2012 rules interpretation meeting and clinic feb. 19 sponsored by kyle miller, inc

2012Rules Interpretation

MeetingAnd

ClinicFeb. 19

Sponsored by Kyle Miller, Inc.

http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0WTefjbIJNLfXYAj8KJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBqbWUycnUyBHBvcwM1OQRzZWMDc3IEdnRpZAM-/SIG=1kav0g4v0/EXP=1268019803/**http:/images.search.yahoo.com/images/view?back=http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?_adv_prop=image&b=55&ni=18&va=umpire+clipart&xargs=0&pstart=1&fr=mcafee&w=128&h=124&imgurl=www.lpl.arizona.edu/~umpire/clipart/softball/playathome.jpg&rurl=http://www.lpl.arizona.edu/~umpire/clipart/softball?C=M;O=A&size=3k&name=playathome+jpg&p=umpire+clipart&oid=68e7df099c75392a&fr2=&no=59&tt=110&b=55&ni=18&sigr=11rr34hsu&sigi=11rciapv3&sigb=13kfeph04

Agenda• Opening• Preview of 2012• Pre tournament• Rules / Mechanics• Break• Positioning• Quiz• Wrap up

3 Tournaments have been completed

Tournaments scheduled every weekend in March

Kyle Miller

College

Showcase

Kyle Miller

College Showcase

2011• 62 teams• 12 Fields

• Sunday Rained Out

Kyle Miller

College

Showcase

Sept 22-23, 2012

60+ Teams12+ Fields

No Rain

Blast at the

Beach

June 15 – 17Parker Complex

2012 World

Series• Salisbury, Md.

– July 18-22• 10U, 12U, 10-18U-C

– July 23-29• 14U, 16U, 18U

• Kissimmee, Fl.– July 28-Aug. 4

Clinic and Rules Interp.

• What you want out of clinic

• Mechanics– Pre game– Game management– Line-up Cards

• Rules– Courtesy Runner– Batting Out of Order– DP/Flex– Look Back Rule– Obstruction / Interference

• Positioning

• Field Coverage

BREAK

Your Feedback• Please go over DP/Flex.. • As the UIC, maybe the top five most misinterpreted

rules that we must be known because of the frequency that they occur.

• B and C position review. Mechanics of working together and "getting it right."

• Coaches interference with runner rounding 3rd base. • Illegal Pitching- Crow Hop, Leap and Re-planting( we

as umpires are not calling these pitches)• Illegal Bats- What we as Umpires should be looking

for • Positioning of field ump w/runners on base. Going

out to cover fly balls to the outfield. Communicating w/fellow umpires.

• Cover pitching rules---illegal pitches--footwork etc. with demonstration . Illegal substitutions and when coaches get options

• pitching regulations. what constitutes an illegal pitch? coverage of 3B

• Not having the UIC bailing you out of a bad call. Work it out on the field with your partner that is doing the game with you. It makes all look bad. Not saying strike three, you are out. Wrong mechanics

• Emphasis on rules is constantly discussed, however I hear the same old stories; ie, The umpires in the last game or two did not enforce that rule, why are you! All umpires need to be enforcing the rules alike. It makes it tougher on the next guy if you don't do your job. I realize I have no control over how well coaches understand rules, but when you pay so much to play in the tournaments it's the least you could do.

• I am very interested in general coverage/mechanics with the two man system. We have some umpires that do not move enough especially from behind home plate.

• Early arrival of Umpires to Tournament Site(s). Some umpires arrive late and the partner is unsure to take Plate or Bases. Parking in different areas away from field is a problem. Be a responsible umpire. Supplying an Umpire Roster with phone numbers, home and cell to contact the night before would be greatly appreciated.

• METAL SPIKES WE HAVE TO DO A BETTER JOB CHECKING THEM ON THE LOWER LEVEL'S, AND DRESS CODE.

• 1. obstruction - when to award/or not award a base to a runner, after being knocked down, returns to the base they started from because after the obstruction they believe they can't make the base they wanted to advance to. 2. proper ways for a pitcher to step off the rubber once their hands come together. 3. crow hops - if the back foot hits first - after leaving the rubber - is it always a crow hop?

Pre-game with PartnerReview of Rules

• DP/Flex Rule• AP Rule• Courtesy Runner• Charged Conferences• Pitching Rule• Appeal Process• Time Limit

– Tie Breaker

Pre-game with PartnerField Coverage

• Batter Runner Going to Third• Steals• Pick off Attempts• Tag-ups• Base Umpire Leaving Infield• Check Swings• Pulled Foot at 1st Base• Batter Runner Tag Before 1st Base• Run Downs• Look Back Rule Coverage

Inspect Field

• Check Bases• Check Foul Lines• Look for Holes in Backstop• Look for Holes in Outfield Fence• Look for Loose Debris on Field• Inspect Condition of Infield• Determine Ground Rules

Pre Game ConferenceCoaches / Umpires

• Inspect line up cards– Can use DP/Flex + 2

AP’s– First AND Last names– Subs listed– Give back for final check

• Ask Coach– Are all players equipped

and in compliance with USSSA rules?

• Ground Rules– Keep simple /

Enforceable

• Quickly remind coaches– Courtesy runner rule– 3 pitches between innings– All substitutions go through

Home Plate umpire– State the time limit

• 1 hr. 30 min.• Starts at conclusion of conf.

• Ask if there are any questions

Be Prepared to answer

KEEP BRIEF

Communication w/ Partner

• Outs / Count – Signal• Infield Fly - Signal• Alert during play, base coverage• Appeal Plays

– Ask for help, must comply with coach’s request

• Between Innings

Communication with Coaches

• Before games• Between innings• Explain calls when asked• Treat them as you would like to be

treated

Stopping of Games• Rain• Lightning (wait 30 minutes)• Darkness• Field conditions• Protest

• $100• Don’t stop game unless coach gives

HP umpire protest fee• Umpire’s responsibility to know and

apply the rules, make a decision• Coach’s responsibility to know the

rules

Respect it!

Ending of Games

Round Robin (Saturday)– Team leading after 7 innings– Time limit 1 hr. 30 min.

• Finish inning– Tie after 8 innings within time

limit• International rule starting 8th

inning– Mercy Rule

• 12-10-8– Forfeit (not enough players to

continue)

Elimination Round (Sunday)– Team leading after 7 innings– Time limit 1 hr. 30 min.

• Finish inning– Mercy Rule

• 12-10-8– Need winner

• International rule starting 8th inning or start of inning after time limit whichever comes first

– Forfeit (not enough players to continue)

Ending of Games

Line up Cards

Must Keep Line up CardsAll substitutes go through Home Plate Umpire

About the Lineup Card

• Lineup - defensive positions CAN be juggled/switched/ changed

• A player can play any defensive position any time

{

{

Note: DP is NOT a defense positionPOS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10

5 7 Edna Ezell 6

6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14

8 9 Hilda Hicks 21

9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Smith (flex) 19

Substitutes

Zelda Zink 8 Vergie Vega 20

Yolanda Yee 23 Ummi Udall 2

Wilma Watson 9 Tammy Tewa 5

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10

5 7 Edna Ezell 6

6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14

8 9 Hilda Hicks 21

9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




Subbing & Reentering

• # 8, Zink will enter for # 6, Ezell

8

Subbing & Reentering

• # 9, Watson for # 21, Hicks

9

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10

5 7 Edna Ezell 6 8

6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14

8 9 Hilda Hicks 21

9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




Subbing & Reentering• # 2, Udall for # 8, Zink

• Cannot have two players ACTIVE (not circled) in the same slot

• Circle # 8 - she has left the game

2

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10

5 7 Edna Ezell 6 8

6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14

8 9 Hilda Hicks 21 9

9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10

5 7 Edna Ezell 6 8 2

6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14


9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




Subbing & Reentering• Re-enter # 6, Ezell

• Circle # 6 - starter reenters

• Sub & starter cannot be in game at same time

• Circle # 2

Subbing & Reentering• # 21, Hicks re-enters

for # 7, Begay

• Find # 21

• She is a starter who is not circled so she can come back in

• But wait! (continued…)

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10


6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14


9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




…Continued

• # 9, not # 7, was in for # 21,

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10


6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14


9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




• # 21 must re-enter the game in the same slot she was in before

• #7 is another starter

• Not legal - do not allow

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10


6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14


9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




Subbing & Reentering• Okay! Okay! Let’s

put # 21, Hicks in for # 9, Watson

• Circle # 21, Hicks - starter re-enters

• Circle # 9 - sub & starter can’t be in game at same time

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10


6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14


9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




Subbing & Reentering• # 5, Tewa will go in for

# 6, Ezell• Get # 5 and put her in

for #6

• Someone goes in - someone has to go out

• A sub & starter can’t be in the game at the same time

• # 6 had used her re-entry so she is History - slash her

5

POS NAME # CHANGES

1 1 Abby Adams 4

2 5 Betty Begay 7

3 2 Carla Chung 18

4 DP Dolly Perez 10

5 7 Edna Ezell 6 8 2 5

6 8 Fran Frank 15

7 3 Gigi Gaglio 14


9 6 Ida Ivanoff 3

10 4 Dee Flex 19

Substitutes




Subbing & Reentering• Reenter # 9, Watson• Find # 9 - she must be a circled

sub or an uncircled starter• She is a sub who had entered

once so this is her last entry

9

• Put # 9 in make sure there is a circled # 9 in the slot already so you know it is the same slot she entered on her first entry

• If # 9 goes in, Hicks, # 21 must leave the slot - Hicks is History

• Slash # 9

Line-up

Question and Answer Samples and Techniques

Line ups

• Can have as many as 12 players in line up– 8 position players, 1 DP, 1 Flex, and 2 AP– 11 players in batting order

• Can start game with 8 players– Out when open spot comes to bat– Cannot continue with less than 8 players

• If all players in line up– Can drop to 1 less than started in batting order

Line ups

• If all players in line up– Injury

• Can drop to 1 less than started in batting order• Additional injuries result in forfeit

– Disqualification• Player must be replaced in line up

– Must be legal substitution

• If no substitutes are available– A forfeit results

TRUE or FALSE?TRUE or FALSE?

A team may have as many as twelve players in the starting line-up


For the DP/Flex to be in the game, they must be in the starting line-up approved by the umpire


A team may begin the game with 8 players


A player shows up late and is not listed as a starter or substitute on the line-up card. She is ineligible to play in the game

Eligible roster members may be added as substitutes at any time


Pam comes to bat in the top of the 1st inning in the 3rd position in the batting order and is wearing #8. The official line-up has Pam batting in the 3rd position #17. Numbers can be corrected with no warning or penalty


An additional player can be listed anywhere in the starting line-up


An Additional player can play any defensive position but must keep the same position in the batting order.

Rule Changes

• Rule 2.9.B Glove lacing may be any color other than that of the ball. The manufacturer’s logos are not considered a glove color.

• Rule 2.10 Change the amount of bat safety grip down to a minimum of 8” from 10”.

• Rule 8.5. E. Sec 5. A batter-runner is awarded first base if:Added E. hit by a thrown ball while legally advancing which incapacitated the batter-runner prior to reaching 1st base.

Courtesy Runner Rule• A courtesy runner may only be

used for the pitcher or the catcher• So who is the pitcher & catcher?

– The player who last physically played the position

– In the top of the 1st - the players listed as the pitcher & catcher

Courtesy Runner Rule• Must be a player who has not been in

the game• The same player cannot run for both the

pitcher & the catcher in the same inning-Locked to the position, not the player

• May be used anytime - even after a pitch to another batter

Courtesy Runner Rule• *Cannot be replaced by the pitcher

or catcher she is running for

• *Cannot enter the game as a substitute during the half inning she ran as a courtesy runner

Courtesy Runner Rule• *Exception

– Injury & no subs– DQ - & no subs

• The courtesy runner must enter the game

• The pitcher or catcher can come back in and run for themselves

Courtesy Runner Rule• A courtesy runner cannot be

used for the DP or FLEX unless the DP or FLEX IS the pitcher or catcher

• A courtesy runner must run for the batter who hit the ball - not a sub for that batter

Courtesy Runner Rule• The pitcher & catcher are NOT considered to

have left the game if a courtesy runner runs for them

• Use of a courtesy runner must be reported to the umpire

• Penalty for violation of rule– Unreported sub

- 1st Offense – Team Warning- 2nd Offense – Coach Ejection

– Illegal Substitute - Ejection of player and coach

Batting

out of order

Incorrect Batter

Not Appealed

Continue until AppealedOr Legalized

Appealed

Batter still In box

Proper BatterAssumes Count

Batter out Or On Base

Pitch to next batterOr attempted play

YesImproper batter is now legal

NoProper batter is now outNext due up is the batter

following the proper batter

Batting out of Order

DP / Flex

DP/FLEX RULE ADOPTED (3-3-6)

Designated Player (DP)/FLEX Rule replaces DH Rule.

DP/FLEX Rule allows for more participation and flexibility in the game.

Gives coaches more options: not to use the DP/FLEX at all, use it to the same extent as the DH was used,

or use the DP/FLEX option to its fullest extent.

DP/FLEX RULE ADOPTED (3-3-6)

A DP does not have to be used. If used it must be noted on the

starting lineup. A team using the DP starts the

game with 10, but could end with nine or 10.

Practical application and sample exercises to follow.

THE LINEUP CARD

The DP is the offensive player and must remain in same batting position for entire game.

The name of player for whom the DP is batting (FLEX) will be placed in the No.10 position in lineup.

THE LINEUP CARD

If replaced by a substitute, the DP position remains in the lineup.

A starting or substitute DP may re-enter one time, as long as the DP returns to the original position in the batting order.

ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION

The FLEX may not go into one of the first nine positions for someone other than the DP.

An illegal substitution results.

KEY POINTS

The role of the DP/FLEX is never terminated.

A team may go from 10 to nine players and back to 10 any number of times during the game.

The game may end with 10 or nine players.

EASY REMINDERS

The DP can never be on defense only.

The FLEX can never be on offense only.

The DP and the FLEX can never be on offense at the same time.

The DP and the FLEX can play defense at the same time.

Look Back Rule

Look Back Rule1. Is in effect when the ball is live, the

batter/runner has reached 1st base or has been called out, and the pitcher has the ball in the circle

2. Any runner in motion may continue without stopping or stop and immediately move directly back to the base last touched or attempt to advance

3. Once a runner stops on a base, she may not move off of that base

Look Back Rule

• A runner who overruns 1st base and does not advance without delay to 2nd base, is committed to first and stop

• The runner, off base, may not stand motionless

• Failure of the runner to respond as indicated shall cause the umpire to signal out

• The rule does not apply if:– The pitcher no longer has the ball in the circle– The pitcher makes a play on a runner– The pitcher fakes a throw


To be considered within the pitcher’s circle, the pitcher must have feet totally inside the pitcher’s circle

Both feet must be within or partially within


If the pitcher places the ball in her glove and the glove and ball between her legs to adjust her hair, she is not considered to have possession of the ball

The pitcher has possession of the ball (eg., has the ball in her hand, glove, under arm, or chin, between legs)


With a runner on third base and a walk to the batter, the look-back rule does not go into effect until the batter-runner reaches 1st base


The pitcher must have possession of the ball in the pitcher’s circle and be looking at the runner for the runner to be called out on the Look Back Rule

There does not need to be any recognition by the pitcher


A batter-runner who overruns 1st base and delays in her attempt to advance to 2nd base is required to return to 1st base and stop

Obstruction

and

Interference

Definition obstruction

Obstruction is the act of• A defensive player or team member

that hinders or prevents a batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball.

• A fielder, while – not in possession of the ball, or– which impedes the progress of a runner

or batter-runner that is legally running bases

Obstruction

Definition interference

Interference is the act of an offensive player or team member that impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player attempting to execute a play.

Interference is interference when it interferes!!!

Obstruction on the batter

→ delayed dead ball, after play is finished:(1)option coach – penalty on catchers

obstruction or taking the result of the play(2)batter has received first base safely and all

runners have at least advanced one base → result stands, no option to the coach

(3) when coach does not take option ‘catchers obstruction’ is ruled : batter to first base, runners return to their base unless forced to next base

Obstruction on the batter-runner or runner

Catcher/fielder needs to have the ball before standing in front of the plate/base/runner

→ delayed dead ball, after play is finished:(1) runner reaches the base he/she would have reached

when no obstruction would have occurred → result stands

(2) runner does not reach the base he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred → dead ball, umpire awards the base to the runner that he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred.

exception: when an early leave, missed base or interference occurred a proper appeal is possible.

(3) runner overruns the base he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred → result stands

Interference by Umpire

interferes with catcher → delayed dead ball1) if runner is out → out stands2) if runner is not out → dead ball and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw

Interference by On deck batter

interferes with a defensive player1) who is attempting to retire a runner → ball is dead, runner closest to home plate is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of interference.2) who is attempting to catch a fly ball → ball is dead, batter-runner is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of interference.

Interference by batter

- interferences with the catcher, while out of the batters box → ball is dead, batter is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw.

- interferes intentionally with the catcher, while in the batters box → dead ball, batter is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw.

- interferes with a play at home plate → dead ball, batter is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw.

Interference by batter-runner

- interferes with the catcher or fielder throw to first base while running outside the 3 foot lane → dead ball, batter-runner is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw

- interferes with a fielder fielding or throwing the ball or with a fair batted ball → dead ball, batter-runner is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the interference

- interferes intentionally with a play at home plate → dead ball, batter- runner and the runner closest to home plate are out, and other runners return

Interference by Runner

- interferes with a fair-batted ball, before passing an infielder (excluding the pitcher) → dead ball, runner is out, and other runners return to their base at the time of the interference (if the interference is preventing from a double play, the umpire will also give the second out).

- interferes with a fair-batted ball, intentionally → dead ball, runner is out, and other runners return to their base at the time of the interference (if the interference is preventing from a double play, the umpire will also give the second out).

- interferes while he/she already has scored or is already out, → dead ball, the runner closest to home plate is out, and other runners return to their base at the time of the interference

Interference by Coach/batboy/dugout players

- interferes with attempt to retire a runner → ball is dead, runner closest to home

plate is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of interference unless forced by batter

- interferes with a fly ball → ball is dead, batter-runner is out, and

all other runners return to their base at the time of interference.

Any person other then team members

Ball dead, umpire rewards bases they would have reached in the umpire

opinion!!!!

Obstruction

Obstruction at 1st Base


A fake tag is obstruction


When a fielder obstructs a runner, the play is a delayed dead ball


It is obstruction if a fielder hinders a runner moving into her path to get ready to catch a fly ball

The runner is out if she hinders the fielder’s initial play on the ball


It is obstruction if a fielder hinders a runner by moving into her path to get ready to catch a thrown ball.


A dead ball occurs when an umpire interferes with a catcher attempting to throw out a runner stealing

It is a delayed dead ball

Interference

Question and Answer Samples and Techniques


Interference can be a physical or verbal act by the offense


When a coach physically assists a runner during playing action, interference occurs and a dead ball occurs

It is a delayed dead ball


If in the judgment of the umpire, a runner interferes in any way and prevents a double play anywhere, the runner who interferes and the runner closest to home both will be called out


A runner on 1st base. A ground ball passes the 2nd baseman untouched. No other infielder can make a play on the ball. The batted ball hits the runner going to second. The runner is out.

Any runner is out when a fair-batted ball contacts him before it passes an infielder


If a runner is thrown out when a batter committed interference with the catcher making a throw, the interference is ignored

Batter interference is a Dead Ball

Catcher’s Obstruction

With a runner on 3rd base only, the batter swings and hits the

catcher’s mitt. The batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop.


Catcher’s obstruction is a delay dead ball


The coach or captain of the offensive team may take the result of the play or the penalty for the obstruction unless the batter reaches 1st base and the runner advances one base safely.


The runner who is standing on 3rd base is awarded home if the obstruction penalty is enforced.

Penalty. Awarding batter 1st base and advancing all runners, only if forced.


The runner is stealing and is thrown out at home. The offense is given the opportunity to take the result of the play or the catcher’s obstruction penalty which would score the runner.

Any runner attempting to advance (steal or squeeze) on a catcher’s or infielder’s obstruction would be awarded the base that they were

attempting


The runner advances and scores. The batter is thrown out attempting to advance to 2nd base. The offense is given the opportunity to take the result of the play or the penalty for catcher’s obstruction

Obstruction on batter is ignored if the batter reaches 1st base and all other runners advance at least 1 base

Pitching

Double Touch

Crow Hop

24 Inch Width

Umpire Positioning

and

Field Coverage

Your Feedback• As the UIC, maybe the top five most misinterpreted

rules that we must be known because of the frequency that they occur.

• Please go over Dp/Flex.. • all of the above would be good to review • B and C position review. Mechanics of working

together and "getting it right." • Coaches interference with runner rounding 3rd base. • Illegal Pitching- Crow Hop, Leap and Re-planting( we

as umpires are not calling these pitches)• Illegal Bats- What we as Umpires should be looking for • Positioning of field ump w/runners on base. Going

out to cover fly balls to the outfield. Communicating w/fellow umpires.

• Cover pitching rules---illegal pitches--footwork etc. with demonstration . Illegal substitutions and when coaches get options

• pitching regulations. what constitutes an illegal pitch? coverage of 3B

• Not having the UIC bailing you out of a bad call.work it out on the feild with your partner that is doing the game with you.It makes all look bad. Not saying strike three,you are out.Wrong mechanics

• Emphasis on rules is constantly discussed, however I hear the same old stories; ie, The umpires in the last game or two did not enforce that rule, why are you! All umpires need to be enforcing the rules alike. It makes it tougher on the next guy if you don't do your job. I realize I have no control over how well coaches understand rules, but when you pay so much to play in the tournaments it's the least you could do.

• I am very interested in general coverage/mechanics with the two man system. We have some umpires that do not move enough especially from behind home plate.

• Early arrival of Umpires to Tournament Site(s). Some umpires arrive late and the partner is unsure to take Plate or Bases. Parking in different areas away from field is a problem. Be a responsible umpire. Supplying an Umpire Roster with phone numbers, home and cell to contact the night before would be greatly appreciated.

• METAL SPIKES WE HAVE TO DO A BETTER JOB CHECKING THEM ON THE LOWER LEVEL'S, AND DRESS CODE.

• 1. obstruction - when to award/or not award a base to a runner, after being knocked down, returns to the base they started from because after the obstruction they believe they can't make the base they wanted to advance to. 2. proper ways for a pitcher to step off the rubber once their hands come together. 3. crow hops - if the back foot hits first - after leaving the rubber - is it always a crow hop?

Questions

For

Thought

OBSTRUCTION

R3 IS CAUGHT IN A RUNDOWN BETWEEN 3RD BASE AND HOME PLATE. R3 IS RETURNING TO 3RD BASE WITH NO

CHANCE OF REACHING HOME WHEN SHE IS OBSTRUCTED BY THE 3RD BASEMAN.

SHE IS TAGGED OUT BY THE SHORTSTOP


The ball is immediately dead when obstruction occurs.

When obstruction occurs, the umpire gives the delay dead ball signal and announces “obstruction”


The umpire would make signal and call out obstruction immediately, without waiting for the play to be completed.


R3 is awarded 3rd base


The umpire is required to issue a warning to the 3rd baseman and notify the coach

No warning required


An obstructed runner is awarded protection even if she is responsible for malicious contact or interference when obstruction has been called

An obstructed runner may not be called out between the base where the obstruction occurred except if the runner commits and act of interference or

malicious contact

OBSTRUCTION

WITH A RUNNER ON 2ND BASE, THE BATTER HITS

A GROUND BALL


A batted ball bounds off the pitcher’s glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline trying to field the deflected ball, and hinders the runner going from 2nd to 3rd. Obstruction has occurred.

A fielder is considered to be making an initial play on a fair batted ball when she has a reasonable chance to gain control of a ground ball that no other

fielder (except the pitcher) has touched.


A batted ball bounds off the 3rd baseman’s glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline attempting to field the deflection and hinders the runner going from 2nd to 3rd. Obstruction has occurred.


A batted ball goes to the shortstop, she fumbles the ball and the ball goes behind her. She takes a step and starts to pick up the ball when she hinders the runner going from 2nd to 3rd. Obstruction has occurred

The fielder is considered to be making an initial play if she fails to gain control of the batted ground ball and is within a step and a reach


The 3rd baseman turns to watch the ball in left field and obstructs R2 before she gets to 3rd base. Obstruction is called and R2 is thrown out at home plate. The umpire states that the runner could not have made home plate regardless of the obstruction. R2 is returned to 3rd base without an out being recorded

If the obstructed runner advances beyond the base the runner would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, the runner advances with liability to be

put out


The 3rd baseman obstructs R2 after she touches 3rd base and the umpire who called obstruction does not think R2 would have scored regardless of the obstruction. R2 is thrown out at home plate. R2 is returned to 3rd base without an out being recorded.

PLAYINGFIELD


The pitching distance for Girls 14U is 40’?

13U and up is 43’


The coach’s box is the area to which the two base coaches (one per box) are restricted prior to the release of the pitch.


A crow hop is the replanting of the pivot foot prior to the delivery of the pitch.


A leap is when both feet are airborne


Fair territory is that part of the playing field within, and not including, the foul lines from home plate to the bottom of the playing field fence and perpendicularly upward

Fair territory includes the foul lines.

DP / FLEX AND

ADDITIONAL PLAYER


The primary role of the DP is to play offense (bats/runs) for the Flex. The DP may play defense at any position.


The primary role of the Flex is to play defense only which can be at any defensive position. The Flex may remain in the last position (non-batting) in the lineup for the entire game, or may assume the DP’s position in the batting order and play offense (bat/run).


The DP’s name can be listed anywhere as one of the batters in the batting order


Both the DP and Flex can leave their positions in the lineup and re-enter one time


The DP can be on defense only

If the DP is replaced on offense, the DP will leave the game


The Flex can remain in the last lineup position and be on offense only

The DP or an AP may play defense for the Flex, the Flex will leave the game.


The DP can play defense for any of the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the Flex can be on defense at the same time.


The Flex can play offense for any of the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the Flex can be on offense at the same time

Placing the Flex in the lineup for someone other than the DP is considered Illegal

COURTESYRUNNER


The team at bat may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and/or catcher any time after they reach base other than by substitution. The same runner may be used for both positions in the same inning. Neither the pitcher nor the catcher will be required to leave under such circumstances

The same runner can not be used for both the pitcher and catcher in the same inning


Pam pinch hits for the shortstop and gets a base hit. Karen subs for Pam as a pinch runner. Later in the inning the pitcher gets on base. Pam now can be a courtesy runner for the pitcher

Players that have participated in the game in any other capacity are not eligible to be used as a courtesy runner


Pam is one of 5 substitutes who have not participated at all in the game. Pam courtesy runs for the pitcher in the 6th inning and scores. In the same inning, Pam is allowed to pinch run for the shortstop but can no longer be used as a courtesy runner for the remainder of the game.

A player can not be used as a courtesy runner and then be used as a substitute in that half inning


Pam is the only substitute. Pam is used as a courtesy runner. Karen bats Pam home but is injured sliding safely into 2nd base and cannot continue. Pam must enter as a substitute immediately for Karen


The leadoff hitter, Amy strikes out. The next batter, Betty, is knocked unconscious by a wild pitch. Since the team has no eligible substitutes, Amy can replace Karen as the runner at 1st base.

Rule 5.2.A – If injured player is the result of a rules violation by defense, the injured player can be replaced by the player, not on base, who last completed

their time at bat. Does not apply to any future at bats.

2 BASES ARE AWARDED


If a fair-batted ball becomes dead because of bouncing over or, when passing through a fence becomes blocked


If a live thrown ball, including a pitch, is touched by an illegal glove/mitt, or detached player equipment which is thrown, held, tossed or kicked by a fielder


If a live thrown ball (not by a pitcher from the pitcher’s plate) goes into the stand of spectators, a player’s bench, or over/through/lodged in fence.


With no outs, Fran is stealing 2nd when the batter lines out to the shortstop. Fran is returning to 1st as the shortstop throws to the 1st baseman. The throw goes out of play. Fran is awarded 2nd base

Fran is awarded 3rd base. 2 bases from time of throw, runners direction does not matter


With Fran on 1st base, Beth hits a ground ball to the outfield. Fran has not reached 2nd and Beth has past 1st when the right fielder throws the ball. The throw goes out of play. Beth is awarded 3rd base, moving Fran home.

If 2 runners are between the same bases, the reward is based on the position of the lead runner

THE GAMEIS BEING PLAYED WITH

A DOUBLE 1ST BASE.

-THE WHITE IS IN FAIR TERRITORY-THE ORANGE IS IN FOUL TERRITORY


If a play is being made on the batter-runner at 1st base and the batter-runner touches only the white portion of the base, the runner is out

Treated as missed base, runner out only if defense appeals before runner returns to first base


A ground ball bounds off the 1st baseman’s glove into foul territory. The 1st baseman picks up the ball, dives and touches the orange base with the ball, beating the runner. The runner is out


An uncaught 3rd strike goes to the 1st base side of the fence. The 1st baseman catches the throw from the catcher touching only the orange base, before the runner reaches 1st base. The batter-runner is out


The shortstop fields a ground ball and throws directly to 1st base. The 1st baseman catches the throw, touching only the orange base before the batter-runner reaches 1st. The batter-runner is out

The 1st baseman is considered off the base, the batter-runner is safe


The runner on 1st base is stealing 2nd. After catching a line drive, the shortstop throws directly to 1st base. The 1st baseman catches the throw, touching only the orange only the orange base before the runner returns to 1st. The runner is out.

8.19.E – After the batter-runner reaches 1st base, either the white or orange can be used by either the runner or the fielder

PITCHING


A pitcher may use tape for protection of an injury on the fingers, hands, wrist, forearm, or elbow provided such tape is neutral in color


A pitcher may wear a 1st baseman’s mitt when pitching


The pitcher must start with both feet on the pitcher’s plate


A step backward in the pitching motion is legal if it begins before the hands come together

No step backward is allowed


Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher must take a position with the ball in the glove or pitching hand, and the hands separated.

ILLEGALPITCH


If a pitcher does not release the pitch within 20 seconds from the time of receiving the ball, an illegal pitch is called

Dead ball, a ball on the batter


An illegal pitch is a dead ball and the penalty invoked

An illegal pitch is a delayed dead ball


If all runners advance one base, and the batter-runner reaches 1st base, the illegal pitch is canceled

TRUE or FALSE?TRUE or FALSE?All base runners are awarded 1 base

The penalty for an illegal pitch is a ball on the batter and the runners advance only when forced by a trailing runner


The umpire who called the illegal pitch shall explain the violation to the pitcher

The umpire shall explain to the coach, if requested

USSSAUMPIRE’SUNIFORM


If a t-shirt is worn under the Umpire shirt, it shall be plain, short, or long sleeve


The t-shirt, when worn, shall be white, black, or matching the pullover shirt in color


Exposed sleeves of the t-shirt shall be white

Must match shirt


The plate umpire is allowed to wear a black cap with no markings

Must be a USSSA licensed cap

BASE UMPIRE’S INITIAL POSITION

WITH NO RUNNERS ON BASE


Base umpires should be 18-21 feet beyond first base and straddling the foul line.

Should be in foul territory


The base umpire is responsible for taking the batter-runner to 2nd and allowing the Home Plate umpire to make the call at 3rd

The base umpire has the batter-runner to 3rd


On a routine fly ball, turn, watch the catch, signal out, and let the plate umpire watch the batter-runner touch 1st base

Button hook, watch the batter-runner touch 1st base

FLY BALLTAG-UP

RESPONSIBILITIES IN 2 UMPIRE SYSTEM


The plate umpire has all runners at 3rd base


The base umpire always has tag plays at 2nd

PU has runner on 2nd w/ runners on 1st and 2nd


The base umpire has all tags at 1st base


The plate umpire has all tags at 2nd base

PU only has runner on 2nd w/ runners on 1st and 2nd

BASEUMPIRE’S

INITIALPOSITION


The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when there is a runner on 2nd base only


The Base Umpire should take a position down the 3rd base line when there is a runner on 3rd only

“C” position


The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when there is a runners on 2nd and 3rd

TRUE or FALSE?TRUE or FALSE?Behind and to the left of the shortstop

The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when there is a runners on 2nd and 3rd

TRUE or FALSE?TRUE or FALSE?Behind and to the right of the shortstop

The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the 2nd baseman when there is a runners on 1st and 2nd


The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when the bases are loaded

PLATEMECHANICS


With no runners on base and a ground ball to the infield, come out to the left of the catcher and move toward the pitcher’s circle to help your partner

Move in fair territory toward 1st base


With a runner on 2nd base only, the initial play is at first base, followed by a throw to 3rd, the PU will make the call at 3rd


With runners on 1st and 2nd base. On a base hit, PU is responsible for the lead runner at 3rd and HP. Move toward 3rd base in foul territory. If the lead runner comes home and there is no play, drift toward 3rd, watch the runner touch HP.


Move toward 3rd base on a base hit with runners on 1st and 3rd. If the lead runner scores comes home without a play, drift toward 3rd, but watch the runner touch HP. If there is a play at home, move back to a position in the rear and left side of right handed batter’s box


With the bases loaded and a play at 1st base, watch the lead runner touch HP, then go toward third for a possible play on the second runner


Plate always gives a signal of 2 fist above head and a verbal “full count” when the count is 3 balls and 2 strikes

Verbalize “3 balls, 2 strikes”. Signal balls with left hand, strikes with right hand


The plate umpire should always give the count at least every other pitch

When requested, after a delay, whenever next pitch could result in a walk or strike out


A plate umpire should change balls whenever requested by the pitcher to keep her happy and not cause a confrontation

At beginning of inning, when the ball goes out of play or becomes damaged

Questions

2010

USSSA Eastern Pa

Umpire of the Year

2011

USSSA Eastern Pa

Umpire of the Year

Wrap Up

http://www.clker.com/clipart-medal-1.html



http://www.clker.com/clipart-88953.html



2012 rules interpretation meeting and clinic feb. 19 sponsored by kyle miller, inc

Documents

rain slide

misinterpreted rules

cover pitching rules

wfellow umpires

rules interpretation

illegal pitches

u kissimmee

early arrival of umpires