BBASEBALLBASEBASEBALLALL 20092009 R

A supplement to the NCAA Rules • Prepared by the editors of Referee magazine Helmets Required for Base Coaches The safety of base coaches was the NOCSAE approved, but NOCSAE biggest change for the 2009-10 does not approve helmets that do NCAA baseball rulebook as the not have the ear flaps. requirement for helmets was added Helmets without double ear flaps are along with a requirement that legal for those who are coaching coaches remain in the coaching box bases, but are not legal for the batter, during specified times. on-deck batter or any runners. Following the rule change for “I think it’s a comfort level,” 2008 in professional baseball, the Brontsema said when it comes to committee passed the rule that adjusting to the change. “You just go requires all base coaches to wear and wear it. The day somebody helmets. It is recommended that the gets is the day they’ll appreciate helmet meet NOCSAE approval it.” standards (1-14g). Play 1: With his team on offense, “Since set the head coach wants to coach third the precedent, it was almost like we base without the proper helmet. had to follow,” said Bob Brontsema, Ruling 1: There is no penalty; the baseball coach at UC Santa however, play cannot continue until Barbara and the incoming chair of compliance with the rule is met. the NCAA Play 2: Because he does not want Committee. “Certainly we want to to wear a helmet, the third-base do everything we can to protect our coaches and athletes who are in the (see Base Coaches p.4) boxes.” When the rule was originally Contents passed, it required that the helmet be Letter from New NCAA Umpiring Starting in 2009, all personnel (coaches Coordinator Gene McArtor ...... 2 and players) in NCAA play will have to wear helmets while coaching the bases. K Background Check Program FAQs . . . 3 E I That rule change was one of several T H J passed with the intent of improving safety O H N

S Flashback: 2008 Rules Changes

for the participants in a game. T O N Revisited ...... 5 Is a Major Concern Test Your Rules Knowledge ...... 10 One of the many joys of a baseball “The feedback is that fans don’t Don’t Let Out of Order game is that it is timeless — no clock, want to sit through a four-hour Confuse You ...... 13 no whistles, no time limits. That game,” said Bob Brontsema, the head being said, the NCAA baseball rules coach at UC Santa Barbara and the Case Study: When Is a committee has made pace of play a incoming chair of the NCAA Baseball Completed? ...... 15 point of emphasis for the 2009 season Rules Committee. “We have a great — even though the game is timeless, product and we want people to be it should not drag on forever. there from start to finish. We don’t (see Pace of Play p. 6) PUBLISHED BY REFEREE ENTERPRISES, INC. communicate rule changes and online testing program will purchase any needed NCAA information about the continue to ensure that our rule books or CCA Baseball Improvement Program to umpires are educated on the Umpire Manuals, both of which umpires, coaches, baseball rules. The standard are essential for knowledge administrators, and baseball will continue to be 80% correct and consistency. fans across the country. I answers. The NCAA Finally, I want to thank all thank the staff at Referee background check program who participate in NCAA magazine for their work on this and sports wagering baseball umpiring. I have the publication and for assistance questionnaire will continue in greatest respect for all that in distribution to coaches and 2009. These, in addition to goes into being a high quality umpires everywhere. clinic attendance, will continue umpire. Working a full schedule S

N Our umpires had an to be basic criteria for post at a conference and O I T

A outstanding championship season selection. Deadline championship level requires L E R

A season in 2008 and 2009 dates will be February 13, significant time and travel, I D E

M promises more of that 2009 for all of these both of which sacrifice jobs

U O

Z excitement, competition, and requirements. and family time. Your Z I M high level officiating. The Communication with our dedication and commitment passion and desire to improve umpires throughout the year could not be appreciated more individually and collectively will should continue to increase by myself, the Umpire Gene McArtor allow our umpires to continue with our website Improvement program, the to raise the bar. This year is www.eofficials.com. NCAA Baseball Committee, and especially exciting for me as Registration is required, but by the coaches and student- NCAA National your new national coordinator. there is no charge for NCAA athletes you serve in our sport. Coordinator of We have been able to add Tom material. New relationships Have a great season in 2009. Hiler as our director of umpires with the NCAA should allow Suggestions or questions may Baseball Umpires and Tony Gisondi as a fourth this website to be even more be directed to Gene McArtor, regional advisor. Both, in beneficial in the future through national coordinator, addition to our current regional in season education, in season [email protected]; Tom Dear NCAA Umpire: advisors, and many others video, in season quizzes, and Hiler, Director of Umpires, across the country have been additional products all [email protected]; or Welcome to the beginning so helpful in assisting my designed to keep our umpires Secretary Rules Editor, Jim of a new season of NCAA transition to the role. current, not only at the Paronto, [email protected]. baseball and to the NCAA Our qualification standards beginning of the year but See you at a game this umpire clinics. This newsletter for championship assignment throughout the year. Please season. I is one additional method to will continue this year. The use the order forms to

2008 NCAA Championship Umpires NCAA Umpiring Coordinators

Division I Division II Division III Division I Division II Gene McArtor Asa Howard Mike Conlin Quinton Barnes Chuck Adya 3708 Joan Ct. P.O. Box 588 Lansing, Mich. Preston, N.C. Youngstown, Ohio Columbia, MO 65201 Amarillo, TX 79105 Jack Cox Thomas Goetz Don Goller Knoxville, Tenn. Bloomington, Minn. Spring Brook, N.Y. [email protected] [email protected] Jim Garman Jeffrey Cox Dan Ignosci (573) 443-5516 (H) (806) 681-5077 Fort Worth, Texas Miami San Clemente, Calif. (573) 999-9162 (C) (806) 463-5773 fax Mitch Mele Kurt Reichenbach Robin Johnson Rochelle Park, N.J. Northumberland, Forest Lake, Minn. Director of Umpiring Division III Bill Speck Penn. Steve Koneski Tom Hiler George Drouches Modesto, Calif. Mike McCray Dighton, Mass. PO Box 777 P.O. Box 27641 Frank Sylvester Tuscaloosa, Ala. Todd Olinger Mountain Home, ID 83647 Golden Valley, Minn. 55427 Philadelphia Scott Taylor Galesburg, Ill. Indianapolis [email protected] [email protected] Tony Walsh Gary Shingleton 208-598-5558 Cell (952) 541-1400 Memphis, Tenn. Butler, Penn. 208-587-5416 Fax (612) 432-5351 (C) David Wiley Greg Woodle (952) 593-8369 fax Buda, Texas Mechanicsville, Va.

2 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide Background Check Program FAQs 1. Will my background check most high-profile events, so the character of the officials information be accepted if Deadline to Submit Background Check: completed online after the is important. The NCAA deadline date? takes very seriously it’s No. The online system will February 13, 2009 obligation to do everything be active only during the necessary to prevent dates noted on the log-in the entity that will provide women’s basketball officials gambling scandals from page for each sport. No information to the NCAA. have undergone background occurring. information can be The release absolves the checks since 1999. As part of submitted electronically after entity (i.e., person or the recommendations from 8. Are there background check the deadline date. organization) from liability the NCAA Sports Wagering programs in which coaches by the official (except for Task Force, baseball and and student-athletes 2. Can I still submit my gross negligence). The men’s ice hockey officials participate? background check forms in language assures the entity have been required to Coaches and student-athletes paper format? that it is free to provide the undergo background checks must abide by NCAA Bylaw No. No paper forms will be requested information since the 2005-06 season. The 10.3, which states, in part, accepted. All information without fear of legal action. NCAA Division I Football that an individual may not must be submitted using the Some officials have Issues Committee wager on a college or online background check speculated that this waiver recommended that professional sports contest. system. language applies to the background checks be Each institution is NCAA, but that is not true required for officials responsible for ensuring that its representatives comply 3. Will officials who are except in the unlikely event working postseason football selected for a full background that the NCAA itself is asked bowl games beginning in with this important check be notified? to provide background 2006. These championships provision. I Yes. Officials will be notified information. and postseason football bowl in advance of the full games are the Association’s background check 6. Do repeated credit checks procedure. You will be damage an individual’s credit required to sign an rating? additional release to Repeated credit checks do reconfirm your consent for not damage an individual’s Changing Calls the background check to credit rating. Consumer Two rules were passed for opposing coach is entitled proceed. Officials will be reporting agencies are 2009-10 that deal with the to an explanation of what provided the information controlled by 15 U.S.C. 1681, procedure and types of happened. generated by the which limits the manner in calls that are subject to In dealing with background check. which credit reports can be being changed by reversing calls, the NCAA distributed and used. The umpires. rulebook has a full section 4. If I sign the release form, will United States Congress The first deals with dealing with the my employer, neighbors or included several procedural crew conferences (3-6e). importance of getting the friends be contacted safeguards within the statute Once the umpiring crew calls right (Appendix E). automatically? to ensure that consumer has granted a request to In that section, the No. Interviews will be reporting agencies do not “get together” and discuss book lists potential calls conducted only if there is misuse, redistribute, damage a call, the coach who that could be reversed by information indicating or limit an individual’s objected is to return to the the umpiring crew. possible involvement in credit rating due to repeated before the crew However, some calls sports wagering issues or a checks. The NCAA’s gets together. Once the cannot be reversed felony. requests for credit decision has been made, without creating larger information will fall within the same coach is not problems. One new 5. Please explain the the statutory requirements. allowed to leave the example of that type of contracted agency release of dugout again or continue call is a ball that has been liability. 7. What sports require game to argue the call. ruled foul. A ball that has Indemnification language: officials to undergo However, if the call been ruled foul cannot be The “contracted agency” in background checks? was reversed, the changed. I the release language refers to The Division I men’s and

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 3 Ejection Penalty, Umpire Protection Clarified Several minor changes were A second approved leaving the parking lot. point while the umpires are made to the rules concerning ruling for 3-6d gives the While limits remain on still present at the facility. ejections, including where guideline for an ejected protests and other game- Game personnel can be ejected personnel must go, person returning to the field related activities, coaches or issued a post-participation when they may return and after the game. An ejected other personnel are not ejection at any point while for the purpose of person is not allowed to permitted to get a “free the umpires are on the confrontations, when the return to the dugout, field or shot” at umpires at any premises. I jurisdiction of the umpiring grandstands until the crew ends. umpiring crew has been It has been the rule for escorted to the dressing area. several years that ejected Violators will serve an individuals shall be out of additional one-game sight and sound of the suspension in addition to contest. According to an any other suspension that Checked Swings approved ruling for 2009 (3- may apply. In a clarification for 2009, coaches may face ejection without warning 6d AR 1), sight and sound That ruling was added if they leave the dugout or their position in order to argue a checked shall mean that the ejected since there was a problem swing. It has long been a rule that coaches could be warned for arguing person(s) cannot view the with ejected personnel balls and strikes (checked swings included) and ejected if the argument contest, cannot communicate returning as soon as the persisted. with their team nor be where game ended and resuming In the past, the practice has been that coaches would be warned the umpires may hear them. an argument with the before facing ejection for leaving their position to argue checked It may still be possible umpires. swings. Play: With a 1-1 , B4 takes a half-swing at a , which the for the ejected person(s) to Lastly, a change in when umpire rules a ball. Upon appeal, the base umpire calls a strike on the be able to hear the sounds of an umpire’s jurisdiction ends swing. Without leaving his position, the coach for the offensive team the game; however, they (3-6k) was made to protect begins to yell in objection at the call. Ruling: The coach may not be must be outside the confines the umpires from immediately ejected for arguing the since he did not leave his position. He can be ejected for other unsportsmanlike acts of the playing field and confrontations or other even if he does not leave his position. However, he can be warned for grandstands. improper conduct until after arguing balls and strikes and ejected if he continues to argue following the warning.

™ Base Coaches territory than the edge of PlayPic continued from p. 1 the coach’s box nearest the field. For the first coach for team A declares violation, a coach is that he will not occupy warned. A further the coaching box, but give violation results in the signals and direct runners coach being ejected (1-3C from his dugout. Ruling AR). 2: Illegal. NCAA rules Both the rule and the state that the coaching approved ruling were boxes shall be occupied passed with the idea of (5-2b). The third-base enhancing the safety of coach must occupy the base coaches, who are box while wearing the often assisting runners proper helmet. and may not be directing At the time of the their attention to the pitch, a coach must batter at the time of the position himself no closer pitch. Additionally, the to home plate than the rule change eliminates the front edge of the coach’s possibility of a coach box and no closer to fair being outside the box and interfering with play. I

4 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide Flashback: 2008 Rules Changes Revisited Many umpires objected to Eligible players (1-16c) doing the mandatory bat- The rule restricting the and-helmet check in NCAA personnel that may occupy a games because they didn’t dugout during a game, has want to go into the dugout been expanded to include and deal with a coach prior the . Only eligible to the game. players in uniform and other That worry is no longer authorized personnel (e.g., relevant after the NCAA trainers) may occupy a Baseball Rules Committee team’s dugout or bullpen. eliminated that Disqualified players or other responsibility as part of the non-game personnel are not 2008 rule changes. permitted on the field and B I L L

There were very few N that change has been the I C H O L changes to the playing rules, S policy previously in the as the committee focused NCAA head coaches are now required to attend the home plate postseason. most of the significant meeting for all non-conference games and the first game of any changes on administrative conference . The change allows umpires, such as plate umpire Ejections (2-Ejection) matters. Steve Mattingly, Peoria, Ariz., and base umpires Mark Denzin, A who receives a Tucson, Ariz., and Kelly Gonzales, Las Vegas, to know who the head coaches are and ensures that the head coaches are aware of all post-participation ejection Bat and helmet checks (4-1a) at the start of a game or series. for unsportsmanlike actions That pregame duty has been will receive a four-game taken out of the hands of the Umpires must remain coach crosses the foul line. suspension instead of a one- umpires. Instead, coaches vigilant for helmets that are The end of such a conference game suspension. That will be asked during the cracked. If a batter comes to has been changed to when a change only applies to post- pregame meeting to certify the plate with a helmet that coach leaves the dirt circle or participation ejections and to that all bats and helmets are is cracked, he must replace the pitcher begins his eight who are ejected legal. the helmet before continuing warmup pitches. after being removed from There has been an his . The committee has made the contest and not to increased emphasis on the pace of the game a point ejections that occur during umpires maintaining proper Pregame meeting (4-4a) of emphasis for the 2008 the game. relationships with coaches The head coach is now season and that change was and having umpires enter made to help such pace. required to attend the Approved rulings both dugouts to check bats pregame plate conference for While not a significant and helmets for legality does the first game of a weekend Jackets (1-14f) change to the rules, not start the relationship in series or any non-conference While the regular game approved rulings were an optimal fashion. game. jersey is still preferred, a added in several cases to Also, the printed That change is to ensure coach is now allowed to clarify how umpires should certification on NCAA bats the umpires are aware who wear an external jacket while handle certain situations that has resulted in very few bats the head coach is and that coaching the bases. may arise during game. being deemed illegal. That, both head coaches clearly Previously, a coach in the coupled with the fact that understand the ground coaching box was required not all bats and helmets are Ejections (3-6h AR 2) rules. The identity of the to have the official game The words, “checked swing” available to umpires in the head coach is significant jersey as the outermost were removed from this rule dugout before the game, has because only the head coach garment. A legal jacket must and an approved ruling was reduced the usefulness of the is allowed to leave his include the team’s official added that states if a coach check. position to discuss a play logo and be consistent with or manager leaves the Coaches continue to have with an umpire. the team’s uniform color and dugout or their position to the right to challenge a bat apparel if it is going to be argue a checked swing, they as illegal and umpires Pitching changes (9-4d) worn in the coaching box. If shall be ejected without maintain the option to spot A trip to the mound, which both base coaches are warning. A checked swing is check questionable bats may include a conference wearing jackets, they must a ball or a strike and is to be when the batter enters the with all or just the be uniform. box. pitcher, begins when the (see Flashback p. 12)

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 5 PlayPic™ Charged Conferences Several changes were made that was remaining and one to the rules concerning that was granted because charged conferences. the game went extra Each team is now . limited to a total of three Also, two rules offensive and three concerning defensive defensive conferences per conferences (9-4b AR 1, 9- game (6-5f). If the game 4d) were clarified. They goes into , a now state that a trip to the team will receive one mound begins when a coach additional offensive and crosses the foul line. Also, if defensive conference to use a coach goes to the plate plus any unused ones from umpire to announce a the first nine innings. pitching change after Play: Team A has used already making one trip in two offensive conferences. that , a second trip is The game is tied after nine charged when the change is innings. Ruling: Team A has recorded on the lineup card. three free trips that a team moved to a defensive two offensive conferences to Although that second trip gets during a game, it does position from returning to use in extra innings — one does not count as one of the prohibit a pitcher who is pitch in that game. I

Pace of Play make it a better game to be Batter’s box rule (7-1c) will almost assuredly put continued from p. 1 a part of and to watch. The very beginning of an end to that. If umpires “Certainly, the time the rule states its purpose: are consistent in enforcing want to take away from the between pitches will fall “This rule is designed to the rule as intended, a integrity of the game or into that area. We’re looking speed up play by penalty strike will be a make it a race, however, we for coaches to help us out controlling the actions of measure that is effective in do want to cut some areas on that. We certainly don’t the batter between pitches.” improving the game’s pace where it can be cut.” want things be called as The rule is not absolute and rarely needed. Exactly how long a penalties, so what we’d like that a strike must be called game lasts is out of an to have happen is for if the batter leaves the box. Time between innings (9-2i) umpire’s control. There are people to pick it up a notch. His actions must delay the The rule specifies that a days when teams use eight Maybe penalties will have game. As the plate umpire, pitcher gets one minute pitchers each and there are to be called in order to get it preventive officiating such between innings to days when offenses put the done. It’s just a matter of as encouraging batters not complete his warmup first good pitch into play conditioning ourselves to be to leave or to get right back throws — five for a and you get a two-hit 1-0 a little more efficient.” into the box will prevent a returning pitcher, eight for shutout. While the committee is penalty strike from being a new pitcher. Umpires do That being said, the concerned about the length called. not need to pull out a committee is not concerned of games, it does not want However, umpires watch in order to enforce with the time of the game, rules ignored or shortcuts should not spend the entire that rule. When the third but more importantly that taken. game cajoling batters to out is made, if the the pace of the game is With that in mind, here stay put. If a particular defensive team promptly improved. Eliminating long is a review of some of the batter or team is takes the field and the delays between pitches, rules that deal with the pace consistently pushing the pitcher starts his throws batters and innings will not of play: limit, one penalty strike (see Pace of Play p. 7) only shorten the game but

Major portions of this newsletter are protected by copyrights of Referee Enterprises, Inc., Acknowledgments and are used by permission. Copying in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written consent from ® ® Authors contributing to the 2008 NCAA Baseball Preseason Guide: Matt Moore, Referee associate editor; Referee Enterprises, Inc., and the NCAA. PLAYPIC and MECHANIGRAM are a registered trademarks of Mark Uyl, East Lansing, Mich.; Jon Bible, Austin, Texas and George Demetriou, Colorado Springs, Colo. Referee Enterprises, Inc. Graphics and layout by Matt Bowen, Referee graphic designer.

6 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide Time Plays: Does the Score? In baseball, a time play is not Regardless of any “time grounds to F5 who boots the No runs score because R3 is formally defined in the rulebook, play,” a run cannot be scored ball. The ball rolls toward called out on appeal for the but is generally understood to if a runner advances to home second base. R2 sees F5 third out. R2 cannot score occur when the runner crosses during a play on which the approach and decides to since R3 did not legally the plate at approximately third out is made by the retreat. Recognizing the advance to home plate. the same time as the third out batter-runner before he futility of his retreat, R2 If a runner forced to is made at another base. The touches first base (9-1-1 Exc changes his mind and advance without liability to sequence of events determines a). The following play continues his advance. F5 be put out while the ball is whether the run scores. illustrates that example. recovers the ball and live, advances past the Play 1: With R2 on second Play 3: With R3 on third attempts to tag R2 who is awarded base and is put out and two out, B4 singles and and R1 on first and two out, called out for leaving the for the third out, before a is out at second trying to B7 swings halfway at an 0-2 baseline. R3’s run is counted. preceding runner, also forced stretch the base hit. R2 scores. pitch which is called a ball. Ruling 4: R2 is the third out to advance, touches home, B4’s out occurs (a) before, or F2 throws to second to catch on a and the run the run counts. That is not a (b) after R1 scores. Ruling 1: R1 stealing. R1 stops and gets does not score. time play. When a run is In (a), the run does not score, in a . R3 scores Finally, a run cannot be forced home, the only but it does in (b). before R1 is tagged out. The scored if a preceding runner requirement is the runner The following is often half swing is then appealed is declared out on appeal for advance and touch home (9- misinterpreted to be a force and the base umpire says B7 missing a base or leaving too 1-1). play, but is a time play. swung. B7 is declared out. soon (5-6c Exc 3). When such Play 6: With bases loaded Play 2: With R3 on third Ruling 3: Although R3 a preceding runner is and two out, B4 walks, but and R1 on first and one out, scored on what was then a appealed, the out is R2 is overzealous and B6 hits a line drive into the time play, the appeal and considered to have occurred overruns third base. He is gap. R3 holds and R1 runs. subsequent for the at the time of the infraction. tagged on a throw from F2 The ball is caught; R3 tags as third out negates the run. No Play 5: With R3 on third before R3 touches the plate. R1 attempts to return to first. run scores. and R2 on second and one Ruling 6: R3’s run scores. The ball is returned to first Also, a run cannot be out, B1 flies out. R3 leaves The award of the base (a) before, or (b) after R3 scored if any runner is forced early on the tag and R2 supersedes the out for scores. Ruling 2: In (a), the out (5-6c Exc 2). scores on an overthrow to the overrunning the base. I run does not score, but it Play 4: With the bases plate. An appeal is made at does in (b). loaded and two out, B4 third base on R3. Ruling 5:

Pace of Play to have a backup standard procedure for Once at the mound, if continued from p. 6 ready to go. When the handling both offensive the coach is finishing his starting catcher (who and defensive conferences. point, let that happen. He immediately, he will easily should be hustling to get By maintaining that, games will see you have arrived complete the task inside of ready) comes out, he will not tend to bog down and know that his time is one minute. However, if the should get no extra pitches in meetings. limited. If he continues or is team lollygags — the at the start of an inning. Teams are limited to saying nothing, ask him if catcher walks to the plate It is a drastic step to three free defensive he is making a change or is and the pitcher takes reduce a pitcher’s warmup conferences in a regulation ready to go. Once the coach forever to get out of the throws between innings, game (9-4a). No defensive leaves the mound, jog dugout — you can but warnings are only conference should be briskly back to the home reasonably assume that effective if there is a allowed to go on forever. plate area and be ready by more than one minute has penalty to back it up. A When time is requested and the time the coach is in the passed. team should be warned granted, the plate umpire dugout and all players are When the catcher makes once and then action must should mark his lineup in place. The game should the third out or is otherwise be taken. card with the conference not be waiting on you. not ready to receive the and wait a very brief time Offensive conferences warmup pitches, it is Conferences before walking out to the (6-5f) are also limited to incumbent on the defense Umpires should have a mound. (see Pace of Play p. 9)

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 7 Proper Field Markings Required The rule in place requires MechaniGram™ MechaniGram™ that a field be properly and completely marked, 5’ including the batter’s, 15’ catcher’s and coach’s boxes. The fields 20’ must be lined before 3 foot running lane each game, including must start 45 feet Coach’s box the second game of a from the plate. . Among the problems are that teams are lining the batter’s boxes too close to the plate, allowing batters the opportunity to be hit by an inside pitch without moving. Each batter’s box must be completely drawn (all four sides). Additionally, the If possible, the umpires and (more commonly known as Umpires should verify the batter’s box shall be six home team should direct the the 45-foot line). It has been field is properly marked inches away from the nearest grounds crew to complete the reported that some schools before starting a game and edge of home plate. The boxes. The game should not are either not drawing the do whatever is possible to catcher’s box is the same size be forfeited as a result of running lane or are starting it make any corrections to as a batter’s box (four feet improper boxes if they can’t much farther from home improper markings. A report wide and six feet deep) and be fixed. However, the plate than required. from the umpires to a must also be drawn in. umpires should notify their Play 2: During a game, conference coordinator Play 1: A game is being conference coordinator of the the three-foot restraining line should be made if lines are played between two schools game being played on an has disappeared. Ruling 2: improperly drawn or are at the local minor league improperly marked field. The umpires must use their missing; however, games professional stadium. That Another field marking best judgment in order to should not be forfeited for stadium’s ground crew lined that has caused an issue is rule on plays affecting that improper field markings. I the field with the pro-style the three-foot restraining line line. half-batter’s boxes. Ruling 1:

PlayPic™ Off Bat Twice: The rule concerning when the ball hits the bat in the batter’s box a second time while the batter still has hold of the bat has been clarified. As long as the bat remains in the batter’s hand(s) and the batter is still in the box, the ball shall be ruled foul (7- 7e). While that call has been the common one during games, the rule change adds written support to that practice. I

8 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide Ball Out of Play: Make the Right Base Award When a fair leaves to fill in the area immediately worthy of a two-base award. batter to be awarded two the playing field , it is in front of the plate with dirt The challenge is whether to bases is when his fair batted out of play. Since it's a home and tamp it down to prevent make the award from the base ball bounces and passes over, run, there is nothing for the that from happening. There is occupied at the time of the through or under a fence; into umpires to do except signal it. no reason the umpire should pitch or the throw. Please note the stands or other dead-ball In all other cases in which a object to that. the time of throw is when the area; or sticks in the fence. fair batted ball goes out of A pitch might also ball is released by the fielder Included in the rule are play, the umpires must place rebound from the catcher's or and not the time the ball deflected balls. Also, a fair ball the runners. A ball may be umpire's protective gear and becomes dead. in flight that passes through or declared dead as a result of a roll into the dugout. That is The award is made from under a fence or sticks in the pitch or a throw, or when it is also a one-base award. the time of pitch when two fence is treated similarly (8- batted. However, if a fielder conditions are met: The throw 3n1). Pitched balls. When a (normally a catcher) is was the first play by an Spectator . pitch leaves the playing field, attempting to field a pitch and and at least one When a spectator interferes any runners on base advance deflects or kicks it into dead- runner, including the batter- with a batted ball, the umpire one base. If the pitch was also ball territory, the result is a runner, did not advance at imposes a penalty that, in his ball four, the batter-runner two-base award. The award is least one base at the time of opinion, nullifies the act of receives the , but normally made from the time the throw. That is the most interference. The runner is not given an additional of the pitch, however an likely scenario. If both of those should be placed where he award. approved ruling (8-3o AR2) events don't happen, the would have been had the There are several ways a states that if the ball had award is from the position of interference not occurred. In pitch could exit live-ball stopped rolling or it was clear the runners at the time of the order for spectator territory. Perhaps the most the ball would not roll into throw (8-3k) interference to be called, the common is by going dead-ball territory when the Batted balls. Awards on ball has to be in the field of underneath or through the new impetus was applied, the batted balls are almost always play. If a fan interferes with a backstop. On occasion, a pitch award is made from the time made from the time of the fielder who is reaching into may hit the front edge of the of the act. pitch; other runners advance the stands or other areas that plate and bound over the Thrown balls. Balls that to the bases they are forced. are out of play, there is no backstop. Some like are thrown out of play are The most likely way for a interference. I

Pace of Play conference when the game begin immediately. bullpen once it is obvious is delayed. The rule was As soon as a coach he is the one coming into continued from p. 7 put in place to limit the heads toward the mound, the game. three in a regulation game. amount of delays caused by the plate umpire should A 2008 rule change Those conferences must be the offensive team. attempt to immediately states that “a trip to the charged and noted anytime find out who the new mound, which may include a coach meets with anyone Mid-inning pitching changes pitcher will be. At the same a conference with the from his team and delays The defensive team may time, the appropriate base infielders, is concluded the game. There is no limit use only one of its umpire should determine when a coach leaves the on using all three defensive conferences in an where the reliever is dirt circle or the pitcher conferences in the same inning to talk with the coming from. If there are begins his eight warmup inning, but pitching same pitcher (9-4b). All two relievers warming up pitches” (9-4d). restrictions still apply. The umpires must be aware in the bullpen, make certain same procedure of when the second visit is you are calling for the Non-rule based pace issues recording a conference and about to take place. correct pitcher. There are several things then waiting a brief time A second trip to the If the new reliever is that an umpire can do that before breaking it up same pitcher is not a already making his way aren’t based in the rules to should be followed. By charged defensive into the game, then the improve pace. rule, an umpire must notify conference, therefore, there umpire does not have to do The first is to get the ball a coach when an offensive is no reason to allow the anything. However, a back into play as quickly as conference is charged. coach any extra time at the reliever should not be possible. As soon as a ball is It is incumbent upon mound. The process of permitted to make obviously foul, have a new umpires to charge a making the change should additional pitches in the (see Pace of Play p. 15)

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 9 Test Your Rules Knowledge

In each of the following, you upholds the protest and d. If a runner touches the any pregame activity at the are given a question or play orders the game to be base on the lastQuiz time by, any site of competition. situation and four possible replayed: other misses of the base are answers. You are to decided a. Team A’s head coach negated. 8. About the 10-run rule: which answer is correct using may return since the game is a. A scheduled nine-inning 2009 NCAA rules. Solutions: resumed from the fourth 6. In the definition of game may be ended after six p. 11 inning when he was still in the , there is no innings by conference rule or game. provision for which of the mutual agreement of 1. Which of the following is b. Team A’s head coach is following type of obstruction: coaches. not true about appeals? still ejected, but just for that a. Verbal obstruction. b. A scheduled seven- a. An appeal can be the game. He does not have to b. Visual obstruction. inning game may be ended act of a player or coach serve any suspension. c. Catcher’s obstruction. after five innings by claiming a violation of the c. Team A’s head coach d. Fielder’s obstruction. conference rule or mutual rules by the opposing team. may not return. All ejections agreement of coaches. b. There are specific and suspensions stand, 7. A suspended player: c. As long as seven rules about appeals for the before or after protests. a. May be in uniform in innings have been played, the bat, base coach, checked d. The conference office the dugout during the game. game is over at any point swing, batting out of order decides the penalty that must b. May be in the dugout, that one team is ahead by 10 and a runner. be served by the head coach, but cannot be in uniform, or more runs. c. An appeal can be the if any. during the game. d. Seven-inning games act of a player or coach c. May sit in the bullpen may not be shortened by use claiming a misinterpretation 4. Who can be guilty of and communicate with his of the 10-run rule. of the rules by the umpires. interference? teammates. d. All of the above a. An offensive player. d. May not take part in statements are true. b. An umpire. c. A spectator. 2. Which of the following is d. All of the above. true about the : 5. Which of the following is a. The DH may bat in any not true about “Last time by”? spot in the order. a. “Last time by” governs b. The DH may bat for a runner’s actions when only for the starting pitcher. returning to the original base c. A team must use a DH occupied at the time of the throughout a game. pitch. d. The pitcher cannot also b. “Last time by” deals be the DH. with defensive conferences to the mound and what happens 3. Team A’s head coach when a coach crosses or re- protests the game in the crosses the foul line. fourth inning. In the seventh c. “Last time by” governs inning, Team A’s head coach a runner’s actions when is ejected after making advancing to an awarded contact with the home plate base. umpire. The conference office

Plate umpire Chuck Busse, Houston, along with partners Larry King (left), Houston and Danny Mascorro, Friendswood, Texas attend the pregame meeting at home plate. Question 11 deals with the requirements of the pregame meeting. N O T S N H O J

H T I

10 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide E K 9. The time of the pitch is d. Umpires should arrive the final say about all ground 14. What is the determining when: at the game site at least 30 rules. factor when it comes to a. The pitcher releases minutes before game time. c. Ground rules may be checked swings: the ball. adopted where unusual a. The batter breaks his b. The pitch is hit or 11. About the pregame conditions prevail. wrists. caught by the catcher. meeting: d. All of the above are b. The barrel head of the c. When the pitcher a. It should begin five true. bat crosses any part of home makes any movement minutes before the scheduled plate habitually connected with the starting time. 13. About a catch: c. The barrel head of the delivery to the plate in the set b. A lineup that is a. In establishing the bat crosses the front edge of position. submitted with an obvious validity of a catch, the fielder home plate or the batter’s d. When the pitcher (for example, only eight shall demonstrate complete front hip. separates his hands starting players listed) may not be control of the ball and that d. Whatever the umpire the delivery to the plate in the corrected. the release of the ball was decides. set position. c. The umpires are in involuntary and unintentional. charge of the game when the b. If the fielder has made 15. If an fly ball is 10. About umpires: meeting starts. the catch and drops the ball intentionally dropped: a. Each umpire has the d. It should include a while in the act of making a a. The ball is dead authority to rule on any point reminder and review of rules throw after the catch, the ball immediately. not specifically covered in the concerning dugout control, shall be judged to have been b. The infield fly rules. the batter’s box rule, bench caught. provisions take precedence. b. Only the umpire-in-chief jockeying and the force-play c. It is a legal catch if c. The intentionally has the authority to rule on rule. both feet are touching dead dropped ball provisions take any point not specifically ball territory when the catch precedence. covered in the rules. 12. About ground rules: is made. d. The umpires will c. Logos or insignias not a. Any rule can be d. If a fielder falls over declare the batter out for the related to collegiate baseball changed as long as both the fence after making a infield fly and the lead runner are permissible in non- coaches agree. catch, then the catch is out for the intentionally conference games. b. The home coach has nullified. dropped ball. I

Answers 1. d (2-1) 2. a (2-21, 7-2c) 3. c (2-26 AR 1) 4. d (2-50) 5. b (2-51) 6. a (2-54) 7. d (2-73) 8. d (2-75) 9. d (2-78) 10. a (3-6a note, 3-6b, 3-6c) 11. d (4-4a, 4-4b) 12. c (4-5) 13. b (2-15) 14. c (2-18) 15. b (2-47 AR1)

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 11 Flashback Interference (8-7a3 AR 2) continued from p. 5 Flagrant or malicious contact causes the ball to become treated the same as any dead immediately. If such other ball or strike. contact is made by a runner before he touches the plate, the runner is out and ejected. Pitching (9-2d AR 2) In cold weather, the umpire The ball is dead immediately may announce to both teams and all other runners return that it is permissible for the to the bases they occupied at pitcher to blow on his hand, the time of the interference. K

E Also, if the contact is after on or off the rubber. That I T H J O the runner safely touches was added because some H N S T

O home, the run counts, but umpires were unsure if it N the ball still becomes dead was legal. A change to the approved ruling for 8-2-d2 in 2008 deleted the words “makes no attempt to avoid the pitch” from the ruling to immediately and all other eliminate a contradiction in the ruling from the actual rule. runners return to the base Ball in/out of play (8-3o4 AR) The new ruling was added they had last touched prior for situations in which a player, interference is the Pitching changes (5-2c AR) to the contact. pitch or thrown ball goes call. If the fielder is chasing In order to help the pace of after the deflected batted ball the game and to limit bench into dead-ball territory after (8-2-d2 AR) the ball has stopped rolling and contact is made between jockeying, umpires are The wording “makes no or it is clear that the ball will the two players, obstruction instructed to make sure attempt to avoid the pitch” not roll into dead-ball should be the call. players stay in the dugout has been deleted from the territory and a new impetus area during pitching ruling to eliminate a is applied to the ball by a Dugouts (1-16b AR 1-3) changes. contradiction in the ruling defensive player. The award Three approved rulings were from the actual rule. The batter is awarded first is two bases from the time of added to go along with last Halted game (5-5b AR 2-4) the act. year’s effort to clean up the The halted game rule has base if he or his clothing is Play 1: With R1 on first, number of players that were allowed teams to ensure that touched by a pitch that he is the pitcher uncorks a wild on the field. games stopped for any not attempting to hit. The batter is required to make an pitch that is deflected near If the dugouts are reason are picked up at the attempt to avoid the pitch; his team’s dugout. As F2 extended, players will not be point of interruption, as however, if the batter freezes, scrambles to recover the ball, allowed on the home plate opposed to having them be he is hit by a pitch that is he slides and inadvertently side of either dugout; extra replayed or declared clearly inside the vertical kicks the ball into dead-ball on-deck hitters may not finished. lines of the batter’s box and territory. Had F2 not kicked swing bats in any dugout Three rulings were added the umpire rules there was the ball, it would not have extension. Any dead-ball to clean up that rule. A area on the home plate side substitute becomes a player nothing he could do to get gone into dead-ball territory. out of the way, he is awarded Ruling 1: R1 is awarded two of any dugout that is used when he has been reported for ball persons may not be to the plate umpire and the first. bases from the time of the Play 2: used by any uniformed new player is written into The pitch is kick. If R1 had reached thrown into the middle of the player. the plate umpire’s lineup second before the ball was batter’s box and hits B1. The In 2007, the rule was card. Also, if a pitcher is kicked, he would be pitch is (a) a and the changed to allow only one brought into the game, but awarded home. batter freezes, taking the on-deck hitter and to create has not faced one batter or pitch in his back, or (b) a an area behind home plate retired the side when the slow curve on which the Interference (2-50 AR 5) game is stopped for weather, The committee gave umpires that was off limits for batter holds his ground, a clearer guideline to offensive personnel. the pitcher may, but is not allowing the pitch to hit his distinguish between Any base runners, batter, required to, continue sleeve. Ruling 2: In either interference and obstruction. and the on-deck batter are pitching when the game is case, the ball is dead. In (a), if If a fielder chases after a the only players that can resumed. Finally, no player the umpire judges B1 could deflected batted ball ahead legally be out of the dugout removed for a substitute not have avoided the pitch, of a runner’s arrival and is as a new pitcher is prior to the suspension of he is awarded first. In (b), B1 in the act of picking up the completing his eight warm- play may return to the remains and a ball is ball (fielding) when contact up pitches. lineup when the game is added to the count. is made by an offensive resumed. (see Flashback p.14)

12 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide Don’t Let Batting Out of Order Cause Problems There’s no doubt that batting Frank’s turn. With a 1-2 out of order situations can count, the defensive coach get tricky. The defense has to appeals that Frank should be recognize the offense’s hitting. Ruling 1: After mistake and bring it to the confirming that Frank umpire’s attention at exactly should indeed be the proper the right time for any batter, the umpire should penalty to be enforced. direct Frank to complete that It is a situation that at bat with a 1-2 count. happens very infrequently as well, which means that Defense appeals too late when it does occur, there is If the defense waits until the possibility that the after a pitch has been made umpire would not have seen to the next batter to make its it in a while and will need to appeal, then the improper think the play through in batter is considered legal order to get it right. and no appeal shall be One of the most granted. The same holds true important steps in dealing if the defense makes any with lineups occurs at the play or attempted play (such pregame meeting. A as a or throw). thorough review of the Play 2: After Daniel singles lineup card presented by when Charles should have both head coaches can help been batting, Edward takes avoid problems later in the his place in the batter’s box game. and takes the first pitch for a The plate umpire should ball. At that time, the check for any double names, defense appeals. Ruling 2: double defensive positions Once a pitch has been

or double numbers. Only the D thrown to Edward, Daniel is A L E names of all players and the G recognized as a proper A R V E positions of the starting Y batter. There is no penalty pitcher and designated hitter for the infraction. Charles’ A coach reviews a lineup issue with umpire Walt Russell, Woodinville, are official. If the lineup card Wash. In order to be penalized, an appeal for batting out of order turn in the order is skipped, is not clear, the plate umpire must be made at the proper time. and Edward, who follows should clarify any potential Daniel, is now the correct errors before moving call the proper batter out out-of-order situations and batter. forward with the rest of the and nullify any advances by their proper outcome. For pregame meeting. runners that happened as a the sake of all plays Proper appeal made Once the game begins, the result of the improper discussed, the offensive If the defense appeals at onus falls to the defensive batter’s actions while team’s is Abel, the correct time, the proper coach for appealing batting batting. Baker, Charles, Daniels, batter is the one called out out of order. If he appeals Any advance that occurs Edwards, Frank, George, and all offensive advances as too soon, there is no as a result of the improper Hooker and Irwin. a result of the improper significant penalty. And if he batter hitting the ball and batter are erased. Play 3: appeals too late, there is no With Irwin on first base, putting it into play (base hit, Defense appeals too early penalty at all. , defensive error) If the defense appeals Baker bats instead of Abel The proper time for an are nullified. However, if any before the improper batter and doubles. Irwin scores on appeal is when the wrong runners advanced due to completes his time at bat, the the hit. Immediately after the batter has completed his at- stolen bases, passed balls, only penalty is to bring the play ends, the defensive bat and before the first pitch or wild pitches, those proper batter to the plate. coach appeals. Ruling 3: to the next batter of either advances are legal and are The proper batter assumes Abel (the proper batter) is team. If the appeal is done not negated by the infraction. the count. Play 1: George called out, Irwin is returned correctly, the penalty is to Here are several batting- comes to bat when it is (see Batting Order p.15)

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 13 The Ins and Outs of the Infield Fly The was conditions suggest that There is no restriction on Don’t call an infield fly instituted in professional “ordinary effort” have which umpire should initiate too soon, especially on a baseball in 1901 to prevent occurred. If, in your the infield fly call, but the windy day. A “late” call is chicanery by the defensive judgment, an infielder could plate umpire must originate better than an “early” call or team. The rule is designed to not have caught the ball with the call if the fly ball is near a an erroneous “no call.” If the prevent the defensive team ordinary effort, don’t call an foul line. On a fly ball near ball is dropped by a fielder from garnering an infield fly. either foul line the plate or falls safely to the ground, undeserved . An infield fly can be umpire will straddle the foul both umpires should Always keep that axiom in called when an outfielder line and call, “Infield fly, if emphatically call, “Infield fly! mind. moves under the ball fair!” The base umpire will The batter’s out! The batter’s The infield fly rule is in providing an infielder could then echo the call. still out!” effect when there are runners have caught the ball with Some crews prefer to have If necessary, repeat your on first and second or when ordinary effort. For that rule, the plate umpire first make call for the benefit of both the bases loaded with less consider that the pitcher and the infield fly call when the teams. Give both teams the than two outs. Before the catcher are infielders. ball is in front of an infielder information they need to declaring an infield fly, make Remember, a or line with the base umpire properly play the game. No, sure an infielder is settled drive cannot be ruled an initiating the call when the that isn’t considered comfortably under the ball infield fly. However, don’t ball is overhead or behind coaching. Your duty is to and has virtually stopped miss that little humpback him. However, if you judge inform both teams that the moving. Usually that will liner that could result in an the play an infield fly, don’t batter is out on the play and occur when the infielder is undeserved double play for be shy. Step up and the ball is live. Also, be alert facing home plate and the the defensive team. A batted assertively make the infield for any ensuing play. I ball has reached its apex or is ball with any perceptible arc fly call. It’s your judgment on the way down. Those could qualify as an infield fly. call.

Flashback advance. The defense is going to appeal. On the fielder who intentionally continued from p. 12 intends to appeal that both appeal attempt at third, the touches a ball with a cap, R3 and R1 left too soon. ball is thrown away and rolls glove, mask, helmet or any After the ball is made live, toward the stands. B1, other part of the uniform Appeals (8-6b3, AR) When the pitcher balks or F1, while off the rubber, tries standing on third, scores while detached from its any player of the defense to throw to third, but the ball easily. F5 retrieves the ball proper place, a sub- throws the ball out of play, goes into dead-ball territory. and tags third officially paragraph was added to no further appeals are The defense then announces appealing the missed base. remind umpires that the ball permitted. A clarification has it (a) wishes to appeal third Ruling 4: B1’s run scores. is delayed-dead and that any been added that if any again, or (b) wishes to The appeal is invalidated. attempt by a runner to runner advances on an appeal that R1 left first too advance beyond the attempted appeal, the soon. Ruling 3: In both (a) Pitching (9-1) awarded base is at the defense loses its right to and (b), since the defense A clarification was made for runner’s own risk. make further appeals. erred on its first attempt, all when a pitcher disengages If the defensive team errs further appeals are canceled. the rubber. The pitching Designated hitter (7-2) on an and the The term “erred” does not restrictions end when the The DH rule was altered for ball remains in live-ball refer to making an error as pivot foot makes contact clarity. If the DH is not the territory, the appeal will be would be judged by the with the ground behind the pitcher, the DH or the allowed if the ball . It refers only rubber. From the set pitcher may be moved to a immediately is returned to to the pitcher committing a position, the pitcher cannot defensive position at any the base being appealed and balk or throwing the ball separate his hands prior to time (7-2c1). Also, when a no runners have advanced into dead-ball territory. his pivot foot making contact pitcher is removed from the on the misplay. However, if Play 4: With runners on with the ground behind the , he may be any runner advances, the first and second and two rubber. immediately inserted as the appeal is disallowed. out, B1 triples, scoring both DH. That player may not re- runners. R1, however, misses Play 3: With runners on Ball in/out of play (8-3g) enter the game in any other first and third, B1 flies out to third base. F5 informs the While there was no change capacity (7-2[2] a). I center. Both runners tag and plate umpire that his pitcher to the rule that addresses a

14 2009 NCAA Baseball Guide Case Study: When Is a Catch Completed? Most baseball games, like all the player was airborne, the The first part of the The definition also other sporting events, are ball went into the glove. The definition of a catch is that it includes: “In establishing the fairly routine. The score might fielder maintained possession is “the act of a fielder in validity of the catch, the be close or it might be a rout, when he landed, but was getting secure possession in fielder shall hold the ball long but to have a situation come obviously shaken up (he was the hand of glove of a ball in enough to prove that he has up that involves knowing the removed from the game with flight and firmly holding it.” complete control of the ball rules, the interpretations and concussion symptoms before Continuing with the and that his release of the ball applying them in a matter of the next half-inning). definition: “It is not a catch, is voluntary and intentional.” seconds doesn't happen that As he remained on the however, if simultaneously or There is no disputing the often. ground, rather than removing immediately following his fact that fielder had come to a Take this play, for the ball from the glove, the contact with the ball, he stop and had the ball in his example, from the middle of fielder removed his hand collides with a player, or with possession. However, did he the past season worked by a from the glove. a wall, or if he falls down, and release the ball voluntarily crew of two umpires. It was clearly an as a result of such collision or and intentionally? Play: With runners on intentional move, as opposed falling, drops the ball.” Ruling (on the field): The second and third and two to the glove just falling or That part of the definition base umpire ruled the play a outs, B6 hit a sinking line coming off his hand. requires that a player catch for the third out and the drive into left-center field. The Before giving the ruling demonstrate that he inning ended with no runs left fielder leaped to make the that apply to that play, let's controlled the ball if he runs scoring. catch and, in effect, became breakdown the rulebook into anything or falls down, Ruling (from the parallel to the ground. While definition of a catch. which the player in the play rulebook): Under NCAA above did. He fell to the rules, the intentional and ground and maintained voluntary release of the glove Pace of Play the five hole. All three of possession of the ball after completed the catch and the continued from p. 9 those are not the intention landing and sliding several out. I of the committee when it feet. ball ready — either hand it comes to pace of play. to the catcher or throw it to The is the pitcher yourself. The defined and must be called game should be able to correctly. A 3-0 pitch is not Batting Order third. With a 1-1 count on an automatic strike any resume as if that were a continued from p. 13 Daniel, the defense normal strike. more than an 0-2 pitch is appeals that since Baker It is also imperative that an automatic ball. to first base, and Baker just batted, Charles teams work with the home Regardless of the score, (who is the batter after should bat and since he’s dugout to ensure that foul umpires should not Abel in the lineup) is the on base, the offense balls are returned to the attempt to hasten the pace next batter to hit. should be penalized with umpire in an expedient of a game by purposely an out. Ruling 4: The fashion. The plate umpire calling pitches incorrectly. Proper batter on base proper time to appeal should not have Finally, umpires must If a batting out of order would have been at the returned to him during the record all substitutions, situation goes unnoticed conclusion of each at bat middle of a player’s at-bat warnings and conferences. or unappealed, there is a — Charles could have unless he has run out Do not just call out a chance the proper batter been called out after his because of multiple foul substitution and attempt will be on base when it is base hit, but before Baker balls. to remember it for later. his time to bat. In that took a pitch. Baker could By working with a ball The inning could be long case, his turn is skipped have then been called out person or member of the or the game could be and the offense is not before Daniel took a pitch. home team to have multiple halted or suspended. That penalized. baseballs brought out Once the next batter takes could make it unlikely that Play 4: Charles and a pitch, the previous between batters, there you will remember Baker misread the lineup should not be any noticeable batter is legalized. Since multiple substitutions. Do card, and Charles bats delay when that occurs. Baker was the last proper your job, but do it with a first. Charles singles, then batter, and Charles is on purpose and the pace of Baker steps to the plate. base, Daniel is the proper Pace no-nos the game will not be Baker also singles, Call more strikes. Steal batter and no penalty is hampered. I advancing Charles to an out. 17 batting for 21 in called. I

2009 NCAA Baseball Guide 15 Calling All College Baseball Umpires It’s time to get your copy of the 2009 CCA Baseball Umpires Manual

Updated for the 2009 Season! As the only approved CCA mechanics manual available for college baseball umpires, the 2009 CCA Baseball Umpires Manual covers all the standardized mechanics and uniform techniques required. Get all this information in one resource and improve your effectiveness on the field. The 2009 manual covers: • Mechanics changes • Mechanics points of emphasis • Mechanics for crews of 2, 3, 4 and 6 umpires Bulk Discounts • Character 75 – 300: 5% • Conduct and ethics 301 – 500: 10% • General principles such as style and form of calls, 501 – 999: 15% handling situations and suspensions 1000 or more: 20% • Basic umpiring guidelines • Signals Item code: CCABS09 Retail price: $19.95 Plus – an interview with new NCAA National FREE Shipping!* Coordinator of Baseball Umpires, Gene McArtor! 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” • 248 pages With detailed coverage of all the information needed for the new season, collegiate baseball umpires will find the 2009 CCA Baseball Umpires Manual invaluable. This manual will be referenced at baseball umpire camps and clinics across the country. Get your copy and come prepared to your preseason clinic or meeting, visit !* www.referee.com/promo/G8CSBC or call 1-800-733-6100 to order today! ing ipp *Free shipping applies to standard domestic shipping within the 48 contiguous states. For expedited or Sh EE international delivery, please contact customer service 1-800-733-6100. FR G8CSBC