2015 A supplement to the NCAA • Prepared by the editors of Referee Umpires May Conference for /No Catch Decisions n expansion of the “Getting the ACall Right” principle was ap- proved by the NCAA Baseball Rules Committee during its annual meet- ing. Umpires will now be allowed to conduct a conference to change a call of “catch” to “no catch” and a call of “no catch” to “catch.” The committee approved the change in an effort to modernize the game, and to get an incorrect call changed to what should have been the correct call. Under the new rule, if a play to the originally is called a catch but is overturned by umpire conference or through video evidence, the play will be declared dead and the batter will be placed at first base. Each runner will be advanced one base from the position occupied at the time of the . If the play is overturned in foul territory, it will be ruled a and all runners will return to the Starting this season, umpires (from left) Billy VanRaaphorst, Los Angeles; Mike Conlin, Lansing, base they occupied at the time of the Mich.; Jeff Head, Birmingham Ala.; Doug Williams, College Station, Texas; and Scott Erby, pitch. Nashville, Tenn., may conduct a conference to ensure a correct call on a catch/no catch situation. On plays to the outfield that are overturned from “no catch” and tournament games currently used to decide if an apparent home to “catch,” all action prior to the to allow the umpires to conference is fair or foul; deciding whether ball being declared dead will be and reverse a call of “catch” to “no a left the playing field disallowed. The batter will be catch” or change a call of “no catch” for a or stayed in play declared and all runners returned to “catch.” Conferences may request within the field; deciding if spectator to the base they occupied at the time through the rules committee to use occurred (only on plays of the pitch. the experimental video instant replay involving home run balls); and

COURTESY OF NCAA In a related move, the committee rule. deciding if a batted ball is fair or also approved expansion of the The experimental video foul (only for specific batted balls experimental video instant replay instant replay rule currently limits outlined in the Getting the Call Right rule for conference regular season reviewable plays. Replay may be procedures). *

Published by Referee

NCAA_BS_2015.indd 1 11/19/14 10:24 AM Welcome to the 2015 Baseball Season s we begin the 2015 season, the no catch. Umpires may conference focus is the return on investment. Amaterial in this baseball guide is and change a call and place runners ArbiterSports was designed designed to provide not only infor- accordingly. This leads to another to improve the consistency of mation, but clarifications leading into topic of discussion: everyone needs officiating. The plan is to have a more the season. Umpires, I encourage you to understand that umpires should engaging Home Plate page with to keep your development materials not get help, when the rules do more development videos. for use in pregame not allow for it, just to appease a Coaches, I ask that you please discussions. Coach- coach. Umpires are not arrogant or send in plays from your games. In es, you may want unapproachable; they are simply addition, we tentatively plan to have to keep it with your following policy. semi-weekly articles by coordinators, game day materials Wellness. Many of our top advisors and umpires and a more as a quick reference umpires are reaching the time in diverse wellness section as well. as well. their lives when they need to be more Frankly, the site is untapped. It’s a As I came on cognizant of their health and fitness. perfect place to improve consistency. board this past Start the season in the best possible We all have a stake in this and we fall, I called across shape. should take advantage of technology. all divisions Ejections. Treat each other It’s just waiting for us. many coaches, with respect. After reading a large I believe regional advisor Mark George umpires and number of ejection/suspension Ditsworth said it best when he was Drouches commissioners as reports, I am hopeful that the number asked to comment on the challenge well as the Division will be significantly lower in 2015. ahead. He said, “it’s a new era in NCAA National Coordinator of I coordinators and (See Penalty Chart elsewhere in college baseball with more umpire Baseball Umpires regional advisors this guide for increased penalties). accountability.” and asked their Proper communication and timely “Do you have the right thoughts on a variety of subjects. use of a warning may prevent the character?” he asked. “Self-evaluate: Here are just a few shared consensus ejection. I want to be very clear here: Be honest. You must have an extreme comments: Umpires need to inform the ejected level of commitment. That includes Enforce the rules as written. head coach, ‘You have been ejected. finding time to stay physically fit and Incidentally, at our Baseball Umpire If you continue to argue, you will be mentally prepared. Do you have the Program coordinator meeting last subject to a two-game suspension for mobility?” June, three glaring inconsistencies prolonged arguing.” (Ejections for We’re looking for improvement. were mentioned. The 90-second rule, players and assistant coaches carry That means staying up with all the the batter’s box rule and the legal automatic one-game suspensions. changes in college baseball, knowing pitching positions. Postgame ejections result in a two- how players play and coaches coach. Umpires, you know the steps game suspension.) Are you getting better or content — the protocol with warnings, then An incident report must be filed with what you are doing? Umpiring enforcement. Coaches, if your via ncaabaseball.arbitersports.com is becoming much better. Are you is asked to comply with facing the within a few hours after the contest. willing to do all the right things to batter, free foot, pivot foot with the The conference coordinator must be continue to improve? Be courageous, windup, I am certain your pitcher contacted and game management proud and professional. Be willing to will adjust accordingly. notified of the suspension(s). The work to perfection. Can you improve Batter’s interference. The rule report will be sent to the conference on your social skills and deal with all needs to be enforced consistently. Do liaison (Division I) for any required involved? Umpiring is personality. not let batters get away with obvious action. Needless to say, reports need Can you be a leader and not a and not-so-obvious tactics. to be straight forward and accurate. controller? Conference to discuss catch/ Arbitersports.com: The See “Drouches” p. 5

Acknowledgments Major portions of this newsletter are protected by copyrights of Referee Authors contributing: Jeffrey Stern, Referee senior editor; George Drouches, Enterprises, Inc., and are used by permission. Copying in whole or in part is Golden Valley, Minnesota; Jon Bible, Austin, Texas; Mike Droll, Tipton, Iowa; and prohibited without prior written consent from Referee Enterprises, Inc., and George Demetriou, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Graphics and layout by Matt the NCAA. PlayPic® and MechaniGram® are registered trademarks of Referee Bowen, Referee graphic designer. Enterprises, Inc.

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Ejections Addressed in Penalty Chart, Rulings o more conveniently list all ejection Tcategories and their associated penalties, the NCAA Baseball Rules Committee has adopted a penalty chart that will appear in the rule book. The chart has categories with penalties based on the act and the offending participant. The chart (see p. 4) is one of several revisions or additions to rules regarding ejections and the resultant penalties. Approved Rulings 5 through 9 in Rule 2-26 have been revised and now read as follows: Rule 2-26, A.R. 5: Whenever a pitcher is ejected for disputing an umpire’s decision or for unsportsmanlike conduct toward an umpire, while serving as the current game pitcher, after having been removed from the game that is still in progress or the game has concluded and the ejection is post-participation, the suspension will be for a total of four games. If a pitcher is removed as Mark Chapman, LaPlace, Louisiana, tries to convince a coach it’s time to leave the field after a the pitcher but remains in the game in discussion. If the coach were to be ejected in this situation, he is subject to discipline spelled another capacity, the ejection is for that out in a new penalty chart approved by the NCAA. Other modifications to penalties following game plus applicable suspensions. ejections have also been instituted for 2015. Rule 2-26, A.R. 6: When an assistant coach, a player (other than themselves with prolonged actions or NCAA 2014 Ejection/Suspension Reports a pitcher) or team personnel, other offensive language after an ejection. Division I than the head coach, is ejected for Rule 2-26, A.R. 8: When applying Player 124 disputing an umpire’s decision or for the suspension rule, penalties shall unsportsmanlike conduct or language be served during the team’s next Assistant Coach 41 directed at an opponent or an umpire previously scheduled and completed Head Coach 112 (including a post-participation ejection), contest(s). If a previously scheduled Acting Head Coach 2 he will receive a one-game suspension game has been postponed or halted, Team Manager 1 in addition to the present game ejection. that make-up game against the Total: 280 45% Assistant coaches and players may originally scheduled opponent Division II not leave their position on the field shall as a regularly scheduled Player 74 or area to appeal any play on contest. Games may not be added the field. Head coaches are ultimately after the incident in order to fulfill the Assistant Coach 24 responsible for their team’s actions on requirements of this rule. Head Coach 81 the field. Although there is a difference Rule 2-26, A.R. 9: If serving multiple Total: 179 29% between a discussion and an argument, suspensions (from a fight or for any Division III participants, other than the head coach, penalty) would cause a school difficulty Player 73 shall not be the ones to represent in fielding a team for its next game Assistant Coach 20 their team in communication with the or games, the institution may request Head Coach 63

KEITH JOHNSTON umpire(s). that the suspensions be staggered by Rule 2-26, A.R. 7: No team its conference office. If the team is an Acting Head Coach 1 personnel may continue to argue or independent, the secretary-rules editor Total: 157 25% to continue to excessively express may be contacted for this purpose. * Grand Total: 616 100%

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 3 11/19/14 10:24 AM NCAA Misconduct Penalties

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Drouches Continued from p. 2 New Definition: Abandonment I would like to thank all who o umpires in defining and the game, cuts across the diamond participate in our Baseball Umpire Tinterpreting what actions should and heads toward his bench as the Program. I also want to thank the be considered as abandonment, a batter touches all the bases. Ruling: NCAA Staff, including our Division definition for that act will appear in The base runner would be called out II national coordinator, Dan Weikle. the rule book starting in 2015. for “abandoning his effort to touch Don Umland was also recently According to Rule 2-1, the next base.” The batter-runner is selected as the Division III national abandonment is the act of any runner permitted to continue around the coordinator. Thanks to Tom Hiler, who leaves the base path after bases to make his home run valid. our director of umpire training, reaching first base, heading for his If there were two outs the home run as well as all of the conference dugout or for his defensive position would not count. Unless two are out, coordinators and regional advisors believing there is no further play. The the status of the following runner is for their passion and commitment runner may be declared out if the not affected by a preceding runner’s to high-quality umpiring. umpire judges the act of the runner to failure to touch his advance base or to Finally, I would be remiss if be considered abandoning his efforts retouch a base. I did not formally thank Gene to run the bases. Even though an out Even though an out is called, the McArtor. Gene not only improved is called, the ball remains in play in ball remains in play in regard to any the objectivity of the postseason regards to any other runner. other runner. selection process, but he also Play: Less than two outs, score A runner will be called out for improved the decorum between tied, last , runner on first. The abandonment if, believing he is called umpires and coaches. Thanks Gene batter hits the ball out of the park out on a tag at first or third base, for your selfless service to college for the winning run. The runner on starts for the dugout and progresses a baseball these past six years. first touches second and, believing reasonable distance still indicating by Thanks also to Jim Paronto, the home run automatically wins his actions that he is out. * recipient of the ABCA Meritorious Service Award. That simply speaks for itself. Jim’s unprecedented 12-year term as NCAA baseball secretary-rules editor ends at the Changes Address Runners end of this season. wo rule changes and an editorial a fielder’s opportunity to field the College baseball is at a whole Tchange that appear in the 2014-15 throw, or the batter-runner is by different level. The umpiring NCAA baseball rule book are aimed the throw that has been made in an overall is much better because at base runners. attempt to make a play, it shall be umpires are willing to work harder To clarify that no runner shall called interference and the batter- to improve their avocation, but advance on an interference play, the runner is to be called out. there is still room for improvement. NCAA Baseball Rules Committee The editorial change to Rule 2-33 College baseball is in a place where has added a sixth Approved Ruling regarding a notes that on a television, media, instant replay, to Rule 2-51, A.R. 6. According dropped third strike, when the batter K-zone and multiple camera to the ruling, no preceding or is not entitled to run to first base, any angles are commonplace. Our succeeding runner shall advance on advancing runner must be tagged to responsibilities are growing each an interference play and a runner be declared out. That is not a force day, each season, every call and is considered to occupy a base until play as the batter-runner did not every pitch. Are you ready to meet he legally has attained the next advance to first base. the challenge? succeeding base. Play 1: With a runner on first, B2 Best wishes for a fabulous 2015 An Approved Ruling for Rule bunts down the first-base line. B1 is season. Take care of business and 7-11p, A.R. 1 clarifies that if no running 30 feet outside the runner’s enjoy this great game. defensive player is covering or lane when F2’s throw (a) over B2 is attempting to cover the base, the over the head of F4, who is covering – George Drouches defense should not be considered as first base, and goes into right field, NCAA National Coordinator of “making a play.” If the batter-runner (b) hits B2 in the back, or (c) goes into Baseball Umpires is running illegally to first base and right field because no one is covering his being outside the lane alters the the base. Ruling 1: In (a) and (b), throw of a fielder, hinders or alters See “Runners” p. 6

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 5 11/19/14 10:24 AM Runners Play 2: There are runners on live. In both cases, B3 is declared out Continued from p. 5 first and second, one out and a 2-2 because first base was occupied with count on B3. B3 swings at a pitch in less than two outs on a dropped the ball is dead and runner’s lane the dirt but the pitch gets by F2. B3, third strike. In (a), R2 is out on the interference is called. R1 returns to R1, and R2 all attempt to advance. tag for the third out of the inning. first base. In (c) the ball remains live F2 throws to F5, who (a) tags R2 at In (b), R2 is because that is not and play continues. There cannot be third out, or (b) does not tag R2 but a force play. Runners will be on interference with no one covering the touches third base before R2 gets second and third with two outs. * base. to third. Ruling 2: The ball remains Foul Pole Must be Yellow o aid umpires, the NCAA has Any existing foul poles that do not The rule addresses problems Taltered Rule 1-2b to indicate conform must be repainted prior to caused at some facilities that wish to that the foul pole must be painted the beginning of the 2016 season. paint the foul poles with white or red fluorescent yellow. The rule applies The requirement applies only to paint, which hampers umpires from for new construction or for the college baseball facilities owned by ruling on fly balls hit down the line repainting of existing foul poles. NCAA member institutions. near, at, or over the fence. * Flashback: 2013-14 Rule Changes ere is a review of rule changes Pitching mounds (1-5c, 4-3e, 9-1d) in any way in the judgment of the Hfrom the 2013-14 seasons. It is legal to use a portable mound umpire. if both teams agree before the visiting The rule regarding pitcher’s gloves Changing foul to fair (Appendix E) team arrives at the game site. Also, has changed several times over the A ball that has been called foul each must have a minimum past few years, but that change should can be reversed to fair under limited of two mounds with pitching rubbers, make the rule less confusing and circumstances under a change to the plates and regulation measurements. easier to administer for umpires than “Getting the call right” procedures. previous rules. For the umpires to consider Coaching boxes (1-3c) overturning a foul call, the ball must It is now mandatory that the Catch (2-16) have first touched the ground beyond coaching boxes be lined. Previously, To improve consistency on what first or third base and beyond the first or that was not a requirement. does and does not complete a catch, third baseman. an approved ruling was added. Only If the call is changed to fair, the Illegal bat penalty (1-12b) two circumstances may be interpreted crew chief will place any runners using The penalty for an illegal bat as creating a voluntary and intentional a conservative philosophy to where was clarified. Any bat that has been release: when the momentum of the runners and the batter would have flattened or altered to improve catch is complete (the fielder has advanced if the original call had been performance is an illegal bat. If reversed his direction and is running fair. That situation was also added to the discovered prior to the first pitch the the ball back toward the ) or list of reviewable plays for instant replay bat will be removed and the batter when the fielder is reaching for the ball in the College World . must use a legal bat. If discovered to make a throw. Another addition to that appendix after the first pitch the batter shall be now requires the head coach who declared out. Baserunners shall not Tag (2-76) is requesting an umpire conference advance as a result of a batted ball. An approved ruling was added to to return to his dugout or coaching the definition of a tag. The new ruling box before the umpires convene. The Pitcher’s glove color (1-13c AR2) confirms that a ball stuck in a fielder’s procedure was in effect for the past The pitcher’s glove can be any glove remains live and that the ball/ several years, but was not listed in the color or colors other than white or glove combination may be thrown to a rule book. gray, exclusive of piping. The glove base or used to complete a tag to retire and laces may also not be distracting a runner.

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Pitching substitutions (9-4f) travel. Previously, a conference could intentionally interfere, the ball is live To prevent unnecessary delays and only put a time limit on a game if it if the batter is in the batter’s box and avoid confusion for the offensive team, was due to commercial air travel. dead with runners returning if the a new rule was added about a pitcher For non-conference games, both batter is legally out of the batter’s box. who goes to the mound to start an teams can agree to a travel policy inning. If the pitcher crosses the foul before the game. Batter deflecting ball (7-11o) line on the way to the mound, he must An approved ruling to the halted After hitting or bunting a ball pitch to the first batter until the batter game rule clarifies that a game that that is foul and the batter-runner is retired or reaches base. Exceptions is started under that rule must be intentionally deflects the course of are made for illness or injury, or if finished in order to count. If two teams the ball while running to first base, there is a pinch hitter who enters the are unable to complete a halted game, the batter is out only if the ball had a game to lead off the inning. it becomes “no contest.” chance to become fair.

Substitution notification (5-5g) Successive offensive conferences Running lane interference (7-11p) Either the head coach or another (6-5f) The running lane interference coach in uniform must approve or While a team is limited to one penalty was expanded to include confirm substitutions when they defensive conference per inning that if the batter-runner is outside the are made. For substitutes who enter without making a pitching change, running lane and alters the throw or a game without notification, the there is no such rule governing interferes with the catch of the thrown umpire should receive confirmation offensive conferences. ball or is hit by the throw, the batter- of the change from the head coach A team may use any or all of runner shall be called out. before recording and announcing the its three offensive conferences in a An exception to that penalty is substitute. regulation game at any time without clarified by the batter-runner being penalty, including consecutively. permitted to exit the running lane on Line-Up Card (4-4) his last step, stride, reach or in Names on the line-up card are Catcher’s throw (7-11f) an effort to tag the base if he has been what’s official. Numbers are a courtesy A batter’s actions must be running legally to that point. and should be corrected when intentional in order to be penalized discovered but there is no penalty for when he is leaving the batter’s box No objecting to warnings (9-2g) incorrect numbers. legally and he interferes with the When an umpire has ruled that a catcher’s throw. warning needs to be issued because a Game-ending policies (5-8g, 5-9c) If the batter’s actions are pitcher has intentionally thrown at a Two changes were made in the intentional, the batter is out and batter, no team personnel may come on rules that govern games ending early. runners return to the bases at the time to the field to object to such warning. Travel policies are now permitted for of the pitch. Anyone who does so is subject to conference games on the last day of If the catcher’s return throw hits warning followed by an immediate a series, regardless of the method of the batter or bat and the batter did not ejection. * Base Coaches’ Position Spelled Out ule 1-3c covers the base coaches. time of the pitch, the assistant coach RAt the time of the pitch, the coaching first base stands (a) one base coach may not be closer to foot in the coaches box and his other the foul line than the inside edge foot inside the foul line and the of the coaches’ box and no closer coaches box, (b) both feet are outside to home plate than the front edge the coaches box up closer towards of the box. The shaded area in the foul line in foul territory. the MechaniGram illustrates the Ruling: In (a) and (b), warning is restricted area. issued to the assistant coach and if Base coaches may take a position he continues, the result will be an directly outside of the coaches’ box ejection from the game. * in the direction of the outfield. Play: With B2 up to bat and at the

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 7 11/19/14 10:24 AM Batter Must Try to Avoid Pitch hat previously appeared in the Wrule book as a guideline has become a rule. Under new language in Rule 8-2d, A.R. (1), a batter must at- tempt to avoid being hit by the pitch. References to the batter “freezing” have been removed from the rule. The new language simplifies previously provided guidance on how umpires should interpret and officiate the hit- by-pitch rule. It also aims to improve safety. If the ball is outside the when it touches the batter who has not tried to avoid the pitch, the ball is dead, it shall be called a ball and the batter is not awarded first base. If the ball is inside the strike zone when it touches the batter who has not tried to avoid the pitch, the ball is If this play happens this season, Dan Collins, West Hartford, Conn., will have to determine if the dead, it shall be called a strike and the batter made an attempt to avoid being hit by the pitch. The clarification was one of several rule batter is not awarded first base. changes approved for 2015. Play: B1 is in the batter’s box when a pitch is thrown. B1 (a) sticks immediately (a) If the pitch was out of the pitch. If yes, then B1 gets first base. his elbow out so he is hit by the pitch, the strike zone, a ball is added to B1’s If no, and the ball is in the strike zone (b) stands still and is hit by the pitch, count. If the pitch was in the strike a strike will be added to B1’s count. If or (c) moves in such a way that he zone, a strike is added to B1’s count. the ball is out of the strike zone, a ball is able to avoid the pitch. Ruling: in In (b), its in the umpire judgment if the will be added to B1’s count. In (c), B1 all situations the ball will be dead batter attempted to avoid being hit by takes his base. * Editorial Changes Approved n addition to rule changes, the territory on their way to the dugout, territory. Ruling 1: In (a) the appeal Inew rule book will reflect editorial and the catcher has cleared the dirt circle. is valid, the run is disallowed and the changes. The editorial changes follow. Play 1: In the bottom of the game continues into the 10th inning. New or edited text appears in italics. ninth inning of a tied game, R2 is on In (b) the appeal is not upheld because second. B4 hits a to left field. F2 has cleared the dirt circle. The game Regulation Game 5-8e R2 attempts to score but misses third is over. Another factor — the catcher’s base. F7 throws to F5, who catches the position on the field — is to be ball and throws to F2, but R2 is ruled Game Misconduct 5-15a-(1) considered part of the “time limit” for safe. F6 realizes R2 missed third base through (3) determining when the defense can and tells F2 to throw to third base for An additional prohibited act and lodge an appeal at the end of a game. It an appeal. At the time, (a) all infielders a penalty were added to the rule is a regulation game when the umpires except F2 in the dirt circle and F6 are regarding game misconduct. No leave the field of play. If, however, in foul territory heading to the dugout, player, coach or team may incite or there is be an appeal situation, it is the or (b) all infielders are in foul territory, attempt to incite, by word, sign or

responsibility of the defense to make except for F6 and F2 not in the dirt actions that dispute an umpire’s decision DALE GARVEY the appeal to an umpire before the circle. The plate umpire is leaving the and potentially incite a demonstration

pitcher and all infielders have left fair field and the base umpire is in fair by spectators. The offender shall KEITH JOHNSTON

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be ejected from the contest. After ball is dead and no runner may score, while detached from its proper place an ejection, an additional one-game nor may runners advance, except on the body, the runners are awarded suspension is added. when forced. EXCEPTION: If a runner bases, which shall be determined by where is touching his base when touched by the runners were at the time of the illegal Fight Rule 5-16-b an infield fly, he is not out although touching. The penalty for a violent attack the batter is still out. NOTE: If a fair The text of a new Approved Ruling (punching or kicking) of an umpire, ball goes through, or by an infielder follows: The call is a delayed dead game official or an opposing coach and touches a runner immediately in ball and the runners may advance was changed from five to four contests. back of him or touches the runner after further at their own risk. If it is a fair That makes the length of suspension having been deflected by a fielder, the batted ball or foul ball with a chance consistent with other references in the umpire shall not declare the runner of becoming fair, the individual shall rule book. out for being touched by a batted ball. be entitled to three bases. If it is a foul Play 2: B2 is called out on strikes. In making such a decision, the umpire ball that has no chance of becoming He argues the call by kicking dirt and must be convinced that the ball passed fair, it shall be called foul and there is kicks the umpire in the leg. Ruling 2: through, or by the infielder and that no no penalty. B2 is ejected and B2 is suspended for other infielder had a chance to make a Play 3: With R2 at second, B6 bunts four games. play on the ball. The runners advance the down the first-base line. The ball if forced. is in foul territory but beginning to Immediate — roll toward fair when F3 throws his Runners Return 6-2-e When Batter or Batter-Runner glove and knocks the ball toward the A runner is out when a fair-hit ball is Out 7-11-m dugout. At the time the glove hit the touches him in fair territory before The batter is out if, after hitting or ball, (a) the ball was in foul territory by touching an infielder or an umpire and bunting a fair ball and with the bat still one inch, (b) it was in foul territory by before passing an infielder who has a in his hand(s), he hits the ball a second five inches, or (c) the ball was in foul chance to make a play on the ball, other time in fair territory after he has left the territory and was rolling toward the than the pitcher. batter’s box. dugout. Ruling 3: In (a) and (b), the An approved ruling was also ball is dead when F3’s glove contacts added. It reads, in its entirety: A Entitled to Bases 8-3-g the ball. R2 is awarded home and B6 runner is out when he is touched by a If a fielder intentionally touches is awarded third base. In (c) the ball fair ball in fair territory before the ball a fair ball with a cap, glove, mask, is called foul and no base awards are has touched or passed an infielder. The helmet or any part of the uniform made. * Use of Video Cameras Clarified he NCAA Baseball Rules Commit- In an addendum to A.R. 1, the Ttee adopted rules language that committee noted that video for clarifies how video cameras may be scouting, training or teaching purposes used. may be recorded from any unmanned Rule 5-2f indicates that the use of camera location. However, no video manned video cameras is restricted to from manned or unmanned sources the area behind home plate, which is may be transmitted for scouting, defined as the area from the outfield training or coaching purposes during cutout behind first base to the outfield the contest. cutout behind third base. The word Play: While the visiting team is “manned” was added to the rule this , two home team personnel year. are behind home plate (a) using a Filming from beyond the radar gun, (b) charting pitches, or designated area toward the outfield (c) videotaping the game during the or any point beyond the outfield fence opponent’s at bats. Ruling: Legal in (a) or wall is not permitted, except for and (b). In (c) the umpire will warn the NCAA rules now allow a manned video DALE GARVEY television cameras for the broadcast of camera to be stationed in a designated personnel. If they do not immediately a game, including Internet broadcasts area. The video may not be transmitted for comply with the rule, they will be scouting, training or coaching purposes KEITH JOHNSTON and video boards. removed from the stands. * during the game.

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 9 11/19/14 10:24 AM Pitcher’s Stance Subject of Change dited verbiage in Rule 9-1a better Edefines a legal from the windup. The rule states that the pitcher must stand facing the batter with his pivot foot on or in front of and touching the rubber with the other foot free. Allusions to the pitcher’s shoulders have been eliminated, along with a prohibition for the pitcher having his entire free foot in front of the pivot foot. The NCAA Baseball Rules Committee believes the new rule helps clarify the pitcher windup position rule in light of trends observed in pitching today with regard to what constitutes an illegal windup position. It eliminates provisions that are not easily enforced by umpires and it also aligns more closely with the MLB pitcher windup position rule. *

The set position shall be indicated when the pitcher stands with his chest generally facing the respective foul lines with the pivot foot on or in front of and touching the pitcher’s plate and the Doubleheaders free foot in front of the pivot foot. Addressed wo Approved Rulings for Rule T5-7-d provide guidance as to what constitutes a , and to ensure doubleheader rules are applied consistently. A.R. 9 notes that a scheduled stand-alone seven-inning game shall be prohibited, while A.R. 10 notes that a seven-inning game that was originally scheduled as a part of a doubleheader, and was never started, or had been halted or suspended, may be played as a seven-inning contest the following day or at a future time. That allows for collaboration between the umpires, home game management and the visiting team, which provides them with the flexibility of never starting or having to halt the game once it has been started. All three entities must be present when the decision is made. * This is a legal windup position.

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 10 11/19/14 10:24 AM BASEBALL 2015 Rules Regarding Uniforms Changed wo changes regarding uniforms a jacket as the outer garment while their specific team responsibilities. Twere approved by the NCAA serving as a base runner, a batter or a Play: The base coach gives a Baseball Rules Committee. defensive player. jacket to a runner. The runner is his According to new language in Also, an approved ruling was team’s (a) pitcher, or (b) other player. Rule 1-14e, only a pitcher may wear a added to Rule 4-7. The rule states Ruling: In (a) the pitcher is allowed jacket while serving as a base runner. that only players, coaches and ball/ to wear the jacket while running the When worn, it is to be buttoned or bat persons are to be dressed in the bases. It must be buttoned or zipped, zipped. A pitcher may wear a jacket team’s game uniform. All others (e.g. however. In (b), the jacket is not under the uniform top while batting. team managers, athletic trainers, etc.) allowed for a player other than the No other player is permitted to wear shall be dressed appropriately for pitcher. * Get in Shape to Umpire, Not Vice Versa any umpires procrastinate biking, swimming, tennis, walking, mitochondria of cells, translating to Muntil just before the season of jogging, hiking, etc. more energy during high intensity the sport they are working to get However, an official must know games. into “game shape.” That method of his or her target heart rate range. Muscle tone also will make you fit thinking can have negative effects. When engaging in aerobic activities and confident. Perception is reality, The downside? Pulled hamstring the heart needs to work between so fans, coaches and players are more muscles, injured quadriceps 60 percent and 80 percent of its likely to have a negative opinion of an muscles, sore Achilles tendons, maximum effort. Five minutes into overweight and out-of-shape official. sore back muscles, just to name a your workout, check your pulse to You could be the best official on the few. The fact is the body needs the get your heart-rate range. In the field, but quite often you are judged minimum of six weeks or much example provided, a 45-year-old rightly or wrongly by how you look longer to get used to the amount of official would strive to keep his or in uniform. Spend at least two days a stress being placed on it. Sometimes her heart rate between 105 and 140 week in a strength-training session. It we refer to that as the period of beats per minute. A quick way to is wise to perform between eight and adaptation. Simply put, the body do that is to check for 15 seconds 12 repetitions and two to three sets; adapts and makes the physiological and multiply by four. If your pulse resting a few minutes between sets. adjustments to perform more is 30 beats in 15 seconds, it is 120. The first week or two, muscles efficiently. All of that involves Therefore, that official is staying will be sore because of the adaptation cardiovascular fitness, strength within his or her heart rate range of period. After that you should notice training and flexibility training. 105 to 140 beats per minute. improved energy and more muscular Neglect in any one of those areas According to the Center for endurance. Benefits will go far by umpires can be a nightmare for Disease Control (CDC) and the beyond officiating, like completing not only the official but assigning American Heart Association, more chores among other things. secretaries, who suddenly are forced Americans should be exercising to find replacements. three to five days a week. Flexibility training There are proactive steps that It is arguably one of the most umpires can take to prevent some Strength training neglected aspects of officiating. Cats injuries and finish the season strong: Weight-bearing exercises will and dogs instinctively stretch many build muscle tone and definition. times a day; humans do not. Working Cardiovascular fitness Push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and a game immediately after the pregame It is vital because the human any other activities that put stress conference is a dangerous practice. body is made for movement. The on muscles in the body improve Muscles need to be stretched in heart and lungs are key components. balance, take stress off bones and order to improve flexibility and prevent Umpires should have a regular joints, reduce fat and burn calories injuries. Great athletes understand that routine that involves strengthening (even while you are sleeping). fact. They know that their careers can the heart and lungs. That can be Advantages of strength training be extended if they have improved achieved by doing activities such as include more energy stored in the See “Fitness” p. 12

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 11 11/19/14 10:24 AM Fitness should be done at least twice a day for transcend time and offer benefits that Continued from p. 11 about 10 to 20 minutes. Each stretch go well beyond officiating. Get in should last no longer than 20 seconds. shape and stay in shape. You will be flexibility. There is a correlation Over time that technique will improve a better official on and off the playing between stretching and fewer injuries. range of motion and can improve field and will improve your overall Flexibility training includes energy. Tai chi and yoga are two health and wellness. exercises such as sitting toe touches, popular exercises that have been known Note: This column is for informational standing quadriceps stretch, full body to improve overall flexibility. purposes. Consult a physician for specific curls, calf stretches, etc. Stretching Getting fit and staying fit medical advice. * When and How to Change a Call f you haven’t umpired long, you other situations. For example, home of the puzzle; he saw everything and Iprobably don’t know how much of run fair-foul calls, balls bouncing just didn’t pull the trigger. That is a philosophical change has occurred over a fence that are ruled a home solely his to die with. as far as “getting the call right” goes. run, balls dropped on a tag play, etc. In another game, the first-base It used to be that asking or helping a It is also OK — even recommended umpire in a three-umpire crew partner — engaging with him — on — to offer a partner unsolicited help called a runner out on the back end any call was simply not done. Balls in certain cases, and the rules offer of a play, with the fielder could bounce over the fence, be called guidance in that area as well. “Get the stretching to catch the throw. The a home run and riots could ensue, call right” is the operative philosophy. instant the call was made, the runner but the calling umpire lived and died When is it proper to engage our and first-base coach starting yelling with it and a partner would not think partners? It comes down to the “piece and pointing to the fielder’s foot. of approaching him with unsolicited of the puzzle” concept. If the calling The umpire immediately sensed input. Beside the matter of pride, the umpire saw every aspect of a play something must have happened that thinking was that each umpire had to but simply missed the call — for he didn’t see. Without waiting to be own his calls and if we ever got in the whatever reason — he should not asked to seek help, he motioned the business of asking a partner for help try to wiggle out of it and put his plate umpire to come down the line or offering it, Pandora’s Box would be partner on the spot by seeking help. and asked him what he saw. Nothing, opened and there would be no stop- If, on the other hand, an umpire he said. But the third-base umpire, ping it. senses that he missed some piece of positioned in the infield, came over Gradually, things evolved so that the puzzle because he got blocked and said the fielder was a foot off a plate umpire could glance at his out or obstructed, he not only can but the bag when he caught the throw. partner on a and the should seek help. The call was changed to safe. The latter would unobtrusively signal If you know your partner missed defensive coach came out and asked swing or not. The next step was to a call and you are 100 percent if the umpires were just going to put openly seek help, with the phrasing convinced that it was only because he all calls to a committee vote from of the question indicating the desired was missing a piece of the puzzle and then on, but that was the extent of his response. “Did he go?” meant be was not just guilty of bad judgment protest. honest, while, “He didn’t go, did or timing, you should intervene. Three points: First, the umpire he?” meant stick with the original In a game several years ago, sought help because the reaction he call. Clear signals — fist up or safe a batter clearly interfered with a got told him that it was more than — also became the norm. There was catcher’s throw to second to retire a a safe-out situation. When we make also a time element: If the defense stealing runner. For whatever reason judgment calls that cause a violent immediately asked the plate umpire the plate umpire did not chalk up an reaction, it’s so easy to get in the to seek help, he might do so, but if out. To make matters worse, when the “Don’t question me” mode. Then we they, or he on his own, delayed in defensive coach protested, the umpire pay no attention to the nature of the asking, he expected the base umpire called his crewmates together for reaction. A good umpire will process would stand his ground. their input. They did not change the how the reaction unfolds. It’s one Now, of course, we must openly call, even though they knew it was thing if it’s a matter of yelling, “He seek help on a checked swing if the wrong, because there goes Pandora’s beat the throw” or, “That pitch was defense asks for it. Box. That was not a case where the a foot low” — we must stand our It is also accepted to seek help in calling umpire was missing a piece ground. But if it’s, “He dropped the

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ball” or, “His foot was off the bag,” we probably need to think twice, especially if the reaction comes from 20 people instead of one. NCAA Umpiring Coordinators Players can be unreasonable, but they are also more honest than Division I Director of Umpire Training we sometimes give them credit for. Just as the law gives credence to George Drouches Tom Hiler spontaneous statements made in the P.O. Box 27641 P.O. Box 777 heat of the moment on the theory that Golden Valley, Minnesota 55427 Mountain Home, Idaho 83647 the speaker reacted automatically without having time to think up a line [email protected] [email protected] of baloney, when a whole bunch of 952/227-3347 (W) 208/598-5558 (C) players instantly react the same way, 612/432-5351 (C) 208/587-5416 (F) it is probably an honest reaction that 952/227-3348 (F) needs attention. Second, the umpire asked for help Division II Division III because he knew the fielder’s stretch caused him to be straight-lined. He Dan Weikle Don Umland couldn’t see the foot in relation to 1115 Aberdeen Drive 2951 Katie Lane the bag. He was in proper position Broomfield, Colorado 80020 Bettendorf, Iowa 52722 but the play developed so that he happened to end up missing a piece [email protected] [email protected] of the puzzle. 303/469-4868 (H) 563/340-3825 (C) Third, it was ultimately the first- 303/919-1956 (C) 309/794-7706 (F) base umpire’s decision whether to reverse the call. While it is more understandable to reject input that is unsolicited rather than sought, neither makes particular sense, given that in both cases one must be 100 2014 NCAA Championship Umpires percent convinced before acting. In Division I Division II Division III any event, the calling umpire must be the “decider.” Only he can decide Mike Conlin Charles Bruce Joe Giaccio whether the input would have Lansing, Michigan Ft. Pierce, Florida Bogota, New Jersey affected the outcome, and there can’t be a situation in which partners are Scott Erby Andrew Fulton Matt Ossenfort arguing, with one saying “You’re Franklin, Tennessee Lincoln, Nebraska LaVista, Nebraska wrong!” and another saying “You’re wrong!” That would really not go Jeff Head Rich Maggio Frank Brocato Hoover, Alabama Melville, New York Staten Island, New York down well.

Even if you’re the only one in the Travis Katzenmeier Rich Padilla Kirk Rall crew who thinks something is amiss, Mesa, Arizona Glendora, California West St. Paul, Minnesota don’t be afraid to be the Lone Ranger and stop the game. If you’re wrong, Mark Uyl Nick Ramos Mark Ottavianelli you’ll lose a few seconds and move DeWitt, Michigan Longmont, Colorado Norton, Massachusetts on; if you’re right, you could prevent a disaster. Billy Van Raaphorst Mark Wahl Larry Howard What must happen in those Los Angeles, California Loysville, Pennsylvania Raleigh, North Carolina

scenarios is that once an umpire Tony Walsh Clint Wheeler Corky Fazio decides to seek help, all members Atoka, Tennessee Kansas City, Kansas Lapwai, Idaho of the crew should convene, as happened in the 2013 World Series Doug Williams Stitch Williamson Terry Middleton with Dana DeMuth’s play in the first College Station, Texas Knoxville, Tennessee Conover, Ohio See “Change a Call” p. 14

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 13 11/19/14 10:24 AM Change a Call made, the losing coach can’t start puzzle, don’t be obstinate — seek Continued from p. 13 petitioning the umpires who were not help; if you’re sure, stand your involved in the discussion to come to ground. When you know your game. All six members, including his aid. Also, you never know where partner is missing a piece, get the outfield guys, got together, even that crucial piece of information engaged. Having a feel for when though some members were not in might come from. to seek help and when to offer it a position to offer any input. The When the circumstances indicate unsolicited separates great umpires reason is once a final decision is that you’re missing a piece of the from good ones. * Warning, Ejection for Anthem Standoff o end so-called National Anthem Play: Both teams are on the foul home team player is still on the foul Tstandoffs, Rule 5-15a-(5) regarding line during the National Anthem. One line, or (c) both players return to their misconduct has been approved. home team player and one visiting dugouts. Ruling: In (a), after both If a player does not return to his team player is standing on the foul coaches have been warned, the coaches dugout immediately after the playing line more than 10 seconds after the and players involved are ejected. In (b) of the national anthem, the umpire- Anthem has finished. The umpire-in- only the home team player and coach in-chief is to warn the head coach that chief has warned both head coaches are ejected. In (c) because the players failure to comply results in the ejection but (a) neither player has returned to complied, there is no penalty for either of the head coach and offending his respective dugout, (b) the visiting team except for the warning. * player(s). player goes to his dugout but the Think Inside the (Batter’s) Box aseball, at all levels, constantly looks trend is for the head coach to remain in of the pitching mound after receiving Bfor ways to improve . A the dugout while his team is on offense. the ball. number of requirements are in place in The head coach will then give his signs an attempt to establish a better flow. to the hitter and runners from there. When the catcher leaves the One rule in place is that the batter A batter is allowed to step out of position to give defensive signals. must keep at least one foot in the the batter’s box only in the following batter’s box throughout his time situations: When a batter steps out of the [7-1c (1)]. box and doesn’t meet one of the That includes the batter receiving When the batter swings at a pitch. listed exceptions, the umpire should his signs from the third-base coach, or direct the batter to return to the box from any coach giving signs. A recent When the batter is forced out of the immediately. The umpire has the box by the pitch. option of assessing a penalty strike if the batter refuses to comply with the When a member of either team request to return to the box. requests and is granted time. Play 1: B7 steps out of the box QUICK TIP for the sole reason of adjusting his If a defensive player attempts a play batting gloves and resetting. Ruling When you’re working, use the plate on a runner at any base. 1: That is not permitted. The batter meeting to get everyone’s questions answered. It’s not only important to should be asked to step back into cover , but make sure If a batter feints a , or attempts a the box and charged with a penalty everyone is on the same page should “drag bunt.” strike if he refuses. the game become suspended or halted Play 2: B3 disagrees with a called for whatever reason. For doubleheaders, fi nd out how much time will be between When a or strike on the first pitch of the at-bat. games. Leave the idle chitchat to the occurs, or if the catcher doesn’t catch He then steps out and voices his coaches, but if it’s something you need the pitch for some other reason. displeasure. Ruling 2: Not permitted. to know, the plate meeting is the time to The umpire should instruct B3 to get your answers. When the pitcher leaves the dirt area return to the box. *

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Use the Catcher to Get the Point Across ffective communication between Perhaps the most important aspect Eplayers and umpires is vital to of working with catchers is making facilitating a fair and trouble-free com- sure you can get a good look at petition. But there may not be another pitches. There is nothing more difficult sport where that relationship is more than trying to see pitches when the pronounced than between umpire and hitter is crowding the plate, the catcher catcher in the game of baseball. is setting up inside and the pitcher Effective communication begins is throwing hard from a with the greeting between the two delivery. Ask catchers who are setting prior to the initial warm-up pitches. up inside in such situations to get At the least you should exchange settled as early as possible so you can first names during that greeting. adjust to where they are by moving Developing a relationship with a higher in the slot. If you’re still having catcher comes from the way you speak trouble seeing, ask them to move their to him. Being respectful while still shoulders slightly away from the hitter maintaining the distance required to as the pitch is delivered to create an distinguish your authority is of the opening through which you can see utmost importance. There is great the pitch. power in using a person’s first name One of the great feelings in baseball while communicating with him. umpiring is being able to tell a catcher The communication that takes in the ninth inning of a game that place between catcher and umpire you have enjoyed working behind should have a purpose. Avoid making While checking the ball, Timothy Vessey, him. Establishing a strong working Olympia, Wash., may be communicating with idle conversation in an attempt to get the catcher. Discreet dialogue is one of your relationship with him from the outset “chummy” with the catcher. Most best game management tools. of the game will increase the likelihood often, that catcher is going to come to of that happening. * bat while his team is on offense during the game, and you may have to call the strike zone that are on the margins him out on strikes. That “chumminess” or not to hold a pitch that they think may alter your judgment when should have been called a strike. One that catcher is up to bat, or make it option is to wait until something like awkward to get back to a working that happens and address it at that Appendix F relationship after you do ring him up. time. If you have to, tell the catcher, Some umpires like to talk to “Just catch the ball where it is pitched, Amended catchers about things they don’t want and your pitcher will get the best them to do during the game. Some will chance of having a strike called.” n addition and an editorial tell catchers not to pull pitches into If you start to see a pitcher using Achange will appear in Ap- theatrics that show his displeasure pendix F of the NCAA baseball with your ball-strike calls, urge the rule book. catcher to go talk with his pitcher to The defensive team may calm him down. If you can defuse that use one of its three timeouts to QUICK TIP situation covertly through the catcher, prevent a ball being awarded to you may not need to deal with it in a the batter if they are not ready for Keep your eye on the ball — it’s a more explicit manner that might heat play when the 90-second clock phrase that umpires have been taught up tensions in the game. Likewise, if expires. from the fi rst day of training. When bad blood is brewing between teams The appendix also notes that calling an out at fi rst base, once the play has been made, watch the fi elder in a game, it is worth the effort to send the 90-108 second clock shall start release the ball to ensure he maintained a catcher out to send a stern warning when the last defensive player

DALE GARVEY possession and released the ball to a pitcher if you think there might be crosses the foul line nearest his voluntarily. Don’t watch the base; it’s not some sort of retaliatory inside pitching dugout. * going anywhere! coming.

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NCAA_BS_2015.indd 15 11/19/14 10:24 AM When the game is on the line, will you be ready?

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