2012 bsll umpire clinic

Beachside Little League

Self-Paced Umpire Clinic

Updated for 2012 Draft

Beachside Li t t le League

This training is for◦ Coaches◦ Umpires◦ Fans and players that want to know most of the

rules and are not in the mood to read the “green book”

Who is this training for?


Commonly needed Rules and where they are in the “Green book”

Basic field umpire mechanics on the 60’ and 90’ fields

A few other things

What Will You Learn?


This training is not a substitution for or supplement to the “green book”

In the event that there is a discrepancy between this training and the “green book” the “green book” is authoritative

What this training is not?

Introduction to Umpiring


Look the part (appearance) Know the rules (study) Show up on time Have pregame talk with your

partner Pay attention! Hustle into proper position Watch the ball, glance at

runners Pause, read, react

Umpire Do’s


Timing, timing, timing Angle over distance Get set before the play Show restraint (attitude) Forget close calls Support your partner Leave from winner’s side

Umpire Do’s


Coach the players Carry on conversations with fans Socialize with only one dugout Give excuses after a call Gang up on a coach Meet between innings after a close call Say, “One more word and you’re gone!” Over-dramatize an ejection Discuss game with anyone as you leave

Umpire Don’ts


Navy or light blue shirt Grey pants with black belt Navy, red or black undershirt Black socks & shoes Navy or black hat Nothing white

Preferred Uniforms and Equipment


Equipment available in equipment rooms◦ Pads◦ Ball bag◦ Clicker◦ Broom

Wear your cup! Sunglasses okay if NOT mirrored No cell phones if possible.

Uniforms and Equipment


Fair/foul and catch/no catch responsibilities When I’m coming to you for help Tag-ups and base touches Who should cover third base when Signals

◦ Infield Fly◦ What’s the count?◦ How many outs?◦ Rotation is on◦ I’m staying home◦ “I’ve got something you need to know”

Umpire to Umpire Pre-game Chat


Plate Umpire◦ Balls/strikes, Fair/foul, Catch/no catch, plays at

home, some plays at third (communicate!), could help at first

Base Umpire◦ All bases except when the plate umpire takes third◦ Could help with Fair/foul down the right field line

Base Umpire positions ◦ Covered in the next few slides

If the ball goes out, come in If the ball stays in, stay out

Job On the Field

Base Umpire Positions

60 Foot Field



Assumes a two base umpire configuration

The encircled-U in the diagram to the right is the umpire

Base runners are depicted by a black-colored base

REMEMBER: Angle to the ball is ALWAYS more important than distance

Little League (60’ Field)

U



Take a position about 10 to 15 feet behind The first baseman, with both feet in foul territory.

Allow the first baseman to move to the ball without running into you, and react accordingly.

Little League (60’ Field) – No runners on base

U



Take a position about ten feet behind second base on the first base side of the diamond, in line with second and third.

You should be one to three steps into the outfield grass, depending on the depth of the infield area.

Little League (60’ Field) – Runner on First base or Runner on First and Third

U



Assume a position about ten feet behind second base on the third base side of the infield, in line with first and second bases.


Little League (60’ Field) – All other base runner configurations

U


90 Foot Field



Assumes a two base umpire configuration

The encircled-U in the diagram to the right is the umpire

Base runners are depicted by a black-colored base

REMEMBER: Angle to the ball is ALWAYS more important than distance

Junior (90’ Field)

U



Take a position about 10 to 15 feet behind the first baseman, with both feet in foul territory.

Allow the first baseman to move to the ball without running into you, and react accordingly.

Junior (90’ Field) – No runners on base

U



Take a position about ten feet behind second base on the first base side of the diamond, in line with second and third.


Juniors (90’ Field) – Runner on First Base

U



Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the first base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitcher’s mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.

You should be square to home plate and down in a set position.

Juniors (90’ Field) – Runner on First (Alternate*)

U

* Recommended by Little League for two man crews.



Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the first base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitcher’s mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.


Juniors (90’ Field) – Runners on First and Second Base

U



Assume a position about ten feet behind second base on the third base side of the infield, in line with first and second bases.


Junior (90’ Field) – Runner at Second Base

U



Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the third base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitchers mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.


Juniors (90’ Field) – Runner on Second (Alternate*)

U

* Recommended by Little League for two man crews.



Position yourself on an imaginary line running from the third base side of home plate to the edge of the dirt circle of the pitchers mound, approximately halfway between the mound and second base.


Juniors (90’ Field) – Runners on Second and Third or Bases Loaded

U

Regulations


Maximum pitch count by league age◦ Age 7-8: 50 pitches per day◦ Age 9-10: 75 pitches per day◦ Age 11-12: 85 pitches per day◦ Age 13-14: 95 pitches per day

Reg VI: Pitch Counts


Rest Requirement◦ 66 or more pitches in a day,

four calendar days of rest must be observed.◦ 51-65 pitches in a day,

three calendar days of rest must be observed.◦ 36-50 pitches in a day,

two calendar days of rest must be observed.◦ 21-35 pitches in a day,

one calendar day of rest must be observed.◦ 1-20 pitches in a day,

no calendar day of rest is required.

Note: If a pitcher throws 41+ pitches he cannot play catcher for the remainder of the game.



Reach max limit while pitching to a batter◦ Can continue until batter reaches base or is put

out◦ If third out is recorded on a base, pitcher may

continue pitching to same batter in next inning Pitcher can pitch only one game a day

◦ Cannot pitch in both games of a double header◦ Cannot pitch in a continuation game and then a

regularly-scheduled game



Managers are ultimately responsible to remove pitchers that reach max limit

Official counter must inform the plate umpire when a pitcher reaches the pitch limit

Pitcher illegally exceeds max limit: ◦ Pitcher must be removed from the mound

immediately◦ Opposing team’s manager may protest before

umpires leave the field



Pitches in called games count◦ Pitch count itself does not carry over◦ Rest requirements must still be observed◦ Exception: pitches in games that do not complete

one full inning do not count◦ Pitches in uncompleted innings under the “revert

back” rule do count Pitches in practice, in non-Little League

games, etc., do not count however we encourage all coaches to put the health of their players FIRST.



2.00 Definition: A ball delivered by the pitcher to a batter

Anything else is NOT a pitch!◦ Warm-up pitches in the bullpen◦ Warm-up pitches between innings◦ Pitches declared “No Pitch”◦ Pick-off throws◦ Throws to make plays and appeals◦ “Ball” penalty to the batter without a delivered

pitch

So, What’s a Pitch?


Who keeps the pitch counts?◦ The official scorekeeper◦ The home team scorekeeper◦ A manager or coach◦ Anybody BUT the base umpire!

Only one (1) official counter per game The official pitch counter should be decided

before the game.



Verify eligibility at plate conference: Use BSLL Pitch Count Verification Forms if there is a dispute or question.

Identify official counter before the game starts Prevent protests: If you’re aware a pitcher has

reached their limit, have them removed Resolve disputes: If there’s a question on the

validity of the pitch count, go with the official counter.

Clarify ambiguities: Know what a pitch is!

Umpire’s Role on Pitch Counts


Only players, managers and rostered coaches allowed on the field

No batboys on small field All game participants must stay in the

dugouts or be in the bullpen Two adult base coaches allowed One adult in dugout at all times

Reg XIV: Field Decorum


Managers and coaches cannot go on the field without umpire’s permission

No alcohol or tobacco anywhere No adults can warm up pitchers

anywhere All participants must display the

highest standards of conduct and discipline

Reg XIV: Field Decorum

Rule 1.00Objectives of the

Game


Baseball bats are for baseball Softball bats are for softball Wood bats are legal

◦ Must be smooth and rounded◦ Check with bat ring◦ If cracked, get rid of it!

Composite bats must be on the approved list

Use of illegal bats will not be tolerated Donuts are not allowed.

Rule 1.10: Little League Bats


All players should be in the same uniform◦ Except for pool players◦ Be reasonable in cold weather◦ Don’t get too picky!◦ Uniforms for adults allowed only in Juniorsand

above Metal cleats allowed in Juniors and above

Rule 1.11: The Uniform


What’s not allowed:◦ Long white sleeves on pitchers◦ Arm and wrist bands on pitchers◦ Frayed or ragged sleeves◦ Attachments of different color◦ Metal or glass ANYTHING◦ Jewelry (including rubber bracelets)

Except medical alert stuff◦ Casts on field (even base coaches)

Rule 1.11: The Uniform


Catcher must wear a catcher’s mitt First baseman may wear glove or first

baseman’s mitt Pitcher’s glove restrictions:

◦ Any color but white or grey◦ No attachments◦ Batting glove under fielding glove okay

Rules 1.12 – 1.15: Gloves/Mitts


Required for all batters, base runners, players in coach’s boxes, and bat retrievers

Must be NOCSAE certified Chin straps, face guards are optional No cracks or unauthorized paint or decals

Rule 1.16: Batting Helmets


Required: Chest protector, helmet or mask, and shin guards◦ Long-model chest protector for males in Majors

and below Cup for male catchers Helmet or mask must:

◦ Be NOCSAE certified◦ Must have throat guard (even on hockey-style

masks)◦ No cracks or unauthorized paint or decals

Rule 1.17: Catcher’s Gear


Helmet or mask is required for:◦ Player warming up pitcher between innings◦ Player warming up pitcher in the bullpen◦ Catcher during pre-game infield or outfield

practice Skull caps are not permitted If you see a catcher without helmet or

mask, correct it!

Rule 1.17: Catcher’s Gear

Rule 2.00Definition of Terms


Pitch that is not in the strike zone Pitch that bounces and then goes through

the strike zone Pitch that hits batter but batter does not

attempt to get out of the way An award due to certain pitching infractions

Rule 2.00: Ball


Secure possession of ball in hand or glove Ball must be in flight Held firmly before it touches the ground Fielder must show complete control Release must be voluntary and intentional Dropping the ball while in the act of

throwing is okay

Rule 2.00: What is a Catch


Ball hits the ground first Ball falls out before fielder pulls it out of

glove Fielder uses any part of uniform or

equipment to secure the ball Ball falls out of the glove after the fielder

◦ Falls to the ground◦ Collides with another player◦ Collides with the fence

Rule 2.00: What is NOT a Catch


Runner that HAS to advance because batter-runner is going to first

Forced runner can be retired by tagging runner or forced-to base

Force is removed when:◦ Batter-runner is retired (all forces removed)◦ A following runner is retired (force is removed on

lead runner) When force is removed, runners must be

tagged

Rule 2.00: Force Play


Foul lines, bases and plate are in Fair Territory Bouncing ball that travels past first base or

third base while in fair territory Bouncing ball that travels over any part of

the first base or third base bag Untouched ball in flight that lands in fair

territory at or beyond first base or third base Ball touched in fair territory, regardless of

fielder's position

Rule 2.00: Fair Ball/Fair Territory


Bouncing ball that travels past 1B or 3B while in foul territory

Untouched ball in flight that lands in foul territory

Ball touched in foul territory, regardless of person's position

Ball which touches anything “foreign to natural ground" in foul territory before first base or third base

Batted ball that hits batter while in the box

Rule 2.00: Foul Ball/Foul Territory


Batted ball that goes sharp and direct from the bat to the catcher’s hands and is legally caught◦ Must hit the hand or mitt first◦ Must be caught by the catcher◦ A short-hop is not a legal catch

A Foul Tip is a Strike. Ball is Live and in play; runners may run!

Umpires: Do not call “Foul Ball!”

Rule 2.00: Foul Tip


Rule is to prevent defense from getting a “cheap” double play

Situation:◦ Less than two outs◦ Runners on 1st and 2nd, or bases loaded◦ Fair fly ball (not line drive or bunt)

Ball may be caught by an infielder using “ordinary effort”

Can be an outfielder positioned near the infield who catches it

Rule 2.00: Infield Fly


If the umpire believes that the infield fly rule is in force they call “Infield Fly” when the ball reaches its apex

When called, the batter is out and the force is immediately removed

If caught runners must tag up If dropped the ball is live and runners may

advance at their own risk Due to the requirement of “ordinary effort”

the infield fly is a judgment call of the umpire and there is no option for an appeal



BOTTOM LINE:

If an infield fly rule is in force: SAY IT If an infield fly rule event occurs: CALL IT If an infield fly rule event does not occur:

DO NOTHING

YOUR DECISION CANNOT BE APPEALED!



Interference occurs when someone prevents the defense from making a play◦ Offensive interference◦ Umpire interference◦ Spectator interference

Exception: Defensive interference is when a defensive player prevents the batter from hitting a pitch

Rule 2.00: Interference


Umpire interference: only two ways◦ Base umpire gets hit by a batted ball before it

passes an infielder other than the pitcher◦ Plate umpire prevents a catcher from throwing

out a base runner It’s NOT umpire interference if

◦ Batted ball was deflected◦ Catcher throws out runner◦ Umpire gets hit by a thrown ball◦ Umpire gets in the way of a base runner



Spectator interference◦ Happens when a fan reaches into the field of play

and interferes◦ Could also happen when fan clearly causes a

player to react and affect play◦ Ball is immediately dead◦ Umpire awards bases and penalties

It’s NOT interference if ball is beyond field boundaries



Obstruction occurs when a defensive player impedes a runner’s progress and:◦ Doesn’t have possession of the ball◦ Is not in the act of fielding a batted ball

A fake tag is Obstruction

Rule 2.00: Obstruction


“Live Ball” Strikes◦ Ball swung at and missed◦ Ball not swung at that passes through the strike

zone◦ Foul tip

“Dead Ball” Strikes◦ Foul ball with less than two strikes◦ Foul bunt◦ Touches batter while in the strike zone◦ Batter swings or attempts to bunt and the ball

contacts the batter

Rule 2.00: Strike


Area over the plate Top: batter’s arm pits Bottom: Top of batter’s knees Batter in “natural” stance

◦ “Natural” is the position of the batter as he swings the bat

◦ Zone doesn’t change when◦ He ducks◦ He steps out of the box◦ He moves way up or way back in

the box

Rule 2.00: Strike Zone


A person may only be tagged:◦ With the ball while holding it◦ With the glove while the ball is in it◦ With the hand while the ball is in it

A bag may be tagged with any part of the body while holding the ball in the hand or glove

Rule 2.00: Tag


Bunt: The bat must be moved towards the ball. Simply holding the bat in bunt fashion IS NOT a bunt.

In Flight: A ball that hits a fielder stays and bounces up is still considered in-flight.

Other 2.00 Definitions

Rule 3.00Game Preliminaries


WHEN USING SUBSTITUTION RULES* A sub must bat once and play 6 consecutive

outs before starter may reenter Starter may reenter anywhere in the lineup Only starters may reenter the game Starters can reenter as a sub but then must

fulfill all substitution requirements Defensive substitutions must be made when

the team in on Defense Offensive substitutions must be made when

the team is on Offense

Rule 3.03: Reentry Rule

* Applies to BSLL Inter-league play only


Majors and below Pitchers once removed from the mound may

NOT return as pitchersJuniors and above A pitcher remaining in the game but moving

to a different position can return as a pitcher anytime in the remainder of the game, BUT ONLY ONCE per game.

Rule 3.03: Pitcher Re-entry


A player whose name is on the team’s batting order may not become a substitute runner

Rule 3.04: Substitute Runner*



Starter MUST pitch to one batter unless the pitcher gets injured before the completion of the batter

Sub MUST also pitch to one batter, unless inning ends on a putout or gets injured

Rule 3.05: Starter/Sub Pitchers


Substitution◦ All substitutions should be announced

Unannounced Substitution◦ An Unannounced sub is in when:

Batter gets in the box Fielder gets in position Runner gets on base

◦ Unannounced pitcher Delivers a warm-up pitch from the rubber Any player that delivers a pitch from the rubber

between innings is in! (Prevent it!)◦ No real penalty if sub is eligible to enter

Rule 3.07-3.08: Substitutions



3.09:◦ Keep players and coaches in dugout◦ Adults cannot warm up pitchers

3.10: Field Conditions◦ Before game: Managers can decide. If manager’s

disagree the league president or delegate can make the decision.

◦ After game starts: UIC makes determination (see rule for details)

3.15: Only players, managers, coaches, umpires, and approved league photographers are allowed on the field. (see rule for details)

Other Section 3 Rules


3.17: Batboys are NOT allowed 3.17: Cannot use electronic communication

devices in the field but carrying one is okay

3.18: Managers are NOT responsible for spectators!◦ Don’t make a team manager go silence a fan◦ Use an Adult umpire OR get board member

involved

Other Section 3 Rules

Rule 4.00Starting and Ending the

Game


Introductions Are your Players properly equipped? Do you have any pitchers that are

ineligible? Have you exchanged your lineups Special ground rules covered (e.g. time

limit) Encourage Coaches to keep game moving Remind managers to go thru Umpire in

Charge for any inquiries Wish both managers Good Luck

Rule 4.01: Plate Meeting Do’s


Before the game the Umpires should NOT◦ Conduct a rules clinic◦ Describe your strike zone◦ Issue pre-game warnings◦ Bring up something from previous game(s)◦ Waste time telling stories◦ Allow defense to warm-up during the meeting

Rule 4.01: Plate Meeting Don’ts


When the batter is being given an intentional base on balls:◦ The catcher MUST stand with both feet within the

lines of the catcher’s box until the ball leaves the pitchers hands.

◦ PENALTY – Illegal pitch called.

Rule 4.03: Intentional Walks


BSLL bat’s using continuous batting order for all intra-league games

We use free defensive substitutions◦ Don’t forget Mandatory Play

Cannot use special pinch runners Injured player are skipped without penalty If a batter or runner gets injured and cannot

continue the offensive player that made the last out will pinch run

Rule 4.04: Continuous Batting Order*

* Applies to BSLL Intra-league play only


Base coaches may be placed one near first and the other near third base

Base coaches may be:◦ Eligible players in the uniform of their team◦ A team manager or coach

Both base coaches may be composed of a manager or coach as long as at least one other adult manager or coach is in the dugout

Remain within the base coaches box Talk ONLY to members of their own team

Rule 4.05: Base Coaches


Teams should not refer to one another in a derogatory way

The offense cannot say or do anything to distract pitcher

The defense cannot say or do anything to distract batter

Rule 4.06: Game Conduct


A manager or coach who gets ejected MUST leave the game site for the remainder of the game, period.◦ No hanging around the outfield fence, parking lot,

concession stand, etc.◦ Failure to comply is grounds for suspending play

until they leave◦ Ejected player may still remain in the dugout

under adult supervision◦ A manager or coach ejected from a game will also

receive a mandatory suspension for the next scheduled game.*

Rule 4.07: Ejections

* BSLL rule, some exceptions apply.


If a runner attempts to score during a play in which the third out is made◦ Run will count if

The player touches first, second, third and home base before three players are put out to end the inning

◦ Run will NOT count if third out is: An out of the batter-runner before touching first base A force out An upheld appeal of a of a runner to touch any of the

bases

Rule 4.09: Play Timing


The umpire must judge whether the runner touched the plate before the out is made◦ If the runner touches the plate before the out, the

run counts◦ If the runner touches the plate after the out, the

run does NOT count In a close call, the plate umpire MUST

inform the official scorekeeper if the run counts

Rule 4.09: Timing Play


Majors and below: ◦ 6 innings (5-1/2+ if home team is winning)◦ If called, at least 4 innings (3-1/2+ if home team is

winning) Juniors and above:

◦ 7 innings (6-1/2+ if home team is winning)◦ If called, at least 5 innings (4-1/2+ if home team is

winning) Called Games

◦ Games called before a regulation game and after 1 inning it should be resumed where it left off at a later date

BSLL has adopted a 10-run “mercy” rule

Rule 4.10: Regulation Game


Rules cover what to do when umpire must call the game in progress

If game ends during an inning, score reverts back ONLY if:◦ Home team led, then visitors tied◦ Home team led, then visitors took the lead

If score was tied, game resumes later

Rules 4.11d&e: Who Wins?


Rules require nine players minimum to start or continue games. ◦ *BSLL allows for pool players to be used to PLAY the

game. BSLL wants ALL games played. Remember, it is for the kids!

BSLL Allows borrowing an outfield from the opposing team IF a pool player is unavailable.

If a pool player is required BSLL pool play rules must be followed. The game is considered a forfeiture for seeding and tournament play.

Per Rule 1.01, only instructional Minors divisions can play with less than nine

Rules 4.16–4.17: Nine Players

* BSLL intra-league rule.


Judgment calls cannot be protested Protest of rule misinterpretation

◦ Before next pitch or play◦ Umpires MUST discuss the call◦ After decision, manager can formally lodge the

protest◦ UIC must submit a written report

Protest of ineligible players must be made before the umpires leave the field

Rule 4.19: Protests


4.03: Make sure all fielders are in fair territory

4.15: When to forfeit a game:◦ One team doesn’t have enough players◦ Continued rules violation◦ Manager starts delay tactics

Other 4.00 Rules

Rule 5.00Putting the Ball in Play

and Live Ball


Batter gets hit by pitch Plate umpire interferes with the catcher’s throw An illegal pitch is committed (Junior Division and

above) Illegally batted ball (fair or foul) Foul ball not caught Runner interferes with fielder A fair batted ball hits a runner before touching a

fielder A fair batted ball hits an umpire before it passes an

infielder other than a pitcher When an umpire calls “Time”

Rules 5.09: Dead Ball


Runner gets obstructed while defense is making a play on him

Runner interferes with a batted ball Manager, coach, player requests it AND the

umpire grants it Someone gets seriously injured Severe weather or weather alarm is sound Umpire wants to clean off the plate or secure a

base Don’t call “Time” when it isn’t needed Always call “Play” to resume the game

Rules 5.10: When to call time

Rule 6.00The Batter


Batter must get in the box promptly◦ Both feet must be in the box◦ Foot on the line is OK◦ Foot over the line is NOT OK

Batter cannot leave the box once the pitcher gets in Set Position◦ If the Batter does leave the box the umpire will call a

Ball or STRIKE as the pitch dictates If the batter refuses to get in box the umpire

shall call a strike without the need for a thrown pitch. The ball is a dead ball after the strike is called

Rules 6.02 & 6.03: The Batter


A batter becomes a runner when the batter receives a dropped third strike and one of the following conditions exist:

First base is empty AND there is less than two outs There are two outs

A batter is OUT when the batter receives a dropped third strike and one of the following conditions exist:

There is a man on first and less than 2 outs

*Applies only to Majors and above.

Rule 6.05: Dropped Third Strike*


Other than the obvious reasons the following conditions result in the batter begin out: Bunting foul on a third strike Bat hits the ball a second time in fair territory Batter is touched by his own fair ball (unless a

fielder had a chance to field it) Batter swings at a third strike, but the ball hits

his hand, wrist, arm, etc. An infield fly is calledNote: If you are going to selectively read the green book, rule 6.05 is a good one to look over.

Rule 6.05: Batter is Out


The batter is out when◦ He hits the ball with a foot completely out of the

box and on the ground◦ He steps from one box to the other when pitcher

is ready to pitch◦ He interferes with a play◦ The batter is discovered having used an illegal bat

prior to the next player entering the batter’s box

Rule 6.06: Illegal Batter Action


If defense appeals before Improper Batter completes the at-bat then the Proper Batter should simply come to the plate and assume the count

If defense appeals after Improper Batter completes his at-bat◦ Proper Batter is ruled out◦ Result of at bat is nullified (except what happens

during at bat)◦ Next batter up is the batter after the Proper Batter

The defense must make appeal before the first pitch to the next batter

Rule 6.07: Batting out of Order


If defense fails to appeal◦ Improper Batter’s at-bat counts◦ Improper Batter now becomes the Proper Batter◦ Next batter up is the batter after the new Proper

Batter The offense cannot appeal their own error Umpires and scorekeepers: SHHHH!!!

Rule 6.07: Batting out of Order


Four “balls” have been called Batter gets hit by pitch unless

◦ He swung at the pitch◦ He doesn’t try to avoid the pitch◦ The pitch was in the strike zone

Fielder interferes with batter A runner or umpire touches a batted ball

before it passes a fielder other than pitcher

Rule 6.08: Batter Gets First


The batter becomes a runner when: A fair ball is hit For Major Division and Up: An uncaught

third strike occurs and◦ Nobody is on first◦ First base is occupied with two outs

Batter can’t advance after entering dugout Not interference if batter runs when he

shouldn’t

Rule 6.09: Batter to Runner

Rule 7.00The Runner


When two runners are on base, it’s not an automatic out◦ Lead runner is entitled (unless forced)◦ Trail runner (lead runner if forced) is out if tagged

If fielder tags both, point to runner who is out to prevent confusion

Rule 7.03: Two Runners on Base


Have to determine◦ Who threw the ball?◦ If an infielder, was it an “initial”play or

“subsequent” play?◦ Where were the runners?

If “initial” play by infielder, two bases from Time of Pitch (unless all runners reached their subsequent bases)

Any other: two bases from Time of Throw Award is never from when ball goes out of

play

Rule 7.05g: Ball Thrown Out of Play


Fielder without the ball cannot impede a runner

7.06a: Obstructed runner being played upon, or batter obstructed before reaching first◦ Immediate dead ball◦ Runners get base they would have achieved had

there been no obstruction◦ Obstructed runner gets at least the next base

from last one legally touched before the obstruction



Fielder without the ball cannot impede a runner

7.06b: Obstructed runner not being played upon◦ Umpire signals and calls Obstruction◦ Delayed dead ball ◦ End of play, umpire awards bases, IF ANY, that

nullifies the obstruction◦ Obstructed runner could overrun his protection



The not-so-obvious, runner is out when he:◦ Avoids a tag by going three feet out of his base

path◦ Doesn’t slide or attempt to get around a fielder

waiting to make a tag◦ Slides headfirst going to a base (Majors and

below)◦ Abandons first after touching it◦ Passes a lead runner◦ Runs bases in reverse order◦ Misses home and doesn’t return (must be

appealed)

Rule 7.08: Runner is Out


A runner is out for interference when◦ He hinders a fielder attempting to field a batted

ball (no intent required)◦ He intentionally hinders a fielder’s throw◦ A batter hinders a play on that runner at home

with less than two outs◦ A teammate hinders a play on that runner◦ The base coach physically assists that runner

Rule 7.09: Runner Interference


A runner is out for interference when◦ The base coach acts like that runner to draw a

throw◦ He is hit by a batted ball before a fielder had a

chance to field it◦ He violates the runner’s lane

Except for coach’s assistance, ball is dead



A runner is NOT out for interference when◦ He unintentionally hinders a throw◦ He is hit by a batted ball after it gets by a fielder

other than the pitcher◦ He is hit by a deflected batted ball◦ He runs into a fielder chasing a loose ball (this is

Obstruction)



What constitutes a viable appeal?◦ Runner misses a base◦ Runner fails to tag up on a caught fly ball◦ Runner fails to return to first immediately◦ Runner fails to touch home and doesn’t return

How does the defense appeal?◦ Tag the guilty runner◦ Tag the offended base◦ Being “clear and unmistakable”

Rule 7.10: Appeal


Who can appeal?◦ Any defensive player◦ Not the manager or coach

When can the defense appeal?◦ When the ball is Live◦ Before a subsequent play, attempted play, or

illegal pitch or balk◦ Before all defensive players leave fair territory

Successive appeals not allowed

Rule 7.10: Appeal


If there are two outs and upon appeal a preceding runner is deemed the third out, no runners following the preceding runner shall score.

If the third out is the result of a Force Play, neither preceding nor following runners shall score.

Rule 7.12: Failure to Touch or Retouch a base


Runners cannot leave bases once the pitcher and catcher are “ready”◦ Pitcher on the rubber with the ball◦ Catcher with mask behind the plate◦ Ball is live

One guilty = all guilty Let play continue; all outs stand Penalty: all runners return to their original

bases unless forced

Rule 7.13: Leaving Base Early


Umpire must judge the “value” of the hit◦ Runners advance no further, no matter what

happens during the play If batter reaches on an error, nobody gets

more than one base Bases loaded and batted ball stays in the

infield, no runs will score Read the book examples!

Rule 7.13: Leaving Base Early


Special Pinch Runners (SPR) are NOT courtesy runners

Only a player not in the lineup can SPR◦ That’s why SPRs aren’t allowed under continuous

batting order One SPR per inning max A player can be removed for a SPR only

once a game

Rule 7.14: Special Pinch Runner


7.01: Runner cannot return to previous base when pitcher is ready

7.02: You need to touch all bases either forwards and backwards

7.04: Runners get one base if fielder catches a fly ball then falls in dead ball territory ◦ If fielder stays on his feet, ball is Live

7.15: Double-first base procedures◦ Defense uses white, batter uses colored on initial play

at first (except for uncaught third strike)◦ Batter may use either base on clean hit◦ All other: batter must use white

Other 7.00 Rules

Rule 8.00The Pitcher


Preliminary position:◦ Pivot foot: On the rubber (not off the end)◦ Free foot: In front, behind, or to the side of the

rubber◦ Hands: Can be together or apart

If apart, pitcher can bring them together without starting his motion to pitch

Pitching motion:◦ Free foot: Step to the back or side◦ Pivot foot: Pivot to the side, staying in contact◦ Hands: Brought together and lifted up◦ Free foot: Step forward

Rule 8.01: The Windup


To disengage, pitcher must back with his pivot foot first

Pitcher may throw to a base by stepping directly to that base with his free foot

Pitcher cannot start his windup and then stop◦ No runners: Nothing◦ Runners: Balk (Jrs or above); Illegal pitch (Majors

or below)

Rule 8.01: The Windup


Preliminary position (Stretch):◦ Pivot foot: On or against (in front of) the rubber◦ Free foot: In front of and parallel to pivot foot◦ Hands apart

Intermediate position (going to Set):◦ Free foot: brought closer to pivot foot (optional)◦ Hands brought together◦ MUST come to complete stop (except Majors and

below) Pitching motion: Lift and step forward with

free foot

Rule 8.01: The Set


To disengage, pitcher must step back with his pivot foot first◦ Hands must separate before reengaging

Pitcher may throw to a base by stepping directly to that base with his free foot

Pitcher cannot start winding up from the Set (except in Majors and below)

Rule 8.01: The Set


Cannot balk or deliver illegal pitch with no runners

A pitcher balks or delivers an illegal pitch when he:◦ Starts his pitching motion, then stops◦ Fakes a throw to first from the rubber◦ Throws to a base without stepping towards the base◦ Throws to an unoccupied base (except during an

appeal)◦ Quick pitches◦ Pitches without facing the batter

Rule 8.05: Balk/Illegal Pitch


A pitcher balks or delivers illegal pitch when he:◦ Starts his motion to pitch while not in contact with

the rubber◦ Stands on or next to the rubber without the ball◦ Delays the game◦ Drops the ball while on the rubber◦ Brings his hands together, separates them, then

brings them together again



Illegal pitch penalty◦ Dead ball, ball on batter (runners don’t advance)◦ If the ball is pitched and batted, let play continue◦ If batter and all runners advance one base safely,

ignore the illegal pitch (same if pitch is ball four)◦ If illegal pitch occurs on a throw to a base, ignore

if all runners advance; otherwise, enforce penalty Manager does get a choice if the batted ball

benefits the offense



Balk penalty◦ Dead ball, runners advance one base◦ If the ball is pitched and batted, let play continue◦ If batter and all runners advance one base safely,

ignore the balk (same if pitch is ball four)◦ Otherwise, no pitch, and runners advance one

base◦ If balk occurs on a throw to a base, ignore if all

runners advance; otherwise, enforce balk Manager does not get a choice



Manager or coach may visit the same pitcher◦ Twice in one inning, the third visit the pitcher

must be removed from the mound Manager or coach may go to the mound

◦ Three times in the game◦ The forth visit, the pitcher must be removed from

the mound Any or all players may participate If catcher talks to pitcher after visiting with

the manager or coach, it’s a visit

Rule 8.06: Pitcher Conference


If the adult talks to another defensive player, it’s a visit

It is not a visit:◦ If the offense asked for Time first◦ During between inning warm-ups if no delay◦ If the manager or coach is checking on an injury◦ In Juniors or above, if the manager replaces the

pitcher

Rule 8.06: Pitcher Conference


8.01: Pitcher shall take signs from the catcher 8.02a: Pitcher cannot go to mouth while on the

mound 8.02c: Pitcher cannot intentionally throw at

batter 8.03: One minute to warm up between innings

◦ Not more than 8 pitches◦ More if pitcher hasn’t warmed up

8.04 When bases are unoccupied, the pitcher must pitch within 20 seconds

Other 8.00 Rules

Rule 9.00The Umpire


9.01(f): Clear the field when fans get unruly 9.02: How to handle appeals

◦ Don’t change judgment calls◦ Manager must go to the umpire who made the

call◦ Don’t overrule your partner!◦ Manager cannot appeal on a checked swing Strike

Rule 9.00: The Umpire


9.04(c): What to do when two umps make different calls simultaneously◦ Get together and fix it◦ Umpire in Charge makes the final call

9.05: Processing ejections Carrying the rulebook

◦ Don’t let it be seen (back pocket)◦ Don’t pull it out between innings◦ Should only use during a protest◦ Don’t let the manager show you up!◦

Rule 9.00: The Umpire


This presentation was largely based on the work of the 2007 Virginia

District 9 Umpires Clinic and updated to the latest green book. Without their

initial hard work, this presentation would probably not exist.

Play Ball !!!

Updated: 3/13/2012

2012 bsll umpire clinic

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