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ASA Casebook

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Copyright © 2007 by THE AMATEUR SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA 2801 NE 50TH STREET Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111-7203 (405) 424-5266 • Fax: (405) 424-3855 All rights reserved.

ASA UMPIRE

2007 CASEBOOK

2007 CASE BOOK INDEX

Rule 1 Definitions…………………………………...1-11

Rule 2 Playing Field……………………………….11-12

Rule 3 Equipment………………………………….12-16

Rule 4 Players and Substitutes……………………16-24

Rule 5 The Game…………………………………..24-28

Rule 6 Pitching FP…………………………………28-31

Rule 6 Pitching MP………………………………..31-32

Rule 6 Pitching SP…………………………………32-33

Rule 7 ……………………………………...33-39

Rule 8 Batter-Runner and Runner……………….39-68

Rule 9 Protests……………………………………..68-69

Rule 10 Umpires…………………………………...69-70

RULE 1 - DEFINITIONS Altered Bat PLAY 1-1 B1 who has just safely is discovered to be using a bat with a knob painted with team colors. RULING: This is a legal bat. Painting either end of the bat for identification is not considered an altered bat. (1-ALTERED BAT)

PLAY 1-2 B1 hits a with an aluminum bat that has engraved ID marking on the barrel end. F2 picks up the bat and brings the engraving to the plate umpire’s attention. RULING: The ball is dead; B1 is and disqualified. Engraved ID markings can only be on the knob end of the bat. Laser markings can be anywhere on the bat. (1-ALTERED BAT; 7-6B)

Appeal Play PLAY 1-3 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a . R1 scores but fails to touch 2B. The umpire observes this, but no appeal is made. Since no appeal was made, is the procedure the same as if R1 had touched 2B? RULING: Yes. Runners are assumed to have touched a base once they pass the base. The defense must make the appeal. It is the responsibility of the umpire to only observe whether or not the runner touched the base and to make a decision only if appealed by the defense. (1-; 8-8H)

PLAY 1-4 R1 is at 2B when B2 hits a . R1 misses 3B on the way to the plate. As the ball is thrown to the plate, R1 returns to 3B where occurs. R1 is tagged prior to returning to 3B. The umpire rules a and awards 3B to R1 on the obstruction call. Can a successful appeal be made to the umpire on R1 missing 3B? RULING: Since R1 was obstructed by the defense, and R1 returned to 3B on the award prior to the appeal, the appeal cannot be honored. (1- APPEAL PLAY; 8-5B)

Batter’s Box PLAY 1-5 F1 steps on the pitching plate while B1 starts with a foot outside the lines of the batter’s box or is touching home plate. RULING: If F1 has not started, the umpire should hold up play and instruct B1 to get into the box. In cases where there are no batter’s box lines evident, good judgment must be used and the benefit of any doubt must go to the batter. (1-BATTER’S BOX; 7-3A)

Blocked Ball PLAY 1-6 A blocked ball is called when: (a) it hits the coach in their proper position, with no ; or (b) it strikes a spectator within the field of play. RULING: In (a) No, (b) Yes. (1-BLOCKED BALL; 8-5L)

PLAY 1-7 (FP Only) With two out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, B6 has a 3-2 . B6 swings and misses the next . The ball goes off F2’s glove, hits the umpire and falls into the umpire’s ball bag. Before the ball is found, two runners cross the plate. Do both runs count? RULING: Only one counts. The ball is dead as soon as it lodges in the umpire’s ball bag. B6 is awarded 1B and all runners advance one base. If this occurred with 1B occupied and less than two outs, B6 would be out. (1- BLOCKED BALL; 8-1B; 10-1)

Bunt PLAY 1-8 (SP Only) B1 swings very slowly at a pitch and, on contact, the ball rolls out in front of the plate. RULING: There is no penalty for taking a slow swing. The rules state that a batter cannot chop down on the ball or in slow pitch. The batter can intentionally hit a ground ball. (1-BUNT; 1-CHOPPED BALL)

PLAY 1-9 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, B2 (a) bunts or (b) slap hits and is out at 1B. R1 advances one base. RULING: In (a) and (b) B2 is credited with a sacrifice and not charged a time . (1-BUNT; 11-2B)

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Catch/No PLAY 1-10 B1 hits a fair line drive that is touched by F4, after which it strikes an umpire standing behind F4. The ball is then caught by F6 before it touches the ground. RULING: B1 is not out. The ball remains live because it has passed an infielder other than the before it struck the umpire. When a batted , in flight, strikes an umpire, it is interpreted the same as the ball striking the ground where the umpire is standing. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-B[2])

PLAY 1-11 B1 hits a fly ball to F8 who gets a hand on the ball but the ball bounces against F8’s body where it is clamped with an arm. F8 takes several steps toward the and intentionally drops the ball without ever having control. RULING: It is not a catch until F8 has control of the ball in the hand or glove. B1 is out only when F8 controls the ball in the hand or glove. This would not be out if the ball dropped to the ground. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A[1])

PLAY 1-12 A sinking line drive is caught by F7 who drops the ball after (a) tripping on the catch and hitting the ground, or (b) colliding with F6 as they both reach for the ball. RULING: No catch in (a) or (b) if the umpire feels F7 did not have control of the ball. The fielder must show control or voluntary release of the ball prior to the ball coming lose because of contact with the ground or other fielder. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A[1])

PLAY 1-13 B1 hits a fly ball to F8 who gets the ball in the hand and/or glove, but drops it when starting to throw to the infield. RULING: It is a legal catch if the ball was in control but then dropped in a motion associated with an intended throw. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A[1])

PLAY 1-14 F5 makes a catch on a line drive for the third out and while running to the , trips over 3B and the ball falls out of the glove. Is this a legal catch? RULING: Yes, if the player completed the requirements of a legal catch before falling to the ground. (1- CATCH/NO CATCH-A[1])

PLAY 1-15 F8 collides with a portable fence, knocking the fence to the ground and makes a catch while standing on the collapsed fence. RULING: Legal catch, the ball is live. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A[2])

PLAY 1-16 On a high fly ball, F3 and F4 collide attempting to make the catch. When the collision occurred F3 had the ball in the glove but during the entanglement, F4 ended up with F3’s glove and the ball in F4’s possession. Neither the ball nor F3’s glove touched the ground. What is the call? RULING: Legal catch, this is not considered catching the ball with detached equipment. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH; 8-5F)

PLAY 1-17 While attempting to catch a fly ball near dead ball territory, F7 (a) makes the catch with one foot on the dead ball line and one foot in playable territory or (b) makes the catch with either foot touching the ground entirely in dead ball territory. RULING: In (a), it’s a legal catch, because the player has not completely entered dead ball territory with either foot. In (b), no catch should be ruled when a foot is touching the ground entirely in dead ball territory. (1- CATCH/NO CATCH-A[3]; 1-DEAD BALL)

PLAY 1-18 F3 and F4 both attempt to catch a fly ball. The ball strikes F4 on the head and is caught by F3 before it touches the ground. RULING: This is a legally caught fly ball. Since the ball has not touched anything other than another fielder. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-B[2]; 1-IN FLIGHT)

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PLAY 1-19 F3 reaches for a low throw and traps the ball on the ground: (a) before B1 touches 1B, or (b) after B1 touches 1B. Is B1 out? RULING: In (a) B1 is out if F3 can show control of the ball by raising the ball off the ground before B1 reaches 1B. In (b) if B1 reaches 1B before F3 can show control, B1 is called because this is judged as a trapped ball. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A[1]; 8-7C)

PLAY 1-20 (SP Only) With one out, R1 is on 3B, R2 is on 1B, and B4 with a 2-2 count lofts a high fly ball down the right field line. F10 is under the ball in foul territory when a teammate yells ‘‘leave it alone’’ in an attempt to have the automatic out called on the foul third strike. However, F10 makes the catch and then intentionally drops the ball, which is in foul territory. As soon as the ball touches F10 ’s glove, R1 retouches 3B and advances safely to home plate. RULING: B4 is ruled out and R1’s run legally scores. Since the ball was caught, the ball remains live and all runners may advance. For the “intentionally dropped ball rule” to be enforced, it must involve an infielder, not an outfielder, who drops the ball. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH; 8-2J)

Catch and Carry PLAY 1-21 With no outs and R1 on 1B, B2 hits a long drive to deep center field. F8 races to the fence, leaps to make the catch, and falls over the fence. RULING: B2 is out if, in the umpire’s judgment, F8 had the ball securely held in the glove when F8 went over the fence. F8 is considered to have unintentionally carried the ball out of play following the catch and R1 is awarded 2B. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A; 1-CATCH AND CARRY; 8-5J)

PLAY 1-22 With no outs and R1 on 2B, B2 hits a long drive to F9 who is running toward an open gate in the RF corner. Seeing R1 attempting to score, F9 intentionally steps into dead ball territory. RULING: B2 is out; R1 is awarded home as two bases are awarded for an intentional catch and carry. (1- CATCH AND CARRY; 8-5K)

Catcher’s Box PLAY 1-23 (SP Only) F2 is in position to receive a pitch with one foot touching the line of the ’s box and the glove extending over and touching the ground, completely outside the catcher’s box. RULING: Illegal pitch. F2 is considered to be out of the catcher’s box. (1-CATCHER’S BOX; 6 SP-6A)

PLAY 1-24 (SP Only) A pitched ball hits the ground in front of the plate or on the plate and F2 leaves the catcher’s box to retrieve the ball. RULING: Once the ball hits the ground or plate, the ball is dead and F2 can leave the catcher’s box to retrieve it. (1-CATCHER’S BOX)

PLAY 1-25 (FP Only) On an intentional walk, F2 stands with one foot inside the catcher’s box and one foot outside the catcher’s box. RULING: An illegal pitch should be called. (1-CATCHER’S BOX; 6 FP-7A; 6 MOD-7A)

PLAY 1-26 (SP Only) F2 stands in the catcher’s box and provides a target off the ground for the pitcher just behind home plate and (a) F2 leaves the hand or glove there during the pitch. In (b) F2 brings the glove arm back as F1 starts to deliver the pitch and then reaches forward again to catch the ball after B1 swings. RULING: Legal in both (a) and (b). (1-CATCHER’S BOX; 6 SP-6A)

Charged Conference PLAY 1-27 The third base coach requests time to talk to B1. During this suspension of play, a defensive representative confers with a fielder. RULING: The team requesting the time out is charged with the conference. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7A & C[3])

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PLAY 1-28 The third base coach requests time to confer with B1. Later in the , the team requests time to confer with the third base coach. RULING: The manager’s request is denied as this is a second charged offensive conference in the same inning. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7A)

PLAY 1-29 In (a) a manager or any other team representative from the dugout requests time and enters the playing field. In (b) a defensive player requests time and approaches the dugout area for instructions. Are these considered defensive conferences? RULING: Yes, in both (a) and (b). (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7B)

PLAY 1-30 With two outs, R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B and B5 has a 3-2 count, the third base coach calls time to confer with B5. When play is resumed, but before a pitch, the first base coach requests time to talk to R2. RULING: The umpire should deny the request for the second time out as only one offensive conference is allowed per inning. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7A)

PLAY 1-31 The defensive coach calls time to talk to F1. When play resumes and a pitch is thrown, B5 receives a walk to load the bases and the defensive coach goes to F5 to discuss strategy. RULING: Legal. The defense is allowed three conferences per seven-inning game. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7B)

PLAY 1-32 The manager requests a time out in the bottom of the fourth inning to confer with F1. Three batters later, in the same inning, the manager comes out of the dugout and (a) yells to F6 to switch positions with F1, or (b) informs the plate umpire on the way to the pitching area that F1 will assume another position. This action occurs prior to the manager’s discussion with any defensive player. RULING: There is no charged conference in (a) or (b). If F1 is removed from the , that player can return to pitch later in the game. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7B)

PLAY 1-33 The defensive team manager has a conference with F1. The manger leaves the pitching area on the way to the dugout but before entering dead ball territory, returns to the pitching area and the manager says something more to F1. RULING: Legal. The conference does not end until the manger enters dead ball territory, so the return is still part of the original conference. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7B)

PLAY 1-34 On the manager’s second trip to talk to the pitcher in the same inning, the manager decides to remove the pitcher from the pitching position. The reliever gets one batter out, and the manager goes out to talk to the relief pitcher. RULING: The defense has used its three conferences. The defense is allowed three defensive conferences per seven-inning game. Each additional conference causes the pitcher to be removed from the pitching position. A defensive team is allowed only one conference per inning in an extra inning game. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5- 7B)

PLAY 1-35 The home team has been charged a defensive conference in each of the first three . In the fifth inning, the manager requests time to discuss defensive strategy with the infielders. RULING: The umpire should deny the conference because this exceeds the allowed number of defensive conferences for a game. If the conference occurs, the pitcher is removed from the pitching position for the remainder of the game. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7B)

PLAY 1-36 After walking two consecutive batters and time is called, a defensive player goes to the pitching area to talk to the pitcher. RULING: Legal, it is not a charged conference unless a manager or team representative from the dugout requests time and enters the field to confer with any defensive player. (1-CHARGED CONFERENCE; 5-7B)

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Fair Ball PLAY 1-37 A settles on home plate. RULING: Fair ball. (1-FAIR BALL-A; 1-FAIR TERRITORY)

PLAY 1-38 Taking a big swing, B1 hits the ball off the end of the bat. The ball lands in foul territory between home and 1B and then spins into fair ground, where F3 picks it up. RULING: Fair ball. The fact that the ball first struck in foul territory means nothing. When the ball settles on fair ground between home and 1B or home and 3B, it is a fair ball. (1-FAIR BALL-A)

PLAY 1-39A A batted ball first hits foul ground or home plate and without touching any foreign object, rolls into fair territory between home and 1B or home and 3B where it settles. RULING: Fair ball. (1-FAIR BALL-A)

PLAY 1-39B A batted ball contacts a discarded bat that has come to rest in fair territory. In (a) F1 fields the ball. In (b) the ball continues to roll and F2 fields the ball in foul territory. RULING: In (a) it is a fair ball, in (b) a . (1-FAIR BALL; 7-6K[2])

PLAY 1-39C F2 discards the mask in fair territory while fielding a pop up in foul territory. The ball falls untouched in foul territory and rolls into fair ground contacting the mask and then is fielded by F1 while the ball is still in fair territory. RULING: Fair ball. (1-FAIR BALL-A)

PLAY 1-40 (FP Only) Attempting to sacrifice, B2 bunts into foul territory, but the ball spins back toward home and stops on the plate or is touched by F2 on or over home plate. RULING: Fair ball. Home plate is in fair territory. (1-FAIR BALL-A)

PLAY 1-41 A right-handed B1 swings late and hits a ground ball down the 1B line. F3 can’t reach the ball and it bounces over (a) the white portion, or (b) the colored portion of a double base, and lands about a foot outside the foul line. RULING: In (a) fair ball, in (b) foul ball. When a bounding ball passes over 1B or 3B, it is a fair ball, even if it lands in foul territory after passing the base. The umpire must judge the ball’s position at the moment the ball passes over the base. The colored portion of the base is not considered part of fair territory. (1-FAIR BALL-B)

PLAY 1-42 B1 hits a pop fly between 1B and 2B, and the ball falls untouched to the ground about six feet beyond the base line. The ball has backspin and rolls across the foul line about ten feet from home plate, where it is first touched by F3. B1 advances to 2B on the play. RULING: This is a fair ball because it first touches the ground beyond the bases in fair territory. B1 remains at 2B and is credited with a double. (1-FAIR BALL-F)

PLAY 1-43 B1 hits a fly ball down the left field line. When the ball clears the fence it is several feet fair, but curves foul and lands in foul territory beyond the fence. RULING: Fair ball. A ball that clears the fence is judged fair or foul by the position of ball when it leaves the playing field. (1-FAIR BALL-G)

Force Out PLAY 1-44 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ground ball F4 who attempts to tag R1 retreating toward 1B. The ball is thrown to 1B to retire B2 and then R1 is tagged while on 1B. RULING: R1 is safe. R1 is free to return to 1B after B2 is retired and the force out is removed. (1-FORCE OUT)

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PLAY 1-45 R1 is on 1B when B2 hits safely. R1 touches 2B and is approaching 3B, when the coach tells for R1 to return to 2B. Prior to R1 reaching 2B, the ball is thrown from the outfield and F4 catches the ball and tags the base. RULING: The force out was removed when R1 passed 2B. R1 would now have to be tagged off base in order to be called out. (1-FORCE OUT)

PLAY 1-46 With R1 on 1B, B2 bunts and intentionally removes the helmet before reaching 1B. F2 fields the ball and throws to 2B prior to R1’s arrival. RULING: B2 is out for intentional removal of the and the ball remains live. The intentional removal of the batting helmet does not eliminate the force out at 2B. R1 should also be called out. (1-FORCE OUT; 3-5E Effect)

PLAY 1-47 With one out, R1 on 3B, and R2 on 1B, B4 grounds to F3 who steps on 1B to retire B4 and then throws to 2B to try and retire R2 as R1 crosses the plate. However, F6 does not tag R2, which results in R2 being called safe by the base umpire. RULING: Correct procedure. This was not a force out on R2. When F3 tagged 1B to retire B4, the force was removed from R2 and F6 must tag R2. If R2 had been tagged before reaching 2B this would have been the third out of the inning. R1’s run would have scored only if R1 crossed the plate before R2 was tagged out. (1-FORCE OUT; 5- 5B)

PLAY 1-48 With two outs, R1 on 3B and R2 at 1B, B5 grounds to F6 who fields the ball but then drops it. R2 beats the throw to 2B, but over slides the base and is tagged out. R1 scores from 3B prior to the tag. Does the run score? RULING: Yes. The force out at 2B is removed when R2 touched the base. The defense must now tag R2 off the base for the out. This now becomes a ‘‘timing play’’ and if R1 from 3B scores prior to the tag, the run would count. (1-FORCE OUT; 5-5B)

PLAY 1-49 R1 is on 1B when B2 hits a fly ball deep to left field. R1 takes off for 2B, rounds the bag and then thinking that F7 will be able to make the catch, R1 retreats back to first base, touching 2B on the way. R1 is between 2B and 1B when realizing F7 will not make the catch. F7 recovers the ball and throws to 2B for an apparent force out on R1. The umpire rules that the force out is not in effect at 2B, since R1 had already touched the bag. RULING: Incorrect procedure. When R1 retouched 2B on the way back to 1B, the force out was reinstated and R1 should be called out. (1-FORCE OUT)

PLAY 1-50 With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 grounds to F5 who tags R1 on 3B, and then touches 3B before R2 arrives from 2B. RULING: This is a . R1 lost the right to occupy 3B when B5 became a batter-runner. R1 is out on the tag and R2 is out at 3B on the . (1-FORCE OUT; 8-7C)

PLAY 1-51 R1 is on 1B when B2 hits a short fly ball to F7. R1 goes about fifteen feet off the base waiting to see if the ball will be caught. B2 rounds 1B and passes R1 and the umpire calls B2 out. The ball drops in for a base hit and R1 advances to 2B. F7 throws the ball to F4, who tags 2B before R1 slides into the bag. RULING: R1 is safe at 2B. The force out was removed when B2 passed R1, and, therefore, F4 had to tag R1. If not tagged, R1 is safe sliding into 2B. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-7D)

Foul Ball PLAY 1-52 B1 hits a pop fly near the pitcher’s plate. While moving toward the ball, F2 discards the mask. Without touching any player, the ball strikes the ground with backspin then hits the F2’s mask, which is lying on the ground in fair territory. The ball then stops in foul territory between home and 3B. RULING: Foul ball. The mask is considered equipment used in the game and there is no penalty. It is treated the same as hitting a bat discarded by the batter. Hitting the mask in fair territory is a until it rolls to foul territory, where it is ruled foul when it is touched or comes to rest. (1-FOUL BALL-A)

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PLAY 1-53 A high pop fly in the area between the pitching plate and 2B seems to be a sure out, but F4 and F6 collide under the pop up and the ball falls untouched to the ground. The ball then rolls into foul territory before passing 1B where it stops. RULING: Foul ball. (1-FOUL BALL-A)

PLAY 1-54 B1 hits the ball back to F1 making F1 jump and the ball strikes the pitching plate. The ball deflects off the pitching plate and bounces into foul territory between home and 1B where F2 retrieves it. RULING: Foul ball. (1-FOUL BALL-A & H)

PLAY 1-55 As a result of hitting a pitched ball, B1’s bat breaks in half. The ball, bounding foul in the direction of 3B, hits the barrel end of the bat causing it to roll into fair territory in front of 3B. F5 fields the ball and throws to F3, who tags 1B before B1 reaches it. RULING: Foul ball. (1-FOUL BALL-C)

PLAY 1-56 B1 hits a spinning ball down the 1B line that strikes B1 over foul territory, approximately ten feet from 1B. RULING: Foul ball. B1 returns to bat in either fast or slow pitch. If it were the third strike in slow pitch, B1 would be out. (1-FOUL BALL-C; 7-4E & F)

PLAY 1-57A B1 hits a line drive down the left field line which first touches foul ground past 3B. The ball then hits a stone and bounces fair past F7. B1 ends up at 2B. RULING: Foul ball. When the ball first hits foul beyond 3B, it is a foul ball no matter where it ends up. (1- FOUL BALL-E)

Foul Tip PLAY 1-57B (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, B2 attempts to bunt the ball. The ball goes directly from the bat to F2’s mitt, and then rebounds in the air to F1 who catches the ball as R1 attempts to advance. RULING: This is not a . The ball is ruled a dead ball and foul. R1 must return to 1B. (1-FOUL TIP)

PLAY 1-58 (FP Only) With a 1-1 count, B1 bunts the ball foul about a foot from home plate. F2 lunges and catches the ball before it touches the ground. The ball did not go higher than the B1’s head, so the umpire rules this a foul tip and returns B1 to the batter’s box with a 1-2 count. RULING: Incorrect procedure. The ball did not go directly to the F2’s glove from the bat; therefore, this is considered a caught foul ball. Because F2 went to the ball, this should be ruled a legal catch, similar to F3 or F5 making the catch. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH; 1-FOUL TIP)

PLAY 1-59 The ball goes directly from the bat and (a) first touches F2’s glove or hand and then rebounds to the chest protector, or (b) strikes F2’s body, protective equipment or the umpire. In both cases, the ball rebounds into the glove or hand of F2 and is securely held. RULING: In (a) a foul tip and a strike is ruled. In (b) it is a foul ball. The ball cannot be a foul tip if it first touches anything other than the catcher’s glove or hand. (1-FOUL BALL-G; 1-FOUL TIP; 7-4D)

PLAY 1-60 (FP Only) With R1 on 2B, B2 hits a foul tip. R1 started toward 2B on the pitch. May R1 advance without retouching 2B? RULING: Yes. A foul tip is the same as any strike, so R1 may advance without retouching 2B. If the batted ball is not caught, it is ruled a foul ball. (1-FOUL BALL-C; 1-FOUL TIP; 7-4D)

PLAY 1-61 (FP Only) With no outs and B1 at bat with an 0-2 count, the pitch hits the ground before B1 swings at the ball. The batted ball goes directly from the bat to F2’s glove and is securely held. RULING: Foul tip. Because the batted ball went directly from the bat to F2’s glove and was caught, makes this a foul tip. If B1 had swung and missed the pitch, the result would have been a dropped third strike. (1-FOUL TIP; 7-4D) 7 Illegally Batted Ball PLAY 1-62 B1’s entire foot is completely out of the batter’s box and in contact with the ground when hitting the pitch. The ball then goes directly into the stands, behind home plate. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is declared out. (1-ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL-A; 7-6D)

PLAY 1-63 F1 delivers a ball to B1 who has one foot touching home plate while swinging at the ball and (a) missing the pitch, or (b) hitting the pitch. RULING: In (a) a strike is called. In (b) B1 is out because this is an illegally batted ball. The ball must be hit, fair or foul, to enforce the illegally batted ball rule. (1-ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL-B; 7-6E)

PLAY 1-64 B1, who starts in the batter’s box, step on home plate to avoid being hit by the pitch. The ball strikes the bat while the batter is in contact with home plate. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is declared out. No intent to hit ball is necessary. (1-BATTED BALL; 1- ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL-B; 7-6E)

PLAY 1-65 B1 steps out of the batter’s box as the ball is on the way to home plate and then returns to the batter’s box as the bat contacts the ball. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is out. (1-ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL-D; 7-6F)

In Jeopardy PLAY 1-66 (FP Only) R1 is stealing 2B when B2 receives ball four. R1 is tagged after (a) R1 over slides 2B, or (b) reaching 2B and stepping off toward 3B. RULING: In both (a) and (b), R1 is out. R1 is only protected until reaching 2B. After going beyond 2B, R1 is in jeopardy of being put out. (1-IN JEOPARDY; 8-5A)

Infield Fly PLAY 1-67 There is one out with R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B. In a defensive maneuver, F7 sets up in the infield where F5 normally plays. B4 hits an infield fly that could easily be handled by F7, but instead, drops the ball near 3B. RULING: The is in effect. This ruling does not apply to CO-ED. (1-INFIELDER; 1-INFIELD FLY; 1-OUTFIELDER; 8-2I)

PLAY 1-68 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, B5 hits an infield fly and the umpires invoke the infield fly rule. No fielder makes an attempt to catch the ball, which lands near F1 and rolls toward the 1B line, where it touches B5, who is running toward 1B in fair territory. F2 now grabs the ball and throws to 3B to retire R1 who is off the bag when tagged. Is this a double play? RULING: Since the umpires ruled infield fly, the status of the ball is not known until it strikes B5 in fair territory. When B5 is struck by the batted ball, the ball becomes dead immediately, and therefore, it is not possible to retire R1 on a play at 3B. B5 is out, and the bases remain loaded. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2F & I)

PLAY 1-69 With one out, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B4 hits a high fly ball that, in the judgment of the umpire, can be handled by F4 with reasonable effort. The umpire declares the infield fly rule. F4 intentionally drops the fly ball and R1 seeing the ball dropped, runs to 3B but is thrown out. RULING: B4 is out on the infield fly rule. The ball remains live and runner(s) may advance at their own risk, therefore R1 is out. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I & J EFFECT)

PLAY 1-70 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 hits a high infield pop fly. The umpires invoke the infield fly rule. The ball hits F4’s glove, bounds away, and hits the ground. R1 and R2 score while R3 goes to 2B. The defense subsequently appeals that R1 left before F4 first touched the ball. RULING: A runner does not have to when the ball is not caught. Only B5 is called out on the infield fly. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I; 8-4D)

8 PLAY 1-71 With no outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a high pop fly between home and 1B which F3 loses sight of in the sun. The ball lands on foul ground without being touched and rolls into fair territory halfway between home and 1B. F1 picks up the ball and throws to F4 covering 1B who touches R2 with the ball while R2 is off the base. RULING: Infield fly. B3 and R2 are both out. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I; 8-7B)

PLAY 1-72A (FP Only) With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, B5 attempts to bunt but instead pops the ball into the air between home plate and F1. The ball strikes the ground and spins back to F2 who is standing on home plate. F2 then throws to F5 standing on 3B, who relays the ball to F4 standing on 2B. No runners advanced, fearing the ball would be caught. What is the result of the play? RULING: An attempted bunt can never be an infield fly. This was a double play with the first out coming on F2 touching home plate and the second out on the force at 3B. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-7C)

PLAY 1-72B With one out, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, F4, in a defensive maneuver, moves to short center field. B4 hits a fly ball that should easily be handled by F4. In (a) F4 makes the catch. In (b) F4 drops the ball. RULING: In (a) B4 is out and the ball is live. This is considered a fly ball. In (b) the ball is live and is not considered an infield fly because F4 is not in normal fielding position in the area around 2B. (1-INFIELDER; 1- INFIELD FLY)

Interference PLAY 1-73 (FP Only) With R1 on 2B and B2 at bat, R1 attempts to steal 3B, as F2 attempts the pick off. However, the throw accidentally hits B2’s bat, which is in B2’s hands, and rebounds toward the dugout allowing R1 to advance to home and score. RULING: This is not interference since B2 is in the batter’s box and B2 did not actively hinder F2’s throw to 2B. The advance is legal, and the run scores. (1-INTERFERENCE; 7-6Q & R; 8-4B)

PLAY 1-74 R1 is on 1B when B2 hits a grounder to F4. The ball bounces off F4’s chest and when F4 reaches down to pick up the ball; R1 collides with F4 in the baseline. RULING: This is interference because F4 is still in the act of fielding the ball. The ball is dead. (1- INTERFERENCE; 8-7J[1])

J. O. Player PLAY 1-75 A Junior Olympic SP player is playing in an adult SP league and the umpire requires the player to wear a helmet when batting and running the bases. RULING: When a JO player plays in an adult league, adult rules will prevail. The JO player can wear a helmet at bat and on the bases if they choose to do so, but it is not required. (1-JUNIOR OLYMPIC PLAYER; 3-5E)

Legal Tag PLAY 1-76 B1 hits a ground ball to F6 who throws to F3. F3 juggles the ball and it rolls up F3’s arm and is clamped to the body by an elbow or forearm when F3 touches 1B, prior to B1 reaching the bag. RULING: B1 is safe. The defense must securely hold the ball in the glove or hand before the runner touches the bag. (1-TAG-A; 1-CATCH/NO CATCH-A[2])

PLAY 1-77 With no outs, R1 on 1B, B2 hits the ball to F4 who (a) tags R1 with the glove; however, F4 has the ball in the other hand, or (b) touches 2B with the bare hand while the ball is in the glove hand prior to R1 reaching 2B. RULING: In (a) R1 is safe and in (b) R1 is out. (1-TAG-A; 8-7C)

PLAY 1-78 B1 hits a ground ball to F3 who gathers in the ball, runs over to the 1B line, tags B1 and then juggles the ball and drops it. RULING: Because F3 did not securely hold the ball B1 is safe. (1-TAG-B; 8-8G)

9 Non-Approved Bat PLAY 1-79 B1 steps into the batter’s box with a bat that has a recertified mark, but appears on the non-approved bat list. RULING: Any bat appearing on the current non-approved bat list, even if it displays a recertified mark, is not legal equipment. (1-NON-APPROVED BAT; 3-1A)

Obstruction PLAY 1-80 With no outs and R1 on 3B, B2 hits a fly ball to right field that is caught. Prior to the ball reaching F9, (a) F5 yells ‘‘go,’’ or (b) the coach for the defense in the 3B dugout yells ‘‘go.’’ In both cases, R1 leaves 3B too soon and the defense properly appeals. RULING: R1 is out. Although this is a distracting act, there is no penalty for a defensive player or a coach yelling. R1 should know their own coach’s voice and instructions. (1-OBSTRUCTION-B)

PLAY 1-81 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a grounder to F4. The ball bounces off F4 and goes into the outfield. R1 then collides with F4 in the baseline. RULING: Obstruction is ruled. (1-OBSTRUCTION-B)

PLAY 1-82 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits the ball to left field. F2 is standing a foot or two in front of the plate and down the line waiting for the throw from F7 when R1 runs into F2 coming home. F2 did not have the ball when the contact occurred, but was about to receive it. R1 made no attempt to toward the plate. While R1 is lying on the ground, F2 tags R1 out. RULING: This is obstruction on F2 and the ball is dead when R1 is tagged out. R1 should be awarded home because F2 did not have possession of the ball at the time of the collision. (1-OBSTRUCTION-B; 8-5B)

Over slide PLAY 1-83 In (a) B1 over runs 1B, or (b) B1 returning to 1B, over slides after an attempt to advance to 2B. In both cases, B1 is tagged with the ball while off the base. RULING: In (a), the runner is safe and in (b), the runner is out. (1-OVER SLIDE; 8-7B; 8-8I)

Pivot Foot PLAY 1-84 (Women’s and JO FP Only) In the act of delivering the ball to B1, F1 pushes and drags forward with the pivot foot and loses contact with the pitcher’s plate before releasing the ball. RULING: Legal pitch. (1-PIVOT FOOT; 6 FP-3I)

Strike Zone PLAY 1-85 Must the entire ball, during a legal delivery, pass through the batter’s to be called a strike? RULING: No. It is a strike when any part of the ball, on a legal pitch, enters the strike zone over home plate. The umpire shall determine a batter’s strike zone according to the natural stance of the batter when swinging at a pitch. (1-STRIKE ZONE; 7-4A&B)

PLAY 1-86 With R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, and the potential winning run at 3B, B4 comes to the plate and goes into an exaggerated crouch, hoping to coax a . The first pitch is well over B4’s head, but the umpire calls a strike. What is the umpire’s justification for the call? RULING: The umpire must use good judgment on such calls. If this is not B4’s normal stance and is being used for trickery, the umpire should call a strike if the pitch is in what the umpire judges to be B4’s normal strike zone. (1-STRIKE ZONE; 7-4A&B)

PLAY 1-87 (SP Only) On its downward flight, a legally pitched ball passes between the back shoulder and the knees of the batter, over home plate and lands on home plate. RULING: A ball is called. (1-STRIKE ZONE; 7-5B)

10 PLAY 1-88 (SP Only) B1 is standing deep in the batter’s box and the pitch comes in below the shoulders when it passes B1. RULING: The pitch is ruled a ball since it did not pass over the plate in the strike zone. B1’s strike zone is determined even with the plate regardless of where B1 is standing. (1-STRIKE ZONE; 7-5B)

Time PLAY 1-89 B1 receives a fourth ball and a teammate or coach immediately requests ‘‘time’’. RULING: The umpire shall ignore the request and order B1 to go to 1B, after which a player or coach may request ‘‘time.’’ The umpire should then grant time when all action is completed. (1-TIME; 10-8H)

RULE 2 - THE PLAYING FIELD PLAY 2.1-1 In the third inning of a JO 10 and Under Girls SP game, one of the team’s protests that the pitching plate is at 36 feet. RULING: Upon discovery correct to 40 feet and continue the game with no penalty. (2-1)

PLAY 2.1-2 In a Women’s Class A Fast Pitch game, the tournament director installed a pitcher’s plate at 43 feet. RULING: The distance used is correct. All adult Women’s Fast Pitch uses a 43-foot pitching distance. (2-1)

PLAY 2.1-3 At the start of a Men’s Major 16” SP game, the pitching distance is discovered to be at 53 feet. RULING: Upon discovery, the pitcher’s plate needs to be move from 38 feet to 53 feet. The 53-foot distance is only for all Men’ s Major SP. (2-1)

PLAY 2.1-4 In a Men’s Church game, the base distances are discovered to be 80 feet in the first inning. RULING: Correct the distance when the is found and move to 65 feet and continue the game. The 80- foot distance pertains only to Major SP. (2-1)

PLAY 2.1-5 During a Men’s FP tournament, rain begins and the games have to be stopped. When play resumes, in order to complete the entire tournament, games have to be moved to fields with other than prescribed distances. Is this acceptable? RULING: YES. In case of inclement weather, maximum or minimum fence distances may be waived, as long as regulation fields are unplayable. (2-1)

PLAY 2.2-1 After the game has started, spectators overflow into the playing territory that could possibly interfere with usual overthrow conditions. RULING: The plate umpire should call both captains and/or managers together and state , which will be necessary to cover special conditions. (2-2; 10-1)

PLAY 2.2-2 A defensive player standing in playable territory reaches through an open gate to catch a pop up behind the backstop or dead ball line. RULING: A legal catch and the batter is out; however, when a fielder catches a fly ball and then steps or falls into a bench, rope, chalk line, or pre-game determined imaginary boundary line from the field of play, it is ruled a catch and the ball becomes dead. Each runner is awarded one base, except when the caught fly ball is the third out. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH; 1-CATCH AND CARRY; 2-2; 8-5J)

PLAY 2.3-1 The umpire detects 1B is not properly fastened to the ground. RULING: The umpire shall declare time as soon as no further play is imminent and order immediate repair or replacement of the defective equipment. (2-3H)

PLAY 2.3-2 B1 hits a fair ball to the outfield. B1 runs to 1B and; (a) touches the colored or the white part of the base and continues to 2B; or (b) touches the colored portion of the bag and returns to 1B on the colored part. RULING: This is legal in both (a) and (b). (2-3H[1]; 8-2M[5])

11 PLAY 2.3-3 B1 hits a fair ball to F5 who throws to 1B in an attempt to retire B1. In (a) B1 touches the white part of the bag before F3 receives the ball, while standing on the bag; (b) F3 touches the colored part of the bag while holding the ball prior to B1 reaching the white portion of the base. RULING: In (a), B1 is safe. If properly appealed before B1 returns to touch the base, B1 will be called out. In (b), B1 is safe at 1B. (2-3H[1]; 8-2M[3])

PLAY 2.3-4 B1 hits a fair ball that ricochets off F3 into foul territory. F3 retrieves the ball and now B1 and F3 are side-by-side running to 1B. F3 reaches the colored portion before B1 touches the white portion. RULING: B1 is out. On any force out attempt from the foul side of 1B, F3 and B1 can use either white or colored portion. (2-3H[1]; 8-2M[4])

PLAY 2.3-5 F2 retrieves a dropped third strike in foul territory and throws to F4 who is touching the colored portion of the double base. The throw contacts B1 who is running just inside the foul line in fair territory. RULING: B1 would not be ruled out for violating the three-foot running lane. In this instance only, the three- foot lane transfers to fair territory. (2-3H[1]; 8-2E; 8-2M[4])

PLAY 2.3-6 (FP Only) B1 strikes out but F2 drops the ball. The ball rolls to the first base dugout side of the field and as F2 throws to 1B, F3 moves to the colored portion or foul side of the double base. B1 touches the (a) white portion, or (b) colored portion of the base. Can F3 use the colored portion in this situation, and/or can B1 touch either the white or colored base? RULING: The rule allows the runner and/or the defensive player to touch either base in this situation; therefore even though F3 touches the colored base, B1 can touch either the white or the colored base. (2-3H[1]; 8- 2M[4])

PLAY 2.3-7 B1 hits a ground ball to F5. The throw (a) goes into foul territory, (b) bounces off of F3 into foul territory, and F3 goes to retrieve the ball and F3 touches the colored portion prior to B1 touching the white portion of the bag. RULING: B1 is ruled out. When F3 retrieves the ball in foul territory, B1 and/or F3 may touch either base. (2- 3H[1]; 8-2M[4 & 5])

PLAY 2.3-8 B1 hits a triple and when rounding 1B, B1 only touches the colored portion. On a dead ball appeal, the defense appeals B1 missed 1B. RULING: B1 is safe. On an extra base hit B1 can touch either the white or colored portion of the base. (2- 3H[1]; 8-2M[6])

RULE 3 - EQUIPMENT PLAY 3.1-1 Can a bat with a new coat of paint, identical to the original, be used? RULING: No. To repaint the bat is to alter the bat. An identifying mark of team colors may be added to the top or bottom of the bat. The barrel end of the bat may not be sandpapered or painted. (1-ALTERED BAT; 3-1J)

PLAY 3.1-2 B1 enters the batter’s box carrying a bat that is covered by a wrap that extends about 12 inches from the small end of the bat toward the barrel end. The same wrap is also covering the bat knob. Is this legal? RULING: Yes. Bat grips can be replaced and the grip can cover the knob, as long as the knob still meets the rule specifications. (3-1H & I)

PLAY 3.1-3 B1 enters the batter’s box with: (a) a layer of tape over the manufacturer’s grip; (b) excessive tape wrapped at the knob; or (c) the manufacturer’s grip removed and two layers of tape wrapped around the bat where the grip was previously located. RULING: In (a) and (c) legal. Players are permitted to repair a manufactured grip with one layer of tape or replace the manufactured grip with not more than two layers of tape. In (b) as long as the knob meets rule specifications, this is legal. (3-1H-J)

12 PLAY 3.1-4 Can a bat have a rubber plug in the barrel end? RULING: Yes, if the bat is non-wood metal and not made of one-piece construction with the barrel end closed. It shall have a rubber or vinyl plastic insert firmly secured at the large end of the bat. (3-1G)

PLAY 3.1-5 B1 enters the box with a softball bat with a cone-shaped handle, eliminating the 1/4-inch knob. RULING: B1 is declared out and disqualified from the game for using an altered bat. (1-ALTERED BAT; 3- 1H-J; 7-6B)

PLAY 3.1-6 R1 is on 2B when B2 hits a triple. Before B3 enters the batter’s box, the umpire notices that the metal bat that B2 used has been tampered with. Upon closer inspection, the umpire can see that the barrel end of the bat has had lead added to it. RULING: Dead ball and R1 is returned to 2B. B2 is called out and ejected from the game. Remove the altered bat from the game. (1-ALTERED BAT; 3-1J; 7-6B)

PLAY 3.1-7 Either before or after B1 hits a pitch, the umpire notices that the bat is a that has been honed down to the size of a softball bat. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is called out. Remove the illegal bat from the game. (1-ILLEGAL BAT; 3-1; 7-6C)

PLAY 3.1-8 B1 enters the batter’s box with a bat that has an oblong handle. RULING: Legal. (3-1E)

PLAY 3.2-1 Team A’s on-deck batter is using a cone shaped handle warm up bat. The umpire prohibits further use. RULING: Correct procedure. (3-2D)

PLAY 3.3-1 In a Men’s SP game, an optic yellow ball is brought to the pitcher’s plate by F1. RULING: Legal. The optic yellow ball with red stitches is allowed in Men’s SP. (3-3E[3])

PLAY 3.4-1 Who may wear a mitt? RULING: Any player may wear a glove or mitt. (3-4)

PLAY 3.4-2 F6 uses a white glove to catch a fly ball. RULING: Legal, if all other aspects of the glove meet specification set forth in Rule 3, Section 4. Prohibiting the use of a glove with white, gray or optic yellow in it applies only to fast pitch . (3-4)

PLAY 3.4-3 F6 fields a ground ball with a mitt, and throws B1 out at 1B. RULING: Legal. (3-4)

PLAY 3.5-1 (JO FP Only) Between innings, F1 is throwing practice pitches to (a) F2, (b) F5 while standing at F5’s normal fielding position, or (c) any fielder who is behind the plate. RULING: Any player warming up the pitcher anywhere on or near the playing field must wear a catcher’s mask with a throat protector plus an approved helmet with earflaps regardless of the stance of the receiver. F1 can throw overhand to an infielder but cannot throw underhand pitches. If F2 is putting on equipment and the coach wants another fielder to warm F1 up, that fielder must wear the required protective gear. (3-5C)

PLAY 3.5-2 F2 refuses to wear a mask in (a) Adult SP, (b) Adult FP, (c) JO FP, or (d) JO SP. RULING: Not required in (a). Required in (b), (c) and (d). (3-5)

13 PLAY 3.5-3 (FP and JO SP Only) F2 is not wearing a throat protector but has an extended wire protector permanently attached to the mask in its place, or is wearing an ice hockey goalie mask. RULING: This is legal. Some manufacturers do make the extended protector and this serves the same protection as the throat protector. If the umpire feels that there is not adequate throat protection, a throat attachment must be added in both (a) and (b). (3-5)

PLAY 3.5-4 (FP and JO SP Only) F2 refuses to wear a mask after being instructed to do so by the umpire. RULING: F2 shall be disqualified. (3-5; 10-1)

PLAY 3.5-5A (JO FP Only) B1 comes to the plate with a NOCSAE approved batting helmet and a face mask/guard that is not NOCSAE approved. The umpire allows B1 to continue batting. RULING: Incorrect procedure. Both mask/guard and helmet must be stamped NOCSAE approved for JO FP. (3-5E)

PLAY 3.5-5B (JO FP Only) B1 comes to the plate with a NOCSAE approved helmet and face mask/guard. After reaching 1B, B1 changes to a non-approved helmet. RULING: The offensive player must always wear a proper NOCSAE approved helmet and face mask/guard. (3-5E)

PLAY 3.5-6 (FP Only) The on-deck batter is (a) waiting in the on-deck circle with their batting helmet on the ground, or (b) standing just outside the dugout without a helmet, waiting to put it on when their turn at bat arrives. RULING: In both (a) and (b) the helmet must be on the head of the on-deck batter and the umpire should hold up play until this is done. In (b), the umpire shall also instruct the on-deck batter to get in the on-deck circle. (1- ON-DECK CIRCLE; 3-5E)

PLAY 3.5-7 (JO SP Only) B1 is issued a base on balls and while going to 1B, B1 exchanges helmets with B2 and the helmet falls to the ground. The umpire should call B1 out. RULING: Incorrect. In SP, the ball is dead on ball four. Although no exchange should be made until B1 reaches 1B, this is during a dead ball, and the umpire should not call any offensive player out when removing a helmet during a dead ball period. (3-5E EFFECT)

PLAY 3.5-8 (FP Only) B1 hits an out of the park and, as B1 passes 3B, removes their helmet. The plate umpire calls B1 out. RULING: When the ball went over the outfield fence, it is no longer a live ball; therefore B1 did not remove their helmet during a live ball and should not be penalized. (3-5E EFFECT)

PLAY 3.5-9 (FP Only) With two outs, B3 is batting and B4 is in the on-deck circle without a batting helmet. The umpire instructs B4 to put on the helmet, but B4 refuses. RULING: B4 should be disqualified. (3-5E; 10-1)

PLAY 3.6-1 A Female FP or Male SP team has three players wearing a cap and the remaining players are not. RULING: Legal, if all three caps are the same. (3-6A[2])

PLAY 3.6-2 Two Female FP players or two Male SP players wear headbands and the remaining players choose to wear caps or nothing on their heads. Is this legal? RULING: This is legal if the headbands and caps are the same color. Headwear can be mixed but must be of the same color. (3-6A[2])

14 PLAY 3.6-3 In CO-ED play four males wear caps and one does not. Two females wear headbands and three do not. Is this legal? RULING: This is legal if the headbands and caps are the same color. Headwear can be mixed but must be of the same color. (3-6A[2])

PLAY 3.6-4 (SP Only) A team of male ball players had (a) three players wearing a red cap and three others with a blue cap and red bill, or (b) nine players wearing red caps and two wearing no headwear. Is this legal? RULING: Illegal in (a) and legal in (b). In (a), all caps must be like in color and style. (3-6A[2])

PLAY 3.6-5 Is it legal for a team to play with four players in matching long pants and six players in matching shorts all in the same color? RULING: Yes. Long and short pants may be mixed as long as both types have the same color. (3-6B)

PLAY 3.6-6 Is it legal for a team to have all players wearing white long sleeve undershirts, including the pitcher? RULING: Yes. The pitcher may wear any color of undershirt, including white. It is not mandatory that all players wear an undershirt, but if more than one player wears one, it must be like in color and style. (3-6C)

PLAY 3.6-7 A player must wear a six-inch whole number from 0-99 on the back of the jersey. In (a) the uniform number “00” is on the back of a jersey, (b) a player with no number on the back but instead a two-inch number on either the front of the jersey or uniform pants, (c) a player has the uniform number “1/2,” or (d) a player’s uniform number “101.” RULING: Legal in (a). Illegal in (b), (c) and (d). (3-6D)

PLAY 3.6-8 Jones was listed in the scorebook with the wrong number and (a) had “Jones” on the back of the jersey, or (b) had no name on the jersey. RULING: Correct the number in the scorebook in both (a) and (b) and resume play with no penalty. (3-6D)

PLAY 3.6-9 A player takes the field wearing a knee brace that is padded. Two innings later, part of the metal hinge starts to wear through the padding and is noticed by the umpire. RULING: The player must pad the hinge before continuing to play if the equipment is judged by the umpire to be potentially dangerous. (3-6E)

PLAY 3.6-10 A team with adult players (except CO-ED and Senior SP) is wearing (a) golf shoes, (b) track shoes, (c) metal baseball spikes, or (d) coach’s shoes with ripple rubber soles. RULING: In (a) and (b), illegal. In (c) and (d), legal. (3-6G)

PLAY 3.6-11 In the second inning, the coach of the batting team informs the umpire that F1 on the defensive team has detachable metal cleats. RULING: The umpire should check and ask F1 to remove a cleat to see if the cleats screw into the shoe or screw onto the shoe. If the cleats screw into the shoe, they are legal, even if detachable. If the cleats screw onto a post attached to the shoe, they are illegal, and the shoes must be removed immediately. If this is a JO, CO-ED or Seniors SP game, all metal cleats are illegal, and the wearer cannot participate until corrected. (3-6; 3-6G & EXCEPTION)

PLAY 3.6-12 The umpire asks a player (a) to remove illegal shoes in a CO-ED game; (b) to remove a dangling earring; or (c) remove a medical alert bracelet. In each case, the player would not do so. What can the umpire do? RULING: In (a) and (b) if the player does not remove the shoes or earring after being requested to do so, that player cannot participate in the game until doing so. In (c) the umpires should not ask a player to remove a medical alert bracelet or necklace. Secure the bracelet to the player’s body. (3-6F & G; 10-1)

15 PLAY 3.6-13 During the pre-game conference, the umpire notices a member or coach of Team “A” displaying (a) the name, or (b) logo(s) of another softball association on the uniform. RULING: This is illegal in both (a) and (b). If the player or coach removes or no longer displays the logo of another softball association they will be allowed to participate. (3-6)

RULE 4 - PLAYERS AND SUBSTITUTES PLAY 4.1-1A After S1 hits a double and is standing on 2B, the opposing team asks for “time” and informs the umpire that S1 is an unreported substitute. The umpire verifies that S1 did not report and asks the coach to re-enter the starter or to enter a legal substitute. The coach informs the umpire that the starting player had to leave for an emergency and there is no one else to put into the game. The umpire forfeits the game because the offensive team has only eight players (FP), nine or ten players (SP). RULING: INCORRECT. The unreported substitute, S1, is disqualified and since there is no legal substitute to replace S1 at 2B, record an out and allow the team to continue to play shorthanded. (4-1A & D; 4-6A & C[3])

PLAY 4.1-2A The line-up card, consisting of all starters and available substitutes, was given to the umpires at the start of the game. In the sixth inning, the manager substitutes a player whose name was not on the line-up card. RULING: If the player is officially on the roster and the manager properly notifies the umpire when the substitute enters the game, this is a legal substitute. (4-1A[2])

PLAY 4.1-2B A Men’s SP team turns in a line-up card with ten players listed. The sixth batter is discovered to be female when she comes to bat. RULING: Remove the female and replace her with an eligible substitute. If none is available, continue under the short-handed rule. (4-1B & D)

PLAY 4.1-3 (CO-ED Only) Can a team start the game with five players positioned in the infield at the start of the pitch? RULING: No, this is illegal. In CO-ED, only four players can be positioned in the infield: two males and two females. Also, two males and two females must be positioned in the outfield and one male and one female, as the pitcher and catcher. (1-INFIELDER; 1-OUTFIELDER; 4-1C[3e])

PLAY 4.1-4 (CO-ED Only) In the fourth inning, it is discovered that a team is playing with three males and one female in the infield, rather than two each, as prescribed by rule. The offended team then plays the game under protest even though the defense makes a change to abide by the rule. RULING: When this error is discovered, make the corrections without a penalty. The protest is not permitted. (4-1C[3e])

PLAY 4.1-5 (CO-ED Only) A team starts the game with six male and six female players. In the fifth inning, it is brought to the umpire’s attention that the team is playing with six males and four females in the field. RULING: There is no penalty. Correct the proper male/female numbers immediately and continue to play. (4- 1C[3e & f]) PLAY 4.1-6 (CO-ED Only) In the first inning, a team used a male pitcher and female catcher; in the third inning, these two switched positions. The umpire allowed the switch. RULING: Correct. The rule allows for a male and female in the catcher-pitcher positions. It does not matter who the pitcher is as long as the catcher is the opposite sex. (4-1C[3e])

PLAY 4.1-7 In a CO-ED game, F8, a male, is stationed near 2B. This maneuver creates five infielders. RULING: Illegal in CO-ED. (1-INFIELDER; 1-OUTFIELDER; 4-1C[3e])

16 PLAY 4.1-8 In a fast pitch game, a team has (a) nine players to start the game, or (b) eight players to start the game. In the third inning one player becomes sick and has to leave the game and there are no available substitutes. Is the game forfeited? RULING: In (a) the game continues, in (b) the game is forfeited. A team can start or continue a game with one less player than the required number. (4-1D[1a & 2a])

PLAY 4.1-9 In a Women’s SP game, a team is already playing shorthanded when a player is injured and cannot continue. RULING: The team must immediately forfeit the contest. (4-1D[2a])

PLAY 4.1-10 In a CO-ED game, five female and four male players arrive to start a game. The umpire allows the game to start with a male in the leadoff position. The short-handed rule will apply with an out being called in the ninth batting position. RULING: Legal. In CO-ED, the vacant batting position must be the ninth or tenth position based on alternating sexes. (4-1D[1])

PLAY 4.1-11A In a fast pitch game, team A has only ten players and is using the FLEX for the pitcher. In the third inning the FLEX reports and bats for the DP, remaining in the fifth spot in the . In the fourth inning, the shortstop (eighth in the batting order) slides into 3B, twists an ankle, and is forced to leave the game. What are team A’s options? RULING: Option 1; the DP could re-enter the game at the time of the injury and fill the vacant defensive position, with the FLEX returning to the tenth position. Option 2; if the DP elects not to re-enter, the team can continue with eight players on defense. In both cases, an out shall be called at 3B because there is no legal substitute for the shortstop. Also, an out shall be called each time the vacant batting position appears. (4-1D[2]; 4- 3E)

PLAY 4.1-11B A CO-ED team is playing shorthanded with a female vacancy when in the third inning a male substitute arrives. The game must continue shorthanded, as substitutes must be of the same sex as the replaced player. In the fifth inning, the male substitute enters the game for another male player. RULING: Correct procedure. (4-1D[2b & c])

PLAY 4.1-12 In a SP or 10 Man Modified game, a team begins with ten players present. In the fourth inning, one of the players is injured when sliding safely into 3B and cannot continue. What happens? RULING: If the team has no substitutes on hand, the runner is declared out when leaving the game and cannot return to the line-up. Each time that player is due at bat, an out is declared and the team must play shorthanded until an eligible player arrives. If an eligible substitute does arrive, that person must enter the game or become ineligible for the remainder of the game. (4-1D[2b & d])

PLAY 4.1-13 In a SP or Ten Man Modified game, a team begins with ten players present. In the fourth inning, the team’s catcher is ejected when complaining to the umpire about a call on a pitched ball. RULING: If the team has no substitutes on hand, the game is forfeited. (4-1D[2a])

PLAY 4.1-14 A SP team is playing short-handed with only nine players when F7 receives a cut on the arm while diving to catch the third out of the inning. F7 misses their turn at bat in the top of the next inning due to medical treatment and an out is recorded. F7 returns to play in the bottom of the fifth inning. RULING: Incorrect procedure. Under no circumstances shall a team be permitted to bat less than nine (SP) or eight (FP). (4-1D[2a])

PLAY 4.2-1 Team A has two physically challenged (PC) players, PC1 and PC2. In (a) can they both be in the line-up at the same time, (b) can PC2 be substituted for PC1 and later PC1 re-enter the same game, or (c) can PC1 be listed as an offensive player and when PC2 enters, can PC2 be listed as a FLEX? RULING: There is no limit to PC players in the line-up, however only one can be designated to participate under the ADA Rule, therefore, in (a) and (c) no. Yes in (b). A substitute must be listed in the same PC position as the starter and be placed in the same line-up position. (4-2)

17 PLAY 4.2-2 Team A has a player with a broken arm. Can this player qualify as a temporary ADA and play under the ADA ruling? RULING: No. Only players considered physically challenged by the state or national ADA office or the local governing body qualifies under this ruling. If the arm is in a cast or splint the player may play if the cast or splint is padded. (3-6E; 4-2)

PLAY 4.2-3 The physically challenged player for team A, PC1, is in a wheelchair. Can PC1 play (a) defense or (b) offense? RULING: Yes, PC1 could play any defensive or offensive position and could also serve as a coach in the coach’s box when team A is playing offense. (4-2A)

PLAY 4.2-4 Is it illegal for a PC player to be listed in the starting line-up and play offense and defense? RULING: Yes. If the PC player is capable of playing offense and defense, the team will follow regular SP rules, including use of the EP. If the PC player can only play defense, a team must have 11 players to start. (4-2B)

PLAY 4.2-5 Team A has 11 players only and is using PC1 as an offensive player, batting in the eighth position. Does team A play shorthanded on defense if the shortstop becomes injured, because PC1 cannot play both offense and defense and team A does not have any substitutes? RULING: Yes, team A must play shorthanded. Because team A has only nine defensive players now, PC1 cannot play both offense and defense. (4-2C)

PLAY 4.2-6 Team A has 12 players at starting time including a PC player. Can a line-up with 11 players be submitted which does not include a PC player, then after the game begins, insert a PC player as a substitute for (a) a defensive player or (b) an offensive player? RULING: No in both (a) and (b). If a PC player is used, the PC player must be included in the starting line- up. (4-2D)

PLAY 4.2-7 Team A is using a PC player as a FLEX and has 11 players on the starting line-up card. In the third inning, the PC player becomes injured and cannot play. Should the player batting for the PC be allowed to play defense even though this player is not a PC player or is team A required to play shorthanded? RULING: If team A does not have another PC player, the player listed as batting for the PC can play defense. This is true whether the PC was injured, disqualified or unable to continue playing for any reason. (4-2E)

PLAY 4.2-8 Team A has 11 players only and is using a PC player who is listed as the FLEX and pitching. In the fourth inning, Smith becomes injured sliding into 3B and has to leave the game. Can the PC now play offense as well as defense? RULING: No. Team A would have to play shorthanded taking an out every time Smith was due to bat. (4-2E)

PLAY 4.2-9 Team A has 12 players including a PC player. The starting line-up has a PC player listed in the (a) eighth position and batting, (b) 11th position as a FLEX, or (c) 12th position as FLEX. Is this legal? RULING: Yes in (a), (b) and (c). The PC player can play offense or defense as long as it is determined prior to the start of the game and listed in the starting line-up. In (c), team A has two players who bat, but do not play defense because team A is utilizing the EP in addition to the PC player. This is legal, and at any time during the game, the two batters can be inserted into any defensive position except the PC player’s position. This follows the regular EP ruling. If 12 players are used, the PC player cannot play both offense and defense. (4-2F)

PLAY 4.2-10 PC1 is batting for team A and walks. Can a substitute runner be inserted into the line-up for PC1? RULING: Yes. If PC2 was available and could run, it would be legal to insert PC2 as a substitute runner and PC1 could re-enter under the re-entry ruling. (4-2F)

PLAY 4.2-11 In the CO-ED game, can a team use (a) a physically challenged player, (b) use a male physically challenged player on offense and a female physically challenged player on defense, (c) have both a male and female physically challenged player in the line-up on defense or on offense at the same time? RULING: Yes in (a), (b), and (c). (4-1e & f; 4-2G) 18 PLAY 4.3-1 (FP Only) DP Jones hits a triple and sprains an ankle sliding into 3B. The coach has substitute Smith enter the game to be a pinch-runner for DP Jones. How does this effect the playing status of DP Jones and the defensive player (FLEX) for whom Jones is batting? RULING: When a pinch-runner or pinch-hitter replaces the DP, that player becomes the new DP. Jones can re-enter later if Jones still has a re-entry left, or another legal substitute could enter in that position in the line-up. (4- 3D)

PLAY 4.3-2 (FP Only) In the fifth inning, Jones enters the game as a DP and is placed at the end of the batting order. RULING: Illegal. The DP must be announced prior to the start of the game and the DP’s name entered on the starting line-up. (4-3A)

PLAY 4.3-3 (FP Only) Jones begins the game playing defense only, listed as the FLEX. In the fourth inning, without reporting, Jones bats in place of Smith, the starting DP. RULING: Illegal, this is an unreported substitute. If properly appealed by the defensive team, Jones is disqualified. However, when Jones, the FLEX bats this removes the DP from the game and requires re-entry to return Smith to the game. (4-3D; 4-6C)

PLAY 4.3-4 (FP Only) A team is using ten players in their line-up with the DP batting third. The FLEX is playing right field and is a speedster. In the first, third, and six innings, the DP gets on base and, in each case, the FLEX reports and is put in to run. Is this legal? RULING: It is legal for the FLEX since the FLEX never left the game. It is illegal if the starting DP returns to bat in the sixth inning. This would be a violation of the re-entry rule. (4-3D[1])

PLAY 4.4-1 (SP Only) The manager turns in a line-up of ten names, then another player arrives before game time and bats in the 11th spot. The umpire, scorekeeper and the opposing team are not notified of this. The manager considered the 11th player as the EP and in the second inning, this player bats. The defense brings this to the umpire’s attention while the player is at bat with a count of 1-1. RULING: Once a game starts with ten players, an EP cannot be added. When brought to the umpire’s attention the 11th batter became an illegal substitute for the batter in the first batting position of the line-up card. The 11th batter is disqualified and either the first batter must re-enter or a legal substitute, and assume the existing count. (4-4A; 4-6B)

PLAY 4.4-2 (SP Only) The manage turns in a line-up of ten names but another player arrives before game time and bats 11th. The umpire, scorekeeper and the opposing team are not notified of this. The manager considered the 11th player as the EP and in the second inning, this player bats and reaches 1B safely. The defense appeals (a) before the next pitch or (b) after the next pitch. RULING: This is an illegal substitute. In (a), the 11th batter is called out and disqualified. If any runner(s) advanced, they must return to the last base occupied prior to the batted ball and all other outs on the play would stand. In (b), the 11th batter is disqualified and a legal substitute assumes their position on base. All advance of any runner(s) as the result of the play is legal. (4-4A; 4-6C[3 & 4])

PLAY 4.5-1 B1 is due up to bat in the bottom of the third inning. The coach enters S1 to pinch hit for B1. S1 hits safely for a single and then the coach calls time and replaces S1 with S2. When the team returns to play defense, the coach re- enter B1 to pitch. RULING: LEGAL. Any player can re-enter one time regardless of the number of substitutes that have played for them. B1 and all substitutes may re-enter providing players occupy the same batting position whenever in the line-up. (4-5A)

PLAY 4.5-2 A runner twists an ankle sliding into 2B. The managers agree to a courtesy runner with the injured player returning to the field in the next inning. RULING: Illegal, except in divisions of play that allow courtesy runners. If this is the case, the runner can return to the game as a re-entry. (4-5A; 8-9A-C; 8-10)

19 PLAY 4.5-3 A team manager tells the umpire that substitute Jones will hit for Smith and Smith will re-enter in left field when the team goes on defense. RULING: Incorrect procedure. The umpire shall accept the substitution of Jones hitting for Smith; however, no substitution, including re-entry, should be reported to the umpire until such time as the substitution is actually made. The umpire should tell the manager to wait until the team is going on defense before reporting any defensive substitution. (4-5A; 4-6A)

PLAY 4.5-4 In the first inning, Smith is announced as the next batter on the public address system. Just then the manager decides to substitute Jones for Smith. In the third inning, Smith goes into the game as a pinch-runner for Jones. RULING: Legal re-entry. (4-5A; 4-6A)

PLAY 4.5-5 Jones is the starting shortstop and bats seventh in the line-up. In the fourth inning, Smith is substituted for Jones. In the ninth inning, Jones re-enters the game at shortstop but is inserted into the second position in the line-up for Brown and Smith moves to right field replacing Brown. Two innings later, the opposing team informs the umpire of both Jones and Smith being in the batting order at the same time. RULING: The starter and their substitute cannot be in the game at the same time. When brought to the umpire’s attention, the player who re-entered in the wrong position (Jones) is disqualified and all play stands. (4-5A; 4-6G[4b])

PLAY 4.5-6 Jones, the starting pitcher, has been replaced by S1 (Smith) in the second inning. In the fourth inning, S1 (Smith) trades defensive positions with Brown, who becomes the pitcher and Smith moves to center field. In the fifth inning, (a) Jones goes into the batting order for Brown and becomes the pitcher once again; (b) Jones goes into the game for Smith and assumes the pitching position. RULING: Illegal in (a) since the starter and the substitute cannot be in the game at the same time. In (b), this is a legal re-entry. (4-5A; 4-6G[4b])

PLAY 4.5-7A The starting pitcher is removed from the game in the third inning and legally re-enters in the fifth. In the sixth, the starting pitcher is again removed but re-enters in the seventh inning, throws one pitch, and the opposing manager protests. RULING: Illegal. A player can re-enter the game one time only. Disqualify the starting pitcher. (4-5 EFFECT; 4-6G[4a])

PLAY 4.5-7B The starting pitcher is removed in the third inning by a pinch runner. In the fourth inning, the starting pitcher re-enters the game. In the sixth inning the same pinch runner substitutes for the starting pitcher for the second time. RULING: Legal, all players, including substitutes, can re-enter providing they occupy the same batting position. (4-5A)

PLAY 4.5-7C In the first inning substitute S1 enters the game as a pinch runner for Jones. In the second inning, Jones re-enters. In the sixth inning S1 substitutes for Smith. RULING: Illegal, all re-entries must occur in the same batting position. (4-5B & C)

PLAY 4.6-1 The batter is replaced by a pinch hitter with a 3-1 count. At the same time, a new pitcher is brought in. Does a new count start? RULING: NO. A pinch hitter or relief pitcher assumes any count on the batter at the point of substitution. (4- 6A)

PLAY 4.6-2 With two outs and R1 on 1B, S1 replaces B4. Before S1 finishes batting, R1 is out to end the inning. S1 is not charged with a time at bat, so is S1 considered to be officially in the game? RULING: YES. S1 was officially in the game when S1 was reported to the umpire. (4-6B)

20 PLAY 4.6-3 Jones, an unannounced substitute, is standing in the batter’s box with a 1-1 count. Jones forgot to report before entering and does so now with the 1-1 count. Since the offended team did not detect this, does Jones become a legal batter when the umpire is informed? RULING: YES. By reporting prior to the opponents detecting the impropriety, Jones is legal. (4-6C[2])

PLAY 4.6-4 Without being reported, substitute Jones steps into the batter’s box and before any pitch has been thrown, the coach wants to switch substitute Smith for substitute Jones. Does this count as an entry for Jones? RULING: No. Since no pitch/play has been made and the coach did not report Jones into the game yet, there has been no official entry for Jones. (4-6B & C[1])

PLAY 4.6-5 A reported substitute for B2, is at bat with a 2-1 count while an unreported substitute for R1 is on 3B. The defense informs the umpire that R1’s unreported substitute is illegal. The umpire disqualifies R1’s unreported substitute and the team replaces the unreported substitute with a legal substitute. RULING: Correct procedure. The effect of an unreported substitution is disqualification. (4-6A & C[4])

PLAY 4.6-6 In the top of the fourth inning, an unreported substitute enters to play left field. In the bottom half of the inning when the unreported substitute comes to bat, the coach reports the substitute. The opposing team had not notified the umpire of the illegal substitute but wanted the substitute ejected when reported prior to batting. RULING: Legal substitute. When the offending coach notified the umpire prior to the offended coach doing so, the substitution became legal no matter how much time had elapsed. (4-6C[2])

PLAY 4.6-7 With no outs and R1 on 1B, an unreported substitute for B2 is at bat with a 1-1 count. B2’s unreported substitute grounds into a force out at 2B, which retires R1. Before the next pitch, the defensive team notifies the umpire that B2’s substitute is unreported. RULING: R1’s out stands. B2’s unreported substitute is removed from 1B, disqualified and declared out. B3 is the next batter. (4-6C[3])

PLAY 4.6-8 In the bottom of the seventh inning, an unreported substitute for B1 is batting and on the first pitch hits a home run for the apparent winning run. Before the umpires leave the playing field, the defense notifies the umpires that B1’s substitute did not report. RULING: This was the end of the game and the umpires were still on the field. Upon notification, B1’s substitute became an illegal substitute. The run is nullified, B1’s unreported substitute is disqualified, declared out and B2 comes to bat. (4-6C[3])

PLAY 4.6-9 Jones, an unreported substitute, is pinch-hitting and has a 1-1 count when the opposing team reports this to the umpire. The umpire calls Jones out for the third out. When the team takes the field to play defense, Jones goes out to play in the outfield. After one pitch, the opposing team protests, stating that Jones was disqualified and the game should be forfeited. RULING: An incorrect “out” was recorded while Jones was at bat. Jones is an unreported substitute and should have been disqualified and replaced with a proper substitute. Since play resumed without protest, all play stands. Later in the game, Jones continues to be illegal and should be disqualified when brought to the umpire’s attention. (4-6C[1]; 10-1)

PLAY 4.6-10 With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, an unreported substitute for B5 hits a triple. All runners score but R3 misses 3B prior to scoring. Before the next pitch, the defensive team notifies the plate umpire that the substitute for B5 was an unreported substitute. The umpire disqualifies B5 and declares an out. All runners must return to the last base occupied prior to the batted ball. Now the defense appeals R3 for missing 3B. RULING: Since R3 was returned to 1B, no appeal is allowed at 3B. There are now two outs and all runners must return to the bases occupied at the time of the pitch. B6 is the next batter. (4-6C[3])

21 PLAY 4.6-11 With one out and R1 on 3B, an unreported substitute for R2 is on 2B, R3 on 1B when B5 hits a double scoring all three runners. The defense informs the plate umpire that R2’s substitute was an unreported substitute prior to the next pitch. The umpire disqualifies R2’s substitute from the game, allows all three runs to score, and leaves B5 at 2B. RULING: Incorrect procedure. Since a pitch has not been thrown, all runners must return to the last bases occupied prior to the batted ball. The unreported substitute is disqualified and called out upon discovery. If R2 cannot re-enter and no other substitutes are available, the game continues under the shorthanded rule. (4-6C[3])

PLAY 4.6-12 With two outs and the score tied 2-2 in the bottom of the seventh inning, the home team has R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B. An unreported substitute for B5 hits a single, scoring R1 to win the game. The defensive team informs the plate umpire of the illegal substitute (a) after all umpires have left the field of play, or (b) while the umpires are on the field. RULING: In (a) the game is over. In (b) B5’s unreported substitute is out for the third out and disqualified. Any advance of runners is nullified and no runs score. The game continues. (4-6C[3 & 4])

PLAY 4.6-13 (FP Only) With one out and R1 on 1B, the first pitch to B3 is a wild advancing R1 to 2B. The defense informs the umpire that B3 is an illegal substitute. The umpire disqualifies B3 (the illegal substitute) from the game and brings in a legal substitute assuming a 1-0 count, leaving R1 on 2B. RULING: Correct. B3 is an unreported substitute and is disqualified. R1 advances legally as the ball was not batted. (4-6C[1])

PLAY 4.6-14 Smith re-enters the game, unreported, to bat for Smith’s substitute. Smith reaches 1B safely and after one pitch has been thrown, it is detected by the opponent and reported to the umpire. RULING: Smith is disqualified for violating the substitution rule and replaced with a legal substitute at 1B. Since a pitch was thrown, all play stands. (4-5A; 4-6C[4])

PLAY 4.6-15 (SP Only) With no outs and R1 on 3B, F1 notifies the umpire of an intentional walk for B2. When B2 reaches 1B, F1 indicates another intentional walk for B3. The defense notifies the umpire that B2 is an unreported substitute (a) after B2 is on 1B and prior to walking B3 intentionally, or (b) after B3 is awarded 1B on the intentional walk. RULING: In (a) B2 is disqualified, declared out and removed from 1B. In (b) B2 is disqualified and removed from 2B. A legal substitute replaces B2 at 2B. All other play stands. (4-6C[3]; 8-1C[3])

PLAY 4.7-1 (SP Only) After a warning, F1 makes a motion to pitch prior to being in contact with the pitching plate. The umpire calls a dead ball and rules illegal pitch and removes F1 from the pitching position and moves F1 to position F6. In the fourth inning, F6 returns to F1 but before a pitch the manager remembers the removal and F1 goes back to F6. RULING: The first removal is legal. On the return to the pitching position the correction was made prior to a pitch, preventing F1 from becoming an illegal pitcher. Play resumes with no penalty. (4-6C[1 & 7]; 4-6G; 6-1D)

PLAY 4.7-2 In the first inning, the defense has four charged conferences. The umpire removes F1 from the pitching position and F1 moves to position F9. In the fourth inning with several defensive changes F9 returns to the F1 position. F1 makes a pitch to B6 who hits a home run. After B6 scores, the umpire is notified of the illegal pitcher. RULING: F1 became an illegal pitcher when F1 returned to the pitching position after being removed by the umpire. F1 is disqualified and all play stands and the run would count. (4-6G[1]; 5-7B)

PLAY 4.7-3 (FP Only) In the first inning the DP, listed fourth, hits a double. S1 replaces the DP on 2B. In the fourth inning S2 bats for S1 and has a 1-1 count. The manager elects to replace S2 with the FLEX, listed tenth, who reports and bats in the fourth position. RULING: Legal. The FLEX must bat in the listed DP position regardless of the number of substitutions that have been in that batting position. (4-3D)

PLAY 4.7-4 (FP Only) The FLEX, listed tenth in the order, enters the game to bat for F1, listed ninth, and has a 1-1 count at discovery. RULING: Illegal batter. The FLEX can only bat in the DP position. Since the FLEX is at bat, the FLEX is disqualified and replaced by a legal substitute who assumes the count. (4-3D & I) 22 PLAY 4.7-5 (FP Only) The DP bats fourth in the line-up. In the third inning, the DP plays defense for F5 who bats in the sixth position. In the fifth inning the FLEX, listed tenth, bats for F5. RULING: Illegal batter. The FLEX can only bat in the DP batting position. The FLEX is disqualified and replaced with a legal substitute. (4-3D & I)

PLAY 4.7-6 (SP Only) The EP, listed fourth, is inserted into the game as a runner for a teammate listed sixth in the batting order and who is on 1B. RULING: Illegal runner, the EP is disqualified. A legal substitute must replace the EP on 1B. An additional substitute must replace the EP in the batting order. (4-4B)

PLAY 4.7-7 (FP Only) The DP, listed fourth, is on 3B, R2 is on 2B, and R3 is on 1B. The coach tells the umpire that the FLEX, listed tenth, will enter the game replacing R3 on 1B. Is this legal? RULING: No, this is illegal. The FLEX can only run for the listed DP position. The FLEX is disqualified and replaced with a legal substitute. (4-3D & I)

PLAY 4.7-8 (FP Only) The DP on 1B is replaced by S1. Later in the game, the starting DP re-enters as a batter and reaches 1B safely. A second substitute, S2, replaces the DP as a runner. During , the starting DP is at the plate with a 1-2 count when brought to the umpire’s attention. RULING: Illegal re-entry, the DP is disqualified and replaced by S3 or the FLEX and assumes the existing count. (4-5A; 4-6C[1])

PLAY 4.7-9 Jones listed ninth in the order, is replaced by a substitute after reaching 1B safely. Later in the game, Jones re- enters as a runner for a teammate listed third in the order at 2B. RULING: Illegal re-entry. Jones is disqualified and replaced by a substitute. A starting player must return to their original batting position. (4-5A; 4-6C[1])

PLAY 4.7-10 During the game the same substitutes re-enters the game two times for the pitcher. RULING: Illegal re-entry and the substitute is disqualified. Any player may re-enter once but must occupy the same batting position while in the line-up. (4-5A; 4-6C[1])

PLAY 4.8-1 In a J.O. game, an ejected coach remains on the bench directing the team. RULING: Illegal, once ejected, that person must leave the confines of the playing field and have no further contact with the umpires or participants in the game. (4-8B)

PLAY 4.8-2 B1 hits a pop fly in foul territory near 3B that F5 tries to catch. The coach in the coach’s box does not move and F5 is unable to make the catch. RULING: This is coach’s interference. The ball is dead, the batter out and all runners must return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. The coach must vacate the coach’s box to allow the defensive player to make a play on a batted ball. (4-7C[2a]; 7-6I)

PLAY 4.8-3 An ejected coach is in the stands communicating with the dugout by radio or another type of communication device. Is this allowed? RULING: NO. Ejected participants caught having contact with any participants or umpires shall cause the game to be forfeited. (4-7C[5]; 4-8B; 10-1)

PLAY 4.8-4 Without any time being called and the batter in the batter’s box between pitches, the 3B coach leaves the coach’s box, after already being warned, to communicate with the batter. RULING: Illegal, an offensive conference will be charged. (4-7C[2b])

23 PLAY 4.9-1 (FP Only) A player is disqualified for a re-entry rule violation and is allowed to remain on the bench and serve as a coach. The disqualification reduces the number of players on that team to eight. May the game continue? RULING: The game may continue under the short-handed rule. All substitution violations result in disqualification. (4-1D[2]; 4-8A)

PLAY 4.9-2 After a team warning, a player continues to argue ball and strike calls with the umpire. The player is ejected and restricted to the team bench. The player continues to argue and the umpire instructs the player to leave the grounds. RULING: This is an incorrect procedure. All ejected participants must leave the grounds and have no further contact with the umpires or participants in the game. (4-8B)

PLAY 4.10-1 R1 slides into 2B safely causing a bleeding wound. A reasonable time is allowed for treatment and the bleeding cannot be stopped. No substitute is available. RULING: Since the injured R1 had to vacate 2B and no substitute is available, an out is recorded. The game continues under the short-handed rule. If R1 misses any turn(s) at bat an out is recorded. R1 may return at anytime after the situation is corrected. (4-1D[2] EXCEPTION; 4-9)

PLAY 4.11-1 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits a line drive striking F1 in the face that results in an apparent serious injury. The umpire immediately calls “dead ball” to allow or seek medical aid. The umpire awards R1 home and B2 1B. RULING: Correct procedure. When a player is injured during a live ball situation and the umpire believes immediate attention should be given, the umpire shall declare a dead ball and award any bases that would have been reached in the umpire’s judgment, had the incident not occurred. (4-10)

RULE 5 - THE GAME PLAY 5.2-1 Prior to a game starting, if heavy rains have made the playing field unplayable, who calls the game off? RULING: The plate umpire. (5-2)

PLAY 5.2-2 If conditions change in the third inning of the game and the field becomes unplayable, may the league director determine the game called? RULING: NO. The plate umpire must make this decision. (5-2)

PLAY 5.3-1 Is a game called in the top of the fourth inning a regulation game? RULING: NO. A regulation game must go five innings or four and one-half if the home team is ahead. (5-3C)

PLAY 5.3-2 At the end of the fourth inning, the score is H1 and V2. There is no scoring in the first half of the fifth inning, but in the last half, H scores (a) one run, or (b) two runs. In either case, the game is called for rain with only one out in the bottom of the fifth inning. RULING: In (a), it is a regulation tie game and play should be resumed at the point it was stopped. In (b), H is the winner. (5-3C, E & F)

PLAY 5.3-3 In the last half of the sixth inning with R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, B4 hits a home run, tying the score at 6-6. It then begins to rain heavily and eventually forces the umpire to call the game. RULING: The game is ruled a regulation tie game at 6-6 and play should be resumed at the point it was stopped. (5-3E & F)

PLAY 5.4-1 A game is called after seven complete innings of play because the manager of the visiting team no longer wishes to play. RULING: The umpire shall forfeit the game to the home team by a score of 7-0. (5-4C; 5-6C)

24 PLAY 5.5-1 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a line drive back to F1. The ball goes off F1’s glove up into the air where F6 catches it for the second out and runs over to touch 1B to retire R2 who had not tagged up. Does the run count? RULING: Yes, if R1 crosses the plate before F6 touches 1B. The force was off when the ball was caught and it is considered a ‘‘time play’’ on the tag up. (5-5B[2])

PLAY 5.5-2 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 singles to right scoring R1. R2 misses 2B but arrives safely at 3B and B4 is thrown out at 2B. The defense appeals that R2 missed 2B and the umpire declares R2 out. Does R1’s run score? RULING: YES. The third out was not a force out. Whenever the batter makes the first out of multiple outs, all forces are eliminated. (1-FORCE OUT; 5-5B)

PLAY 5.5-3 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a ground ball to F3 who tags 1B. F3 then throws the ball home to try and retire R1 advancing from 3B. The ball is thrown out of play and R2 is awarded 3B, but fails to touch 2B. An appeal is made on R2 who is called out. Does R1’s run score? RULING: YES. Because there was no force out at 2B on R2, the appeal is now a ‘‘time play’’ and if R1 scored prior to the appeal being made, the run would score. (1-FORCE OUT; 5-5B)

PLAY 5.5-4 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a line drive to F6 who catches and throws the ball to 1B trying to double up R2. R1 tags up and scores when the ball is overthrown and goes out of play. R2 fails to retag 1B and goes directly to 3B on a two-base award for the overthrow. When the ball is returned, the defense appeals that R2 failed to tag up and the umpire calls R2 out. Does R1’s run score? RULING: The run scores, as this is a time play and not a force out. (1-FORCE OUT; 5-5B)

PLAY 5.5-5 There is one out with R1 on 3B and R2 on 1B when B4 flies out to F8. R2 fails to properly retouch and is about halfway between 1B and 2B when F8 throws to 1B and doubles up R2. Prior to R2 being called out, R1 scores. Does the run count? RULING: Yes, the run would score if R1 crossed the plate prior to the out being called at 1B. The caught fly ball removes any force so this is called a ‘‘time play’’. (5-5A & B)

PLAY 5.5-6 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, B4 flies out for the second out and both runners advance. R1 on 3B tags up legally after the catch but R2 on 2B does not. R1 from 3B crosses the plate before an appeal is made at 2B. Does the run score? RULING: The run will count because this is a time play and not a force out. If the runner crosses home plate after the appeal, the run would not count. (5-5A & B)

PLAY 5.5-7 (FP Only) With two outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, B5 strikes out, but the ball gets by F2. R1 scores and R2 is out at the plate. B3 failed to run to 1B and F2, after tagging R2, throws to 1B for the . Does the runner score? RULING: R1’s run is not nullified. A “fourth out” appeal to nullify a run must be on the runner who has scored. (5-5C)

PLAY 5.5-8 With two outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B5 hits a ground ball to F4 chases R2 back toward 1B and tags R2 (a) before R1 scores, or (b) after R1 scores. RULING: The run does not count in (a) or (b) since the third out was a force out. It is legal for R2 to return to 1B; however, when F4 tags R2, whether standing on the base or off, R2 will be out, because R2 was forced to advance when B5 became a batter-runner. (1-FORCE OUT; 5-5B)

PLAY 5.5-9 With two outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, the home team is trailing 5-4 in the bottom of the seventh. B6 gets a base hit to left field and R3, seeing the runners from 2B and 3B score to win the game, fails to touch 2B and instead runs to the 3B dugout to celebrate. The defensive team throws the ball to the infield and properly touches 2B for the appeal. RULING: This is a force out, as R1 coming from 1B must touch 2B on the hit. Since the third out of the inning was a force out, no runs will score and the visitors win the game 5-4. (1-FORCE OUT; 5-5B)

25 PLAY 5.5-10 With two outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B B5 hits the ball in the hole to F6. B5 beats the throw to 1B but steps over the base, passing it. R1 scores and R2 advances to 2B. The defense, seeing B5 missed 1B, tells F3 who either tags B5 before returning to 1B or touches the base and appeals to the umpire. Is B5 out and does the run score? RULING: B5 is out and the run would not count, as B5 has never reached 1B and that is the third out of the inning. Had B5 returned to 1B before an appeal, B5 would be declared safe and the run would score. (5-5B; 8-2B)

PLAY 5.5-11 The same play as above except the umpire inadvertently calls time prior to B5 returning to 1B. Can the defense still make an appeal? RULING: NO. Runners must be allowed to complete responsibilities prior to allowing a dead ball appeal. (5-5B)

PLAY 5.5-12 With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, B4 hits a fly ball that is caught by F7. Both R1 and R2 tag up and score. An appeal is made at 3B and the umpire declares R1 out for leaving early. RULING: Three outs, no runs score. (5-5B[3]; 8-3F)

PLAY 5.5-13 With two outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, and R3 is on 1B, when B6 hits the ball over the fence for a home run. R1 fails to touch home plate, but R2, R3, and B6 touch all the bases in regular order. After all base running responsibilities are completed an appeal is made on R1 at home plate and the umpire declares R1 out. Do R2, R3 and B6 runs count? RULING: No runs score. (5-5B; 8-3F & I)

PLAY 5.5-14 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 doubles but misses 1B and R2 misses 2B when advancing to 3B as R1 scores. The defense appeals (a) B4 missing 1B first and then appeals R2 missing 2B, or (b) R2 missing 2B first and then appeals B4 missing 1B for the third out. In either case, does the run score? RULING: In (a), the second appeal is no longer a force out but a time play and the run would score because R1 crossed the plate prior to the appeal. In (b), when appealing R2 missing 2B and then B4 missing 1B, both are force plays and the run would not score. (5-5B; 8-7G)

PLAY 5.5-15 There are two outs with R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, when B6 hits a triple but misses (a) 1B, or (b) 2B. An appeal is made after all three runners had scored and the umpire calls B6 out. RULING: In (a), no runs count since B6 did not safely reach 1B. In (b), all three runs count. (5-5B; 8-7G)

PLAY 5.5-16 With no outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, B4 hits into a double play with both R1 and R2 scoring. R2 misses 3B and is called out on the appeal. Does R1’s run score? RULING: YES. R2 missing 3B was no longer a force out because R3 and B4 were called out. (5-5B; 8-7G)

PLAY 5.5-17 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a ground ball to F6 who throws to 2B for one out, and on the relay to 1B, R2 is called for interference. R1 had scored prior to the interference occurring. The next runner closest to home is B4 who the umpire calls out for the third out. Does R1’s run count? RULING: No, since this out is the batter-runner at 1B for the third out of the inning, the run will not count. (5- 5B; 8-7P)

PLAY 5.8-1 (SP Only) With one out, R1 on 2B, in a Class A Tournament with an eight home run limitation. The team has hit seven home runs and B3 hits a long fly ball to center field. F8 intentionally guides the ball over the fence in order for the team to have the eight home run limit. RULING: This would be considered a four base award. It would not count toward the home run limit. (5-8A[1] & NOTE a)

PLAY 5.8-2 (SP Only) A team in a Church Tournament hits its fifth home run in the ball game and the umpire rules the batter out. RULING: Correct call. The Church Tournament limit is four home runs per game. For any in excess of four, the next player(s) who hit(s) a home run is ruled out. (5-8A[3] EFFECT)

26 PLAY 5.8-3 (SP Only) During a Class C Tournament where only two home runs are allowed per team, B2 and B3 hit home runs out of the park in the third inning with R1 on 1B. R1 holds up to see if the ball will be caught and B2 passes R1. R1 is allowed to score and B2 is called out for the second out. In the fifth inning, B7 on the same team hits a home run out of the park. Is this last home run over the limit since B2 had been called out for passing another runner? RULING: When B2 was called out for passing R1, this was written in the scorebook as a single and an out, but because the ball was hit over the fence, it is counted in the home run total. In the fifth inning when B7 hit the third home run, it should be ruled an out for exceeding the limit. With the exception of Senior SP, that would allow the “one up” home run. (5-8A[5]; 8-7D)

PLAY 5.8-4 (SP Only) There are two outs, the bases loaded in a Class B Tournament with a four home run limit per game. A team has hit three home runs and B6 hits a home run out of the ball park. B6 misses 1B and after all runs have scored, the defense appeals B6 missing 1B. The umpire calls B6 out. RULING: When B6 missed 1B and this was properly appealed, no runs could score and the home run would count toward the total. Anytime an untouched fair ball leaves the field, the home run will count toward the limit regardless if an appeal is made or not. (5-8A[3] & NOTE)

PLAY 5.8-5 (SP Only) A Men’s Class D team hits its second home run in the game and the player who hits the ball is declared out. RULING: Any home run in this classification is illegal. Any home run will result in an inning ending out, regardless of how many outs are in the inning. (5-8A[6])

PLAY 5.9-1 (SP Only) After three complete innings, the home team is losing 21-0. In the bottom of the fourth, the home team scores seven runs to make the score 21-7. No runs score in the fifth inning. Is this a run rule? RULING: The game is complete because of the 12 run difference after five innings. (5-9A[3])

PLAY 5.9-2 (FP Only) After two innings, the home team is losing 17-0. In the third inning, the home team scores two runs. RULING: The game is over because of the 15 run rule difference. (5-9A[1])

PLAY 5.10-1 In a J.O. FP 10-Under Class B Pool Play game that has lasted 1 hour and 15 minutes, the score is tied 2-2 in the fifth inning. The umpire allows the teams to finish the fifth inning and play one more inning. Is this correct? RULING: Correct for J.O. FP 10 & Under Class A and B Pool Play competition. After a 1 hour and 15 minute time limit, the teams finish the inning in progress and play one more (5-10)

PLAY 5.11-1 (Female FP Only) In the eighth inning with the score of 2-2, the tie-breaker rule is now in effect. The first batter for the visiting team is the batter in the #1 position, who should be placed on 2B? RULING: The runner on 2B is the last batter scheduled to bat in the respective half inning. In this case, the batter listed in the #9 position on the line-up card is placed on 2B. (5-11A)

PLAY 5.11-2 (Female FP Only) In the eighth inning, an incorrect runner is at 2B to start the inning. The incorrect runner steals 3B. The umpire is notified of the incorrect runner. RULING: Correctable situation. Place the correct runner on 3B. All other play stands. (4-6G[3a] EXCEPTION; 5-11)

PLAY 5.11-3 (Female FP Only) The home team is playing shorthanded because of an injury. In the seventh inning with the score tied 2-2, the third out of the inning is a result of the vacant spot in the batting order (#8 spot in the order). In the eighth inning, who should be placed on 2B? RULING: Since the #8 spot in the batting order is vacant, the player in the #7 spot should be placed on 2B with the player in the #9 spot coming to bat. (4-1D; 5-11B)

27 PLAY 5.12-1 The visiting team’s manager is outside the dugout directing defensive positioning. The umpire warns the manager to remain in the dugout. In the next inning, the manager returns outside the dugout, again. RULING: The manager is ejected for a repeat offense. (5-12) RULE 6 - PITCHING (FAST PITCH) PLAY 6.1-1 F1 takes the signal with the hands separated, the non-pivot foot behind and within the 24-inch of the pitcher’s plate, and starts the pitch with the foot behind the pitcher’s plate. RULING: This is illegal for all Female FP games. All preliminaries before the pitch must be done with both feet on the pitcher’s plate. In Male FP games, this is legal. Preliminaries are identical but the non-pivot foot may be on or behind the pitcher’s plate. (6-1A-D)

PLAY 6.1-2 F1 takes a signal while standing behind the pitcher’s plate. F1 then assumes a legal pitching position, pauses with the hands apart then brings them together and pitches the ball. RULING: Legal pitch. F1 must only appear to be taking the signal while legally in contact with the pitcher’s plate. (6-1D)

PLAY 6.1-3 May F1 take the pitching position with the hands already together? RULING: No, this is illegal. F1’s hands must be apart when stepping onto the pitcher’s plate and while taking the signal. An illegal pitch should be called as soon as the violation occurs. (6-1D)

PLAY 6.1-4 F1, after stepping onto the pitching plate with the hands separated, takes the signal and then starts to bring the hands together but slaps the bare hand and the glove during the motion instead of actually bringing the hands together prior to the windup. Is this legal? RULING: No, this is an illegal pitch. Although F1 does not have to pause with the ball for one second, the rule does read that the ball shall be held in both hands for one second before releasing. (6-1E)

PLAY 6.1-5 In all Male FP, F1 takes a signal with hands separated and simultaneously steps backward while bringing the hands together. RULING: Legal. Male pitchers can step backwards before, during or after bringing the hands together. (6- 1E[1])

PLAY 6.2-1 In all Male FP, F1, after assuming a legal pitching position with both hands together, takes one hand off the ball and then steps backward off the pitcher’s plate. RULING: Illegal pitch. The pitch starts when F1 takes one hand off the ball and when this action occurs; F1 must take one step forward, simultaneously with the release of the ball. (6-1E[1]; 6-2; 6-3G)

PLAY 6.3-1 F1 has stepped on the pitcher’s plate, taken the signal and brought the hands together assuming a legal pitching position. F1 now moves both hands to their side and stops a second time while keeping the hands together. Is this a legal pitch? RULING: Yes, this is legal. The pitch starts when one hand is taken off the ball after the hands have been placed together. F1 shall not make a stop or reversal of the forward motion after separating the hands. (6-2; 6-3C)

PLAY 6.3-2 F1, after coming to a stop with the ball in both hands, takes the ball in the pitching hand back past the hip and makes a complete revolution forward releasing the ball the second time past the hip. RULING: Legal. The pitcher’s motion can pass the hip twice but cannot make two full revolutions. (6-3D)

PLAY 6.3-3 F1 stands on the pitcher’s plate with both feet in legal contact and takes a step with the non-pivot foot toward 3B so that the entire foot lands to the right of the line extended outside of the pitcher’s plate. RULING: This is legal in Men’s FP but is illegal for Women’s FP and all JO. (6-3G-I)

28 PLAY 6.3-4A In a Women’s FP game, F1 delivers the ball and the pivot foot does not maintain contact with the ground RULING: Illegal pitch. The pivot foot must push off and drag the ground away from the pitcher’s plate. (6-3K)

PLAY 6.3-4B In a Men’s FP game, F1 delivers the ball with the toe of the pivot foot in a downward position but not in contact with the ground. RULING: Legal Pitch. In Men’s FP the pivot foot need not maintain contact with the ground, as long as the toes is in a downward position. (6-3L)

PLAY 6.3-4C In a Men’s FP game, F1 tries to increase the velocity of the pitch by getting airborne and turning the pivot foot out to the side. RULING: Illegal pitch. It is not a requirement in Men’s FP to maintain contact with the ground but if the foot does break contact; the toe of the pivot foot must be pointed in a downward position. (6-3L)

PLAY 6.3-5 (Adult Only) The umpire calls a ball on B1 and F2 returns the ball to F1. F1, who is obviously upset with the call, decides to throws two or three pitches underhand to F6 before getting back on the pitching plate for the next pitch. RULING: The only penalty covering this situation is F1 has 20 seconds to release the next pitch. If F1 does not pitch within this time frame, an illegal pitch shall be called. (6-3O)

PLAY 6.3-6 (JO Only) The umpire calls a ball on B1 and F2 returns the ball to F1. F1, who is obviously upset with the call, decides to throws two or three pitches underhand to F6 before getting back on the pitching plate for the next pitch. RULING: Not allowed. All players who warm up a pitcher must wear a mask with throat protector and approved helmet with earflaps. (3-5C; 6-3O)

PLAY 6.5-1 With the potential winning run on 3B, the defense decides to intentionally walk B3. The coach, in a defensive move, tells F3 to back up F2 at home plate in case the ball gets away. RULING: Illegal pitch. All defensive players except for the pitcher, who must be on the pitcher’s plate, and the catcher, who must be in the box behind home plate, must be stationed in fair territory at the time of the pitch. (6- 5A)

PLAY 6.6-1 F1 has tape on the pitching hand. RULING: Legal. As long as the umpire rules that the tape is not distracting the batter. (6-6)

PLAY 6.6-2 F1 is wearing a flesh colored wristband on the pitching hand or a flesh colored elbow pad on the pitching arm. RULING: Legal. Any flesh colored device or wrap worn by the pitcher, is not considered distracting. (6-6B)

PLAY 6.6-3 In the top of the first inning, F1 steps to the pitching plate with a on the glove hand. RULING: Legal. Restrictions only apply to the pitching arm. (6-6B)

PLAY 6.6-4 F5 rubs dirt on the ball and then gives it to F1 to pitch. RULING: Illegal pitch. If a player continues to place a foreign substance on the ball, the player should be ejected from the ball game. (6-6)

PLAY 6.6-5 F1 places resin directly on the ball or in the glove and the resin transfers to the ball, F1 then pitches the ball before the umpire can stop play. RULING: Illegal pitch. Resin may be used only to dry the hands. (6-6A)

29 PLAY 6.6-6 F1 is wearing a blue wristband or sweatband on each wrist while pitching. RULING: In the umpire’s judgment, if either of the items on the pitching arm is distracting to the batter, it must be removed. (6-6B)

PLAY 6.6-7 The umpire detects pine tar on the ball between innings. This is repeated a number of times and each time the ball is thrown out of the game. RULING: The ball should be thrown out of the game upon detection. Repeated doctoring of the ball should result in a warning to F1. F1 should be ejected if the act is repeated after a warning. (6-6; 10-1)

PLAY 6.6-8 F1 spits on the ball or licks their fingers without wiping them off on the uniform and then pitches the ball before the umpire can stop play. B1: (a) hits a double; (b) is thrown out at 2B; (c) does not swing at the pitch. RULING: In (a) and (b) the illegal pitch is ignored and play stands since B1 reached 1B safely. In (c) the illegal pitch is enforced. (6-6A)

PLAY 6.6-9 There is one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 has an 0-1 count. F1 throws an illegal pitch, which is called by the plate umpire, as B4 hits the ball to F4. R1 scores and R2 advances to 2B as F4 throws B4 out at 1B. Since B4 did not advance at least one base, do the runners have to return to 3B and 1B with B4 returning to bat with a 1-1 count? RULING: No, even though the runners advanced at least one base, B4 did not. The manager of the offensive team has the option of taking the award or the result of the play. If the manger wants the illegal pitch enforced, R1 is awarded home, R2 awarded 2B and B4 would bat again assuming a 1-1 count. (6-EFFECT 1-5, 7 & 8)

PLAY 6.6-10 R1 is on 2B when B2 hits an illegal pitch and reaches 1B safely. R1 is (a) thrown out at 3B, or (b) thrown out at home plate. RULING: In (a) since R1 did not advance at least one base on the illegal pitch, the manager of the offensive team should be given the option of taking the play or the award which would be R1 awarded 3B and a ball awarded to B2; in (b), all play stands because R1 and B2 both advanced at least one base and no option is given. (6-EFFECT 1- 5, 7& 8)

PLAY 6.6-11 R1 on 3B, R2 is on 1B, with B3 at bat when an illegal pitch is called on a 2-1 count. B3 hits a slow roller to F5 who holds R1 at 3B but then throws to 1B too late to get B3 out. What is the ruling? RULING: Since R2 and B3 successfully advanced one base but R1 did not, the manager of the offensive team should be given the option of taking the play or the award which would result in R1 being awarded home, R2 awarded 2B and a ball awarded to B3, or take the result of the play which would load the bases. (6-EFFECT 1-5, 7 & 8)

PLAY 6.6-12 With R1 on 2B, B2 is hit with an illegal pitch. RULING: Both the hit batter and the illegal pitch rules are applied. B2 is awarded 1B and R1 is awarded 3B. (6-EFFECT 1-5, 7 & 8)

PLAY 6.6-13 With R1 on 2B, the umpire calls an illegal pitch on a ball delivered to B2. In the attempt to hit the ball, B2 swings and is obstructed by F2. RULING: The manager of the offensive team would be given the option of invoking the illegal pitch causing R1 to be awarded 3B and a ball awarded to B2 or invoking obstruction and B2 is awarded 1B and R1 remains at 2B. (6-EFFECT 1-5, 7 & 8; 8-1D[1 & 2])

PLAY 6.7-1 The bases are empty and B1 has an 0-1 count. On the next pitch, B1 hits a foul ball that F2 retrieves and throws to F5. RULING: A ball is awarded to B1, resulting in a 1-2 count. (6-7B; 7-5F)

30 PLAY 6.9-1 When a substitute replaces F1, how many warm-up pitches are permitted? RULING: Five; however, the umpire is authorized to allow more pitches when the weather is inclement or F1 was removed because of an injury and the substitute did not have time to warm-up before entering. (6-9)

PLAY 6.9-2 Before taking the field at the beginning of an inning, F1 goes to get a drink of water near the concession stand. When F1 arrives at the pitcher’s plate, the umpire signals play ball. F1 insists on one minute to warm up and wants the five warm-up pitches. What is the ruling? RULING: The one-minute time limit begins immediately following the third out of the previous half-inning. F1 would not be entitled to any warm-up pitches since F1 did not take them in the allowable one-minute time limit. (6-9)

PLAY 6.10-1 F1 attempts a quick return of the ball before B1 is ready. What should the plate umpire call? RULING: A “no pitch” should be declared. (6-10B)

PLAY 6.10-2 F1 is in the windup when B1, in an attempt to have F1 commit an illegal pitch, raises their hand as if to request ‘‘time’’ and F1 stops in the middle of the windup. What is the ruling? RULING: A “no pitch” shall be declared. (6-10E)

RULE 6 - PITCHING (MODIFIED PITCH) 9 PLAYER PLAY 6.3-1 In delivering the ball, F1 has the ball outside the wrist on the backward swing of the arm. RULING: This is legal, as there is no restriction on the position of the ball on the backward swing, downward motion and during the compete delivery. (6-3F[1])

PLAY 6.3-2 F1 delivers the ball with the shoulders and hips parallel to 2nd and home. RULING: Illegal pitch, the shoulders and driving hip must be square to home plate when the ball is released. (6-3I)

PLAY 6.3-3 On the forward swing of the arm, the ball is outside the wrist and above the hip when released. RULING: Illegal, no restriction on the ball’s relative position so long as the ball is below the hip at release. (6- 3G)

PLAY 6.3-4 (9 Player A / 10 Player) While delivering the ball, F1 steps forward simultaneously with the release and (a) the front foot crosses over the pivot foot when touching the ground, (b) the front foot touches the ground without it pointed toward home plate. RULING: In (a) and (b) Illegal. The front foot must be pointed toward home plate and cannot touch the ground in front of, or cross over, a straight line in front of the pivot foot. (6-3K[2])

PLAY 6.3-5 While delivering the ball, F1 moves the pivot foot forward and away from the pitcher’s plate. RULING: Illegal. (6-3L)

10 PLAYER PLAY 6.3-6 The ball is outside the wrist at the top of the backswing. RULING: Illegal pitch. The ball must be inside the wrist during the complete delivery. (6-3F[2])

PLAY 6.3-7 F1 releases the ball in a bowling style motion. RULING: Legal, as long as the elbow is locked and the shoulders and driving hip are square to home plate at the point of release. (6-3I)

31 PLAY 6.3-8 While delivering the ball, F1 takes a step straightforward within the 24 inches of the pitcher plate. RULING: Legal. (6-3K)

RULE 6 - PITCHING (SLOW PITCH) PLAY 6.1-1 Is it legal for F1 to toss the ball back and forth from the hand to the glove while on the pitcher’s plate, as long as F1 comes to a stop for one full second in front of the body before delivering? RULING: Yes. The stop is the key. There is no restriction to any movement prior to the stop. Once the stop is completed the pitch starts. If F1 did not stop it should be called an illegal pitch. (6-1B)

PLAY 6.1-2 F1 stands behind the pitcher’s plate and simulates a stop and/or any pitching motion prior to stepping on the pitcher’s plate. RULING: Dead Ball, illegal pitch and a ball on the batter. F1 is warned and if the illegal action is repeated, F1 will be removed from the pitcher’s position for the remainder of the game. (6-1D)

PLAY 6.3-1 F1 stops with the ball in the pitching hand in front of the body. F1 then pitches the ball from that position without taking the ball back to the rear past their back. RULING: Legal. F1 does not have to take the ball back behind their back. (6-1B; 6-3)

PLAY 6.3-2 F1 has the ball in one or both hands and has paused, then moves the hand(s) to the side of the body and stops a second time. RULING: Illegal pitch. (6-3A & B)

PLAY 6.3-3 F1 releases the ball during a pitch with the palm on top of the ball and with the ball facing the ground. RULING: Legal. (6-3D)

PLAY 6.3-4 F1 comes to a one-second stop, then takes the ball in the pitching hand over the top of their head, down and around in a windmill type action, and releases the ball the first time past the hip. RULING: Legal. A windmill delivery is legal if the ball is released the first time past the hip and all other aspects of the pitching rule are followed. (6-1B; 6-3D)

PLAY 6.3-5 F1 has both feet on the pitcher’s plate and removes one foot by stepping backward while pitching the ball. B1 does not swing at the pitch. RULING: Legal pitch. A step with the free foot is not required in slow pitch, but if one is taken, it must be made simultaneous with the release of the ball. It can be forward, backward, or to the side. The pivot foot must remain in contact with the pitcher’s plate until the ball is released. (6-3E)

PLAY 6.3-6 F1 has both feet on the pitcher’s plate and then steps outside the length of the pitcher’s plate and directly to the side when delivering the ball. RULING: Legal. (6-3E)

PLAY 6.3-7 F1 steps forward with the right foot on one pitch and with the left foot on another pitch. RULING: Legal. The foot remaining in contact with the pitcher’s plate is considered the pivot foot and, as long as contact is kept with the pivot foot until the ball is released, the action is legal. (1-PIVOT FOOT; 6-3E)

PLAY 6.3-8 After one warning, F1 again delivers a pitch with excessive speed. The plate umpire ejects F1 from the game. RULING: Incorrect. F1 should be removed from the pitcher’s position for the remainder of the game but may participate in the game in any other position. (6-3G)

32 PLAY 6.3-9 F1 releases the ball on a pitch to B1 and the ball reaches a height of 15 feet before beginning its downward flight toward home plate. RULING: Illegal pitch. (6-3H)

PLAY 6.3-10 F1, holding the ball in the glove hand, delivers the pitch from the glove. RULING: Illegal pitch. F1 must deliver the ball with the bare hand. (6-3K)

PLAY 6.5-1 F1 has (a) tape, or (b) a wristband on the pitching hand. RULING: Legal. (6-5)

PLAY 6.6-1 With no outs, B1 has an 0-1 count and hits a foul ball that F2 retrieves and gives to the umpire. F2 gets a new ball from the umpire and throws it to F3. RULING: A ball is awarded to B1. In slow pitch, the catcher must return all pitched balls to the pitcher with no runners on base. (6-6B EXCEPTION)

PLAY 6.7-1 B1 has a 3-2 count and swings and misses the pitch when F1 delivers the ball overhand. RULING: Illegal Pitch. Since B1 struck at and missed the illegal pitch, there is no penalty and B1 is out. F1 should be warned. (6-3D & G-EFFECT 2-4, 7)

PLAY 6.7-2 F1 spits on the ball and pitches it before the umpire can stop play. B1 (a) swings and misses, (b) hits a home run, or (c) does not swing. RULING: In (a) and (b), the illegal pitch is nullified and the play stands since B1 swung at the pitch. In (c), it is an illegal pitch. If any defensive player continues to place a foreign substance on the ball, the player shall be ejected from the ball game. (6-5-EFFECT)

PLAY 6.8-1 During the three warm-up pitches, F1 (a) throws two pitches with an arc and one pitch overhand, (b) throws two pitches windmill style and a third with an arc, or (c) throws all three pitches with an arc. RULING: There is no violation for throwing overhand or windmill style. F1 can throw the three pitches in any manner F1 chooses. Should F1 throw to an infielder, this would count toward the three allowed warm-up pitches. (6- 8)

RULE 7 - BATTING PLAY 7.1-1 An on-deck batter is using (a) the “Pow’R-Wrap” attachment to the bat or (b) a metal donut attachment to the bat while warming up in the on-deck circle. RULING: Only approved warm-up bats and attachments included on the list published by the ASA can be used. (3-2; 3-7; 7-1B)

PLAY 7.2-1 It is B1’s turn to bat, but B2 bats out of order and hits a double. B3 comes to bat and F1 commits an illegal pitch without an actual pitch being thrown. The defense appeals B2 batting out of order. RULING: No appeal can be made after a legal or illegal pitch to B3. (1-APPEAL; 7-2D[3])

PLAY 7.2-2 With R1 on 1B, B3 skips B2 in the batting order. The error is discovered by the opposing team personnel and reported to the umpire or official scorekeeper (a) after B3 has an 0-2 count, (b) after B3 has reached 1B safely advancing R1 and before a pitch to B4, or (c) after B3 has reached 1B safely and a pitch has been delivered to B4. RULING: In (a), B3 is replaced by B2 who assumes the 0-2 count, also any advancement by R1 is legal. In (b), B2 is out and B3 is removed from base and bats again with a 0-0 count with R1 returning to 1B. In (c), no correction is made and B2 simply loses their turn to bat until it comes again in the batting order. (1-BATTING ORDER; 7-2) 33

PLAY 7.2-3 B3 erroneously bats in place of B1, and the batting infraction is not detected by anyone until after a pitch to B4. Who is now the correct batter, B2 or B4? RULING: Since B4 follows B3 in the batting order; B4 is now the correct batter. Neither B1 nor B2 may legally bat until their turn comes again in the batting order. (1-BATTING ORDER; 7-2)

PLAY 7.2-4 B2 walks and B4 comes to bat skipping B3. An 0-2 count is reached when B3 comes out of the dugout and informs the umpire of the mistake. Should the umpire allow B3 to step in the batter’s box and assume the 0-2 count? RULING: Yes. If the error is discovered while the incorrect batter is at bat, the correct batter shall assume the batter’s position with the existing count. (7-2B-D[1])

PLAY 7.2-5 With no outs, and R1 on 2B, B4 bats in place of B2 and reaches 2B safely. R1 advances home, but misses 3B. F5 obtains the ball and properly appeals the infraction by R1 and the umpire declares R1 out. Prior to a pitch being made, the defense discovers that B4 was not the proper batter and informs the umpire. RULING: The appeal on R1 for missing 3B is allowed; R1 is ruled out and the run nullified. On batting out of order, B4 is removed from 2B and B2 is declared out. B3 is now the proper batter. (1-BATTING ORDER; 7-2B-D[2])

PLAY 7.2-6 With no outs and R1 on 1B, B3 bats out of order in the spot occupied by B2. B3 hits into a fielder’s choice, which causes R1 to be called out. The defense then properly appeals B3’s batting out of order. RULING: The force out on R1 remains, B2 is called out and B3 bats again. (1-BATTING ORDER; 7-2B-D[2])

PLAY 7.2-7A (FP Game) With two outs and R1 on 3B, B4 should be the next batter but B5 bats instead. On the first pitch to B5, R1 steals home and is ruled safe. The defense now realizes that B5 is an improper batter and appeals to the umpire. RULING: The proper batter, B4, shall take the place of B5 and assume the ball and strike count. The run scored by R1 counts. (7-2D[1])

PLAY 7.2-7B In the top of the first inning, B2 makes an out and enters the team area. B2 returns to bat in the B3 slot and makes the third out. B3 leads off the second inning. The offensive team appeals that B2 batted twice in the first inning. RULING: The appeal is denied. When the offended team left the field in the first inning, they lost the right to appeal and legalized B2’s second at bat. B3 is the lead off batter in the second inning. (7-2D[2 & 3])

PLAY 7.2-8 With no outs, R1 on 1B and B2 scheduled to bat, B4 comes to bat instead and grounds into a double play. The defense appeals B4 batting out of order. RULING: The double play stands and B2 is out for missing their turn at bat, resulting in the third out. B3 will lead off the next inning. (7-2D[2b])

PLAY 7.2-9 R1 is on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B and B4 is scheduled to bat but B5 comes to bat instead and grounds into a double play, resulting in R3 being forced at 2B and B5 out at 1B. The defense appeals B5 batting out of order. RULING: All outs that occurred before the appeal stand. Any runners that advanced are returned to their original base. Because of the appeal, B4 is declared out for missing their turn at bat for the third out of the inning. B6 leads off the next inning. (7-2D[2b])

PLAY 7.2-10 With two outs and the bases full, it is B6’s turn to bat, but B7 erroneously bats and hits a triple clearing the bases. B7 is out trying to score on the hit. All defensive players have clearly left fair territory. RULING: The defensive team forfeits its right to appeal batting out of order when all infielders (including the pitcher) have left their normal positions (crossing the foul lines). The batter who follows B7 in the order will lead off the next inning. (1-APPEAL; 7-2D[3])

34 PLAY 7.2-11 B3 leads off the inning followed by B1 and then B2 and all reach base safely. With B3 now on 3B, B4 takes one pitch and the defense appeals batting out of order. RULING: The appeal is denied. B3, who is on base, merely misses their turn at bat with no penalty and B4 becomes the legal batter. (7-2D[4])

PLAY 7.2-12 In a CO-ED game, a team has a male player listed in the seventh and eighth positions of the batting order. Immediately after the male player bats in the seventh position, the umpire notices the error in the batting order. RULING: Since the actual infraction has not occurred, the umpire should replace the male batting in the eighth position with a proper female batter and continue the game. (7-2D)

PLAY 7.2-13 (CO-ED) Female B2 hits a single. Female B4 inadvertently bats, skipping male B3 and hits a single. Now male B3 steps in to bat and one pitch is thrown when the manager of the defensive team appeals that male B3 is batting out of order. RULING: As soon as one pitch was thrown to male B3, everything female B4 did was legal. Male B5 should replace male B3 and assume the ball and strike count. Male B3 will not bat again until their turn reappears in the batting order. (7-2D)

PLAY 7.2-14 (CO-ED Only) R1, a male, is on 1B with a single and the following batter, B2, a female, is thrown three pitches with a 12-inch ball. B2 has a 2-1 count, and on the next pitch B2 (a) swings and misses, (b) swings and hits a single, or (c) swings and pops up to F6. Following each situation, either the umpire notices the wrong ball or a member of either team tells the umpire that the wrong size ball was being used. RULING: In all three situations, the offensive team manager has the option of taking the result of the play or having B2 resume batting with a 2-1 count using the correct 11-inch ball and R1 remains on 1B. (3-3F[2]; 7-2E EFFECT)

PLAY 7.2-15 (CO-ED Only) R1, a male, is on 1B with a single and the following batter, B2, a female, is thrown three pitches with a 12-inch ball. B2, a female, gets a hit and reaches 1B safely. B3, a male, steps in to bat and a pitch is thrown to B3 with the 12-inch ball and then either the offense or defense complains about the wrong ball being pitched to B2. RULING: After one pitch has been thrown to B3, all previous action is considered legal on B2. Continue pitching to B3. (3-3E[3]; 3-3F[2]; 7-2E EFFECT)

PLAY 7.3-1 While F1 is on the pitcher’s plate ready to deliver the ball, the B2 stands in the batter’s box and holds up a hand while digging a hole to get a better footing. RULING: The umpire will not allow F1 to pitch until B2 has had sufficient time to get set. (7-3A)

PLAY 7.3-2 B1 is clearly standing within the lines of the batter’s box at the start of the pitch. While contacting the ball, the front foot is partially outside the line. RULING: Legal. All requirements were met at the start of the pitch. To be ruled out, the foot must be completely outside the lines and touching the ground upon contact with the ball. (7-3A; 7-6D)

PLAY 7.3-3 A batter continues to step in and out of the batter’s box. The umpire instructs the batter to stay in the box but the batter ignores the umpire’s instructions. After ten seconds, the umpire calls a strike. The pitcher seeing the batter outside the batter’s box delivers the pitch anyway. The batter jumps back into the box and hits the ball for a base hit. What is the call? RULING: The base hit is nullified because the pitch was thrown during a dead ball. (7-3B; 7-4J EFFECT)

PLAY 7.3-4 (JO Fast Pitch and Adult Modified). After a warning from the umpire, a batter continues to leave the batter’s box. Ten seconds passes and the umpire calls a strike although no pitch was thrown. A second strike is called after another ten seconds has passed. RULING: Correct procedure and the ball is dead. All other divisions of play do not require a warning. (7-3B; 7-4J & K) 35 PLAY 7.3-5 B1 has an 0-2 count. While F1 is off the pitcher’s plate, the B1 steps across home plate to the other batter’s box. Is this legal? RULING: No violation. It is only when F1 is in position, ready to pitch, that B1 may not step across the plate in front of F2 to the other batter’s box. (7-3D)

PLAY 7.3-6 B1 enters the batter’s box as a right-handed batter. After the first pitch, B1 switches to the left hand batter’s box. After two more pitches, B1 moves back to the right-handed batter’s box. RULING: No violation, as long as B1 did not move from one batter’s box to the other while F1 was ready to pitch. (7-3D)

PLAY 7.3-7 B1 enters the left hand batter’s box and the umpire signals F1to play ball. B1 then steps over to the other batter’s box just before the pitch has been thrown. RULING: B1 should be called out. Had B1 moved from one box to the other prior to F1 moving to the pitcher’s plate, it would have been legal. (7-3D)

PLAY 7.3-8 With F1 on the pitchers plate ready to deliver the ball, B1 steps out of the batter’s box to try and stop play but the umpire does not grant time. F1 delivers the ball and the umpire calls the pitch as delivered. RULING: Correct procedure. (7-3E)

PLAY 7.4-1 F1, during a swing, attempts to hold back and misses the ball. What is the call? RULING: A call of this nature is based entirely on the umpire’s judgment. Therefore, the umpire must, in order to be consistent, have criteria to guide them in making the decision. The rule which most umpires follow is: If a batter swings halfway or more across the area, it is a strike. In other words, if the bat is swung so it is in front of the batter’s body, it is a strike. In bunting, any movement of the bat toward the ball, when the ball is over or near the plate area, is a strike. Merely holding the bat in the strike zone before the pitch arrives is not an attempt to bunt. (7- 4B & C)

PLAY 7.4-2 F1 delivers a pitch that bounces (a) in front of the plate or (b) on the plate. B1 hits the ball on the first bounce, and the ball carries over the fence in fair territory. RULING: In (FP), the ball remains live when touching the ground in front of or on the plate. This would be a home run. (7-4A; 8-5H) In (SP), the ball is dead when touching the ground. (7-4B; 7-5B)

PLAY 7.4-3 B1 swings and misses a pitch but has time to reset and swing again, making contact the second time with the ball going either fair or foul. RULING: The first swing results in a strike. On the second swing, the ball becomes dead. All action is nullified. (7-4C, E & F NOTE)

PLAY 7.4-4 (FP Only) With no outs and B1 with a 2-2 count, the next pitch touches the ground in front of home plate and bounces through the strike zone. B1 swings at the pitch and F2 catches the ball on the first bounce. B1 runs to 1B while F2 holds the ball. RULING: Legal, B1 is not out. This is considered a dropped third strike and B1 is entitled to 1B if they arrive safely. (7-4C; 8-1B)

PLAY 7.4-5 Is a dropped foul ball on the third strike an out or does F2 have to hold on to the ball? RULING: In (SP), a dropped foul ball on the third strike results in strike three and the batter is out. In (FP), this is treated simply as a foul ball; the batter remains at bat with two strikes. Exception, if the foul ball is the result of a bunt attempt, the batter is out. (1-FOUL BALL; 7-4E & F; 7-6G)

36 PLAY 7.4-6 On the third strike, B1 strikes at and misses a pitch. The ball strikes B1’s arm or person. RULING: B1 is out because of the swing and miss for strike three. The ball becomes dead because it hit B1’s person during the swing. (7-4G)

PLAY 7.4-7 (FP Only) B1 has a 2-2 count when F1 delivers a pitch to B1 who (a), tries to avoid the pitch, which strikes B1’s fingers while holding the bat, or (b), swings at the pitch, and the ball strikes B1’s fingers. RULING: The hands are not considered part of the bat. In (a), B1 has been hit by the pitch and is entitled to first base. In (b), since B1 attempted to hit the pitch, which first struck B1’s fingers, the pitch is ruled a strike, the ball is dead, and B1 is out on three strikes. (7-4G; 8-1F)

PLAY 7.4-8 (FP and SP with stealing) With R1 on 1B and B2 with an 0-2 count, B2 strikes at the next pitch, which touches them. R1 attempts to steal 2B. RULING: B2 is out. The ball becomes dead and R1 must return to 1B. (7-4G; 8-6D)

PLAY 7.4-9 (FP Only) B1 squares around to bunt. The pitch strikes the bat, then ricochets and hits B1 in the chest over the plate. At the time of contact, B1 had both feet within the batter’s box. RULING: The ball becomes dead when the ball contacted B1 and ruled a foul ball. No interference should be called on B1. (1-FOUL BALL; 7-4H)

PLAY 7.4-10 (FP Only) B1 is struck with a legal pitch in the strike zone. RULING: Dead Ball. A strike should be called. (7-4I)

PLAY 7.5-1 (SP Only) F1 throws an illegal pitch that hits B1 who did not move or swing at the pitch. RULING: Dead ball, enforce the illegal pitch and award a ball to B1. (7-5D)

PLAY 7.5-2 (SP Only) B1 reaches out and catches an inside pitch while standing in the batter’s box. RULING: The ball is dead when touched by B1. The umpire should call the pitch a ball or a strike. (7-5E)

PLAY 7.6-1 B1 has an altered bat that is detected by the plate umpire before B1 enters the batter’s box. RULING: The altered bat is removed from the game as a preventive measure. (7-6B)

PLAY 7.6-2 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ground ball with a bat that is 35 inch in length. R1 is retired at 2B when the umpire notices the illegal bat. RULING: R1 remains out and B2 is ruled out for the illegal bat. (3-1; 7-6C; 8-7X)

PLAY 7.6-3 B1 attempts a drag bunt or slap hit. B1’ s first step is outside the batter’s box when the ball contacts the bat that is no longer in B1’s hands. RULING: The ball is Dead. B1 is out for an illegally batted ball. (1-ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL; 7-6D)

PLAY 7.6-4 (SP) B1 is clearly standing within the lines of the batter’s box at the start of the pitch. While the pitch is in flight, B1’s back foot touches the ground outside the lines. Just before hitting the ball, the foot returns inside the batter’s box. RULING: Dead Ball, B1 is out for an illegally batted ball. (1-ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL; 7-6F)

PLAY 7.6-5 (SP Only) With R1 on 2B, B2 chops down on a pitched ball. F1 throws out R1 advancing to 3B. RULING: The ball is dead. B2 is out for chopping down on a pitched ball and R1 must return to 2B. (1- CHOPPED BALL; 7-6H)

37 PLAY 7.6-6A With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a pitch while stepping out of batter’s box, toward F6. F4 obstructs R1 while advancing to 2B. RULING: The ball became dead at the time of B2’s violation. B2 is out and R1 must be returned to 1B. (1- ILLEGALLY BATTED BALL; 7-6D; 8-6B)

PLAY 7.6-6B R1 is on 2B when B2 bunts into foul ground and the ball is caught in the air. R1 tags up and advances legally to 3B. RULING: Correct procedure. The ball remains live on a caught foul fly and B2 remains out. (7-6G)

PLAY 7.6-7 B1 swings and hits a ground ball. (a) The bat hits the ball or the infielder fielding the ball, (b) the bat breaks and a portion hits the ball or any infielder. RULING: B1 is declared out for interference in (a); in (b), when the bat breaks and hits either the ball or the fielder no interference should be ruled and the ball remains live. (7-6K)

PLAY 7.6-8 B1 has an 0-2 count. On the next pitch, B1 swings and misses the pitch; however, on the backswing, the ball accidentally hits the bat and rolls fair. Does the hit stand in (a), fast pitch or (b), slow pitch? RULING: The swinging strike is enforced. The ensuing contact is treated identically as hitting the ball a second time while in the batter’s box. (7-4C; 7-6K) PLAY 7.6-9 B1 hits the ball toward F1 and drops the bat on the ground. Backspin causes the ball to rebound and hits the bat in foul territory. RULING: Foul ball. B1 is not out for hitting the ball a second time. (1-FOUL BALL; 7-6K)

PLAY 7.6-10 B1 hits a ball toward F1, hitting the pitcher’s plate and rebounding back toward the bat that was dropped in fair territory. The ball hits the bat and then rolls untouched into foul territory where it settles. RULING: B1 is not out for hitting a ball a second time. After hitting the bat the ball is fair until it rolls into foul territory. If it comes to rest in foul territory before anyone touches it, it is a foul ball. (1-FAIR BALL; 7-6K)

PLAY 7.6-11A (SP Only) B1 hits a foul ball with an 0-2 count. RULING: B1 is out on the third strike foul rule. (7-6L)

PLAY 7.6-11B (SP Only) With R1 on 2B, B2 hits a fly ball near the foul line. F7 catches the ball in foul territory. R1 advances legally to 3B and B2 is called out. RULING: Legal, B2 is out and the ball remains live. (7-6L)

PLAY 7.6-12 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 strikes out on the pitch. R2 attempts to steal 2B and R1 attempts to steal 3B. B3, even though out, runs to 1B and F2 throws to make a play on B1. RULING: Live Ball. Even though B3 is not entitled to run, all play stands. (7-6M)

PLAY 7.6-13 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 strikes out on the pitch. R2 attempts to steal 2B and R1 attempts to steal 3B. B3, even though out, runs to 1B and F2 throws the ball to 3B and R1 is tagged out. RULING: The play at 3B stands and R1 is out. B3 is not entitled to run and remains out. (7-6M)

PLAY 7.6-14 (FP and SP with stealing) With R1 on 2B and B2 in the batter’s box, R1 advances toward 3B on a . F2 retrieves the ball and throws toward 3B but the ball strikes B2 while standing in the batter’s box. RULING: Since B2 did not actively hinder F2, no interference is ruled, and the ball remains live. (7-6P-R)

PLAY 7.6-15 (FP and SP with stealing) B2 reaches up to catch an inside pitch as R1 attempts to steal 2B. RULING: The ball is dead. This would be a form of interference on B2 who is called out and R1 is returned to the base occupied at the start of the pitch. (1-INTERFERENCE; 7-6Q; 8-6C)

38 PLAY 7.6-16 (FP and SP with stealing) With no outs, R1 attempts to steal 2B on the first pitch to B2, but B2 interferes with F2’s throw while stepping out of the batter’s box and R1 reaches 2B safely. RULING: B2 is out for interference and R1 returns to 1B unless 2B was touched prior to the interference. (1- INTERFERENCE; 7-6P; 8-6C)

RULE 8 – BATTER-RUNNER AND RUNNER

PLAY 8.1-1 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B and an 0-2 count on B4, the batter hits a long foul ball that is caught by F7. Both runners tag up and advance properly. RULING: On any caught fly ball, fair or foul, runners may advance. This also applies to the SP third strike foul rule. (7-4F; 8-4D)

PLAY 8.1-2 (FP Only) With no outs, R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, and a 3-2 count, B4 swings and misses the pitch. Both runners run with the pitch and F2 drops the third strike. Seeing the ball on the ground, B4 runs to 1B. F2 picks up the ball and throws to F5 who touches 3B, but not the runner. RULING: With 1B occupied and less than two outs, the batter is automatically out on the third strike. Runners are forced; therefore, R1 must be tagged to be out. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-1B) PLAY 8.1-3 (FP Only) F2 drops the third strike. B1 starts toward the dugout and F2 holds the ball. B1 then runs to 1B without F2 making a play. RULING: The batter is safe at 1B. (8-1B; EXCEPTION 10-Under Class B FP)

PLAY 8.1-4 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, B2 swings at a pitch with an 0-2 count. F2 drops the ball, but fails to throw to 1B as B2 advances. There are: (a) no outs, or (b) two outs. RULING: In (a) B2 is out. In (b) B2 is safe at 1B. (8-1B; EXCEPTION 10-Under Class B FP)

PLAY 8.1-5 (FP Only) With two outs, R1 on 1B and B4 with an 0-2 count attempts to bunt, but misses the pitch and F2 drops the ball. RULING: B4 becomes a batter-runner and must be put out at 1B. (8-1B; EXCEPTION 10-Under Class B FP)

PLAY 8.1-6 (FP Only) With (a) one out or (b) two outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, the batter swings and misses the third strike as the ball bounces to F2. The batter walks toward the 3B dugout as F2 rolls the ball to the pitcher ’s plate. The batter turns and runs to 1B as R1 advances to 3B and R2 to 2B. RULING: Because the pitch ball hit the ground before reaching F2, this is not a caught third strike. In (a) R1 and R2 may advance with liability to be put out, however the batter remains out, and in (b) the advance is legal as long as the batter did not entered the team area. (8-1B; EXCEPTION 10-Under Class B FP)

PLAY 8.1-7 (FP Only) With two outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B6 swings at and misses the third strike. F2 drops the ball and recovers in time to tag home plate. RULING: R1 is forced out because B6 became a batter-runner on the dropped third strike and the runners are forced to advance. (1-FORCE OUT: 8-1B)

PLAY 8.1-8 (FP Only) With one out, R1 attempts to steal 2B. F2drops the 3rd strike and B3 advances to 1B. F2 throws the ball into right field and R1 advances to 3B. RULING: The ball is live. B3 is out on the dropped 3rd strike rule. R1 remains at 3B because the advance was legal. (7-6M; 8-1B)

39 PLAY 8.1-9 (10 and Under FP) With R1 on 2B and a 0-2 count, B2 swings and misses the next pitch and the catcher drops the ball. RULING: B2 is out and cannot advance. The ball remains live for R1’s attempt to advance to 3B. (8-1B; EXCEPTION 10U FP; 8-4G[3])

PLAY 8.1-10 With one out, bases loaded and the score tied in the bottom of the seventh, B5 walks on four pitches bringing in the winning run. B5 joins in the celebration and is reminded to go to 1B by a coach. The defense appeals (a) that B5 was out of the base path, (b) that B5 was aided by a coach while the ball was in play, and (c) that B5 did not go directly to 1B. The umpires rule all runners safe once the batter-runner reaches 1B. RULING: In (a), there is no penalty for leaving the base path since B5 was not avoiding a tag. In (b) verbal instructions are not considered aiding the runner. In (c) B5 did not enter the dugout or leave the field of play, so there is no penalty. In all cases, the run counts and the game is over. (8-1C)

PLAY 8.1-11 With R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 receives ball four. R1 fails to touch home plate. Can R1 be declared out on an appeal? RULING: Yes, since B4 became a batter-runner on ball four, all bases must be touched because a force out situation exists. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-1C; 8-7I)

PLAY 8.1-12 (FP Only) B1 is awarded a base on balls. Immediately after B1 has started to 1B, F1 walks toward F2 for a conference. B1 rounds 1B and reaches 2B before F1’s throw arrives. RULING: The walk is treated the same as a base hit and B1 can continue to 2B as the ball is live. Even if F1 had been in the eight-foot circle, B1 could round 1B and continue to 2B. (8-1C[1]; 8-7T)

PLAY 8.1-13 (CO-ED Only) A leadoff male batter receives a walk and goes to 1B. The next batter, a female, must bat. Does the male batter go to 2B after touching 1B? RULING: Yes, a walk to a male batter is a two-base award. (8-1C[4]; 8-3I)

PLAY 8.1-14 (CO-ED Only) Can the male batter go automatically to 2B as the result of a walk? RULING: No. The male batter must touch 1B prior to going to 2B or an out could be ruled on a proper appeal. (8-1C[4]; 8-3I)

PLAY 8.1-15 (CO-ED) With two outs and R1 is on 3B, B4, a male batter, receives a base on balls and is awarded 2B. Now with runners on 3B and 2B, the next batter, a female, (a) notifies the umpire she wants a base on balls and runs directly to 1B, (b), steps in the batter’s box and then notifies the umpire she wants a base on balls, or (c), steps into the batter’s box and waits for the pitch to hit. RULING: In (a), (b), and (c) this is the proper procedure. With two outs the female has the option to walk or bat. In (b), the female has until the first pitch to determine whether to walk or not. (8-1C[4]; 8-3I)

PLAY 8.1-16 (CO-ED) A lead off batter, a female, walks and is awarded 1B. The next batter, a male, walks and is awarded 2B forcing the female runner to 3B. The next batter, a female, hits a home run over the fence. RULING: A walk to a female is a one base award. A walk to the male is a two base award. The home run counts toward CO-ED home run limit. (5-8A[2,4,6] NOTE C; 8-1C[4]; 8-3I)

PLAY 8.1-17 With R1 at 2B, B2 gets a base hit but catcher’s obstruction is called. R1 is thrown out at the plate, but R1 missed 3B on way to the plate. Even though R1 is out, the offensive team manager stated R1 never touched 3B and therefore has not legally advanced a base and wants the catcher’s obstruction enforced rather than the result of the play. RULING: Once a runner has passed a base, that runner is considered to have reached that base whether missing the base or not and no option is given. R1 is out at the plate, and the catcher’s obstruction is ignored. (8- 1D[2])

40 PLAY 8.1-18 With R1 on 2B, F2 obstructs B2 who hits safely reaching 2B. R1 is thrown out at home plate. RULING: The obstruction penalty is ignored since both B2 and R1 advanced at least one base. R1’s advancement past 3B put them in jeopardy, and R1 is out. (8-1D[2])

PLAY 8.1-19 B1, the lead off batter, is obstructed by F2. Even though obstructed, B1 hits safely to right field, but is out trying to reach 2B. RULING: Since B1 reached 1B base safely, the obstruction is ignored and the play stands as is. B1 is out. (8-1D[2])

PLAY 8.1-20 With R1 on 1B, F2 obstructs B2 while hitting a ground ball to the infield. F6 fields the ball and forces R1 out at 2B while B2 reaches 1B safely. RULING: Since R1 did not advance at least one base obstruction is called. The manager has the option to take the result of the play, or enforcement of obstruction by awarding B2 1B and advancing R1 to 2B. (8-1D[2])

PLAY 8.1-21 In the bottom of the seventh inning with a tied score and one out, R1 is at 3B,and B3 comes to bat. B3 is obstructed by F2 while swinging and missing a pitched ball. B3 is awarded 1B on the catcher’s obstruction and R1 remains at 3B. May B3 take the result of the play instead of the award? RULING: Yes, a swinging strike is a play, just as much as a fly ball or a base hit. The manager of the offensive team should have the option of B3 being awarded 1B, or taking the result of the play by B3 remaining at the plate with a strike added to the count. (8-1D[2])

PLAY 8.1-22 The home team is behind 2-1 in the bottom of the seventh inning with one out, R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B. An illegal pitch is thrown to B4 and called by the umpire. However, B4 swings at the pitch and misses because F2 obstructs B4. RULING: In (FP) B4 can swing at an illegal pitch, however, it does not remove the obstruction call. When the obstruction occurred, the offensive manager is given the choice of the result of play or the obstruction penalty because the batter and all runners did not advance one base. The result of the play would be awarding both runners one base and a ball on the batter for the illegal pitch call, or taking the obstruction penalty would result in the bases being loaded and no run scoring. In (SP) when the batter swings at the illegal pitch, this removes the call, therefore either the obstruction penalty would be enforced resulting in B4 being awarded 1B or taking the result of the play by remaining at the plate with an additional strike. (8-1D[2])

PLAY 8.1-23 B1 touches F2’s mitt on the back swing (a), prior to F1 starting the pitch, or (b), after the pitch has started. RULING: In (a) the plate umpire should give the ‘‘dead ball’’ signal indicating no pitch and allow B1 and F2 to get set again before declaring ‘‘play ball’’. In (b) this is catcher’s obstruction, whether B1 is on the back swing or forward swing with the bat. (8-1D[2])

PLAY 8.1-24 (FP Only) R1 is on 3B and B2 attempts a squeeze bunt and is obstructed by F2. RULING: The umpire shall call obstruction and a dead ball. B1 is awarded 1B, R1 is awarded home as a result of obstruction during a . (8-1D[4])

PLAY 8.1-25 A batted ball strikes the base umpire who is in fair territory behind an infielder. RULING: The ball remains live since it has passed an infielder. (8-1E[2]; 8-4E)

PLAY 8.1-26 (FP Only) B1 has a 3-0 count and makes no attempt to avoid a pitch that comes into the batter’s box. RULING: The ball is dead. B1 made no attempt to avoid being hit by the pitch so it is a ball on B1. Since it is ball four, award 1st base. (8-1F EXCEPTION)

PLAY 8.2-1 B1 hits a ground ball to F4 who throws to F3 in time to retire B1, but B1 crashes into F3 causing them to drop the ball. RULING: B1 is out, since F3 established a catch. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH; 8-2B)

41 PLAY 8.2-2 B1 hits a slow roller to F3 who is playing behind the base. F3 fields the ball, runs to 1B and steps on the bag ahead of B1 who collides with F3. The ball, runner, and fielder all wind up on the ground. RULING: Since F3 had control of the ball and stepped on the base ahead of the runner, B1 is out. Dropping the ball as a result of the contact is something that happened after the out was made. (8-2B)

PLAY 8.2-3 In attempting to field a ground ball, F4 falls down. While in a prone position, F4 flips the ball toward F3 who picks it up in time to retire the batter-runner. RULING: This is a legal . (8-2B)

PLAY 8.2-4 F3 has control of the ball in their right hand while lying on the ground and touches 1B with their left hand prior to the batter-runner reaching 1B. RULING: The batter-runner is out. (1-TAG A; 8-2B)

PLAY 8.2-5 On a grounder, F3 snares the ball but the force of the hit entangles the ball in the glove webbing. To save time, F3 tosses the glove with the ball in it to F1, covering 1B. F1 touches the base ahead of the runner. RULING: Since F3 fielded the ball legally and the action of tossing the glove violated no rule, and F1 had control of the glove and ball, the batter-runner would be out. (8-2B)

PLAY 8.2-6 B1 hits the ball to F5. F5 fields the ball and throws wide causing F3 to stretch for the ball. The ball arrives in time but F3 loses their balance and drops the ball. RULING: Safe as F3 did not establish a catch. (8-2B) PLAY 8.2-7 B1 hits a grounder to F6 who throws to 1B. While running to 1B, B1 steps over the bag, failing to touch it. F3 catches the ball while touching 1B and the umpire rules B1 safe. RULING: B1 is assumed to have touched the base and is ruled safe until the defense appeals by touching B1 or the base, before B1 returns to the base. If no appeal is made, or the appeal is made after B1 returns, B1 is ruled safe. (8-2B)

PLAY 8.2-8 B1 hits a grounder to F6 and beats the throw to 1B but fails to touch the base. F3 makes a live ball appeal to the umpire: (a) as B1 is returning, (b) after B1 has returned to 1B. RULING: In (a) B1 is out on appeal, in (b) B1 is safe. (8-2B)

PLAY 8.2-9 F3 and F4 both attempt to field a line drive. The ball strikes F4 on the head and without touching the ground, F3 catches the ball. RULING: This is a legally caught fly ball. (1-CATCH/NO CATCH; 1-IN FLIGHT; 8-2C)

PLAY 8.2-10 (FP Only) With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 is hit by a pitched ball and goes into the dugout to receive treatment. All three runners advance. RULING: On a hit batter, the ball is dead so there is no penalty for entering dead ball area. All runners advance one base and R1 scores. (5-5A; 8-2D)

PLAY 8.2-11 With two outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B6 receives ball four and goes toward the dugout. All runners advance and R1 touches home plate prior to B6 entering dead ball area. RULING: (FP and SP with stealing) On ball four, the ball remains live. When B6 enters dead ball area, B6 is out for the third out and the run is nullified. (5-5B; 8-2D) (SP without stealing) On ball four, the ball is dead. No penalty for entering the dead ball area, all runners advance and the run scores unless a proper appeal is made at 1B. (5-5A; 8-2D)

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PLAY 8.2-12 (FP and SP with stealing) With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 receives ball four and goes into the dugout. F2 tags R1 before R1 touches home plate. RULING: The ball is live. B5 is out for entering dead ball territory and R1 is out for being tagged off the base as the force out is removed. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-2D; 8-8B)

PLAY 8.2-13 B1 hits a ground ball to F1 who hesitates in throwing the ball to 1B. B1 assuming an ‘‘easy out’’ enters the dugout. F1 finally throws to 1B, but F3 misses the ball and it rolls into the dugout. B1 then leaves the dugout and runs to 1B. RULING: B1 is out. (8-2D; 8-7U)

PLAY 8.2-14 B1 runs to 1B and fails to stay in the three-foot lane. RULING: There is no penalty for leaving this lane unless B1 causes interference with a fielder or a fielder’s throw. The purpose of the three-foot lane is to prevent interference. (8-2E)

PLAY 8.2-15 (FP Only) With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 bunts the ball fair. F2 fields the ball and throws it toward F4 covering 1B. B4 is half way to 1B, in fair territory, and the throw by F2 strikes B4 in the arm. R1 scores, R2 reaches 3B, and the B4 reaches 2B. RULING: The ball is dead and B4 is out for interference when struck with the ball outside the three-foot lane. R1 and R2 are sent back to the last bases touched at time of interference. (1-INTERFERENCE; 8-2E)

PLAY 8.2-16 B1 hits the ball and it rolls in front of the plate. The fielder throws to 1B and hits B1 (a) in the left shoulder who is straddling the foul line over fair territory and more than half way to 1B, (b) on the right shoulder and completely inside the three foot lane, (c) in the middle of the back, over the foul line and more than half way down the line, or (d) in the first thirty feet between home and 1B. RULING: In (a) and (c) B1 is out and the ball dead. In (b) and (d) B1 is not out and the ball remains live. (1- INTERFERENCE; 8-2E)

PLAY 8.2-17A With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 grounds to F1 who throws out R1 from 3B. F2 then steps and throws to 1B, but the throw hits B5 who is running outside the three-foot lane about ten feet from 1B. RULING: R1 is out on the force. When the thrown ball hits B5 in fair territory, the ball is dead and B5 is out. All runners return to last base touched at time of interference. (1-INTERFERENCE; 8-2E)

PLAY 8.2-17B B1 hits a batted ball that deflects off F3 who is playing in and the ball rolls into foul territory between home and 1B. F2 retrieves the ball and throws to F4 standing on the colored portion of a double base. B1 elects to run to the white portion and is struck by the thrown ball in fair territory before reaching 1B. RULING: B1 is safe. If the fielder uses the colored base on a throw from foul territory, the batter runner may run in fair territory. (8-2M)

PLAY 8.2-17C B1 bunts toward F5, who fields the ball and throws over the head of F4 and the ball goes into foul ground beyond 1B. F9 retrieves the ball and throws back to F4 who is standing on colored portion of the double base. B1 elects to go to the white portion of the double base. RULING: Legal, when the defense opts to use the colored portion, the runner may go to white when the throw comes from foul ground. (8-2M[4])

PLAY 8.2-18 B1 hits a ground ball toward 1B. The batted ball comes in contact with B1 over fair territory, while advancing to 1B. The touching is (a) intentional, (b) accidental while the ball is over fair ground, or (c) accidental while the ball is over foul ground and before the ball has reached 1B. RULING: In (a) and (b) it is interference and B1 is called out. In (c) it is a foul ball because contact is over foul ground. (1-INTERFERENCE; 8-2F)

43 PLAY 8.2-19 R1 is on 3B. B2 hits a fair ground ball to F3 who fields the ball near the line and throws to F2 who is attempting to retire R1. The throw hits B2 who intentionally interferes. RULING: The ball is dead. This is interference and both B2 and R1 are out. (1-INTERFERENCE; 8-2G)

PLAY 8.2-20 R1 is on 1B when B2 hits a slow roller down the 1B line. R1 advances to 2B. B2 is about five feet from 1B when hit in fair territory by the batted ball, but after R1 has touched 2B. RULING: B2 is called out for interference, however, since R1 had already touched 2B when the interference occurred, R1 will remain on 2B. (8-2F[4]; 8-6C)

PLAY 8.2-21 (FP Only) With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R1 on 1B, B4 attempts to bunt, and all runners break with the pitch. B4 pops the ball into the air near 1B foul line and runs into F3 to prevent a double play on R1. RULING: The ball becomes dead immediately and the umpire declares both B4 and R1 out. R2 and R3 must return to 2B and 1B. (1-INTERFERENCE; 8-2G; 8-6C)

PLAY 8.2-22 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B3 has an 0-2 count and strikes out on the next pitch as R2 steals 2B. B3 interferes with F2’s throw to 2B while walking to the 1B dugout. RULING: This is interference by B3 after being put out. R1, the runner closer to home, should also be ruled out and R2 is sent back to 1B. (1-INTERFERENCE; 8-2F; 8-6C)

PLAY 8.2-23 B1 hits a fly ball to left field and stops short of 1B, heading back home, thinking the ball would be caught. F7 drops the ball and B1 starts back toward 1B. RULING: Since B1 did not move backward to avoid a tag or a play; B1 should not be called out. (8-2H)

PLAY 8.2-24 With R1 on 2B, B2 takes a full swing and hits a slow roller down the 1B line. B2 begins to run as F3 fields the ball in fair territory and several feet in front 1B. In an attempt to give R1 time to advance toward 3B, B2 (a) merely freezes in their tracks or (b) takes a step backward, forcing F3 to move toward them for a tag. RULING: In (a) there is no penalty. B2 will be called out when tagged and the ball remains live. In (b) the instant B2 steps back, the ball is dead, and all runners must return to the last legally touched base. (8-2H)

PLAY 8.2-25 The umpire calls ‘‘infield fly’’ but the ball curves into foul territory. RULING: It is not an infield fly, just a foul ball. The batter is not out unless the foul is caught. If the ball is caught, any runner(s) must retouch their base before advancing. (8-2I)

PLAY 8.2-26 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 fakes a bunt, but at the last moment draws back and swings away. B3 hits a blooper no more than 10 feet off the ground toward F5. The umpire calls ‘‘infield fly.’’ RULING: There is nothing in the rules defining how high an infield fly must go. Since this is neither a line drive nor an attempted bunt, the umpire is right in calling an infield fly if they feel it could be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I)

PLAY 8.2-27 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 3B, B4 lofts a high pop fly over 2B. As F4 drifts out under the ball, the umpire calls ‘‘infield fly.’’ F8 races in and tries to make a catch but drops the ball, retrieves it and makes an errant throw to 1B. When the play ends, two runs have scored, R3 is on 3B, and B4 is on 2B. What is the call? RULING: Even though an outfielder handles the ball, it remains an infield fly. Thus, B4 is out and is removed from 2B. Since the ball remains in play on an infield fly, the other runners advanced legally. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I)

PLAY 8.2-28 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hits a fly ball that in the umpire’s judgment can be handled by F6 with reasonable effort. The umpire declares “infield fly.” Base runners, thinking there are two outs, start running as soon as the ball is hit. F6 fails to catch the infield fly and R1 and R2 score with R3 stopping at 3B before F6 recovers the ball. RULING: B4 is out on the infield fly; R1 and R2 score, and R3 remains at 3B with two outs. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I) 44 PLAY 8.2-29 Can a line drive or a bunted balls be considered an infield fly? RULING: No. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I)

PLAY 8.2-30 With no outs and R1 on 3B, B2 hits a high fly in the infield above F4’s head. The base umpire erroneously calls ‘‘infield fly, batter is out.’’ F4 subsequently drops the ball and R1 scores. B2 (a) ends up at 2B, or (b) goes to the dugout because the umpire called B2 out. RULING: The run scores. In (a) leave B2 at 2B on the correctable error; however, in (b) the plate umpire should rectify the situation by placing B2 on 1B. (8-2D & I; 10-3C)

PLAY 8.2-31 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits an infield fly. The ball strikes R1 who is (a) near 2B with F6 playing behind R1, or (b) standing on 2B with F6 behind the base. RULING: In (a) and (b), B3 is out on the infield fly. No intent to interfere was made and the ball is dead. In (a) R1 is out, in (b) R1 is safe. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I; 8-6C; 8-7J[1]; 8-8M)

PLAY 8.2-32 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits a high pop foul between home and 1B, which F3 loses sight of in the sun. The ball lands on foul ground without being touched and rolls into fair territory halfway between home and 1B. F1 picks up the ball and throws to F4 covering 1B, who tags R2 while off the base. RULING: If the umpire rules this an infield fly, B3 is out. R2 is out for being tagged off base. (1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I; 8-7B)

PLAY 8.2-33 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits an infield fly. F6 intentionally drops the ball, but neither R1 nor R2 attempts to advance. F6 then throws to 3B for an apparent force out and the ball is then thrown to F4 who steps on 2B. While the ball is still live, F4 tells R1, ‘‘that’s a double play and the inning is over.’’ R1 steps off 2B and is tagged out. RULING: An intentionally dropped ball cannot be called on an infield fly ruling. Runners do not have to advance. The infield fly is the second out and R1’s out is the third out of the inning. (8-2I; 8-7B)

PLAY 8.2-34 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits a pop up to F3. The umpire calls infield fly as R2 collides with F3 prior to the catch. The ball is not touched and rolls foul. RULING: B3 is out on the infield fly, and when R2 collided with F3, a dead ball is called and interference is ruled. R2 is out for the second out of the inning. (8-2I; 8-7J)

PLAY 8.2-35 With one out and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits an apparent infield fly. The umpire does not call “infield fly.” The fly ball is not caught and in the confusion, both R1 and R2 are tagged off base resulting in three outs. RULING: The infield fly should have been in effect. Failure of the umpire to invoke the infield fly placed the runners in jeopardy. This is correctable by calling the batter out and returning the runners to their respective bases. (8-2I; 10-3C)

PLAY 8.2-36A With one out and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a pop-up behind F3. The umpire invokes the infield fly rule. The ball hits the ground and R1 and R2 advance. After the play, the umpires agree that the infield fly rule was improperly applied because no fielder could have caught the ball with ordinary effort. RULING: B4 was placed in jeopardy by this ruling. B4 is awarded 1B, R1 will remain on 3B and R2 will remain on 2B. (8-2I; 10-3C)

PLAY 8.2-36B With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 pops up to where F1 can easily catch the ball. The umpire rules “infield fly if fair.” The ball hits the ground untouched in front of F3 and hits B3 in fair territory before reaching 1B. RULING: B3 is out on the infield fly rule. The ball is dead and ruled fair when B3 contacted the ball. This would not be considered as interference after an out. (1-FAIR BALL; 1-INFIELD FLY; 8-2I)

PLAY 8.2-37 With no outs and R1 on 1B, B2 bunts the ball in the air and the ball is intentionally dropped by F1. RULING: The ball is dead, B2 is out and R1 returns to 1B. To qualify as an intentionally dropped ball, there must be at least a runner on 1B and less than two out. The ball must be caught and then dropped. (8-2J)

PLAY 8.2-38 With one out and R1 on 1B, B3 hits a pop-up to F5 who catches the ball and then drops it intentionally. The umpire calls B3 out, but in the confusion, R1 sprints toward 2B and is thrown out. RULING: The ball is dead, B3 is out, and R1 must return to 1B. The rule covering intentionally dropped fly balls is designed to prevent the defense from turning a pop fly or line drive into a double play. (8-2J)

PLAY 8.2-39 With one out and R1 at 1B, B3 hits a pop fly ball to F6 who lets the ball drop in front of them, picking it up and throwing to 2B for one out and then the relay to 1B for a double play. The offense claims it was intentionally dropped and B3 should be out and R1 should be returned to 1B. RULING: Unless the fielder actually caught the ball and then dropped it, there is no intentional dropped ball. The double play is the correct call. (8-2J)

PLAY 8.2-40 B1 hits a ground ball to F6. While B1 advances to 1B, F3 is pulled to the colored portion of 1B by F6’s errant throw, which arrives prior to B1 touching the colored portion. RULING: B1 is out. Since this is an errant throw pulling the defense into foul ground, the defense may use either the white or colored portion of 1B. (8-2M[5])

PLAY 8.2-41 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits the ball to F6. In advancing to 1B, B2 collides with F3 who is about to catch the thrown ball from F6 while touching the white portion of 1B. RULING: The ball is dead, B2 is out and R1 must return to 3B. (8-2M)

PLAY 8.2-42 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits a fly ball near center field fence where a spectator reaches into the field of play and interferes with F8’s ability to catch the ball. R1 scores after the ball hits the ground. RULING: The ball is dead. Invoke spectator interference and award R1 and B2 the base(s) they would have reached, in the umpire’s judgment, had there been no interference. (8-2N)

PLAY 8.3-1 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hits a long fly ball to the outfield. R1, thinking the ball will not be caught, advances to and touches home plate. After the fielder makes the catch, R1 runs back to and occupies 3B, but fails to retouch home on the way back. When the ball is thrown to 3B, both R1 and R2 are standing on the base. Both runners are touched with the live ball and the umpire calls R2 out. The defense then makes a proper appeal that R1 failed to retouch home when retreating to 3B. The umpire calls R1 out for a . RULING: The umpire was correct in calling R2 out because R1 still has a legal right to 3B. When the defense appeals R1 for not returning to the base in legal order, R1 should be called out. (1-APPEAL PLAY; 8-3A & E; 8-7G)

PLAY 8.3-2 B1 lines a hit that rolls to the deepest part of the park. B1 misses 1B, touches 2B, 3B and home plate. B1’s teammates yell for B1 to touch 1B, so B1 runs to 1B and 2B again before the ball is returned to the infield. RULING: When a runner returns to a base while the ball is in play, the runner must touch the bases in reverse order. The umpire should rule B1 out if a proper appeal is made. If the defense makes no appeal, then leave B1 at 2B. (8-3A; 8-7G)

PLAY 8.3-3 With one out and R1 at 1B, B3 hits a single to right field. R1 rounds 2B, and seeing the ball thrown to 3B, returns to 2B. R1 steps over 2B as the thrown ball goes into right field. R1 turns around and advances to 3B safely, but during the advance, fails to touch 2B on the way to 3B. The defense appeals R1 should have retouched 2B before advancing to 3B. RULING: R1 is out on appeal. When a runner is advancing or returning to a base, all bases must be touched in order. (8-3A)

46

PLAY 8.3-4 With no outs and R1 on 2B, B2 hits a hard one hopper to F4. R1 slides past 3B without touching the base as F4 throws the ball into dead territory. In (a), R1 returns to touch 3B during the dead ball period before advancing to home on the overthrow award, or (b), the defense quickly makes a dead ball appeal before R1 returns to touch 3B. In both cases the umpire rules R1 out. RULING: In both (a) and (b) R1 is safe. Because of the dead ball situation, all runners must complete their base running responsibilities before a dead ball appeal can be allowed. (8-3B; 8-7I[3])

PLAY 8.3-5 With one out and R1 on 2B, B3 hits a fly ball to center field that is caught and R1 advances to 3B. When R1 slides into 3B, the momentum dislodges the base from its proper location. R1 remains where the base should be and is tagged by F5. RULING: When R1 dislodged the base from its proper position, neither R1 nor the succeeding runner(s) in the same of plays, is compelled to follow a base unreasonably out of position. R1 is safe. (8-3C; 8-8N)

PLAY 8.3-6 With two outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B5 hits a double and both R1 and R2 score. R1 misses 3B, but returns to 3B just before an appeal is made. RULING: Since R1 may not return to 3B after a following runner, R2, scores, R1 is out on the appeal and both runs are nullified. (5-5B[3]; 8-3G)

PLAY 8.3-7 R1 is on 3B and advances home on B2’s single. R1 misses home plate, then enters the dugout. F2 makes an appeal play by (a) tagging home plate or (b) by following R1 into the dugout to make the tag.. RULING: In (a), R1 is out because R1 may not return to touch home plate after entering the dugout. In (b), when F2 carried the ball into the dugout, the ball became dead, B2 is advanced one base, and R1 cannot be called out while F2 and the ball remain in the dugout. With the dead ball appeal, R1 could be called out verbally after F2 returned to the playing field. B2 would remain on the awarded base, unless it was the third out of the inning. (8-3G; 8-5J; 8-7I[3])

PLAY 8.3-8 In a Men’s Class A SP game, B1 hits a homerun over the fence. RULING: On a homerun over the fence, B1 is credited with a score and need not run the bases. (8-3I)

PLAY 8.3-9 In a Men’s Class A SP game, R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits a homerun over the fence. R1 on the way to the dugout steps on 3B, R2 goes directly to the dugout. The defense appeals R2 missing 2B. What is the call? RULING: B3 and both R1 and R2 need not touch any bases. All base running appeals are ignored. (8-3I)

PLAY 8.3-10 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a line drive to F6 who throws to 1B to double up R1 but the ball is thrown over F3’s head and out of play. The ball is dead and R1 is awarded 3B. R1 tags up at 1B, but while going to 3B, misses 2B. After rounding 2B, R1’s teammates from the dugout yell for R1 to go back and touch 2B, which R1 does, and then advances to 3B. When the ball is back in the infield, the defensive manager yells from the dugout that R1 missed 2B. RULING: R1 may return to a missed awarded base even if the runner is standing on a base beyond the missed awarded base. Therefore all bases were touched properly. (8-3I; 8-5G)

PLAY 8.3-11 B1 singles to right field and F9 throws the ball into the dugout in attempting a throw to F3. The umpire awards B1 to 3B who cuts across the infield rather than touching 2B. RULING: The defense must make a proper dead ball appeal for B1 missing 2B. If the defense does not appeal, the action by B1 is ruled legal after the first pitch to B2. (1-APPEAL PLAY; 8-3I; 8-7G)

PLAY 8.4-1 R1 is on 1B and B2 hits a line drive that ricochets off F4’s glove to F9, who catches it. R1 leaves 1B for 2B after F4 touched the ball, but before the catch. RULING: B2 is out on the catch and this is a legal advance by R1. (8-4D)

PLAY 8.4-2 R1 is on 2B. B2 hits a line drive that is deflected by F1 and then hits R1 as R1 is advancing toward 3B. RULING: No violation. The ball is in play unless it deflects into dead ball territory. (8-4E; 8-8F) 47 PLAY 8.4-3 (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 1B and a pitched ball missed by F2, R1 advances to 2B as soon as the ball reaches home plate. RULING: Runners may advance when the ball reaches home plate without first touching the ground or the plate in fair territory. (8-4F; 8-6G)

PLAY 8.4-4 (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a pitched ball to B3 is missed by F2 and both runners start to advance. F2 retrieves the ball, returns it to F1 but both runners stop and all immediate play is apparently completed. RULING: If a runner(s) stops while off the base and the ball is returned to the pitcher in the infield and all immediate play is apparently completed; the play is ruled dead and runners return to last base legally touched. (8-4F; 8-6G)

PLAY 8.4-5A (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With no outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a pitched ball to B3 is missed by F2 and R1 advances toward home and R2 advances toward 2B. F2 retrieves the ball and throws to F1 covering 2B. R2 stops and is tagged by F1. RULING: The ball is live, R1 scores and R2 is out for the second out of the inning. (8-4F; 8-6G)

PLAY 8.4-5B (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, B2 misses the pitch and F2 misses the ball but retrieves it quickly. R1 comes off the base and stops and F2 throws the ball to F1; R1 tries to steal home as F1 receives the ball. RULING: The ball is live and the advance is legal but R1 is in jeopardy of being put out. (8-4F)

PLAY 8.4-5C (Slow Pitch with Stealing) R1 is on 3B and R2 is on 1B. After a pitch to B3, F1 retreats toward 2B to cover a potential steal. Neither runner tries to advance and F2’s throw goes over F1’s head, both runners advance. RULING: Legal. The ball remains live until the ball is returned to the infield and all immediate play is apparently completed. (8-4F)

PLAY 8.4-5D (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a pitch to B3 hits right behind home plate and F2 catches the ball on the first bounce. R2 attempts to steal when the ball reaches the front of home plate and R1 remains on 3B. F2 returns the ball to F1 in the infield just before R2 reaches 2B. RULING: The runners may advance and are in jeopardy of being put out, as the ball remains live until all immediate play is apparently completed. (8-4F)

PLAY 8.4-5E (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B a pitched ball reaches home plate but gets by F2. R1 and R2 start to advance but stop when F2 hustles back to retrieve the ball. F2 throws to F3 who tags R2 out while sliding back into 1B. F3 holds the ball and looks at R1 still standing off 3B. R1 is moving back and forth attempting top draw a throw but is clearly not advancing. RULING: A ball is awarded B3, R2 is out and R1 will remain at 3B. When the defense makes a play on the runner the ball remains live. When in the judgment of the umpire immediate play is apparently completed, the umpire should call time. (8-4F)

PLAY 8.4-5F (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B3 swings and misses a pitch the umpire ruled illegal. The ball hits behind home plate and bounces past F2 as R1 comes off 3B and R2 attempts to steal 2B. The ball rolls into dead ball territory (a) before R2 reaches 2b or (b) after R2 reaches 2B. RULING: In (a) and (b) the ball is dead when the ball goes out of play and all runners are advanced one base from the time of the pitch. R1 scores and R2 is awarded 2B. (8-5C)

PLAY 8.4-5G (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B3 swings and misses a pitch the umpire ruled illegal. The ball hits home plate or in front of home plate and bounces past F2. R1 comes off 3B and stops while R2 attempts to steal 2B. The ball rolls into dead ball territory (a) before R2 reaches 2B or (b) after R2 reaches 2B. RULING: The ball is dead when it hits the plate or in front of the plate and no advance is allowed. All runners are returned to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. (8-4F)

48 PLAY 8.4-5H (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a pitched ball to B3 clears home plate and R2 breaks for 2B. F1 backs up to take the throw from F2 at 2B and after the release of the throw, R1 advances to home. RULING: Legal advance since F1 is covering 2B on the attempted steal. The ball remains live and all runners may advance. (8-4F)

PLAY 8.4-5I (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B and a pitched ball the umpire rules illegal; the ball hits the ground a foot behind the plate and rolls away from F2 as R1 scores. RULING: All base stealing rules apply to legal and illegal pitches. (8-4F)

PLAY 8.4-5J (Slow Pitch with Stealing) With R1 on 3B, F1 pitches the ball to B2. F2 is standing deep in the catcher’s box; the umpire is standing beside F2 to call the pitch. The pitch clears home plate, bounces and contacts the umpire and ricochets away from F2 as R1 advances to home. RULING: Legal. A pitched ball that hits an umpire remains live ball and runners may advance. (8-4F[4])

PLAY 8.4-6 (FP 10 & Under Class B) With R1 on 1B, a pitched ball to B2 gets past F2. R1 steals 2B and rounds the bag, sees the ball still rolling and continues to 3B. RULING: After all play has ceased R1 is returned to 2B. Runners starting at 1B or 2B are entitled to steal or advance one base per pitch only. (8-4G)

PLAY 8.4-7 (FP 10 & Under Class B) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a pitched ball to B3 gets past F2. Both runners advance with R1 scoring and R2 rounding 2B and stopping. F2 throws to F6 who tags R2 off the base. RULING: R1 must return to 3B and R2 is out. A runner going beyond the one base they are allowed to steal may be put out if between bases. A runner cannot steal from 3B. (8-4G)

PLAY 8.4-8A (FP 10 & Under Class B) With R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 swings at and misses strike three which is dropped by F2. R1 advances toward 3B, R2 advances to 2B and B3 advances toward 1B. F2 throws to 3B retiring R1. RULING: On a dropped third strike, B3 is out and cannot advance to 1B. The ball remains live for the purpose of throwing R1 out and R2’s advance to 2B is legal. (8-4G)

PLAY 8.4-8B (FP 10 & Under Class B) With R1 on 3B and R2 on 1B, R2 is stealing 2B when F1 throws an illegal pitch to B3 that is not hit. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 is awarded home, R2 is awarded 2B and a ball is called on B3. (8-4G)

PLAY 8.4-9 While fielding a ground ball, the ball becomes entangled in F4’s uniform and B1 advances to 3B. RULING: Legal advance, the ball remains live while it is entangled in a defensive player’s uniform or equipment. (8-4H)

PLAY 8.5-1 After B1 overruns 1B, B1 takes two steps toward 2B and stops when F3 retrieves the ball. F3 tags B1 on a live ball appeal. RULING: Because B1 made an attempt toward 2B; B1 is out even though they abandoned the attempt to 2B. (8-4B & J)

49

PLAY 8.6-1 (FP) In the bottom of the 10th inning with two outs, a tie score and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B. B6 draws a walk and (a) fails to go to 1B but instead enters the team area, although all other runners advance one base; (b) R3 does not advance to 2B but instead walks off the field, although all other runners, including B6 advance one base. Are these appeal plays or should the umpire call the infractions when it occurs? RULING: When a walk is issued, all runners, including the batter, must touch all bases awarded. Therefore, in (a), the umpire should call B6 out when they entered the dugout. Because the out occurred before B6 touched 1B, it results in a force out. Since the third out is the result of a force out, no run can score on the play. In (b), the umpire should call R3 out as soon as they leave the field of play or enters the team area. This is also a force out and no runs will score. In neither case is it an appeal play. As soon as the offending player leaves the field of play, the umpire should call the out. (8-5A; 5-5B)

PLAY 8.6-2 With two outs and R1 on 1B, B4 hits a double. As R1 goes into 3B, F5 is guilty of obstruction. B4 attempts to stretch the double into a triple and is thrown out at 3B. Because of the delay of R1, the out is made before R1 reaches home plate. RULING: R1 is awarded home since R1 would have reached it, had there been no obstruction, and the run scores. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-3 With no outs and R1 on 2B, B2 hits a grounder to F4 and R1 is obstructed between 2B and 3B. B2 is thrown out at 1B as R1 rounds 3B. F3 throws to F5 who tags R1 out while returning to 3B. RULING: Since the obstruction occurred between 2B and 3B, R1 cannot be put out at 3B. However, if the umpire judged that R1 could have made home, the umpire could protect R1 to home. If the umpire judged that R1 would not have made home safely, the umpire would rule R1 out. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-4 With two outs and R1 on 2B, B4 hits the ball to the outfield. R1 is obstructed between 3B and home as the throw goes to 2B. F4 tags B4 for the third out before R1 reaches home. RULING: If the umpire judges R1 would have scored prior to B4 being tagged out, had there been no obstruction, the run would count. Otherwise, the umpire would not award the run, based on an obstruction call. (8- 5B)

PLAY 8.6-5 With one out, R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a ground ball directly to F1 who throws to F5 for a force on R1 at 3B. F6 obstructs R1 while advancing toward 3B. RULING: The ball is dead when R1 is put out. R1 is awarded 3B, R2 is awarded 2B and B4 is awarded 1B. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-6 With R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, R1 is caught between 3B and home in a run down on an by B3. As R1 is attempting to regain 3B, F5 obstructs R1 and then tags R1 out. R2 was standing on 3B at the time of the obstruction. RULING: The umpire should call ‘‘dead ball’’ and rule obstruction. R1 should be awarded 3B, R2 is returned to 2B and B3 should be on 1B. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-7 On an infield hit by B2, R1 slides into 2B as F4 jumps unsuccessfully for a high throw from F3. The ball bounds into the outfield and F4 falls on top of R1. The players untangle slowly as the ball is returned to the infield. The base umpire is convinced R1 could have advanced to 3B if F4 had not fallen on top of R1, but after the pile up R1 showed no inclination to attempt to advance. RULING: F4’s contact, even though inadvertent, does in fact impede or hinder R1’s progress. By definition, it’s obstruction. Award R1 3B as that is the base that R1 would have reached in the umpire’s judgment had there been no obstruction. B2 should also be placed on the base the umpire felt B2 would have reached. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-8 With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits the ball between two outfielders. R1 is obstructed by F6 and cannot advance past 3B, preventing R2 and B3 from advancing any farther than 2B and 1B. RULING: If runners have not reached the base(s) they would have reached, had there been no obstruction, after all play is over, the umpire will declare the ball dead and award all the runners the base(s) they would have reached. (8-5B) 50 PLAY 8.6-9 With no outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hits a single with R1 scoring and R2 advancing to home plate. The throw comes to the plate and R2 is caught in a between 3B and home. R3 advances to 3B and is standing on 3B while B4 advances to 2B. R2 is obstructed going back to 3B and is tagged out by F2. F2 then tags R3 standing on 3B. The umpire calls “obstruction,” the ball “dead” when R3 is tagged out and places R2 on 3B. RULING: The umpire was in error. Obstruction is a delayed dead ball call, but when F2 tagged R2 prior to reaching 3B, the ball should have been ruled dead. R3 cannot be tagged out during a dead ball. The umpire should place R2 on 3B, R3 on 2B and B4 on 1B. One run scores and there are still no outs. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-10 B1 hits the ball to right field, and while passing 1B, is obstructed while the ball is still in the outfield. B1 is thrown out by a wide margin at home plate. RULING: If, in the judgment of the umpire, B1 advanced beyond the base(s) they would have made had there been no obstruction, B1 is out. If the umpire believes B1 would have made it home safely, B1 is awarded home. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-11 With no outs, R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 hits a high hopper to F5, who grabs the ball and gets R1 in a rundown between home and 3B. While attempting to return to 3B, R1 is obstructed by F5 who does not have the ball nor is attempting to make a play. The ball is overthrown down the left field line as R1 and R2 score on the play and B3 arrives at 2B. RULING: Since R1 was not out; the umpire should not rule a dead ball, allowing play to continue. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-12 With R1 on 2B, B2 gets a base hit. R1 rounds 3B and is obstructed by F1. At the time of the obstruction, in the umpire’s judgment, R1 could not have made home safely. R1 is returns to 3B as F2 cuts the throw and retires B2 at 2B. R1 now breaks for home and is tagged at the plate on the return throw. RULING: At the time of the obstruction, R1 could not have made home. The ball remains live. The out at 2B stands. Since R1, after the obstruction, safely obtains the base they would have been awarded had there been no obstruction and there is a subsequent play on another runner, R1 is no longer protected and the out stands. (8-5B EXCEPTION 1)

PLAY 8.6-13 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hits a pop up behind F6. When F6 dives for the ball, it glances off the glove and hits the ground. The runners attempt to advance as F6 recovers the ball in time to throw to 2B and retires R3; R1 advances to score, R2 moves to 3B and B4 to 1B. However, during the play, R3 was obstructed by F3. RULING: When obstruction occurs, the umpire should declare a delayed-dead ball. When the obstructed runner, R3, is retired the ball is immediately dead. R3 cannot be called out between the two bases where obstruction occurred. Since B4 is at 1B, R3 will remain at 2B and R2 at 3B. R1 scores and there are still no outs. (8-5B) PLAY 8.6-14 A throw from left field draws F2 into the base path of R1. The ball arrives just before R1 does, causing contact with F2. F2 drops the ball and R1 scores. The contact is not intentional or flagrant. RULING: Since F2 had the ball at the moment of contact with R1; this is not obstruction or interference. This is viewed simply as ‘‘incidental contact.’’ The run counts. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-15 With no outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, F4 sets up in a direct line between 2B and 1B. RULING: There is no penalty for F4 to stand in the baseline at the start of the pitch, however, if the ball is not hit to them for a play, they must not obstruct R2. It is an act of obstruction if R2 is forced to run around or makes contact with F4 while running to the next base. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-16 F2 is standing in the path of R1, awaiting the throw from F8. R1 runs into F2 before the ball arrives. F2 retrieves the ball and tags the runner out. RULING: Since F2 did not have possession of the ball at the time of the contact, obstruction is called, the ball is ruled dead and R1 is awarded home. (1-OBSTRUCTION; 8-5B)

51 PLAY 8.6-17A With no outs and R1 on 1B, B2 hits the ball to center field. R1 stops at 3B while B2 rounds 2B and collides with F6 and falls to the ground. B2 return to 2B after seeing R1 standing on 3B. The umpires leave both runners at 2B and 3B. RULING: Correct ruling. Since R1 stopped at 3B, B2 could not have advanced to 3B. B2 even though obstructed, would have to return to 2B. (8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-17B (Girl’s FP) With no outs and R1 on 1B, F3 and F5 are drawn in for a potential bunt. On a pitch to B2, R1 leads off and F4 covers 1B and blocks the base with a knee without the ball. R1 slides back to 1B and contacts F4 who is still awaiting the throw from F2. R1 is tagged out by F4 who catches the throw. RULING: The umpire should rule obstruction. At the time F4 tags R1 out, a dead ball should be ruled and R1 should be awarded 1B. (1-OBSTRUCTION; 8-5B)

PLAY 8.6-18A With no outs and R1 on 1B, B2 hits a long ball to left field. R1 misses 2B on the way to 3B and is then obstructed between 2B and 3B. B2 rounds 1B and returns as the ball comes back to the infield. R1 who is standing on 3B (the base they would have reached had there been no obstruction), decides to return and touch 2B, and is tagged out while doing so. RULING: When R1 is tagged out, ‘‘time’’ should be called and R1 awarded 3B. If R1 does not go back and touch 2B before advancing to 3B, the defense can appeal R1 for missing 2B. If the defense appeals properly while the ball is live that R1 missed 2B, the umpire should rule R1 ‘‘out’’ on the appeal since R1 was not obstructed trying to get back to 2B. NOTE: An obstructed runner can never be put out between the bases where the obstruction occurred. EXCEPTION: Appeals and interference. (8-5B EXCEPTION 1)

PLAY 8.6-18B With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a to B3 results in F2 throwing to F3 for a pick off attempt of R2. R2 gets in a rundown between 1B and 2B and is obstructed by F4 while returning to 1B. R2 returns safely to 1B as a play is made on R1 at home. R1 is safe at home and R2 now advances to 2B and is thrown out. RULING: All play stands. Since R2 tried to advance after a subsequent play on another runner and left the base that would have been awarded because of the obstruction. (8-5B[1])

PLAY 8.6-18C With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, a pitchout to B3 results in F2 throwing to F3 for a pick off attempt of R2. R2 gets in a rundown between 1B and 2B and is obstructed by F4 while returning to 1B. R2 remains between 1B and 2B as a play is being made on R1 at home. R1 is safe at home and R2 now advances to 2B and is thrown out. RULING: The ball should be ruled “dead” when R2 was tagged out. Since R2 never reached the base R2 would have reached, had there been no obstruction, R2 is awarded the base in the umpire’s judgment; R2 would have reached, had the obstruction not occurred. R2 is awarded 1B. (8-5B[1])

PLAY 8.6-19 With one out and R1 on 1B, B3 hits a ball to left centerfield. R1 is obstructed by F3 when advancing and as R1 slides into 3B, (a) the ball is dislodged from F5’s glove and stays in playable territory, or (b) the ball is dislodged from F5’s glove and goes into dead ball territory. RULING: In (a) the ball remains live and all runners advance at their own risk. In (b) the ball becomes dead when it enters the dead ball area and all runners are awarded one additional base from the base occupied at the time the ball entered the dead ball area. (8-5B & G)

PLAY 8.6-20 With no outs and R1 on 2B, B2 hits a grounder toward F1. F6 moves to back up or field the ball and collides with R1 who is advancing from 2B to 3B. In (a) F1 fields the ball, or (b) F1 is not able to field the ball which ricochets toward F6 who has the opportunity to retire B2. RULING: In (a) if F6 is not ‘‘making a play,’’ obstruction should be the called. In (b) since F6 has the opportunity to retire B2, R2 must avoid F6 or be called out for interference. (8-5B; 8-7J; 8-8C)

PLAY 8.6-21 (FP and SP with Stealing) With no outs and a 3-2 count on B1, F1 delivers a that gets past F2, going into the stands; B1 (a) swings, or (b) does not swing at pitch. RULING: B1 is awarded 1B in both (a) and (b). When a batter becomes a batter-runner on a wild pitch that goes into the stands, the batter is awarded 1B only. (8-5C)

52 PLAY 8.6-22 (FP and SP with Stealing) With R1 on 1B, F2 drops the pitch and the plate umpire, in an effort to get out of the way, accidentally kicks the ball into the dugout. RULING: R1 is awarded one base from the base held at the time of the pitch. This is treated the same as a wild pitch. (8-5C)

PLAY 8.6-23 (FP Only and SP with Stealing) With R1 on 2B and a 3-0 count on B2, the next pitch is ball 4 and goes into the stands. RULING: B2 is entitled to 1B only and R1 is awarded 3B. (8-5C)

PLAY 8.6-24 A batted ball hits 1B and is over foul ground when F3 throws their glove and hits the ball. RULING: The umpire should signal a delayed dead ball. The batter is entitled to three bases, and can advance farther at the risk of being put out. (8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-25 B1 hits a line drive, though snared by the leaping F5, pulls off the glove and carries it into the outfield. F7 picks up the ball and throws it to 2B, holding B1 there. The team at bat claims B1 should be awarded three bases, because of the ball being hit by a glove detached from the fielder over fair territory. RULING: No catch is called and B1 remains at 2B. The glove was off the hand due to the line drive and not being thrown at the ball. (8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-26 B1 hits a fair line drive over the head of F5, who jumps high attempting to field the ball. As F5 jumps, the glove accidentally dislodges from F5’s hand and it touches the ball. RULING: The detached glove was not thrown or tossed intentionally at the contacted ball. There is no violation and the ball remains live. (8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-27 B1 hits a fair ball and F1 throws the glove at the ball but no contact with the ball is made. RULING: Since the glove misses the ball, it is not an infraction. (8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-28 B1 hits a line drive to right center field and a disgusted F8 throws their glove at the ball, touching it as it rolls to the fence. B1 decides to try for an inside-the-park home run. B1 is thrown out at the plate, but the manager claims B1 is entitled to return to 3B because the thrown glove hit the ball. RULING: B1 is out. The thrown glove touching the ball protects B1 to 3B, but the ball remains live and B1 can advance farther at the risk of being put out. (8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-29 B1 tops the ball that rolls slowly in foul territory toward 1B. F3 charges for the ball and removes their hat to slap at the ball in foul territory so it will not roll fair. RULING: The ball should be ruled foul. (1-FOUL BALL; 8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-30 B1 hits a curving foul ball that is moving toward fair territory. F7 seeing that the ball cannot be caught, throws their glove at the ball and hits it over foul territory. RULING: Hitting the ball in foul territory with the glove makes it a foul ball and B1 will bat again. If this were the third strike in slow pitch, B1 would be out. (8-5F)

PLAY 8.6-31 With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hits a high pop fly to the infield. The umpires call “infield fly.” The ball drops near 3B untouched and starts to roll foul. F5 throws their glove at the ball to prevent it from rolling foul and the glove hits the ball over (a) fair territory or (b) foul territory. RULING: In (a) the infield fly stays in effect for the second out, and all three runners will score. In (b) it is a foul ball. (8-5F)

53 PLAY 8.6-32 R1 is on 2B and R2 on 1B when B3 hits a ground ball to F6. F6 fields the ball, steps on 2B to force R2 out and then throws the ball wide of F3 who throws their glove at the ball touching it and causing it to go out of play. RULING: R1 and B3 are awarded two bases each from the time of the throw. When a detached glove or mitt touches a ball prior to the ball becoming dead, the ruling for detached equipment hitting the ball prevails. If the detached glove or mitt touches the ball after the ball goes into dead ball area, the ruling governing detached equipment has no bearing. (8-5F) NOTE: In this case the penalty for detached equipment and a thrown ball going out of play are the same.

PLAY 8.6-33 (FP and SP with Stealing) With R1 on 1B, F1 delivers a pitch that bounces away from F2. R1 advances toward 2B as F2 stops the rolling ball with the mask and throws R1 out at 2B. RULING: The ball is dead when R1 is tagged out. R1 is awarded 2B. (8-5F[3])

PLAY 8.6-34 R1 on 1B, a pitch to B2 eludes F2 and stops a short distance from home plate. R1 returns to 1B as F2 retrieves the ball with their mask. No play is apparent and no advantage is gained. RULING: No violation. (8-5F[5])

PLAY 8.6-35 With R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 has a 3-1 count. Ball four eludes F2 and stops a short distance from home plate. R1 and R2 return to their base as F2 retrieves the ball with the mask. All play ceases. RULING: No advantage is gained by F2 therefore R1 and R2 will remain on their base and B3 is awarded 1B on ball four. (8-5F[5])

PLAY 8.6-36 (FP Only) With R1 on 3B, a swinging third strike eludes F2. B2 advances toward 1B and R1 breaks for home as F2 stops the ball with the mask and tags R1 out. RULING: The ball becomes dead when R1 is tagged out; B2 is awarded 1B on the dropped third strike and R1 awarded home. (8-5F[3])

PLAY 8.6-37 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ground ball to F6 who muffs the ball but recovers in time to throw to F3 in an attempt to retire B2. The throw goes out of play. R1 had reached 2B prior to the throw being made, however, B2 had not reached 1B. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 is awarded home and B2 awarded 2B. (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-38 (FP Only) With two outs and R1 on 1B, the third strike is dropped and rolls along 1B line as B4 reaches 1B. R1 touches 2B while F1 is attempting to scoop up the ball. F1 then overthrows 3B attempting to put out R1, and the ball goes into the stands. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 is awarded home plate, and B4 is awarded 3B. (2 bases from the time of the throw.) (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-39 With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits the ball to F6 who muffs the ball, recovers it, and then throws late to F3 in an attempt to retire B3. R1 and R2 reach 3B and 2B, respectively. R1 attempts to advance home, thereby drawing a throw from F3 that goes into the dugout. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 and R2 are awarded home and B3 is awarded 3B. (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-40 With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a soft line drive to F9. F9 ’s throw to 3B goes out of play with (a) both R2 and B3 between 1B and 2B at the time of the throw, or (b) both R2 and B3 between 2B and 3B at the time of the throw. R1 had touched home plate in both situations. RULING: The ball is dead. In (a) R2 is awarded 3B and B3 awarded 2B. In (b) R2 and B3 are both awarded home plate. (8-6G)

54 PLAY 8.6-41 With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a fly ball in shallow right field between the fielders. The ball falls untouched and is fielded on the bounce by F4. All runners, including B3, have advanced one base when F4 throws to home. The ball bounces into the stands. RULING: B3 is awarded 3B and all other runners score. (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-42 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ground ball to F6 who flips the ball to F4 for a force out on R1. The relay to F3 from F4 goes into the dugout area. B2 has already passed 1B before the relay is made. RULING: The ball is dead and B2 is awarded 3B. (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-43 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, F1 pitches the ball to B2 who swings and misses. In an attempt to pick R1 off 1B, F2 throws the ball into the outfield where it rolls under the fence. R1 scores easily. RULING: The ball is dead and R1 is returned to 3B. (Two bases from the base they officially had when the ball left F2’s hand.) (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-44 With no outs and R1 on 1B, B2 hits a grounder, which is deflected by F1. The ball rolls to F6 who picks it up and throws it past F3 and out of play. At the time of F6’s throw, R1 had touched 2B, but B2 had not yet touched 1B. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 is awarded home and B2 awarded 2B. (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-45 With R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 hits a sharp grounder back to F1 who knocks it down and it rolls toward the foul line. F1 picks the ball up and throws to 1B and the ball rolls into dead ball territory. B3 had already passed 1B when the ball left F1’s hand. Neither R1 nor R2 had advanced a base. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 and R2 are awarded home and B3 is awarded 3B. (8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-46 A thrown ball hits a bat or glove of the defensive team lying on the ground. RULING: Since the bat or glove belongs to the team in the field, it becomes a blocked ball and the overthrow rule applies. (1-BLOCKED BALL; 8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-47 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a fly ball to center field. The ball is caught as R1 rounds 2B on their way to 3B. R1 has not tagged up, and is returning to 1B when F8 throws the ball out of play while throwing to 1B. In (a) R1 was between 3B and 2B when the ball was thrown, or (b) R1 was between 2B and 1B when the ball was thrown. RULING: The ball is dead and because R1 was retreating to 1B, R1 is allowed to continue and retouch 1B. In (a) R1 is awarded home, in (B) R1 is awarded 3B. (8-3A; 8-5G)

PLAY 8.6-48 With two outs, R1 on 2B, B4 hits a grounder to F4 as R1 attempts to advance to 3B on the play. F6 obstructs R1, causing them to fall. Seeing this, F4 throws to 3B, but the ball sails over F5’s head and out of play. RULING: When the obstruction occurred, the umpire should call “obstruction” and give the delayed dead ball signal. When the ball entered dead ball territory, the umpire should now call a dead ball and apply the overthrow rule. R1 would be awarded home and B4 awarded 2B. (8-5B & G)

PLAY 8.6-49A B1 hits the ball safely to right field but misses 1B, touches 2B and advances to 3B when B1 realizes they missed 1B. B1 retreats toward 2B as F9 throws the ball toward F3. B1 retouches 2B and is returning to 1B as the thrown ball goes out of play. Dead ball is ruled and the umpire awards B1 home. The award is based on B1’s position at the time of the throw. B1 tags up at 1B and touches 2B, 3B and home. RULING: B1 is allowed to touch 1B and then B1 is awarded home based on B1’s position at the time of F9’s throw. (8-5G[2])

PLAY 8.6-49B B1 doubles, misses 1B and while advancing to 2B, the ball is overthrown into dead ball territory. A dead ball is ruled and B1 is awarded 3B. B1 advances to 3B but then returns via 2B, to touch 1B. The defense appeals B1 missing 1B. RULING: B1 is ruled out. Once a base runner advances to the next awarded base, the runner may no longer return to touch any base missed or any base left too soon. (8-5G Effect) 55

PLAY 8.6-49C B1 doubles and while between 1B and 2B, the ball is overthrown into dead ball territory. A dead ball is ruled and B1 is awarded 3B. B1 proceeds to 3B but misses 2B. Realizing that 2B was missed, B1 touches 2B and then advances to 3B. RULING: Legal. B1 is only touching an awarded base. (8-5G Effect)

PLAY 8.6-49D B1 doubles, misses 1B and before B1 reaches 2B, the ball is overthrown into dead ball territory. At the time of the dead ball ruling, B1 is beyond 2B. B1 realizes they missed 1B and retreats to touch 2B and then 1B. B1 is awarded 3B based on their position at the time of the throw. RULING: Legal. B1 retreated to 1B prior to the award. (8-5G Effect)

PLAY 8.6-50 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a long fly ball to F9. R1 has advanced beyond 2B when F9 catches the ball and throws toward 1B. The ball goes out of play as R1 retouches 2B and is returning to 1B. RULING: When the ball becomes dead, runners may return to touch a missed base or one left too soon regardless of how far the runner has advanced. Award R1 home based on R1’s position at the time of the throw. (8- 5G[2])

PLAY 8.6-51 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ball to the fence. R1 touches 2B and passes 3B as F7 makes the catch. On instruction from the third base coach, R1 retouches 3B and is retreating toward 2B. F7 sees the position of R1 and intentionally throws the ball out of play. RULING: Dead Ball. Since F7 intentionally threw the ball out of play, R1 is allowed to retouch 2B and 1B and then is awarded home based on R1’s position at the time of F7’s throw. (8-5G[2])

PLAY 8.6-52 B1 hits a home run over the fence. While running the bases, B1 stops between 2B and 3B, thinking they missed 1B. B1 goes back and retouch 2B on the way to 1B, touches 1B and completes the trip around the bases. RULING: Whether B1 missed 1B or not, B1 returned properly by way of 2B. The home run stands. This does not apply to Men’s Class A, CO-ED Major and Women’s Open SP. (5-5A; 8-3A; 8-5G[2])

PLAY 8.6-53 With two outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B6 hits a home run over the left field fence. After the home run, B6 passes R3, who was holding up thinking the ball might be caught. RULING: B6 should be called out for passing R3. If any runs scored prior to the out called on B6, those runs count. This does not apply to Men’s Class A, CO-ED Major and Women’s Open SP. (5-5A; 8-6H; 8-7D)

PLAY 8.6-54 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a hard shot to the outfield that rolls through the fence. When the ball goes under the fence, R1 has passed 2B on the way to 3B. RULING: The umpires should award R1 and B2 two bases from the time of the pitch. R1 will be awarded 3B and B2 awarded 2B. (8-5I)

PLAY 8.6-55 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a grounder to F5. The ball ricochets off F5 and rolls into dead ball territory. At the time the ball was booted, R1 had already touched 2B. RULING: R1 is awarded 3B and B2 awarded 2B. Awards on balls hit off a defensive player into dead ball territory are made from the time of the pitch. (8-5I)

PLAY 8.6-56 With two outs, B3 hits a fair line drive down the right field line and is obstructed about 10 feet from 2B. The ball bounces over the fence. RULING: B3 should be awarded 2B. This is the base B3 would have reached, in the umpire’s judgment, had there been no obstruction. (8-5B & I)

PLAY 8.6-57 With no outs and R1 is on 2B, B2 hits the ball to F9 who catches the ball and then intentionally carries it across a designated boundary line into dead ball territory. R1 tags up and leaves 2B legally and scores. RULING: R1 is awarded home on a two base award. (8-5K) 56 PLAY 8.6-58 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a fair ball over F7’s head. The ball rolls toward the side fence and a spectator reaches onto the field and picks up the ball. RULING: The ball is dead. The umpire should award the bases that in their judgment R1 and B2 would have reached had there not been spectator interference. (8-5L)

PLAY 8.6-59 (FP) With R1 on 1B, B2 bunts a ball that F2 fields in fair territory and throws past F3. The ball rolls toward the fence and a spectator reaches onto the field and picks up the ball. RULING: The ball is dead. The umpire should award the bases that in their judgment that R1 and B2 would have reached had there not been spectator interference. (8-5L)

PLAY 8.6-60 (FP) With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ground ball to F3 that ricochets off F3’s glove and lodges in (a) R1’s clothing, (b) umpire’s clothing. In (a) or (b) no other fielder can make an out. RULING: The ball is dead; the umpire should award R1 and B2 the bases they would have reached in the umpire’s judgment. (8-5M)

PLAY 8.7-1 With R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 hits a ball toward 3B. R1 (a) touches the batted ball over fair ground while proceeding toward home base, (b) collides with F5 attempting to throw the ball toward 1B. R2 reaches 3B before R1 interferes. RULING: In both (a) and (b) R1 is out and R2 remains at 3B since the interference occurred after R2 legally touched the base. (8-6C; 8-7J[2])

PLAY 8.7-2 (FP and SP with Stealing) R1 attempts to steal 2B when the umpire interferes with F2’s throw. In (a) R1 is safe at 2B, or (b) R1 is out at 2B. RULING: The umpire should signal a delayed dead ball. In (a), since R1 is safe, the umpire then declares dead ball and R1 must return to the base they occupied before the interference. In (b) R1 is out and the interference is nullified. (8-6F)

PLAY 8.7-3 (SP with Stealing) With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, the first pitch to B3 hits the ground behind home plate and rolls to the backstop. R1 and R2 advance toward the next base as F2 retrieves the ball and throws to 2B. R2 is tagged before reaching the base. RULING: R2 is out and R1’s advance to 3B is legal. (8-6G)

PLAY 8.8-1 (FP) R1 attempts to steal 2B and runs out of the base line while advancing. The throw from F2 to F4 goes into center field. RULING: Legal advance. There is no penalty for running out of the base line unless it is done to avoid being tagged by a fielder. (8-7A)

PLAY 8.8-2 B1 hits a fly ball to deep center field. Assuming the ball will be caught, B1 walks to, but does not enter the dugout. Realizing the ball will not be caught, B1 runs directly to 1B where no play is made. RULING: There is no violation since B1 did not run out of the base path to avoid a tag. B1’s action is legal. (8-7A)

PLAY 8.8-3 B1 hits a ball between F7 and F8. As B1 is attempting to reach 3B, the relay throw arrives from the outfield. B1 slides into 3B ahead of the throw, but instead of touching the base, B1’s foot lands on the top of F5’s foot, and F5 tags B1 out. RULING: The umpire should rule B1 out for not being in contact with the base while being tagged. (8-7B)

PLAY 8.8-4 With R1 on 2B, B2 singles to right field. R1 rounds 3B attempting to score and runs into the home plate umpire and is tagged out by F5 while lying on the ground. RULING: R1 is out. Contact by the umpire with R1 is not obstruction and ball remains live and in play. (8-7B)

57 PLAY 8.8-5 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, B2 receives ball four. (a) R1 touches 2B and over slides or overruns it, or (b) B2 touches 1B and overruns it. In each case the runner is then tagged with the ball while off the base. RULING: In (a) R1 is out. After reaching an awarded base, runners may be put out if tagged while not in contact with the base. In (b) B2 is not out as long as no attempt to 2B has been made. (8-7B; 8-8I)

PLAY 8.8-6 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a ground ball to F6. The throw to F4 at 2B is in time but R1 slides into F4, who has the ball in their glove and standing on 2B,causing F4 to drop the ball. RULING: R1 is out, since F4 established a catch. (1-CATCH; 8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-7 With two outs and R1 on 1B, B2 hits a slow roller to F6 who is playing behind 2B. F6 fields the ball and runs to 2B ahead of R1. R1 then collides with F6 causing the ball, R1 and F6, to all wind up on the ground. RULING: R1 is out since F6 had control of the ball and stepped on the base ahead of R1. F6 dropped the ball after the out was made. (8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-8 With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a grounder to F5 who falls down while attempting to field the ball. While in a prone position, F5 slaps the ball to F6 who picks it up in time to force R1 at 3B. RULING: R1 is out. (8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-9 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, F2 fields a bunt while lying on the ground and touches home plate with their left hand prior to R1 reaching home plate. RULING: R1 is out. (1-TAG; 8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-10 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a grounder to F4 who snares the ball but the force of the hit entangles the ball in the glove webbing. To save time, F4 tosses the glove with the ball in it to F1, covering 2B. F1 touches the base ahead of R1. RULING: Since F4 fielded the ball legally and the action of tossing the glove violates no rule; as long as F1 has control of the glove and ball, R1 would be out. (8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-11 With two outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B5 hits a one hopper to F4 who fields the ball and tags R2 prior to reaching 2B. R1 scores prior to the tag. RULING: R2 is out on a force out and R1’s run is nullified. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-12 With two outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, F2 fields a bunt in fair territory while standing on home plate and has the ball securely in the glove prior to R1 reaching home plate. RULING: R1 is out as soon as F2 has control of the ball. (8-7C)

PLAY 8.8-13 With no outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hit the ball back to F1 who fields the ball and throws to F2 at the plate after R1 has crossed, but missed home plate. F2 appeals to the umpire: (a) while R1 is returning to touch home plate, or (b) after R1 has returned and touched home plate. RULING: The run is considered to have scored unless appealed. In (a) R1 is out on appeal, in (b) the appeal is denied. (1-APPEAL PLAY; 8-7C & I)

PLAY 8.8-14 With no outs and R1 on 1B, B2 hits the ball to left field for a base hit. A throw to 3B drives R1 back to 2B. B2 has rounded 2B and passes R1. B2 then returns to 1B without being tagged. RULING: The ball remains live and B2 is declared out when they passed R1. (8-7D)

PLAY 8.8-15 With two outs and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B4 hits the ball over the fence for a home run. R1 and R2 score, however, R3 misses 3B and when returning to touch it, B4 passes R3. RULING: Both R1 and R2 score. Even though the ball is dead when it leaves the park on the home run, B4 cannot pass R3. This is a ‘‘Time’’ play and two runs score. EXCEPTION: Men’s Class A, CO-ED Major and Women’s Open SP. (5-5A; 8-7D) 58 PLAY 8.8-16A With one out and R1 on 1B, B2 hits a fly ball to F8 as R1 leaves for 2B. R1 thinking the ball would be caught, returns part way to 1B. The ball is dropped by F8 as B2 passes R1. B2 is called out. The ball is thrown to 2B for a force out on R1 prior to R1 reaching 2B. RULING: B2 is called out for the second out. The force was removed when B2 was called out for passing R1. If the defense did not tag R1 advancing to 2B, R1 would be safe. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-7D)

PLAY 8.8-16B With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 hits a fly ball to right field. The ball falls in for a hit as B4 passes R2 between 1B and 2B; R1 crosses home just ahead of R2 being tagged out at 2B. RULING: B3 is out for passing R2 for the second out, the ball remains live. R1’s run counts because the run occurred prior to the out at 2B. (5-5B[2]; 8-7D)

PLAY 8.8-17 With two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning, home team behind by one run and R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B5 hits a home run over fence. R1 scores from 3B and R2 takes a few steps toward 2B and stops seeing the ball clear the fence. R2 starts celebrating and heads toward the foul line to congratulate B5 who is on the way to 1B. B5 passes R2 about 10 feet from 1B. RULING: B5 is called out for passing R2. Since the third out of the inning was on the batter-runner before reaching 1B, R1’s run is nullified and the game is over. EXCEPTION: Men’s Class A, Major and Women’s Open SP. (5-5A & B; 8-7D)

PLAY 8.8-18 With two outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B5 hits a single. B5 passes R2 between 1B and 2B (a) just before R1 touches the plate, or (b) just after R1 touches the plate. RULING: In (a) R1’s run does not count. In (b) R1’s run does count. A runner is out the moment they pass a preceding runner. Since this is a time play, the run would count as long as R1 touched home prior to the out being called. (5-5B; 8-7D)

PLAY 8.8-19 With one out and R1 is on 3B, B3 hits a fly ball to deep center field. F8 is waiting for the ball when the 3B coach taps the leg of R1 in an effort to tell R1 when to advance. The ball is caught by F8 (a) after the tap by the coach, or (b) before the tap by the coach. RULING: In both (a) and (b) B3 is out on the caught fly ball and R1 is out on runner assistance. (8-7E)

PLAY 8.8-20 With no outs and R1 on 3B, B2 hits a towering fly ball to left field. R1 is about ten feet down the line toward home and not returning to 3B to tag up. While the ball is still in flight, the coach at 3B assists by pushing R1 back to 3B. The ball (a) was dropped by F7, or (b) the ball goes over the left field fence in the air. RULING: In both cases R1 is ruled out on runner assistance. In (a) the ball remains live. In (b) the ball becomes dead and B2 is awarded a home run. (8-7E)

PLAY 8.8-21 R1 slides and misses home plate. The on-deck batter pushes R1 back toward home plate. RULING: The ball becomes dead when the on-deck batter assists R1 after scoring. R1 is ruled out and the run nullified. “Dead ball” runner assistance only occurs after a runner has scored. (8-7E EXCEPTION)

PLAY 8.8-22 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits a fly ball to left field. The ball hits F7 on the shoulder, deflecting it into the air to F8 who catches the ball before it hits the ground. R1 tags up at 3B as soon as the ball hits F7, but before F8 holds the ball securely in the glove. RULING: Legal advance. R1 may leave the base as soon as the ball is touched. (8-7F)

PLAY 8.8-23 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits a fly ball to the outfield for the first out. Both runners advance one base with R1 tagging up legally but R2 leaving too soon. The outfield returns the ball to F3 for the live ball appeal at 1B on R2. Meanwhile, R1 breaks for home plate during the appeal. After the appeal at 1B, F3 throws the ball out of play, trying to retire R1 at home. RULING: The appeal at 1B on R2 is the second out of the inning. The ball becomes dead when it is thrown into dead ball territory and R1 is awarded home. (1-APPEAL PLAY; 8-7F)

59 PLAY 8.8-24 With no outs and R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 flies out deep to the right field corner of the park. Both runners tag up and advance two bases each. R1 left 2B before ball was touched by F9. The ball is thrown to F4 where a proper appeal is made and the out called. R2 breaks for home and scores during the appeal at 2B. RULING: Legal advance and R2’s run counts. (8-7F)

PLAY 8.8-25 With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, B4 flies out to F7 and both runners advance one base. The ball is returned to the infield and F5 tags R2 who is standing on 3B. The umpire calls R2 out for leaving 2B to soon. The defense then claims they wanted to appeal R1, but F5 didn’t know and tagged R2 instead. RULING: It is permissible to have more than one appeal on a play and a fourth out appeal can be made to nullify a run. If the umpire rules R1 left 3B to soon, this would be the fourth out on appeal and R1’s run would be nullified. (5-5C; 8-7F)

PLAY 8.8-26 In the bottom of the seventh inning with the score tied, R1 scores the winning run from 2B. The umpire notices that R1 did not touch 3B, but no player makes an appeal. F1 and all infielders have left the diamond, but the umpires are still on the field. F5 returns to 3B and appeals R1 missing 3B. RULING: R1 is safe at home and the run counts. At the end of the game, the defense cannot make a dead ball appeal once all infielders have left the field. (1-APPEAL PLAY; 8-7G)

PLAY 8.8-27 With one out, R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B4 hits a fly ball to F7 who catches the ball. R1 leaves 3B before the ball is touched by F7 who then throws the ball into the stands in an attempt to retire R1 at home. R2 has reached 3B on F7’s throw and the umpire awards R2 home. After all play is completed, F5 appeals to the umpire that R1 left 3B too soon. RULING: R1 is declared out, and the runs scored by both R1 and R2 are canceled. (5-5B; 8-3F; 8-7F)

PLAY 8.8-28 With R1 on 1B, B2 flies out to F8 and R1 starts to advance to 2B before F8 touches the ball. F8 throws to 1B in an attempt to retire R1 but the ball goes out of play and R1 advances to 2B without retouching 1B. When the ball goes out of play, the umpire awards R1 3B. RULING: R1 is required to retouch 1B. R1 has the opportunity to do so even though the ball is dead. If R1 does not tag up and the defense properly appeals, R1 would be called out. (8-5G; 8-7F)

PLAY 8.8-29 With two outs, R1 on 1B, B4 hits the ball to F6 who throws over the head of F3 and the ball goes out of play. The umpire awards R1 3B and B4 2B. R1 fails to touch 2B on the way to 3B. After all play is complete, F4 appeals that R1 did not touch 2B. RULING: R1 should be called out on the appeal. (8-7G)

PLAY 8.8-30 With two outs, R1 on 1B, B4 hits the ball to F6 who throws over the head of F3 and the ball goes out of play. When the ball left F6’s hand, R1 was between 3B and 2B. R1 returns to 1B but did not touch 2B, instead R1 ran across the infield to touch 1B. RULING: If R1 returns to 1B without touching 2B and the defense appeals R1 for not retouching 2B on the return, R1 would be called out on the appeal. (8-7G)

PLAY 8.8-31 With no outs, R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, B4 hits a long fly ball to the outfield that is caught. R1, thinking the ball will not be caught, advances to and touches home plate. After the catch, R1 runs back to and occupies 3B, but fails to retouch home when returning to 3B. When the ball comes to 3B, both R1 and R2 are standing on the base. Both runners are touched with the live ball and the umpire calls R2 out. The defense then makes a proper live ball appeal that R1 failed to retouch home when retreating to 3B. The umpire calls R1 out for a triple play. RULING: Correct procedure. If a runner returns to touch a missed base or one left too soon, and has touched a base beyond, the runner must touch the bases in reverse order. (8-3E; 8-7G)

60 PLAY 8.8-32 With R1 on 1B, B2 singles to center field. R1 fails to touch 2B while advancing and is between 2B and 3B when F8’s throw goes into dead ball territory. RULING: The ball is dead and the umpire awards R1 home and B2 to 3B. R1 has the opportunity to return to retouch 2B before proceeding home plate. B2 must allow R1 to retouch before proceeding to 3B. If R1 does not go back and touch 2B and the defense properly appeals, the umpire will rule R1 out and nullify R1’s run. (1-APPEAL PLAY; 8-5G; 8-7G)

PLAY 8.8-33 With one out, R1 on 1B, B3 hits the ball to the outfield and R1 advances past 2B when F8 traps the ball. R1 thought the ball was caught and returns to 1B, touching 2B on the return. The defensive team throws the ball to 2B and the base is tagged for a force out on R1. RULING: Correct procedure. If a forced runner, after touching the next base, retreats for any reason towards the base first occupied, the force play is reinstated and the runner may again be put out if the defense tags the runner or the base to which the runner is forced. (1-FORCE OUT; 8-7C & G)

PLAY 8.8-34 R1 slides coming home, but misses home plate. F2 misses the tag. RULING: After a brief hesitation, the umpire should make a ‘‘safe’’ call. If F2 then tags R1 or the plate appealing that R1 missed home, R1 should be declared out. (8-7I)

PLAY 8.8-35 With no outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a fly ball to F7, who catches it for an out. Both R1 and R2 advance; however, R1 leaves too soon. The ball is returned to the infield and F1 asks for ‘‘Time’’ to make a dead ball appeal on R1 leaving too soon. F1 then appeals again, (a) by announcing to the umpire that R1 left too soon, (b) by carrying the ball over and touching R1 standing on 3B, or (c) by throwing the ball to F4 who touches 2B. RULING: In all cases, the ball is dead. The verbal appeal is recognized regardless of the actions taken after the appeal. (8-7I[3])

PLAY 8.8-36 With no outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 doubles scoring R1 and sending R2 to 3B. R1 failed to touch 3B when advancing to home plate. The umpire calls ”time” and the defense now wants to make an appeal. F1 throws the ball to 3B, but the throw goes over F5’s head, allowing R2 and B3 to score on the wild throw. When the ball is back to the infield, the defense again appeals R1 for missing 3B. RULING: Because of the dead ball appeal in both fast and slow pitch, runners cannot advance, even if the ball is thrown to a base for the appeal. Any infielder can verbally make this appeal with or without the ball. Return R2 to 3B and B3 to 2B. R1 is out on appeal and no runs score. (8-7I[3])

PLAY 8.8-37 B3 hits a home run over the fence and touches all the bases but misses home plate and goes into the dugout. The umpire throws a new ball to F1 and signals to play ball. F1 appeals that B3 missed the plate and throws the ball underhand to F2. B4 is standing the batter’s box, swings at the throw and also hits a home run. RULING: When F1 indicated the intent to appeal, the umpire should have declared a dead ball. All action by B4 is nullified and B3 is called out. In SP, only B3’s home run counts toward their classification total. EXCEPTION: Men’s Class A, CO-ED Major and Women’ Open SP. (5-5; 5-8; 8-7I[3])

PLAY 8.8-38 (FP Only) With one out and R1 on 2B, B3 singles and R1 scores, but misses 3B while advancing. F1 asks for time and steps on the pitcher’s plate, brings both hands together in front of their body, then steps back off the pitcher’s plate and throws the ball to 3B, appealing R1 missed the base. The offensive team manager claimed an illegal pitch should be called because the hands were brought together. RULING: If the plate umpire called “time,” no action by F1 mattered. The ball is dead, and the umpire should honor the appeal. The ball does not have to be thrown to 3B to make the appeal, but if it is, there is no penalty. (6-2; 8-7I[3])

PLAY 8.8-39 B3 is standing on 3B after hitting a triple, but missed 2B. The defense attempts to appeal during (a) live ball or (b) dead ball. In both cases B3 runs back to 2B successfully, before the ball is thrown there. RULING: In (a) B3 is safe. In (b) if B3 is still on 3B when time is called, B3 cannot return to 2B and the appeal would be honored. (8-3A; 8-7I)

61 PLAY 8.8-40 With one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 hits a high pop fly to F6 and the umpire rules an infield fly. As the ball is about to be caught, R2 runs into F6, preventing F6 from making the catch. RULING: The ball is dead on the interference call. B5 is out on the infield fly and R2 is out for interference with F6 trying to make the catch. (8-6C; 8-7J[1])

PLAY 8.8-41 With one out, R1 on 3B and R2 on 1B, B4 hits the ball to F4. R2 is hit with the ball while off 1B in front of F4 before R1 crosses the plate. RULING: The ball is dead when it hits R2 and R2 is out. R1 is placed back on 3B and B4 is awarded 1B. (8- 6C; 8-7K)

PLAY 8.8-42 With R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 hits a ball to F5. The ball goes off of F5’s glove and F6 tries to field the ball when R2 collides with F6. In (a) R2 tried to alter their path, or (b) after having the opportunity to avoid F6. RULING: In (a) the ball remains live and no interference should be called. In (b) R2’s actions are judged to be intentional. The ball is ruled dead ball, R2 is out and R1 returns to 3B. B3 is awarded 1B. (8-7J[4])

PLAY 8.8-43A With R1 on 3B, B2 has a 1-2 count and hits a pop up in foul ground near 3B. R1 advancing home contacts F5 and causes the ball to fall untouched in foul ground. RULING: R1 and B2 are ruled out. (8-7J & L EXCEPTION)

PLAY 8.8-43B With one out, R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B, B4 pops up to F6. R1 crosses home plate and R2 after passing 2B, collides with F6 preventing the catch. RULING: The ball is dead, R2 is out on interference and B4 ruled out on a potential catch of a routine fly ball. R1’s run is nullified due to B4 being retired before reaching 1B. (8-7J & L EXCEPTION)

PLAY 8.8-44 With one out, R1 on 3B, B3 lays down a bunt and that has reverse spin on it. R1 charges for home and slides for the plate, the ball rolls under R1 so no play can be made by F2. RULING: If no one touched the ball in fair territory, and it first touched R1 in foul territory, it would be a foul ball. If the ball was touched by R1 in fair territory then R1 is out for interference and B3 is awarded 1B. (1-FOUL BALL; 8-1E[3]; 8-7K)

PLAY 8.8-45 The batted ball passes F6 without being touched and no other fielder has a chance to make an out on the ball when the ball hits R1. RULING: The ball is live, no infraction. (8-1E[2]; 8-7K)

PLAY 8.8-46 (FP Only) With no outs and R1 on 3B, B4 bunts the ball in front of home plate on a squeeze play. R1 slides for home and kicks the ball prior to touching the plate. The ball is kicked out of play. RULING: The ball is dead and R1 is out for touching a fair-batted ball before the ball passes an infielder. B4 is awarded 1B. (8-1E[3]; 8-7K)

PLAY 8.8-47 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a line drive that hits the pitcher’s plate and ricochets and hits R1 over fair territory between 1B and 2B, in front of F4. RULING: The ball is dead, R1 is out for interference and B2 is awarded 1B. (8-1E[3]; 8-7K)

PLAY 8.8-48 R1 is (a) between 2B and 3B, or (b) touching 2B. B2 hits a pitch toward F6 and it strikes R1 before passing any defensive player. RULING: The ball becomes dead in (a) and (b). In (a) R1 is out. In (b) unless R1 intentionally interfered with the ball or the fielder making a play, R1 is not out. B2 is awarded 1B in both cases. (8-7K; 8-8M)

62 PLAY 8.8-49 With one out, R1 on 2B and R2 at 1B, B4 hits a ground ball to F4 who throws to F6 at 2B for a force-out. The ball was relayed to 1B, but not in time for the double play. R2, who was called out at 2B, continues to advance to 3B and F3 attempts to throw them out, but throws the ball out of play. This allows R1 to advance to home. RULING: The ball is dead. Since R2 continued to run the bases after being retired and drew a throw, this is an act of interference and R1 is out. (8-7P)

PLAY 8.8-50 With no outs and R1 on 3B, B2 squeeze bunts the ball and it spins back toward home plate. As R1 slides safely across the plate their hand contacts the ball in fair territory. RULING: The ball remains live, R1 scores and no interference is called because the contact was unintentional. (5-5; 8-7P)

PLAY 8.8-51 With no outs, R1 on 3B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a grounder to F4 who flips the ball to F6 for the force out on R2. Prior to R1 crossing the plate, R2 interferes with F6’s throw to 1B. RULING: The ball is dead. R1, the runner closest to home, is called out because of the interference by R2 and B3 is awarded 1B. (5-5; 8-6C; 8-7P)

PLAY 8.8-52 With one out and R1 on 2B, B3 hits to right field and R1 advances to home plate. F2 sets up behind the plate on the 1B side to catch the ball thrown from right field. R1 scores and then runs over F2, holding the ball and still standing on the 1B side of the plate. B3 advances to 2B and then 3B as F2 is on the ground. RULING: The ball is dead. R1’s run scores but interference should be called on R1. Since the collision occurred after scoring, B3, the runner closest to home, is called out for the second out. R1 could be ejected if the umpire judged the act to be flagrant. (8-7P & Q)

PLAY 8.8-53 F2 has received the ball and is waiting to tag R1 attempting to score. R1 crashes into F2, causing the ball to drop. RULING: The ball is dead and R1 is out for interference. R1 could also be ejected if the umpire judged the act to be flagrant. (8-7Q)

PLAY 8.8-54 A throw from left field draws F2 into the base path of R1. R1 does not slow down or alter their path to home plate. The ball arrives just before R1, causing contact between F2 and R1. F2 drops the ball and R1 scores. The contact was neither intentional nor flagrant. RULING: This should not be considered obstruction since F2 had the ball just before contact and R1 did not slow down or alter their path to home plate while F2 was waiting on the throw. Also, R1 did not have a chance to avoid F2 or slide once the ball was caught. This is simply considered ‘‘incidental contact’’ and the run scores. (8-5B; 8-7Q)

PLAY 8.8-55 F2 is standing one or two feet in front of home plate and down the line awaiting the throw from F7. R1 coming from 3B runs into F2, knocking them over a split-second before the ball arrives. F2 did not have the ball when the contact occurred and R1 made no attempt to slide on the way to touch home plate. RULING: If F2 does not have the ball in their possession at the time of contact, this is obstruction. (8-5B; 8- 7Q)

Look Back Rule The look back rule is in effect when the pitcher has control of the ball within the 8-foot circle and the batter- runner has reached first base. PLAY 8.8-56 (FP Only) With R1 on 3B, B2 walks and before reaching 1B, F2 returns the ball to F1 who has control of the ball in the 8-foot circle. R1 is off 3B and makes no attempt to move either way. RULING: Legal, the look-back rule is not in effect until the batter-runner reaches 1B. When B2 reaches 1B, R1 must move either way. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-57 B1, on a base hit, rounds 1B towards 2B and stops. The ball is returned to the 8-foot circle. B1 then advances to 2B. RULING: Legal. On a hit or bunt, if the batter-runner rounds 1B and stops, they must either advance or return non-stop to a base. (8-7T) 63 PLAY 8.8-58 On ball four, B1 overruns 1B toward RF and turns left and immediately stops. The ball is returned to the 8-foot circle and B1 takes two steps back toward 1B and stops again. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is declared out. After turning left initially and stopping, B1 must advance non-stop to either 2B or 1B. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-59 B1 on a base hit, overruns 1B toward RF, turns left and moves directly toward 2B and stops. The ball is in the 8-foot circle. B1 then advances to 2B. RULING: Legal. When B1 overruns 1B, turns left and moves directly toward 2B and stops, they are committed to 2B. B1 must now proceed immediately, non-stop to 2B. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-60 On ball four, B1 overruns 1B toward RF and turns left, moves back towards the pitcher’s plate and stops. In the mean time, F2 has returned the ball back to F1 in the 8-foot circle. B1 breaks for 2B. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is out. After overrunning 1B and turning left and moving back toward the infield in any direction except directly to 2B commits B1 to 1B. After the initial stop, B1 must return to 1B. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-61 (FP Only) With R1 on 3B, B2 walks on ball four as R1 moves off 3B legally. F2 throws the ball to F1 in the 8-foot circle. B2 overruns 1B and turns right into foul territory and stops while R1 is off 3B. RULING: The ball is dead. The umpire calls R1 out for not moving and B2 is placed back on 1B. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-62 Bases loaded, the plate umpire calls R1 out and the base umpire calls R2 out as both are standing off base while the pitcher has the ball in the 8-foot circle. RULING: Whichever runner was called out first created a dead ball, and the other is returned to the proper base. Each runner has separate status. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-63 With R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 walks on ball four, loading the bases. R1 leads off 3B and returns. F1 while in the 8-foot circle raises their arm and fakes a throw to 2B. R1 now leaves 3B. RULING: No penalty. The fake throw is a play and R1 is released from 3B. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-64 (FP Only) B1 hits the ball to F6 and is safe at 1B. B1 then overruns 1B and circles to the right. The ball is returned to F1 in the 8-foot circle and B1 breaks toward 2B. RULING: The ball is dead and B1 is out on violation of the look-back rule. Since B1 turned right and circled back toward 1B, they have committed to, and must return to 1B. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-65 (FP Only) With R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B and R3 on 1B, R3 advances to 2B on a passed ball to B4, but R2 does not advance. F1 receives the ball in the 8-foot circle from F2 and the defense makes no play on any runner. RULING: R3 is not entitled to 2B and if R3 makes no attempt to go back to 1B after F1 has the ball in the 8- foot circle, time should be called and R3 returned to 1B. (8-3E; 8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-66 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits the ball to F1 who fields it within the 8-foot circle. R1 comes off 3B, stops and then returns. RULING: Legal. The pitcher is just another fielder. Application of the look-back rule begins when the batter- runner reaches 1B on a batted ball and the pitcher is no longer a fielder. (8-7T)

PLAY 8.8-67A With R1 on 3B, and B2 in the batter’s box, F2 returns the ball to F1 in the 8-foot circle who puts the ball and glove between the legs to adjust headgear. R1 comes off of 3B and stops. RULING: The look back rule does not apply. The pitcher must have possession of the ball while in the 8-foot circle. (8-7T)

64 PLAY 8.8-67B With R1 on 3B, and B2 in the batter’s box, F2 returns the ball to F1 who has control of it in the 8-foot circle. F2 now leaves home plate and walks toward F1. Seeing home uncovered, R1 leaves 3B. RULING: Time out is called. Defensive deception cannot be allowed to entice a runner to violate the look back rule. (8-7T) End of Look Back Rule

PLAY 8.8-68 To get a running start after a fly ball or line drive has been touched, R1 stands behind and not in contact with 2B. RULING: R1 is out for being out of the base path to gain advantage. The umpire should declare R1 out immediately. This should be treated the same as for a runner who leaves the base path to avoid being tagged out. The ball remains live. (8-7V)

PLAY 8.8-69 With no outs, R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 hits a ground ball to F5. F5 throws to F2 and retires R1 trying to score. On the throw, R2 advances to 3B and B3 to 1B. The defense questions B3’s bat and it is proven to be a non-approved bat. RULING: The out on R1 stands. R2 returns to 2B and B3 is ruled out and ejected. (7-6B; 8-6B; 8-7X)

PLAY 8.8-70 With no outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits a ground ball to F5 who touches 3B for the force out of R1. R2 advances to 2B and B3 reaches 1B safely. B4 picks up B3’s bat and enters the batter’s box. In (a) no pitch has been thrown, or (b) one pitch has been thrown. In both cases the bat is discovered to be a non-approved bat. RULING: In (a) R2 returns to 1B and B3 is declared out and ejected. In (b) R2 remains on 2B, B3 remains on 1B and B4 is out and ejected. (8-7X)

PLAY 8.8-71 With R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, the coach asks for time to confer with the runners. When play resumes, the runners have switched bases. The defense notifies the umpire of the situation and the umpire calls both runners out and ejects the coach for unsportsmanlike behavior. RULING: Correct ruling. (8-7Y))

PLAY 8.9-1 With no outs, R1 on 3B and R2 on 2B, B3 hits a grounder toward the hole between F5 and F6. F5 cuts in front of F6 and just as F5 grabs the ball, R2 knocks over F6 who was in the base line. F5 drops the ball and all runners are safe. RULING: Correct procedure. When two or more infielders attempt to field a batted ball, only one is entitled to the benefit of the interference rule. Since F5 actually touched the ball, R2’s contact with F6 constitutes obstruction, not interference. Since all runners were safe, obstruction is not enforced. (8-5B[3]; 8-8C)

PLAY 8.9-2 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits the ball past F3 untouched and strikes R1 who is advancing to 2B behind F3. In the umpire’s judgment, no other fielder had a chance to make an out on the ball. RULING: No infraction. The ball is live and in play. (8-8D)

PLAY 8.9.3 With no outs and R1 on 2B, B3 hits a ground ball to F6 who muffs the ball. In (a) the ball remains in front of F6 and they are still able to make an out, or (b) the ball goes over F6’s shoulder. In both cases R1 hits F6 unintentionally and continues to 3B safely. RULING: In (a) if F6 can still make an out, the umpire should call a dead ball and rule interference. In (b) F6 is no longer fielding the ball and is guilty of obstruction. Since R1 advanced safely to 3B, the obstruction is ignored. (8-5B; 8-7J)

PLAY 8.9-4 With R1 on 2B, B2 hits to the left of F6. The ball strikes R1 while advancing to 3B. In (a) F6 is playing behind the baseline, or (b) F6 is playing in front of the baseline. RULING: In (a) the ball is dead and R1 is out, B2 is awarded 1B. In (b) play on, the touching is ignored unless it is ruled intentional. (8-7K; 8-8D)

65 PLAY 8.9-5 With R1 on 3B, B2 hits a ball that strikes 3B and then caroms to foul territory where it strikes R1, who is advancing off 3B. F5 had no opportunity to make an out. RULING: R1 is safe and ball remains live. (8-8E)

PLAY 8.9-6 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a line drive off F1’s foot, which then ricochets and strikes R1 advancing to 2B. F4 was (a) unable to make an out, or (b) in position to play the ricocheted ball and make an out. RULING: In (a) and (b), there is no violation since F1 touched the batted ball and the ball remains live. (8-8F)

PLAY 8.9-7 With one out and R1 on 1B, B2 hits a pop fly in foul territory. While trying to get to the ball, F3 contacts R1 who is standing on 1B and trying to avoid contact. This causes F3 to miss the ball, which falls untouched in foul territory. RULING: Foul ball. When hit with a batted ball while touching a base, unless intentionally interfering with the ball or the fielder, the runner is not out. (8-8M)

PLAY 8.9-8 With R1 on 1B, B2 hits a grounder toward F3. F3 is playing behind 1B and the ball strikes R1 standing on the bag trying to avoid the ball. When struck with the batted ball, both the ball and R1 are in fair territory. RULING: The ball is fair and ruled dead. R1 is awarded 2B and B2 is awarded 1B. (8-1E[6]; 8-8M)

PLAY 8.9-9 In a SP game with one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 hits a line drive toward F5 who is playing behind the base. The batted ball hits R1 on 3B over fair territory, pops into the air where F6 catches the ball. R3, who was on 1B at the start of the pitch, starts for 2B and F6 throws to 1B to double up R3. The ball is thrown out of play. RULING: The ball was dead when it hit R1 and no further play can happen. B5 is awarded 1B and advance all runners one base, scoring R1. (8-1E[6]; 8-8M)

PLAY 8.9-10 In a FP game with one out and R1 on 3B, R2 on 2B, R3 on 1B, B5 hits a line drive toward F5 who is playing in front of the base. The batted ball hits R1 on 3B over fair territory, pops into the air where F6 catches the ball. R3, who was on 1B at the start of the pitch, starts for 2B and F6 throws to 1B to double up R3. The ball is thrown out of play. RULING: The ball remains live. However, when it hit R1, it is ruled as if the ball hit the ground and a “no catch” is declared. When the ball is thrown out of play, it becomes dead and all runners are awarded two bases from where they were at the time of the throw. (8-1E[6]; 8-5G; 8-8M)

PLAY 8.9-11 R1 slides into 2B and after touching the base, R1 loses contact (a) because the base breaks loose from its fastening, or (b) R1’s foot slides off the base. In both cases, F4 touches R1 while R1’s foot is off the base. RULING: In (a), R1 is not out. In (b) R1 is out. (8-7B; 8-8N)

COURTESY RUNNERS Seniors (FP and SP) and Masters (FP) PLAY 8.10-1 (Masters and Senior FP) In the top of the 3rd inning, F5, the leadoff batter, gets a double. The manager asks for time and requests a courtesy runner. The manger informs the umpire that F5 will become the pitcher in the bottom of the 3rd inning. RULING: Illegal. Since F5 was not the last pitcher in the 2nd inning, a courtesy runner cannot be used for F5. (8-9A[2])

PLAY 8.10-2A (Masters and Senior FP) R1, the catcher, is the leadoff batter and doubles. B2 singles and advances R1 to 3B. CR1 goes to 1B for B2. RULING: If B2 is not the pitcher, CR1 is out and removed from 1B. In Masters and Senior FP, courtesy runners can only be used for the pitcher and catcher. (8-9A)

66 PLAY 8.10-2B (Women’s 35-Over, Men’s Masters 40-Over and 45-Over SP) B1 reaches 1B on a base hit. In (a), a courtesy runner is used for B1. Later in the same inning, B1 again reaches 1B and (b) a courtesy runner is requested. RULING: In (a) any eligible player or available substitute can be a courtesy runner. In (b) this should not be allowed. A courtesy runner can be used only once per inning. An eligible player is considered to be anyone on the line-up sheet even though they have been removed from the game by substitution or re-entry rules. (8-9B[2])

PLAY 8.10-3 B7 is scheduled to bat but is occupying 2B as CR1. CR2 is sent to 2B and CR1 comes to bat. RULING: CR1 is out and removed from 2B to bat. A second courtesy runner cannot be used unless for an injury to a previous courtesy runner. (8-9C[2])

PLAY 8.10.4 With CR1 on 3B, B3 doubles scoring CR1. CR1 is sent to 2B now for B3. RULING: Illegal. CR1 is out as soon as CR1 touches 2B. No appeal is necessary. A player can only be used once an inning as a courtesy runner. (8-9C[3])

PLAY 8.10-5 B1 reaches 1B safely. CR1 replaces B1 at 1B. B2 hits safely, CR1 goes to 3B and B2 remains at 1B. B1 replaces B2 at 1B. RULING: Illegal. A runner who is replaced with a courtesy runner cannot be used as a courtesy runner in the same inning. B1 is declared out. (8-9C[5]) End of Sr. Courtesy Runners

PLAY 8.10-6 (SP Seniors) With R1 on 2B, B2 hits a ball to the outfield. R1 rounds 3B and approaches home on the base hit. The throw from the outfield is caught by F2 who (a) tags R1 out, (b) tags the original home plate, (c) tags the alternate home plate, or (d) R1 touches the original home plate rather than the alternate plate. RULING: In (a) and (c) R1 is not out and the run will count. In (b) R1 would be out if the plate is touched prior to R1 touching the alternate plate, and in (d) the run would not count, R1 is ruled out, and the ball remains live. (8-9D)

PLAY 8.10-7A (SP Seniors) Can a defensive player tag a base runner that is trying to score, or must the defensive player touch home plate? RULING: The defensive player can only touch the original home plate. (8-9D)

PLAY 8.10-7B (SP Seniors) R1 rounds 3B and comes home. F2 while retrieving a bad throw and returning to home plate inadvertently touches the alternate home plate before the original home plate prior to R1 touching the alternate plate. RULING: Legal as long as any fielder touches the original home plate prior to the runner touching the alternate plate. (8-9D)

PLAY 8.10-8 (SP Seniors) R1 advancing from 3B (a) crosses the 20 foot line and returns to 3B or (b) returns to 3B before crossing the 20 foot line. In both cases F2 caught the ball and touched the original home plate. No tag was made on R1. RULING: In (a) the umpire will call R1 out and the ball remains live. No appeal has to be made. In (b) R1 is legal in returning to 3B. (8-9D[6 & 7])

PLAY 8.10-9 (SP Seniors) R1 crosses the 20-foot line and then retreats toward 3B. The umpire calls dead ball and rules R1 out. RULING: Incorrect. R1 should be ruled out but the ball remains live for other possible plays. (8-9D[6])

PLAY 8.10-10 (SP Seniors) R1 crosses the 20-foot line and is running down the foul line. This action interferes with the fielder taking the throw on the original home plate. RULING: The ball is dead. Interference is called and R1 ruled out. (8-9D[7])

67 Courtesy Runners Junior Olympic Girls/Boys Fast Pitch PLAY 8.11-1 In the top of the 1st inning, the listed pitcher, B1, gets a triple. The manager reports #12, CR1, for B1. B2 gets a base hit scoring CR1. B3, the listed catcher, now bats and walks. The manager reports #12 as CR2 for B3 on 1B. RULING: Illegal. The same CR cannot run for both the pitcher and catcher in the same half inning or anytime during the game. (8-10A[3])

PLAY 8.11-2 The pitcher listed fifth in the batting order gets a hit and is on 2B. The catcher listed sixth in the batting order walks and occupies 1B. During a pitching change the offense confers and without reporting any change in runners, replaces the pitcher with CR1 at 2B. RULING: Illegal. CR1 was not reported and is disqualified. CR2 can be reported and sent to 2B. (8-10G)

PLAY 8.11-3A With two outs in the bottom of the 2nd inning, the catcher, #12, switches defensive positions with the first base person for the remainder of the inning. In the top of the 3rd inning, #12 leads off with a triple. The manager reports a CR1 for #12. RULING: Illegal. A CR can only enter for the last player who physically played in the position of pitcher or catcher in the previous inning. (8-10B)

PLAY 8.11-3B In the bottom of the second inning, a pinch-hitter bats for the pitcher and doubles. The coach re-enters the pitcher at 2B. The coach requests a courtesy runner for the pitcher at 2B who is the pitcher of record. RULING: This is disallowed. It is not permissible to use the re-entry rule to get a courtesy runner. (8-10B)

PLAY 8.11-4 B1, the lead off batter who has been playing the shortstop position the entire game, bats and reaches 1B. The manager asks for time and reports CR1 for B1. CR1 was previously used as a substitute. The umpire allows the substitution. RULING: Incorrect procedure. A courtesy runner(s) cannot have participated in the game. Only the catcher and pitcher are authorized courtesy runners. B1 would either re-enter or could be substituted for at 1B. CR1 is ruled an illegal runner and disqualified. (8-10A-C)

PLAY 8.11-5 CR1 who ran for the pitcher earlier in the inning is inserted as a pinch-hitter for the shortstop and reaches 1B. RULING: Illegal. CR1, who was a courtesy runner, cannot be used as a substitute in the same half-inning. This violates the courtesy runner rule. CR1 is disqualified and replaced by a legal substitute or must re-entry. The only exception would be if the substitution was necessary because of an injury or disqualification and no other substitutes were available. (8-10D & G)

PLAY 8.11-6 A team using a DP has the DP batting fourth and the DEFO pitching. The DP gets a hit and is on 2B. The coach asks for time, reports CR1 and sends them to 2B. RULING: Illegal. Since the DP is not catching or pitching no courtesy runner is allowed. CR1 is disqualified and replaced by a legal substitute or the re-entry rule used. (8-10E)

PLAY 8.11-7 In the top of the 1st inning the listed pitcher leads off with a single. The manager reports CR1. B2 gets a base hit and CR1 slides safely into 3B and is injured. The team has no other legal substitutes. The manager requests that the pitcher be allowed to return. RULING: Legal. Should an injury occur and no other substitutes are available, the pitcher must return and run. (8-10F EXCEPTION)

RULE 9 - PROTESTS PLAY 9.1-1 A runner is tagged with an empty glove on an attempted steal. The umpire calls the runner out and the offensive team protests. RULING: No protests can be considered based on umpire judgment. (9-1)

68 PLAY 9.2-1 With two outs, R1 on 2B and R2 on 1B, B3 hits an infield fly that F6 missed. The umpire rules “INFIELD FLY, BATTER OUT.” The offensive team protests a rule interpretation. RULING: This is a valid protest. B3 would be awarded 1B and both runners advanced one base. (9-2A)

PLAY 9.2-2 After the completion of the game, the losing team protests the use of an illegal player to the umpires who have left the field of play and are in the parking lot. The umpires return to the field and resume the game. RULING: Illegal procedure. Protests cannot be accepted after the umpires have left the field of play. (9-2B)

PLAY 9.2-3 A team protests an illegal player in the 6th inning. The player in question only played in the 3rd inning. The umpire denies the protest. RULING: Correct. An illegal player protest is only valid if the player is currently in the game. (9-2B)

PLAY 9.2-4 At the completion of a game, and after the umpires have left the field, the losing team lodges a protest on eligibility with tournament officials. RULING: This is a valid protest and can be lodged at anytime to the proper authority. (9-2C)

PLAY 9.4-1 Team A notifies the base umpire of a rule interpretation protest. The base umpire informs the plate umpire of the protest. RULING: Correct as long as the plate umpire is notified for proper reporting. (9-4)

PLAY 9.7-1 Team A protests a rule interpretation in the 3rd inning. The game is stopped and the protest committee rules favorably for Team A. The situation is corrected and the game resumes. RULING: Correct procedure. A rule protest must be made before the next pitch legal or illegal or play. (9-7B)

PLAY 9.7-2 A protested player is found to be ineligible. After this ruling, the umpire allows a substitute for the player and continues the game. RULING: Incorrect. A valid ineligibly protest will cause a forfeit of the game in question. (9-7C)

RULE 10 - UMPIRES

PLAY 10.1-1 With R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits the ball to F6. R1 holds up as R2 advances to 2B. F6 throws out B3 at 1B and both runners remain on 2B. The defense does not notice and the ball is thrown to F1. No further play is apparent. RULING: The umpire should call “time” and place R2 back on 1B. (8-3E; 10-1)

PLAY 10.3-1 With R1 on 2B, R2 on 1B, B3 hits a fly ball to RF. F9 and F8 collide and the ball is on the ground. The plate umpire in a one-umpire system hesitates and delays a call until seeing F9 retrieve the ball and return it to the infield. Time is called with runners on 3B and 2B. The defense notifies the umpire that B3 is on 3B. In (a) before a pitch, legal or illegal, has been committed, or (b) after a pitch, legal or illegal, has been committed. RULING: In (a) B3 is out for passing a preceding runner. In (b) all play is legal after a pitch. (8-7D; 10-3C)

PLAY 10.3-2 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B, and less than two outs, the runner steals with the pitch. The catcher throws to 2B as the plate umpire calls ball four. The throw is in time, and the base umpire calls R1 out. As R1 leaves for the dugout, the base umpire realizes B2 has four balls and R1 is entitled to 2B. The defense tags R1 when they leave the base. Had the umpire not called R1 out, R1 would not have left the base. RULING: Because the base umpire called the runner R1 out in error, reverse the call and place R1 on 2B, and B2 on 1B. (10-3C)

69 PLAY 10.3-3 (FP Only) With R1 on 1B and a 3-2 count on B2, the plate umpire calls ball four and R1 starts for 2B. F2 asks the plate umpire to check with the base umpire on a check swing and the base umpire signals a strike call. F2 immediately throws the ball to F6, who tags R1. RULING: Because the umpires put R1 in jeopardy on the reversal of the call, the umpires should call time, place R1 on 1B, and B2 is called out. (10-3C)

PLAY 10.3-4 With one out, B2 hits a long fly ball to left center field. The base umpire goes out because it appears the ball is going to clear the outfield fence and signals a home run. Seeing this, B2 slows up rounding 2B. F8 picks up the ball and throws to the infield, who throws to 3B for a close play. The plate umpire calls B2 out. Although the umpire made an incorrect signal, B2 and the coaches should have seen the action by F8. RULING: If the umpires determine that the incorrect signal placed B2 in jeopardy, the umpires should place B2 on the base that they believe would rectify the situation. (10-3C)

PLAY 10.3-5 (FP Only) With two outs, R1 on 2B and a 1-1 count on B4, the plate umpire calls the next pitch “strike three” and gives it an overhand pump. R1 steps off 2B and is tagged out. RULING: If the umpires determine the incorrect signal placed R1 in jeopardy, R1 is placed back on 2B. (10- 3C)

PLAY 10.3-6 (FP) With two outs and R1 on 2B, B4 hits a ground ball to F6. On the throw to F3, the base umpire rules B4 out as R1 passes 3B and continues to cross home plate. The base umpire is requested to get help from the home plate umpire, who indicates that F3’s foot was off the base. The out call is reversed. RULING: If in the judgment of the umpires, R1 would not have scored if the initial call was “safe” then R1 is returned to 3B and B4 placed on 1B. (10-3C)

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