of the pitch, unless they are forced to advance due to the batter-runner’s award of first base. If the batted ball first touched the pitcher or another fielder prior to touching the umpire, or if the umpire was behind the fielder when hit, the ball stays in play as if it had not hit the base umpire.
Lodged Ball: If a fair batted or thrown ball becomes lodged in an umpire’s uniform or equipment, the ball is dead and runners are awarded two bases. If a pitch becomes lodged in an umpire’s uniform or equipment, the ball is dead and runners are awarded one base.
When it is not Umpire Interference:
A) A fair batted ball first touches the pitcher or another infielder and then contacts the umpire.
B) A fair batted ball touches the umpire after passing an infielder (not the pitcher).
C) An umpire is hit by a thrown ball.
D) An umpire makes contact with a fielder
Umpire Interference Plays:
A) The plate umpire is locked into his position and does not move. The catcher brings his hand back in an attempt to throw out the runner stealing from first and hits the plate umpire in his mask and is unable to make the throw. Ruling: Umpire Interference, when it is obvious no play can be made, time is called, and the runner is returned to first base.
B) With runners on first and third, the offense starts a double steal. The catcher, attempting to make a throw to second base to retire the runner stealing from first, is interfered with by the plate umpire. The pitcher cuts off the throw and throws home in time to get the runner from third stealing out on a tag. Ruling: When umpire interference occurs, the play is kept alive to see if the play at second can be made. When the throw is cut off, the ball becomes dead, and both runners return to their respective bases. This will go well with the defensive team’s fans.
C) With runners on first and third, a batted ball contacts the base umpire in C Position without passing any infielders other than the pitcher. A double play was very possible. Ruling: The ball is dead. The batter-runner will be awarded first base; the runner from first will be moved to second base; and the runner at third will remain at third. No one on the defensive team will believe you.
D) With the bases empty, a pitch is batted into the outfield. The base umpire, while moving into the infield to take the batter-runner to second base, inadvertently makes contact with the batter-runner and causes him to fall to the ground. Before he can get up, the defense throws the ball into the infield and the batter-runner is tagged. Ruling: The batter-runner is out. The base umpire is now loved by the defense.
E) The base umpire is in A position, but standing in fair ground behind the first baseman. A curving batted ball that will land foul behind first base, clips the base umpire while over fair ground and then goes into the media area. Ruling: This is a fair batted ball that goes into a dead ball area. Award the batter-runner second base and ask for a police escort after the game.
F) The batter bunts a pitch in front of home plate. As the catcher fields the ball and starts to throw, he hits the arm of the plate umpire who is signaling fair ball and as a result, drops the ball and cannot make the throw. Ruling: This is not umpire interference by rule and the ball remains live and the play stands. (Be glad you are not the officials who had the game in another state where situations B, D, and F occurred in one game. Might be time to think about officiating water polo).
3. Catcher Communication Device: As FYI, it is not mandatory for the catcher to take off his communication device when coming to bat. He should turn it off or unplug it, but he does not have to remove it. If it becomes apparent that the device is being used while he is on offense, issue a team warning to the head coach.
4. Assistant Coach Being Restricted: There have been a couple of games where an assistant coach, without leaving his position on the field, voiced an opinion colorfully and was as a result restricted to the bench. The head coach was also restricted and was told “anytime the assistant is restricted, you must be restricted as well.” A head coach is automatically restricted when the assistant is restricted, only when the assistant left the vicinity of the dugout or his coaching box to dispute a judgment call by an umpire. Any other time, the assistant and the head coach are restricted or ejected based on the merits of their own respective actions and not that of the other.
Courtesy Runner Plays from Last Bulletin – Over several weekend tournaments, we have some CR situations that may need to be looked over. How would you rule on these?
1) In a game lately, the coach had a courtesy runner (CR) for the pitcher with one out after the pitcher had walked. The next batter flew out for out number two and now the coach wants his pitcher to go back out to run. The team was not using a DH. Ruling: Illegal. Once the CR replaces the pitcher, the pitcher cannot re-enter for the CR in that half-inning unless the offensive team bats around or the CR is injured with no other CRs available.
2) The catcher singles and has a CR come in to run for him. The next batter walks. Before the next pitch, the coach wants to replace the CR for the catcher by another CR. The opposing coach objects strongly. Ruling: Legal. A CR may be replaced by another legal CR at any time.
3) In the third inning, the coach has Smith pinch run for the center fielder and then at the end of the half inning re-enters the original center fielder. In the fifth inning, the coach has Smith CR for the catcher and the umpire allows it. After a couple of pitches, the opposing coach, with the help of his hands, voices a problem with the situation. Ruling: Illegal. Smith is out and cannot re-enter the game.
For Next Week: In this play, the base umpire ruled one out and the defense wanted a double play. What would you rule?
https://twitter.com/nut_history/status/1773771914068009311?s=51&t=69JDTcXHBQ5szJXrArJrOg
Please remember to provide me with any issues, situations, questions, concerns, etc. you may have.
Have a great week.
Kyle McNeely
TASO State BB Rules Interpreter
Jkyle1974@aol.com
979-446-5522
To: TASO Baseball Umpire Membership
Subject: Baseball Weekly Bulletin 24-3
Many times I have heard it said for umpires, “They have done a good job when they leave the field, and no one remembers them being there.” An idealistic situation and one that seldom occurs over a career. And if it were to happen, it usually is the result, not of the umpire, but of that game itself. Pitchers threw strikes, batters swung the bat, fielders made the plays, and the game basically called itself; a rare occurrence in a baseball game. And on the rarest of occasions when I had one of those games, I almost wanted to give back my next game as the baseball gods have this way of evening things out.
Games do not call themselves. That is why umpires are needed. A good friend of mine who umpired over 4500 games in the MLB for 35 years said many times, “The mark of a good umpire is one who makes those unpopular, tough, hated calls because they had to be made.” In his mind, the umpires he respected left the field with many fans, players and coaches absolutely knowing they had been there; because they did their job and made that call.
We have had some plays lately, where it would have easier on the umpires and their ears to have not made a call. No one might have known, but they did their job with the rules, and heard about it.
1. Running Lane Interference: A few years ago, a national survey was taken and this rule was overwhelmingly the Number 1 rule not enforced and/or ignored by umpires. Additionally, it was also the Number 1 rule that, when enforced, created the most “discussions” and eventual “paperwork.” It seems most coaches don’t want the rule enforced when on offense, but are unhappy when their defense cannot make a throw to first base for an out. Umpires, are hesitant to enforce the rule because it most often results in unpleasant moments of coach interaction along with vocal fan discontent. The rule exists for good reasons, as without it, the offense can weave and run all over the foul line from home to first base, thus making a throw from behind the batter-runner to first very difficult.
Some important aspects of the rule for us to remember:
A) the rule only applies for the last 45 feet of the distance from home to first base and the ball is being thrown to first from basically behind the batter-runner. In other words, on a throw from second base to first, the running lane is not important and not enforced when the batter-runner is still in the first half of his run to first base. While in the running lane, the batter-runner should have both feet in the running lane (a foot on the running lane line is considered being in the running lane).
B) If the throw is made from foul territory, the batter-runner must be in the running lane or can be outside the running lane in fair ground. If the throw is made from fair ground, the batter-runner must be in the running lane or can be outside the running lane in foul ground. (If a fielder is in the running lane attempting to field or catch the batted ball, the batter-runner may run outside the running lane).
C) For interference to be called, a throw must be made. The throw does not have to be a “quality” throw, but does have to be made for interference to be called. Interference occurs when the throw is made.
D) When interference is called, the ball becomes dead, the batter-runner is out, and other runners are returned to their bases. It is the home plate umpire’s call. So here is the play of issue:
Play: The batter bunts the pitch out in front of the plate. The catcher gets to the ball, picks it up and goes to throw to first base. Meanwhile, the batter runner is running outside the running lane on the side from which the throw will be made. As the throw is being made, the umpire, who is well aware that if he calls a running lane violation at this moment, he will unleash the gates of hades, stays quiet and hopes the out is made at first, which it is. Satisfied, the umpire goes back to home plate; no one is any wiser. Everyone thinks what a great job he is doing.
But, he should have called the running lane interference, and called the batter-runner out and also, returned the runner, who advanced to third, back to second. By not making the call, a runner advanced when he should not have. In this particular play, the runner (who should be at second but is now at third) goes home on a passed ball and ties the game, which goes 16 innings before a winner is determined.
The umpire can be silent on the call and no one knows any difference or he can make the call the rule required and everyone will offer opinions about his officiating ability; and everyone now definitely now knows he is there. But in which case has he done his job?
2. Umpire Interference: Both the plate umpire and the base umpire can, under certain circumstances, commit umpire interference. When it happens, we are definitely noticed.
Plate Umpire: The plate umpire creates umpire interference when he hinders, impedes or prevents a catcher’s throw attempting to prevent a stolen base or retire a runner on a pickoff play. When this happens, if an out is not made at the end of the catcher’s initial throw, the ball shall be dead and all runners shall return to the bases occupied at the time of the interference. If the out is made, the ball stays in play. In Rule 2-21-2, the verbiage states that the umpire must move to create the interference, but that is not how the NFHS is ruling. The wording should be changed at the next Committee Meeting.
Base Umpire: It is umpire interference when a fair batted ball touches an umpire before touching any fielder and before passing any fielder other than the pitcher. When this happens, the ball is dead, the batter-runner is awarded first base and other runners are returned to the base occupied at the time of the pitch, unless they are forced to advance due to the batter-runner’s award of first base. If the batted ball first touched the pitcher or another fielder prior to touching the umpire, or if the umpire was behind the fielder when hit, the ball stays in play as if it had not hit the base umpire.
Lodged Ball: If a fair batted or thrown ball becomes lodged in an umpire’s uniform or equipment, the ball is dead and runners are awarded two bases. If a pitch becomes lodged in an umpire’s uniform or equipment, the ball is dead and runners are awarded one base.
When it is not Umpire Interference:
A) A fair batted ball first touches the pitcher or another infielder and then contacts the umpire.
B) A fair batted ball touches the umpire after passing an infielder (not the pitcher).
C) An umpire is hit by a thrown ball.
D) An umpire makes contact with a fielder
Umpire Interference Plays:
A) The plate umpire is locked into his position and does not move. The catcher brings his hand back in an attempt to throw out the runner stealing from first and hits the plate umpire in his mask and is unable to make the throw. Ruling: Umpire Interference, when it is obvious no play can be made, time is called, and the runner is returned to first base.
B) With runners on first and third, the offense starts a double steal. The catcher, attempting to make a throw to second base to retire the runner stealing from first, is interfered with by the plate umpire. The pitcher cuts off the throw and throws home in time to get the runner from third stealing out on a tag. Ruling: When umpire interference occurs, the play is kept alive to see if the play at second can be made. When the throw is cut off, the ball becomes dead, and both runners return to their respective bases. This will go well with the defensive team’s fans.
C) With runners on first and third, a batted ball contacts the base umpire in C Position without passing any infielders other than the pitcher. A double play was very possible. Ruling: The ball is dead. The batter-runner will be awarded first base; the runner from first will be moved to second base; and the runner at third will remain at third. No one on the defensive team will believe you.
D) With the bases empty, a pitch is batted into the outfield. The base umpire, while moving into the infield to take the batter-runner to second base, inadvertently makes contact with the batter-runner and causes him to fall to the ground. Before he can get up, the defense throws the ball into the infield and the batter-runner is tagged. Ruling: The batter-runner is out. The base umpire is now loved by the defense.
E) The base umpire is in A position, but standing in fair ground behind the first baseman. A curving batted ball that will land foul behind first base, clips the base umpire while over fair ground and then goes into the media area. Ruling: This is a fair batted ball that goes into a dead ball area. Award the batter-runner second base and ask for a police escort after the game.
F) The batter bunts a pitch in front of home plate. As the catcher fields the ball and starts to throw, he hits the arm of the plate umpire who is signaling fair ball and as a result, drops the ball and cannot make the throw. Ruling: This is not umpire interference by rule and the ball remains live and the play stands. (Be glad you are not the officials who had the game in another state where situations B, D, and F occurred in one game. Might be time to think about officiating water polo).
3. Catcher Communication Device: As FYI, it is not mandatory for the catcher to take off his communication device when coming to bat. He should turn it off or unplug it, but he does not have to remove it. If it becomes apparent that the device is being used while he is on offense, issue a team warning to the head coach.
4. Assistant Coach Being Restricted: There have been a couple of games where an assistant coach, without leaving his position on the field, voiced an opinion colorfully and was as a result restricted to the bench. The head coach was also restricted and was told “anytime the assistant is restricted, you must be restricted as well.” A head coach is automatically restricted when the assistant is restricted, only when the assistant left the vicinity of the dugout or his coaching box to dispute a judgment call by an umpire. Any other time, the assistant and the head coach are restricted or ejected based on the merits of their own respective actions and not that of the other.
Courtesy Runner Plays from Last Bulletin – Over several weekend tournaments, we have some CR situations that may need to be looked over. How would you rule on these?
1) In a game lately, the coach had a courtesy runner (CR) for the pitcher with one out after the pitcher had walked. The next batter flew out for out number two and now the coach wants his pitcher to go back out to run. The team was not using a DH. Ruling: Illegal. Once the CR replaces the pitcher, the pitcher cannot re-enter for the CR in that half-inning unless the offensive team bats around or the CR is injured with no other CRs available.
2) The catcher singles and has a CR come in to run for him. The next batter walks. Before the next pitch, the coach wants to replace the CR for the catcher by another CR. The opposing coach objects strongly. Ruling: Legal. A CR may be replaced by another legal CR at any time.
3) In the third inning, the coach has Smith pinch run for the center fielder and then at the end of the half inning re-enters the original center fielder. In the fifth inning, the coach has Smith CR for the catcher and the umpire allows it. After a couple of pitches, the opposing coach, with the help of his hands, voices a problem with the situation. Ruling: Illegal. Smith is out and cannot re-enter the game.
For Next Week: In this play, the base umpire ruled one out and the defense wanted a double play. What would you rule?
https://twitter.com/nut_history/status/1773771914068009311?s=51&t=69JDTcXHBQ5szJXrArJrOg
Please remember to provide me with any issues, situations, questions, concerns, etc. you may have.
Have a great week.
Kyle McNeely
TASO State BB Rules Interpreter
Jkyle1974@aol.com
979-446-5522
From: TASO Baseball Rules Interpreter
To: TASO Baseball Umpire Membership
Subject: Baseball Weekly Bulletin 24-2
A classic movie once had this famous line in it: 'What we have here, is a failure to communicate." That may have been true for Cool Hand Luke, but not so for high school baseball these days. It seems like we may have an abundance of ways to communicate. Over the past week we have had a couple of concerns with the new rule on communication devices.
1. Headset App: There currently is a Phone App that has become quite popular. There is no equipment to buy and it is easy to download the app to one’s mobile phone. All the catcher has to have is an air pod (earbud) and the team is ready to go. The problem is, the user can select from several options, including two-way communication. Since an umpire does not know which setting has been selected, or if the setting has been changed, the NFHS has not allowed this device as compliant with the new rule. This Phone App is not legal.
2. Defensive Players and Verbal Electronic Devices: There have been a couple of teams where the catcher has legally had an earpiece communication device and the rest of the defensive players have had a wristband watch-like device that showed numbers or an array of lights sent from the dugout. As a reminder, only the catcher may have a one-way communication device. No other players on the team may have anything other than a non-electronic wristband.
3. Pitchers Having Earpiece Device: Several teams, just to save communication breakdowns, have gone directly to having the pitcher along with the catcher (or only the pitcher) wear the one-way communication device. Either way, it is not legal. Again, the rule for this season is that only the catcher may have the electronic communication equipment.
4. Coaches Using the Catcher In Lieu of a Charged Conference: The communication device for the catcher is to be used solely for the purpose of providing pitch selection. Some coaches are having the catcher go to the mound and with the pitcher, and sometimes all the infielders, have the catcher either repeat instructions from the coach, or have the earpiece used so that the other players can hear the coach. Both of these uses are illegal. Umpires should be diligent in observing this possibility.
5. Between Innings: All teams want to have their players, not currently in the game, to be involved and ready to go play at any time. Many teams will have the players, during half innings, run from the dugout to the fence and back. That is perfectly okay. Lately, however, some teams are having their bench players go outside the dugout between innings and play catch with each other. This is not okay. If a player needs to warm up his arm, he may go to the bullpen or other dead-ball, safe, and supervised area, but not outside the dugout. In another state, we had a game in which tensions were tightening, and umpires had already had to silence some words between the dugouts. A team, during a half inning, went outside the dugout to throw the ball around, and “accidentally” had a thrown ball get away and hit the catcher. Continuation of the game became impossible.
6. Warstic Bonesaber Bat: In some games lately, umpires have not allowed the bonesaber bat to be used. The bat has a pommel, unconventional, tapered knob. If the player adds so much tape that the knob is flushed with the handle, then it needs to be re-wrapped before it is allowed to be used (NFHS Baseball Rule 1-3-2b1).The bat is otherwise legal and compliant.
Have a great week.
Kyle McNeely
TASO State BB Rules Interpreter
Jkyle1974@aol.com
979-446-5522
To: TASO Baseball Umpire Membership
Subject: Baseball Weekly Bulletin 24-2
A classic movie once had this famous line in it: 'What we have here, is a failure to communicate." That may have been true for Cool Hand Luke, but not so for high school baseball these days. It seems like we may have an abundance of ways to communicate. Over the past week we have had a couple of concerns with the new rule on communication devices.
1. Headset App: There currently is a Phone App that has become quite popular. There is no equipment to buy and it is easy to download the app to one’s mobile phone. All the catcher has to have is an air pod (earbud) and the team is ready to go. The problem is, the user can select from several options, including two-way communication. Since an umpire does not know which setting has been selected, or if the setting has been changed, the NFHS has not allowed this device as compliant with the new rule. This Phone App is not legal.
2. Defensive Players and Verbal Electronic Devices: There have been a couple of teams where the catcher has legally had an earpiece communication device and the rest of the defensive players have had a wristband watch-like device that showed numbers or an array of lights sent from the dugout. As a reminder, only the catcher may have a one-way communication device. No other players on the team may have anything other than a non-electronic wristband.
3. Pitchers Having Earpiece Device: Several teams, just to save communication breakdowns, have gone directly to having the pitcher along with the catcher (or only the pitcher) wear the one-way communication device. Either way, it is not legal. Again, the rule for this season is that only the catcher may have the electronic communication equipment.
4. Coaches Using the Catcher In Lieu of a Charged Conference: The communication device for the catcher is to be used solely for the purpose of providing pitch selection. Some coaches are having the catcher go to the mound and with the pitcher, and sometimes all the infielders, have the catcher either repeat instructions from the coach, or have the earpiece used so that the other players can hear the coach. Both of these uses are illegal. Umpires should be diligent in observing this possibility.
5. Between Innings: All teams want to have their players, not currently in the game, to be involved and ready to go play at any time. Many teams will have the players, during half innings, run from the dugout to the fence and back. That is perfectly okay. Lately, however, some teams are having their bench players go outside the dugout between innings and play catch with each other. This is not okay. If a player needs to warm up his arm, he may go to the bullpen or other dead-ball, safe, and supervised area, but not outside the dugout. In another state, we had a game in which tensions were tightening, and umpires had already had to silence some words between the dugouts. A team, during a half inning, went outside the dugout to throw the ball around, and “accidentally” had a thrown ball get away and hit the catcher. Continuation of the game became impossible.
6. Warstic Bonesaber Bat: In some games lately, umpires have not allowed the bonesaber bat to be used. The bat has a pommel, unconventional, tapered knob. If the player adds so much tape that the knob is flushed with the handle, then it needs to be re-wrapped before it is allowed to be used (NFHS Baseball Rule 1-3-2b1).The bat is otherwise legal and compliant.
- Pitching Regulations and Rules: Just as a reminder, NFHS pitching rules do not differentiate or differ depending upon runners being on base or not. The same pitching requirements are in place with bases empty just as they are with runners on. With bases empty, a pitcher in the set position still must come to a legal stop. With bases empty, a pitcher in the windup position still must pitch in one continuous motion once the time of the pitch has occurred. There is one set of pitching regulations, runners on or bases empty.
8. Resin and Pine Tar on the Bat: In an effort to improve the batter’s hold on the bat, we are starting to see resin or pine tar on some bats. As a reminder, on a non-wood bat, resin or pine tar or other drying agents may only be on the grip. And the grip must be a minimum of 10 inches but it cannot extend beyond 18 inches from the base of the knob of the bat. On a wood bat, it is not mandatory for the bat to have a safety grip, but it may be roughened or wound with tape no more than 18 inches from the handle end of the bat. Any foreign substance could be added to the surface of the bat but not beyond 18 inches from the end of the handle. A non-wood bat with any foreign substance on the bat but not on the grip, or a wood bat with any foreign substance beyond 18 inches from the end of the handle is an illegal bat.
9. Attempt to Induce a Balk: Lately, we had a player in the batter’s box, who just as the pitcher was in his motion, began a bobbing motion up and down. The opposing crowd knew for certain that the batter was cruelly and intentionally attempting to induce a balk. (Actually, they knew no such thing, but didn’t like the action). Rule 3-3-1n tells us that any action or command committed for the purpose of inducing a balk will result in ejection of the offender. If you have no doubt the batter did this to induce a balk, eject him. If there is any shadow of a doubt, I would advise to warn the batter and any repeat would be an ejection.
We also had a coach who, while in the coaching box, yelled “balk” just as the pitcher delivered the ball. Maybe the coach thought there was a balk. Maybe not. Again, if you suspect foul play, warn the coach; if you believe this is being done to induce a balk, eject the offender.
Some Batting-out-of-Order Plays from the last bulletin:
1) It is B3's turn to bat but B5 bats instead. On the first pitch, B5 swings and misses and R1 steals second. Either team then notices B3 is supposed to bat. Does R1 have to return to first? Ruling: R1's advance is legal. B3 takes his place at bat and assumes the 0-1 count.
2) R2 is on 2nd and R1 on first with no outs. It is B3's turn to bat but B4 bats instead. He hits a ground ball to F5. F5 touches third to force out R2 and fires to F4 at second base to force out R1. The defensive team appeals the batting out of order infraction. Is it a good move for the defense to appeal since they already got a double play? Ruling: In NFHS, it's a triple play! The outs on R2 and R1 stand and B3 is declared out for failing to bat in the proper order. B4 will lead off the next inning.
3) B8 is hitting in the position where B7 should be. R1 is on first and successfully steals second base. R1 then advances to third on the errant throw by the catcher. B8 hits a fly ball to center field that scores the runner. The defense now appeals the batting out of order rule. Ruling: B7 is ruled out because he was supposed to be the proper hitter. The runner has to return to third base. He is not allowed to keep the advance on the sacrifice fly, but he IS entitled to the advance of the stolen base and the throwing error. B8 returns to the plate as the proper batter.
Courtesy Runner Plays for Next Week – Over several weekend tournaments, we have some CR situations that may need to be looked over. How would you rule on these?
1) In a game lately, the coach had a courtesy runner (CR) for the pitcher with one out after the pitcher had walked. The next batter flew out for out number two and now the coach wants his pitcher to go back out to run. The team was not using a DH.
2) The catcher singles and has a CR come in to run for him. The next batter walks. Before the next pitch, the coach wants to replace the CR for the catcher by another CR. The opposing coach objects strongly.
In the third inning, the coach has Smith pinch run for the center fielder and then at the end of the half inning re-enters the original center fielder. In the fifth inning, the coach has Smith CR for the catcher and the umpire allows it. After a couple of pitches, the opposing coach, with the help of his hands, voices a problem with the situation.
Have a great week.
Kyle McNeely
TASO State BB Rules Interpreter
Jkyle1974@aol.com
979-446-5522
From: TASO Baseball Rules Interpreter
To: TASO Baseball Umpire Membership
Subject: Baseball Weekly Bulletin 24-1
The hard work is almost all over. Getting the Equipment out of storage; Ordering what shrunk and won’t fit from last year; Learning the New Rule Changes; Attending State and Local Meetings; Dusting Off the Rule Book; Mechanic Clinics; Scrimmages; Getting the Quads and Thigh Muscles back into shape. It is hard work indeed. But it is worth it as the season is here. And now we get to do what we love doing: working baseball.
We have worked scrimmages and now competition is here and we are working multi-games over multi-days for all the early season tournaments. It has not taken long for some questions to come up so let’s get to some of them.
However, even if the noise-makers are allowed, if the umpires judge that their use is unsporting in nature, they may require that the devices be removed. Just be fair in that determination.
Some Batting-out-of-Order Plays that have been questioned: Rule on these three plays for next week:
Have a great week.
Kyle McNeely
TASO State BB Rules Interpreter
Jkyle1974@aol.com
979-446-5522
To: TASO Baseball Umpire Membership
Subject: Baseball Weekly Bulletin 24-1
The hard work is almost all over. Getting the Equipment out of storage; Ordering what shrunk and won’t fit from last year; Learning the New Rule Changes; Attending State and Local Meetings; Dusting Off the Rule Book; Mechanic Clinics; Scrimmages; Getting the Quads and Thigh Muscles back into shape. It is hard work indeed. But it is worth it as the season is here. And now we get to do what we love doing: working baseball.
We have worked scrimmages and now competition is here and we are working multi-games over multi-days for all the early season tournaments. It has not taken long for some questions to come up so let’s get to some of them.
- Noise-Makers: Usually, this question comes at the end of the regular season and the start of post-season. Yet, it has come up already. I guess the fans and fellow students are excited for the start of the season as well. On one hand, it is a good thing that other students from the school are coming to the baseball games. The fact that many of them are bringing noise makers with them can lead to excitement and challenges.
However, even if the noise-makers are allowed, if the umpires judge that their use is unsporting in nature, they may require that the devices be removed. Just be fair in that determination.
- A Ground Rule Double or Home Run?: We have had a couple of questions regarding a hit that went over the fence and if it was a home run or a ground rule double. For those with some age on them, remember Jose Canseco who had a batted ball bounce off his head and be deflected over the fence for a home run? So, let’s review what situations like this would result in, a home run and what would be a ground rule double. All could end in a healthy discussion with a coach.
- 1) The ball is deflected by a fielder over the fence over foul ground; 2) The ball is deflected by a fielder over the fence over fair ground, but such deflection occurs after the fly ball has struck the facing of the home run fence; 3) The ball comes to rest on the top of a home run wall or fence (please let me know if this happens); 4) The ball passes through the fence (or scoreboard that is part of the fence)
- Face Painted Flags: We have had a few games where some players 1) both on same team and, 2) both on opposing teams, had painted on their face flags of countries that are at issue with each other. The question for us as officials is: what do we do with this. The UIL has provided guidance which for us is to not ask the players to remove the flags or paintings. We should ignore them and make no reference to them unless 1) the painting is such that it could be reflective and/or distracting to a batter, and 2) resulting player behavior is such that it is a violation of Rule 3-3-1f occurs and we need to handle the actions.
- One-Way Electronic Equipment: Overall, the first week has gone well with regards to the new rule change. A couple of instances where the pitcher was wearing the device and not the catcher but they were easily remedied. A couple of clarifications for this rule: 1) The catcher may still be wearing his device when he comes to bat. He does not have to take it off and then put it back on. Obviously, he cannot be receiving instruction while at-bat from anyone, or that would be a violation of the rule. 2) If the equipment malfunctions of breaks, a coach may come out to quickly fix it without being charged a defensive conference. This is no different than a coach coming out to help repair a broken glove or other equipment. The length of time provided should not be long and is determined by the umpire. If the earpiece receiver cannot be fixed somewhat quickly, then the team either waits until the next half-inning to fix it or bring in another player with functional equipment.
- Coach in Stands Giving Pitching Signals: In a few games, there has been an adult individual who has appeared to be giving signals to the pitcher while sitting in the stands. If that individual is in the uniform of the team, we should request that he return to the dugout. If he is not in the uniform of the team, there is nothing we can do to stop or prevent it. The pitcher still must abide by our pitching rules: while legally in contact with the pitcher’s plate, the pitcher shall take or simulate taking the sign from the catcher.
- Use of Props: We have had several games where teams have celebrated home runs (or other plays) with the use of props. There has been a play basketball goal brought out and the scoring runner given a nerf basketball to slam dunk; another team gives the player hitting a home run a robe and specter and honor him as he returns to the dugout through a team line; and other instance where the player is provided with special headwear. All these practices and any other using a prop is a violation of rule 3-3-1f and should be handled accordingly.
- Controversial Play: There has been a play in which there has been a large variety, all over the spectrum, of thoughts on the enforcement. In this play, we have a runner on first base and the batter hits a long, high fly ball to deep left field near dead ball territory. The runner from first leaves on the crack of the bat and has touched second and is a few feet on to third when the left fielder makes a difficult catch and has his momentum carry him into dead ball territory. So, how are we to handle this play?
Some Batting-out-of-Order Plays that have been questioned: Rule on these three plays for next week:
- It is B3's turn to bat but B5 bats instead. On the first pitch, B5 swings and misses and R1 steals second. Either team then notices B3 is supposed to bat. Does R1 have to return to first?
- R2 is on 2nd and R1 on first with no outs. It is B3's turn to bat but B4 bats instead. He hits a ground ball to F5. F5 touches third to force out R2 and fires to F4 at second base to force out R1. The defensive team appeals the batting out of order infraction. Is it a good move for the defense to appeal since they already got a double play?
- B8 is hitting in the position where B7 should be. R1 is on first and successfully steals second base. R1 then advances to third on the errant throw by the catcher. B8 hits a fly ball to center field that scores the runner. The defense now appeals the batting out of order rule.
Have a great week.
Kyle McNeely
TASO State BB Rules Interpreter
Jkyle1974@aol.com
979-446-5522