2013 A supplement to the NCAA • Prepared by the editors of

Ejection Penalties Increased

he NCAA Baseball Rules Commit- Ttee tracked the number of ejections during the 2012 season and more than 600 combined ejections were reported for all three divisions. Of those ejec- tions, more than half were either as- sistant coaches or players. Since NCAA rules state that only head coaches are permitted to discuss calls with umpires, the committee strengthened the penalties that non- head coaches will receive as a result of an . “In my view, the number of ejections is a major concern but the levels of for many of them are unacceptable regardless of total number,” said Gene McArtor, the Division I national coordinator for umpires. “I will continue to believe that other than ‘that’s just the way it is in baseball,’ no one can justify hurting the image of college baseball by these actions.” Starting in 2013, all non-head coaching team personnel who are ejected for disputing an ’s call will receive a one-game suspension for the first ejection of the season and a three-game suspension for Only the head coach is allowed to come on to the fi eld to discuss a play with an umpire. Assistant any subsequent ejections during the coaches and players are not allowed to argue calls. season (2-25). Those suspensions are applicable leaving his position to dispute a call. of the season. Ruling 2: R3 is not only to ejections for disputing, It is the coach’s first ejection of the suspended because his ejection did arguing or unsportsmanlike conduct season. Ruling 1: The assistant coach not fall into the categories covered by or language, and not for ejections must leave the “sight and sound” of the new rule. that are a result of other rule the current contest and is suspended Three other changes have been

DENNIS HUBBARD violations such as malicious slides or for his team’s next game. made that affect ejections and throwing at a batter. Play 2: R3 is ejected for malicious suspensions. Play 1: An assistant coach is contact after crashing into the Adjustments have been made to ejected in the second for . It is R3’s second ejection See “Ejections” p. 3

Published by Referee

NCAA_BS_2013.indd 1 11/8/12 9:23 AM Greetings NCAA Umpires And Coaches elcome to the NCAA well recognized by me, the baseball civil and professional conduct WBaseball Umpire Clinics. The committee and the coaches and between student-athletes, coaches information in this guide provides student-athletes you serve in our and umpires. Each group is under a great summary and explanation sport. greater stress for results. Each of the major rule changes for 2013- I also want to thank the NCAA group has a few members who 2014. Along with Baseball Umpire Program staff, damage the game and its image the new rulebook, including our national coordinators, by their unsportsmanlike actions, rules video and secretary-rules editor, director of conduct and language on the field. clinics, the guide umpire training, regional advisors The rules committee has made provides concise and conference coordinators. They significant rule changes in 2013 to explanations for all demonstrate a passion and partially address these concerns. NCAA coaches, singular desire to aid training, Conferences and institutions players and education, evaluation, selection and are paying more attention and umpires. These performance. My appreciation is holding offenders accountable. clinics also also expressed to Matt Moore and Unsportsmanlike conduct or -of- provide valuable the staff at Referee magazine for control conduct or verbal abuse has interpretations and their work with the development no rational justification in today’s information vital and publication of this guide. game. Gene McArtor for every umpire The 2012 NCAA baseball Along with the clinics, the as we strive to season and championships were NCAA website on the Arbiter NCAA National Coordinator of elevate our on- some of the best ever with a high platform continues to increase in Baseball Umpires field performance quality of umpiring to match value. Registrations are up again and national the outstanding play on the and projected to go higher. Any consistency in rule interpretations field. But there will always be umpire not registered who has and mechanics. I recognize the opportunities for improvement. aspirations to improve is missing individual sacrifice by umpires to Consistency, temperament and a major opportunity through attend a national umpire clinic but on-field performance will continue instant communication, notes, rule continue to believe in the increased to be targets and goals. We are in interpretations, tests, quizzes and value from in-person meetings. a new era of college baseball with video training. For the postseason, They are demonstrated to be more increased exposure, media attention additional communication and beneficial than other forms of and commitment by baseball instructions are facilitated. education and training. programs. We are now entering Regardless of your level of I want to thank all who an age of K-zone and instant umpiring, the website can enhance participate in our NCAA Baseball replay and increased exposure your abilities. Umpire Program and have the through television. The demand for As we all prepare for and enter greatest respect for all that goes accountability and responsibility the 2013 season, suggestions or into being a high-level umpire. continue to elevate. Those are questions are welcome and may Working a full schedule at a challenges for all of us. We are also be directed to Gene McArtor, conference and championship seeing many outstanding newer [email protected]; Tom level requires an extremely high umpires who are challenging for a Hiler, director of umpire training, level of commitment, significant place and opportunity at the upper [email protected]; or Jim physical and mental preparation levels of our sport creating more Paronto, secretary rules editor, and many hours of time and travel, competition for limited positions. [email protected]. I wish all of which impact jobs, family and The rules committee and others everyone the very best for a great personal time. This dedication is continue to stress the need for 2013 season. *

Acknowledgments Major portions of this newsletter are protected by copyrights of Referee Authors contributing to the 2013 NCAA Baseball Preseason Guide: Matt Moore, Enterprises, Inc., and are used by permission. Copying in whole or in part is Referee associate editor; Gene McArtor, Columbia, Mo.; Dave Sabiani, Terre prohibited without prior written consent from Referee Enterprises, Inc., and the Haute, Ind.; Don Umland, Bettendorf, Iowa; and George Demetriou, Colorado NCAA. PlayPic® and MechaniGram® are a registered trademarks of Referee Springs. Graphics and layout by Matt Bowen, Referee graphic designer. Enterprises, Inc.

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Ejections Continued from p. 1

rule 5-16b, which covers the physical abuse of officials. The word intentionally has been removed from the rule and kicking dirt on an umpire has been added. The rules committee believes that coaches are responsible for their actions and positions on the field related to umpires. Contact, intentional or not, will subject the offender to ejection and suspension. The for the first offense by an individual has been increased to four games (from three previously). Play 3: An assistant coach is ejected during an argument in which he also inadvertently bumps the plate umpire. It is the assistant coach’s first ejection of the season. Ruling 3: If the assistant was ejected for his actions prior to the bump, he is suspended for five games (one for the ejection and four for the bump). If the ejection was for the bump only, then he is out for four games. Additionally, any coach who does not leave the “sight and sound” area following an ejection is subject to a three-game suspension (3-6d AR2). Sight and sound shall mean that the ejected person(s) cannot view the contest, cannot communicate with his team nor be where the umpires may hear or see him. It may still be possible for the ejected person(s) to be able to hear the sounds of the game; however, he must have left the confines of the playing field and the call by the umpires, any action by umpire, since the head coach is the grandstands. ejected personnel after an umpire only one permitted to discuss plays The final change related to has indicated that the conversation is with game officials. * ejections for 2013 deals with the over is subject to the penalty. concern over conduct that follows Play 4: The head coach is ejected an ejection. It is common for the from a game for arguing. Rather arguments after the ejections to than leaving the field, he continues QUICK TIP feature the worst conduct. Therefore, the discussion for more than a for 2013, any team personnel, minute, objecting to the call and his Carbonless lineup cards can including the head coach, who ejection. Ruling 4: The head coach be difficult to take notes on. unnecessarily continue to express is subject to a two-game suspension Have a few index cards in your themselves with prolonged actions or for prolonged actions following lineup card holder to make offensive language after an ejection his ejection. The head coach is not notes or write down warnings will be subject to an additional two- subject to the additional one-game or details of ejections. game suspension. While a judgment suspension for arguing with an

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 3 11/8/12 9:23 AM Two Changes to “Getting the Call Right” or several years, umpires have been the might have made a Play 2: B1 leads off the inning by Fencouraged to get together under play on it. It is not fair to the defensive hitting a ball that lands behind the first certain circumstances to get the call team to give a batter first base when baseman on the line. The base umpire right, as opposed to knowingly having the defense is harmed by the umpire’s mistakenly calls the ball . B1 is a missed a call. call. known speedster who leads his team An additional type of call has been If the call is changed to “fair,” in triples. The ball gets to the corner. added to the rules for 2013-14 that falls the crew chief will place any runners Ruling 2: B1 should be awarded under that philosophy. using a conservative philosophy to second base. Once the ball was called A ball that has been called foul where runners and the batter would foul, it is not known how the defensive can be reversed to fair under limited have advanced if the original call had team would have played the ball. circumstances under a change to the been fair. That situation will also be Umpires should use a conservative procedures listed in Appendix E of the added to the list of reviewable plays philosophy in placing runners. The rule book. for instant replay in the College World offense is already benefitting by the For the umpires to consider . changed call. overturning a foul call, the ball must Play 1: With R3 on third and no Another addition to that appendix have first touched the ground beyond outs, the is playing in. B7 hits now requires the head coach who first or third base and beyond the first a line drive that caroms off third base, is requesting an umpire conference or third baseman. but the plate umpire erroneously calls to return to his or coaching The reason for limiting the plays the ball foul. Ruling 1: The call, even box before the umpires convene. The that could be changed is that defensive though it is wrong, cannot be changed. procedure was in effect for the past players will stop on the initial call of The ball did not land beyond third several years but was not listed in the foul. If the ball landed in front of him, base. rule book. * Standards for Removal from the Game CAA baseball umpires are entrusted 2. Once a ball-strike warning has been 5. If a coach or student-athlete leaves Nwith the authority by rule to remove issued and the umpire notifies the head his position or the dugout to argue balls or eject any participant or member of coach, no coach or player is allowed to and strikes (including half swings) the team personnel from a game. That re- continue to argue balls, strikes or half individual will be subject to immediate sponsibility should never be taken lightly. swings from any location. Offenders are ejection (NCAA 3-6f, AR 2). The NCAA recognizes that every situa- subject to immediate ejection (NCAA tion is unique and that umpire discretion 3-6f, AR 1). 6. “Step ,” the head coach is is essential to proper rule enforcement. allowed to receive an explanation from While there are possible unique and 3. Physical contact with an umpire, the umpire that the call was a step balk. extraordinary circumstances, student- including bumping, billing, shoving, Should the head coach continue to argue athletes and coaches look to the umpires kicking, spitting or spraying, or any other the call, he will be warned to immediately for uniformity in applying consistent physical abuse or threat of physical abuse return to his position (or the dugout) or standards for ejections. The following is an automatic ejection and suspension be subject to immediate ejection. general principles should be considered without a warning (NCAA 5-16b). when deciding whether to eject a coach, 7. During an argument, if a coach or student-athlete or another member of 4. Refusal to stop arguing and further student-athlete makes reference to having team personnel from a game. delay the game after the umpire has observed a video replay that purportedly provided the head coach an opportunity contradicts the call under dispute, such 1. Use of profanity specifically to make a point is grounds for ejection. person is subject to immediate ejection. directed at an umpire or vulgar The umpire should warn the head coach personal insults of an umpire, including that he has been heard and should return 8. The use of histrionic gestures (e.g., accusations of bias or cheating are to his position, or be ejected. After an jumping up and down, violently waving grounds for an immediate ejection ejection, a prolonged argument by any one’s arms, or other demonstrations) (NCAA 2-25). team personnel will lead to suspension while arguing with an umpire or (NCAA 2-53, NCAA 5-15a AR 4). stepping out of the dugout or out of the

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batter’s box and making gestures toward fails to comply with an order from an While the standards listed above the umpire are grounds for ejection. umpire to do or to refrain from doing justify an ejection, they are not all anything that affects the administering inclusive and umpires are granted 9. Throwing anything out of the of the rules and regulations governing discretion to eject any participant, dugout (towels, cups, equipment, etc.) play is subject to ejection. Examples without a warning for objecting to is grounds for an automatic ejection. include failure to stay within the lines of decisions or for unsportsmanlike Actions by players specifically intended the batter’s box after a warning, refusal conduct or language. Many ejections to ridicule an umpire are grounds for to submit a piece of equipment for an also carry automatic suspension ejection. An example would include umpire’s inspection, etc. penalties depending upon the specific drawing a line in the dirt to demonstrate personnel ejected and the reason where the player thought the was 12. Ejected persons must comply with for the ejection. In addition, there thrown. the NCAA rules and be out of “sight and are other situations that result in sound.” Once the ejected person has left immediate ejections, such as a 10. Throwing equipment in disgust the field or dugout, it is the responsibility in possession of a foreign substance, over an umpire’s call will be grounds of the ejected person and of the home a batter charging the pitcher with for ejection. The umpire may warn the institution’s game management to ensure the intention of fighting, a pitcher offender for throwing equipment, but if the ejected person complies with all intentionally throwing at a batter the umpire deems the action severe, the NCAA rules regarding ejections and to after a warning (or in some instances umpire may eject without warning. report any infractions to the NCAA and without a warning). * 11. Any coach or student-athlete who respective conference office. Rules Expanded, Clarified here were several rules that were Since the batter was legally out of No advance on interference. Tadjusted to better explain what the box, no runners may advance. In Rule 8-1a, no runner shall constitutes interference by a batter The batter gets first base on the advance on an interference play. A or batter-runner and the penalties walk; R3 returns to third. runner is not considered to occupy when interference occurs. or having advanced to a base until There were approved rulings Deflection of a . he has legally reached and touched added to Rule 7-11f to cover There is also a clarification the base. However, if there is catcher situations related to a catcher’s to Rule 7-11o, which deals with interference on a , the return throw to the pitcher. a batter-runner intentionally batter is awarded first base, the With these rulings, it is clarified deflecting the course of the batted scores and all other runners advance that a batter’s actions must be ball while running to first. The one base on the balk created by the intentional to result in interference. batter-runner is out if the ball had interference. In that case the batter is out and a chance to become fair, or if the runners return to the bases occupied batter made contact with a fair ball. Spectator interference. at the time of the pitch. If the Rule 8-3k has been clarified to catcher’s return throw hits the Running lane interference. state that it is spectator interference batter or bat and the batter did not The interference penalty in only if the ball has been intentionally intentionally interfere, the ball is Rule 7-11p has been expanded. If touched by a spectator. live if the batter is in the batter’s box the batter-runner is outside the and dead with runners returning running lane and alters the throw and appeals. if the batter is legally out of the or interferes with the of the Rule 8-6 has been expanded to batter’s box. thrown ball or is by the throw, indicate that if obstruction causes a Play 1: With a 3-1 and R3 the batter-runner shall be called out. runner to miss a base, he shall not be on third base, the pitcher delivers An exception to the penalty is called out on appeal for missing the ball four. The batter starts toward clarified by the batter-runner being base. In addition, Rule 8-6b will add first base and is outside the box permitted to exit the running lane an approved ruling that if the defense when the catcher’s throw hits the on his last step, stride, reach or is to make more than one appeal, the batter’s helmet and ricochets away. in an effort to tag the base if he has defense must appeal in the correct R3 attempts to score. Ruling 1: The been running legally within the order, unless it is an advantageous ball is dead when it hits the batter. running lane prior to that point. . *

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 5 11/8/12 9:23 AM Substitution and Lineup Clarifications ny notification of substitutes must substitute. The rule does not prevent names on the lineup card are the official Acome from the head coach or or prohibit unannounced substitutions. lineup. Numbers are a courtesy and another coach in uniform (5-5g). For If a substitute enters without being should be corrected when discovered substitutes who enter a game without announced and meets the criteria listed but there is no penalty for incorrect notification from the coaching staff, in Rule 5-5g, he is a legal unannounced numbers. When recording substitutions the umpire should receive confirma- substitute. on the lineup card, umpires shall use tion of the change from the head coach Related to that change is a names and not numbers, since numbers before recording and announcing the clarification of Rule 4-4 to indicate that are not official. *

Half-Swing Appeals or 2011, a new definition of a half on appealing half swings in a three- Fswing was instituted to replace the umpire system. The appeal for a right- . The half swing is to be handed hitter will always be made to called a strike if the barrel head of the the first-base umpire and the appeal bat passes the batter’s front hip. The for a left-handed hitter will always be position of the batter’s hands is not made to the third-base umpire. It does part of this definition. not matter if the umpire is on the foul After a one-year change in 2012, the line or stationed in the middle of the conference coordinators have decided field. * to return to the previous procedure Several Definitions Added, Clarified everal of the definitions that ap- first touches fair territory beyond first clearly indicate that an appeal is being Spear in Rule 2 have been clari- or third base, including the foul pole, made. fied and several new ones have been or; first touches a player, umpire or added to make several common terms any piece of equipment while over Tag more clear. fair territory. A that hits the A ball stuck in a fielder’s glove The following definitions were rubber and rebounds to foul territory remains live and the ball/glove added: between first and home or third and combination may be used or thrown to home is a foul ball. complete a tag or base to retire a runner. Substitute Among the definitions that were Play 2: B7 hits a one-hop smash that A substitute is an eligible roster clarified were: F1 fields. However, the ball is stuck in player who is not one of the nine or 10 the webbing of F1’s glove. F1 throws eligible players in the game and has Appeal the ball and glove together to F3, who not been withdrawn or disqualified. The change makes it clear that an catches it in time to retire B7. Ruling That clarifies a substitute as it applies appeal is any act that unmistakably 2: That is a legal out. For umpires who to other rules in the book. indicates an appeal. also work high school baseball, the Play 1: With R1 on first, B8 hits NCAA ruling is different than high Fair Ball a to right field. R1 goes from school. The new definition makes clear first to third, missing second base what determines when a ball is fair. along the way. F9 returns the ball to Voluntary Release The criteria are: When it settles on the infield. As F6 catches the ball, he The change clarifies that voluntary fair territory between home plate and inadvertently touches second base. release occurs only when the first or third bases; bounds past first Ruling 1: That is not an appeal. F6 or momentum of the catch is completed, or third base on or over fair territory; a member of the defensive team must the fielder has reversed direction and

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the fielder is running the ball back Catcher’s Box illegal pitch with no runners on base toward the infield or when the fielder The change clarifies that the catcher and a balk with runners on base. The is reaching for the ball to make a must have both feet in the catcher’s clarification will primarily be an issue throw. The release must be voluntary box until the pitch is delivered. If a for the defense during an intentional and intentional. catcher is in violation, the penalty is an . * Field, Equipment Rule Changes here are several changes for the Trules dealing with the playing field and equipment for 2013.

5’ • Rule 9-1d indicates that portable 15’ mounds are legal if both teams agree 20’ before the visiting team arrives at the 3 foot running lane must start 45 feet Coach’s box game site. from the plate. • Rule 1-3c indicates that it is mandatory to outline or differentiate the coaches’ boxes. • Rule 1-5c and Rule 4-3e will make it mandatory that each have a minimum of two mounds with Fields must be properly marked before every game, including complete batter’s boxes, the pitching rubbers, home plates and catcher’s box, the three-foot running lane and the coaches’ boxes. Games should not be regulation measurements. canceled or forfeited as a result of improper markings if they cannot be fixed. However, the • In Rule 1-12b the penalty for umpires should notify their conference coordinator of the issue of a game being played on an improperly marked field. an illegal bat is clarified. Any bat that has been flattened or altered to declared out. Base runners shall not gray exclusive of piping. The glove improve performance is an illegal bat. advance as a result of a batted ball. and laces may also not be distracting If discovered prior to the first pitch, • Rule 1-13c, AR 2 will change again in any way, which is a significant the bat will be removed and the batter the requirements for pitcher gloves. judgment call by the umpire. The new must use a legal bat. If discovered For 2013, a pitcher’s glove can be any rule should be less confusing and more after the first pitch, the batter shall be color or colors other than white or consistent than previous rules. * Background Check, Online Test Update efore a comprehensive background and return via fax (317-917-6073) or email Bcheck can be conducted, an official DEADLINE FOR BACKGROUND to Suzanne Brickell (sbrickell@ncaa. must confirm consent for the background CHECK, TEST SUBMISSION org) prior to the deadline for the online check to be completed. This year all FEB. 11, 2013, 11:59 p.m. EST background check. officials are asked to electronically sign As in the past, background check the final authorization when completing tion must be made to the enforcement authorization is applicable only for the the online background check process. staff. If an official chooses to withdraw Division I postseason. The officials selected for the comprehen- from the comprehensive background Test update. The passing score for the sive background check will receive an check process, they will not be eligible to NCAA test is now an 85, instead of an 80. email notification indicating that they officiate any postseason games that year. The test will consist of 60 questions, have been selected for the check. No The states of Alaska, New Hampshire, including some video-based questions. action will be required by the official. If Pennsylvania and Washington require To earn a passing score, you must get 51 an official wishes to withdraw from the a separate signed release before they correct. background check process, the email will will release your driving records to the The test becomes available on Jan. contain instructions on how to notify the NCAA. If you live in one of the noted 28 and closes at the same time as the enforcement staff of that decision and states, you are required to print the background check. * will contain a deadline by which notifica- appropriate release for your state, sign

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 7 11/8/12 9:23 AM Test Your Rules KnowledgeQUIZ n each of the following, you are b. The new pitcher automatically 8. With bases loaded and no outs, Igiven a question or play situation becomes the new DH. B9 hits a ground ball to the hole at and several possible answers. You are c. The coach must indicate the . Speedy R3 scores easily before to decide which answer is correct us- pitcher’s status before making the F6 fields the ball and throws to F4 for the ing 2013-14 NCAA rules. change, similar to what is required of a force out. F4 has no chance of retiring -switch. B9 at first base. R1’s raised leg makes 1. Which of the following d. The coach must indicate the contact with F4 at thigh level. statements is true about obstruction? pitcher’s status before reaching the a. R1 is ejected for the illegal slide. a. The offense can be guilty of dugout or the pitcher may not move to a b. There is no penalty. obstruction. defensive position or remain as DH. c. The slide rule applies; b. A player holding the ball can be R1 and B9 are out. R2 and R3’s advance guilty of obstruction. 5. The force-play slide rule: is legal. c. Obstruction always carries a a. Is a safety rule only. d. The force play slide rule applies; mandatory minimum one-base award. b. Is an interference rule only. R1 and B9 are out. R2 and R3 return d. None of the above. c. Is neither a safety rule or to the base occupied at the time of the interference rule. pitch. 2. As it relates to a team’s d. Is both a safety rule and orchestrated dugout activities: interference rule. 9. Which of the following result in a. No orchestrated dugout activity a balk being called with at least one is permitted at any time during a 6. Left-handed F1 throws to first base runner on base? game. in a attempt. F3 drops his knee to a. The pitcher pauses during his b. Orchestrated dugout activities block the base and attempt to tag R1. delivery during the windup position. to distract, intimidate or disconcert the a. F3 may block part of the bag before b. The pitcher unintentionally drops opponent are prohibited. possessing the ball as long as he is in the the ball, but it does not cross the foul line. c. There is no rule prohibiting a immediate act of receiving the throw. c. The pitcher moves his pitching team’s orchestrated dugout activities. b. F3 may block the entire bag before hand into the glove to adjust the ball, d. The penalty for orchestrated possessing the ball as long as he is in the but does not immediately continue his dugout activities is an automatic immediate act of receiving the throw. pitching motion. ejection of the head coach. c. F3 may not block any part of the d. Part of the pitcher’s foot breaks the bag until he possesses the ball. plane of the back edge of the pitcher’s 3. With R2 on second, F6 attempts d. If obstruction is called, R1 is rubber and the pitcher makes a pickoff to field a ground ball. The ball hits awarded first base. throw to first base. off the heel of F6’s glove, then several feet behind him. R2, who was running 7. With two outs and the bases 10. With the bases loaded, R3 behind F6, then runs into F6 who has loaded, B7 hits a fly ball toward right attempts to score on a . taken three steps in chasing down the field. The pitcher, in his excitement, The ball bounces directly back to the ball. runs toward his team’s dugout, which catcher. In the ensuing , R3 a. Obstruction should be called. is on the first-base side. The pitcher and is obstructed by F5. At the time of b. Interference should be called. batter-runner collide. the obstruction, both R1 and R2 were c. No call necessary, play on. a. As long as the fly ball is caught, the attempting to advance, but had not yet d. I’d have to be there to see it and obstruction is ignored. reached the next base. judge, but I have to call something. b. All runners, including the batter- a. The ball is delayed-dead. Play runner, are awarded one base. continues and obstruction will be 4. The pitcher is also serving as the c. There cannot be obstruction in the penalized at the end of the rundown. . When his team is on infield when the ball is in the . b. The ball is dead immediately.

defense, the head coach comes out to d. Since the batter-runner was still Since R1 and R2 hadn’t advanced, they DENNIS HUBBARD make a pitching change. able to reach first base, the obstruction is are returned to their bases at the time of a. The pitching change does not ignored. the pitch. affect the pitcher’s status as DH. c. The ball is delayed-dead. R3 is

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awarded home, but R1 and R2 are not awarded anything and are still subject to being put out. d. The ball is dead immediately. R3 is awarded home and R1 and R2 are awarded the bases the umpires believe would have been obtained without the obstruction.

11. Which of the following types of plays, calls or situations may not be changed in an NCAA game? a. A that is dropped by the catcher. b. Cases in which an umpire clearly errs in judgment because he did not see a ball dropped or juggled. c. A batted ball that first touches the ground in front of the first or third bases and was ruled foul. Any assistant coach who argues a judgment call with an umpire(s) will be ejected. See question d. Deciding if a is fair or 13 to determine additional penalties for the coach. NCAA umpires (from left) Scott Wilkerson, Arnold, foul. Mo.; Mike Droll, Tipton, Iowa; and Mark Winters, Springfield, Ill.

12. With the score tied in the bottom of the ninth and runners at second and from the team’s next regularly B1 then hits a home run. Before a pitch third, the pitcher bounces a two out, 3-2 scheduled contest. is thrown to B2, the defense appeals that pitch off the catcher’s and d. The assistant coach is ejected B1 batted out of order. the ball rolls into a area. from the present game but is eligible to a. B1 is out and B2 is the proper a. R3 is awarded home. The batter is participate in the team’s next contest. batter. awarded first base on ball four and the b. B1 is declared out and B9 is the game is concluded. 14. Between , the team’s proper batter. b. R3 and R2 are awarded home equipment notifies the plate c. B9 is declared out and B8 is the and the game is concluded. umpire that the team is making a proper batter. c. The batter is awarded first base pitching change as the new pitcher d. B1 was a proper batter. B9 should and the game continues with two outs. approaches the mound to begin his have been the proper batter, but he was d. Each runner is awarded two warm-up throws.. skipped over because he was on base. bases from the time of the pitch, when a. The umpire will confirm this B1 became the correct batter and his a pitched or thrown ball (pickoff substitution with the head coach or home run counts. B2 is the next proper attempt) by the pitcher from his another coach in uniform. Absent batter. * position on the rubber goes into any this confirmation, the contest will not dead ball area. continue. ANSWERS b. The new pitcher is legally in the 1. d (2-54) 13. After a close play at first base game. 2. b (5-17) that went against the offensive team, c. Only the head coach can make this 3. a (2-54 AR2) the assistant coach is ejected for form of substitution. 4. d (7-2 (5)) arguing the umpire’s call. d. As long as the parameters of 5. d (8-4). a. The assistant coach is suspended making a pitching change are followed, 6. c (2-54 AR4) for an additional two games, plus the this form of announcing a substitution 7. a (6-3d (3) penalty) 8. d (8-4). game from which he was ejected. is acceptable. The new pitcher has eight 9. b (9-1a AR1, AR2; 9-1b (3); 9-2b) b. The assistant coach and the head warm-up pitches and the game will 10. d (8-3e 1) coach are suspended for an additional continue. 11. c (Appendix E)

DENNIS HUBBARD game. 12. a (8-3k) c. The assistant coach is ejected 15. B8, B9 and B1 are due to bat. B9 13. c (2-25) from the present contest and receives bats for B8 and singles. B8 then bats and 14. a (5-5g) an additional one-game suspension sacrifices B9 to second for the first out. 15. d (7-11a (1) thru (5), AR)

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 9 11/8/12 9:23 AM Conference Calls he rules that govern offensive and make a second trip but must remove the • There is no restriction on the use Tdefensive conferences have caused pitcher. In that pinch-hitter situation, a of multiple offensive conferences in the some confusion in the past. Here are relief pitcher, having just been brought same inning or with the same batter. A several points to remember regarding in to pitch, may not be removed from the team may use all of its conferences at each: game before pitching completely to one one time. batter or the side has been retired. • After the maximum number of Defensive conferences • The trip to the mound (which may offensive meetings have been used, • A team is limited to three defensive include a conference with the ) the umpire shall warn the coach before conferences in a regulation game begins when the coach crosses the foul penalizing the offending team. The without penalty. A team is permitted line, and shall be concluded when the player involved in the meeting shall be one extra free defensive conference if the coach leaves the dirt circle or the pitcher removed from the game. If the meeting game goes , regardless of begins his eight warm-up pitches. is between the head coach and the how long the game goes. • The defense may not meet during assistant coach, the assistant shall be • If a coach or his nonplaying an offensive conference without being removed from the game. representative goes to the mound a charged for a conference. • Offensive meetings shall not be second time in the inning to talk to charged during a defensive team’s the same pitcher, the pitcher must be Offensive conferences timeout. removed from the pitcher’s position for • Each team shall be allowed three • An offensive meeting shall not be the remainder of the game. offensive conferences per game. If charged if time is called for the purpose • A coach may not make a second the game goes into extra innings, the of making an offensive substitution, trip to the mound in the same inning team will receive one extra offensive attending to an injured player or making with the same batter . However, if a conference plus any unused conferences an equipment change. * is substituted, the coach may from the first nine innings. Timing Procedures Unchanged he timing procedures that were For games that are being broadcast Tinstituted in 2011 to improve the on TV, teams can agree to change the remain in effect and un- 90-second limit to 108 seconds. No changed for the 2013 baseball season. other changes may be made. Here is a quick review of the If both teams are ready earlier, procedures: play may resume before 90 seconds has elapsed, but neither team is Between innings required to begin play early. Once the final member of the The base umpire who is defensive team has crossed the foul running the clock is responsible for line, a 90-second clock begins. By the administering the penalties. end of 90 seconds, the new defensive team must have completed its Between pitches warmups and the pitcher must have A pitcher has 20 seconds to deliver started his pitching motion to the first a pitch with no runners on base. batter of the inning. The clock starts when the pitcher There is no warning for a violation receives the ball and is on the dirt of the 90-second rule. If the defense circle. Allowances should be made is responsible for the delay, a ball is for starting the clock if other players added to the count. If the batter is not are not in position (i.e., a batter or ready, a strike is added to the count. defensive player returning after Umpires should alert both teams Umpire Kevin Mackelburg, Simi Valley, Calif., hitting a foul ball). Each pitcher is checks his stopwatch between innings. when approximately 30 seconds The appropriate base umpire is required to afforded one warning once he has

remain. monitor the time between innings. violated the 20-second rule. After BOB MESSINA

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being warned, any further violation violation of the 20-second rule. A For a complete explanation of the by that pitcher is penalized by strike is added without warning if timing rule, go to Appendix F in the adding a ball to the count. The the batter causes the delay to exceed NCAA Baseball 2013 and 2014 Rules offense is not granted a warning for 20 seconds. Book. * Press Box Rules Clarified ppendix B covers directions messages must stop when the batter and announce following batters no Afor game management for enters the dirt circle around the plate later than when the ball reaches the scoreboards, video and audio. Some rather than the batter’s box in the third baseman or any on balls additions have been added to include: previous rule. being thrown in from the outfield. • No video board replays may • The public address announcer • Public address announcers be shown during a dispute with an will announce the first batter of an should not announce pinch hitters, a umpire. inning immediately after the catcher new pitcher, or any substitution until • All music, chants or crowd-cuing throws the ball down to second base signaled in from the umpire. * ‘That’s Gotta Be Interference!’ Or Is It? ake a look at the PlayPic that Taccompanies this article. It caused a long discussion in the game in which it happened. Not only that, the coach also contacted the league office, wanting an interpretation of why interference wasn’t called. Clearly, the coach believed the batter was outside the batter’s box in front of the plate and that should be penalized. However, the coach forgot one key element of the play. There was no interference. Not yet. And after the play, not at all. Here’s the text from the rule book (7-11f): “The batter is out when: The batter intentionally or unintentionally interferes with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by stepping out of the batter’s box or making any other their weight shifts forward, not across Any contact is an obvious call, but movement that hinders a defensive the plate. His actions clearly indicate contact isn’t required. If the catcher player’s action at home plate.” that he is trying to disrupt the play. double-pumps or attempts to throw, To break down the specific play but pulls it down because the batter is (and most interference plays), let’s go The catcher’s throw. in his way, then interference has also through it step-by-step: For there to be interference, not occurred. The catcher is not required only must the batter violate the to throw to get an interference call. The batter’s swing. rule, but the catcher’s play has to be Additionally, if the catcher throws It may have been a hit-and-run affected. wildly because he was attempting or just a straight steal attempt, but When the batter has clearly to avoid the batter, interference may clearly the batter is trying to protect violated, the burden of proof have occurred. Just because there is the runner. Watch batters when they should be minimal in order for an a wild throw, it may be just that and swing normally and you will see that interference call to be made. See “Interference” p. 12

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 11 11/8/12 9:23 AM Interference Outcome of the play. stealing was on a bang-bang Continued from p. 11 On the play in question, there play. Therefore, even though all of not interference. However, when is no doubt the batter violated. the elements of interference were the throw is wild and the batter has However, the catcher made no present, the play correctly stood as violated, the catcher should get the contact with the batter and got off a called. * benefit of the doubt. clean and accurate throw. The runner Two Pitching Rules Clarified n existing pitcher who goes Also, an addition to Rule 9-2g on Ato the mound to start an in- a pitcher intentionally throwing at a ning must pitch to the first batter batter has been made to stipulate that until the batter is retired or reaches any team personnel coming onto the base. That restriction, written into field to dispute or argue a warning Rule 9-4f, applies once the pitcher for intentionally throwing at a batter crosses the foul line on his way to is subject to a warning followed by the mound. immediate ejection. * Five Things to Take Away From a Game here are many aspects to work- doing about it? Have you increased will help you assemble a collection of Ting games that you don’t read in your study of the rules? Have you techniques that will serve you well as rulebooks or manuals. Here’s at least talked with experienced umpires until you move up in your umpiring career. five things every umpire should take you get it right? 4. Get an honest evaluation. away from every game. Maybe you’ve been working on An immediate evaluation serves an 1. Learn from your mistakes. Since seeing outside pitches better, so you important purpose: It puts areas of we all make mistakes, what should try a slight change in your plate stance your game that need work in the our mind-set be about them? Learn and it works. If you try something open and keeps them foremost on from every mistake you make. When different and it works, make note of it, your mind. Sure, we all like to hear you make a mistake, after the game, share it and keep doing it. we did a great job, but the reality first analyze what happened. Did you 3. Judge your game talk. Every is every game gives us a chance for give a wrong signal or fail to signal at game is not merely a series of improvement. all? Did you rush instead of hustle? judgment calls, but also a series of Ask your partners how they Maybe your was a wrong call. interactions with players, coaches and thought you did, and then take their What happened? Were you out of partners. A sure sign of development comments as constructive criticism. position? Did you anticipate the call in an umpire is how he handles the If your partners are veterans, they’ll instead of the play? Most importantly, tough situations when a coach “comes be more forthcoming, and sometimes what do you need to correct to make out” on an umpire or a player decides a little more blunt, in evaluating you. sure it doesn’t happen again? to try to show him up. Inexperienced Don’t take it personally; take it as an Mistakes can be valuable learning and insecure umpires tend to “pull opportunity for improvement. experiences. Make the most of a bad the trigger” early in those situations. 5. Put it in writing. If you have to situation. Evaluate game conversations you had file a game report (for ejections, major 2. Note what works. Despite on your way home. How did you do? injuries or unusual game occurrences), what most fans and some coaches Have you spent time working on make sure you jot down all pertinent and players think, most umpires do face-to-face discussions and conflict details as soon as the situation is most things right. The beauty of the resolution techniques? Perhaps you under control and before you resume avocation is that umpires can keep were able to de-escalate a volatile play. Taking that vital information working on things not until we get situation and keep everyone in the home with you will surely save you them right, but until we don’t get game. Why did things go better? What and your assigner a major headache them wrong. Do you have trouble did you do differently? Replaying the later. * calling ? What have you been one-on-one exchanges from the game

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Early NCAA Umpiring Coordinators Endings Division I Director of Umpire Training ne change and one clarification Gene McArtor Tom Hiler Ohave been made in regard to the 3708 Joan Ct. PO Box 777 policies in Rule 5 governing when a Columbia, Mo. 65201 Mountain Home, Idaho 83647 game ends early. In Rule 5-8g, a conference in the [email protected] [email protected] past could adopt a travel policy (573) 443-5516 (H) 208-598-5558 (C) regarding an approved reason to (573) 999-9162 (C) 208-587-8425 (F) end a game only in the case of commercial air travel. The new Division II Division III rule permits conferences to have an Dan Weikle George Drouches established travel policy on travel 1115 Aberdeen Dr. P.O. Box 27641 Broomfield, Colo. 80020 Golden Valley, Minn. 55427 days, regardless of the method of travel. [email protected] [email protected] Play 1: Teams in the final game (303) 469-4868 (H) (952) 541-1400 of a conference series are playing. (303) 919-1956 (C) (612) 432-5351 (C) The visiting team has traveled by (952) 593-8369 (F) bus and has final exams the next day. Ruling 1: The conference is permitted to authorize a travel policy. The two teams cannot agree to it unless it has been approved by 2012 NCAA Championship Umpires the conference. Also, the rule concerning halted Division I Division II Division III games has been clarified. In non- conference games, institutions Jacob Asher Kevin Ainsworth Rick Allen must agree before the game to the Georgetown, Ky. Conifer, Colo. Vandalia, Ill. halted game rule to avoid conflict. If the teams do not agree or it is not Phil Benson Ivan Daniels Joe Bottitta covered at the pregame meeting, the Walnut Grove, Calif. Pikeville, N.C. Florham Park, N.J. halted game rule is not in effect. If the halted game rule is being Mark Chapman Rich Maggio Deron Brown used in a game and the game cannot La Place, La. Melville, N.Y. Troy, Ohio be completed, the game becomes Perry Costello Matt Neader Terry Helget “no contest.” DeWitt, Mich. Marietta, Ohio Sleepy Eye, Minn. Play 2: Teams A and B are playing a two-game non-conference Jeff Henrichs Eric Petersen Asa Howard series and agree to use the halted Sacramento, Calif. Santa Cruz, Calif. Amarillo, Texas game rule in the first game. With team B leading 14-2 in the seventh Danny Mascorro David Pritchett John Leeds inning, the game is stopped because Friendswood, Texas Greensboro, N.C. Tiverton, R.I. of rain. The two teams are unable to play the next day or make up the Darrin Sealey Patrick Sanford Bob Parker games during the season. Ruling 2: Littlestown, Pa. Olive Branch, Miss. Danbury, Conn. The game is ruled a “no contest.” Had the game been played without Frank Sylvester Tom Walkoviak Tom Stallings the halted game rule, it would have Philadelphia, Pa. Navasota, Texas Charlottesville, Va. been a legal game. *

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 13 11/8/12 9:23 AM Video Is Not The Enemy magine the pressure that MLB he should have been ruled out, not also shows off how we handle those Iumpires are under. Not only is safe.” situations. You can be sure that every every controversial play shown again Most umpires don’t want to be in conference office and every assigner and again on TV, but every pitch is Meals’ position of having to review gets sent clips from games showing captured by an electronic system and the play and explain a call because how an umpire’s “mistake” affected evaluated for accuracy. other video angles might possibly the game and how the umpire acted And even when replay isn’t clear, show a different outcome. No matter unprofessionally toward a coach or if announcers think the call might have what happened with Meals and that player. It’s happens. been missed, their opinion will be play, it leads us to the bigger problem Let’s go back to Meals’ play in broadcast as gospel and that becomes and that is the use (and misuse) of Atlanta. What happens if Meals rules the reality. video and how it has affected the the runner out and replay clearly For example, take what happened game, especially as video becomes shows there was no tag and Atlanta on July 26, 2011, in Atlanta. more prevalent at the college level. loses the game in the 20th inning or It was the bottom of the 19th Video is everywhere, even all beyond? Would Meals have been inning. One can only imagine working the way down to the youth level, as given a free pass because he made the behind the plate for six hours, 10 it seems every parent has access to “expected” call? Probably not. minutes. Crossing the three-hour some form of video technology (think It’s a no-win situation for any threshold makes most umpires (and cell-phone camera) and an avenue to umpire at any level. Make the their partners) angry, because the day broadcast the event (think Facebook expected call or make what he has already gone on too long. and YouTube). believed was the correct call, and But in a game in which both teams Prior to the advent of video review either way, he gets criticized. missed multiple opportunities to score and scrutiny, most umpires would The game seemed to manage the winning run, it came down to a not have given it a second thought to itself much smoother prior to the play on which didn’t do call Lugo out at the plate. Ball beats onset of replay and video technology. what was expected. Certainly, you runner … catcher attempts tag … However, video technology is only remember talking about that play with runner does nothing extraordinary … going to become more prevalent, your umpiring friends. it’s an out. especially as more conferences work On a ground ball, the throw That can’t happen today. Umpires out television contracts with local, home beat Braves runner Julio now must umpire according to what regional and national broadcasters. Lugo by a bunch. Lugo did nothing the camera sees. Otherwise, face Umpires will shy away from the extraordinary, but neither did Pirates scrutiny (fair or not) in regard to expected call, knowing that video catcher Michael McKenry. Meals taking everything into account when won’t back them up. The adjustment called Lugo safe, explaining after the calling a player out or safe. period will be rough — there will be game that he felt McKenry “ole’d So what do the play and its results arguments and ejections. But the game him” — like a bullfighter — with his mean for the rest of us? Does common will survive. Video replay is here to glove. sense still apply or has “big brother” stay and the benefits of the technology In good position to see the entire affected the way we umpire? Umpires will outweigh the negatives. play, Meals said he never saw the must certainly be aware of how they Keep in mind the following: Rarely catcher touch the runner. No tag interact with coaches and players on will there be a time when an official’s means the runner was safe. Game and off the field along with utilizing decision is universally accepted, over. Controversy just beginning. their partners (when applicable) to get especially when the play at hand is so It is easy to debate whether Meals the play right. close or timely in nature. got the play right. Even he came out An inappropriate comment or The great debate will continue a day later and said, “After coming gesture can easily be taken out of as to whether an official can take into the locker room, I reviewed the context and be broadcast via the all “elements” of the play into incident through our videos we have Internet or on the local news. And consideration before rendering a in here, and after seeing a few of them while MLB has the opportunity on decision or suffer the consequences by on one particular replay, I was able to some plays to change calls on replay, accepting what the “eye” in the sky see that Lugo’s pant leg moved ever college umpires don’t have that can see. The view seems much better so slightly when the swipe tag was luxury (except at the College World from ground level. Wouldn’t you attempted by McKenry. That’s telling Series). So not only can amateur agree? * me I was incorrect in my decision, and replay broadcast our mistakes, it

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NCAA_BS_2013.indd 14 11/8/12 9:23 AM BASEBALL 2013 Toughest Play On the Bases

hether in the two- or three- U1 Since third base is open, U3 cannot Wumpire system, the toughest work in the “Deep C” position.

play on the bases has to be the double R1 R1 When the runners break, the umpire steal. In fact, while the three-umpire who started in the “C” position should R2 THROW system covers many of the gaps that break toward the back of the mound.

the two-umpire system leaves, that U1 THROW The umpire should commit to a base U3 TO play is one of the only plays where SECOND only when the throw from the catcher there is no advantage gained by goes to one of the bases where plays adding an extra umpire. are possible (see MechaniGram). More R2 U3 THROW TO THIRD

With two umpires, the base umpire THROW BR teams are teaching their to should start in the “C” position, throw to second base, since that runner halfway between the dirt circle and usually will have gotten a later start second base, on a line from the plate on the play. An umpire who commits through the edge of the dirt on the In the three-umpire system, U3’s too early to third base will be out of pitcher’s mound. starting position would be the same. position for the play at second base. * Plays at the Plate: What to Watch lays at the plate have been given Pan increased focus over the past several years. The rules for plays at the plate vary for both catchers and runners. The NCAA Baseball Rules Committee is concerned about violent collisions at the plate. There is no place in the college game for the violent collisions by runners in an attempt to dislodge the ball. When there is a collision (see PlayPic) between a runner and a fielder who clearly is in possession of the ball, the umpire shall judge: Did the runner make a legitimate attempt to reach the plate or base? If the runner is doing that, he may make contact or slide into a fielder. As a general rule, such contact must occur below waist level. The base If the answer to that question is the runners shall return to the last base is at ground level and is not moving. yes, the runner shall be declared out, touched at the time of interference. If the runner is making a legitimate even if the fielder loses possession of If the runner touches the plate then attempt at the base, he is headed the ball. The ball is dead and all other collides illegally, he scores, but is toward the ground. runners shall return to the last base ejected. By rule, contact above the waist touched at the time of interference. Did the runner do everything initiated by the baserunner shall not be Did the runner make illegal right? judged as an attempt to reach the base contact (below the waist)? If the runner’s path to the plate or plate. If the contact was flagrant or or base is legally blocked and the Did the runner attempt to malicious and occurred before the runner did not violate the rules, it is dislodge the ball or initiate an runner touched the plate, the runner is considered unavoidable contact. * avoidable collision? out and ejected. The ball is dead and

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