LOUISIANA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION 2016 BASEBALL RULES QUESTIONS

LHSAA Rules Questions: The LHSAA test questions are TRUE / FALSE and MULTIPLE CHOICE. They will mainly come from the following questions, Rules Book, including rule changes, Points of Emphasis and the Case Book.

NOTE: In the following questions, F refers to a fielder (F1, F2, etc. refer to the traditional defensive positions.), B refers to a batter (B1, B2, etc. refer to the proper batting order.), R refers to a runner (R1 is always the lead runner.) and S refers to a substitute. All situations and acts are legal, and no errors or mistakes are involved unless otherwise stated.

001. A player may not be listed on the line-up card as both the pitcher and as the DH. (3-1-4)

252. The position of the pitcher’s feet determines whether he will pitch from the windup or the set position. (6-1-1)

003. During the opposing team’s infield practice, players are required to be inside their dugout or bullpen area. (3-3-1f5)

004. With 1 out and R1 at 3rd base stealing on the pitch, batter B1 bunts the ball on the ground. Pitcher F1 fields the bunt and tosses to F2 at home plate, but R1 is ruled safe. F2 then throws to 1st base in an effort to retire B1 who is running completely in fair territory and is hit by the throw. a. The run scores and B1 safe at 1st base. b. R1 is returned to 3rd base and B1 is ruled out for interference. c. R1 scores and B1 is ruled out for interference. d. None of the above. (8-4-1g; 9-1-1)

005. In Louisiana, "speed-up" rules outlined in the NFHS's Baseball Rules Book shall apply to all contests. (RULES BOOK Pg. 64 - Speed-Up Rules; LHSAA HANDBOOK Pg. 81 - 10.5.2)

006. It is required that the head coaches attend the pre-game conference and verify to the umpires that all of their players are legally equipped and that all bats, helmets and protective equipment are legal. (3-2-4; 4-1-3b)

007. As part of their pre-game duties, umpires should ascertain from game management whether a lightning detector and trained healthcare personnel are available.

(LHSAA GUIDELINES)

008. Any starting player in the game may be withdrawn and re-entered once, including the DH, provided he occupies the same spot in the batting order. (3-1-3)

009. As long as there are runners on base, it will be ruled a balk if the pitcher, while holding the ball and standing on the dirt portion of the mound, goes to his mouth with the fingers of his pitching hand, even though he distinctly wipes them off before touching the ball with them. (6-2-1e Penalty)

010. With R1 at 3rd base and no outs, B2 hits a deep fly ball to left field. However, F2 obstructed B2’s swing. The fly ball is caught by F7 and R1 legally tags and scores. RULING: The offensive coach can request the result of the play: the run scores, the out stands and no one is on base. (5-1-2b; 8-1-1e)

011. The designated hitter (DH): a. Can only hit for the pitcher. b. Can also be the pitcher. c. Must be designated on the lineup card prior to the start of the game. d. Must bat at least once before being replaced. (3-1-4)

012. The catcher shall wear either a helmet & mask combination or a hockey-style helmet/mask provided it meets the NOCSAE standard, and has full ear protection and a throat protector. (1-5-3,4)

013. An improper batter may be discovered by either team, but only the defense may appeal batting out of order.

(7-1-1)

014. With R1 at 1st base stealing on the pitch, B2 at bat with 2 strikes, swings at and misses the pitch. In doing so, B2 steps completely across home plate hindering F2’s throw to 2nd base, but does not make any contact with F2. R1 slides safely into 2nd base ahead of the throw. RULING: B2 is out on “strike 3” and R1 is allowed to remain on 2nd base.

(7-3-5b,c; PENALTY)

015. A runner may never legally return to touch a missed base after the ball has become dead. (8-2-5; 8-2-6d)

016. A run will count when, with 2 outs, R1 at 3rd base steals home before the batter-runner is thrown out at 1st base on a dropped 3rd strike. (9-1-1 Exception a)

017. R1, on 1st base, is running on the pitch. B2, at bat with a count of 1 ball & 1 strike, swings at and misses a pitch in the dirt which bounces up and hits B2. RULING: Immediate dead ball, R1 is returned to 1st base and B2 remains at bat with a 1 ball & 2 strike count.

(5-1-1a1; 7-2-1b; 8-2-9)

018. The lineup cards become official after they have been exchanged, verified and then accepted by the plate umpire during the pre-game conference.

(1-1-2)

019. A special ground rule adopted by the home coach to address unusual field conditions and agreed to by the visiting coach may still be used even though it is prohibited by a rules book rule.

(4-1-2)

020. With no runners on base, B1 checks his swing on a pitch that the plate umpire judges to be in the strike zone and calls a strike. The offensive head coach asks him to get help on the check swing. The plate umpire must get help from the base umpire.

(10-1-4a)

021. According to the LHSOA Umpire Mechanics Manual, in 2-man mechanics, with no runners on base, the plate umpire is always responsible for all fair/foul decisions along the 3rd base line and up to the base along the 1st base line.

(LHSOA Umpire Mechanics Manual Pg. 54 “Fair/Foul Coverage”)

022. With 2 outs, B4 bats in place of proper batter B3 and misses “strike three” which eludes F2 and goes to the backstop. R1, at 3rd base, scores as B4 is safe at 1st base. The defense then appeals the lineup infraction. RULING: B3 is called out for the batting-out-of-order infraction. Since this is the 3rd out of the inning, R3’s run does not count. B4 will lead off the next inning.

(7-1-2 Penalty 1,4; 9-1-1 Exception a)

023. A foul tip will be ruled when a batted ball goes directly to the catcher’s glove or hand, caroms against his protector and then rebounds into his hand. (2-16-2)

024. The DH, batting for the pitcher, may have a courtesy runner at any time when he is on base.

(3-1-1,4; Rules Book Pg. 64 Courtesy Runners 1)

025. According to the LHSOA Umpire Mechanics Manual, in 2-man mechanics, with no runners on base, B1 hits a deep fly ball straight down the right-field line. The base umpire is responsible for:

a. Fair/foul decisions.

b. Catch/no catch decisions.

c. Safe/out decisions on the batter runner at home plate.

d. All of the above. (LHSOA Umpire Mechanics Manual Pg. 60 “Fly Ball to Right Field”)

026. It is a delayed dead ball when an infielder catches and then intentionally drops a fly ball with runners on base.

(5-1-1j)

027. Substitute Brown enters the game to pinch hit for Green but no one reports this to the umpire. After Brown singles, the defensive coach complains that he was an illegal sub and should be ejected. RULING: Brown's unannounced substitution and hit are legal.

(3-1-1)

028. B1 assumes his batting stance with his back foot on the back line of the batter’s box, but not outside the line. RULING: This is illegal.

(2-7-2)

029. The ball is dead immediately and the batter is out when he hits the ball, fair or foul, while either foot is touching the ground completely outside the lines of the batter’s box.

(5-1-1b; 7-3-2 PENALTY)

030. It is legal for a team to use a video camera on a tripod manned by a player in uniform or a tablet computer manned by an assistant coach as long as they are in the dugout while the ball is alive.

(3-3-1)

031. Pitching from the wind-up position, the pitcher pauses for a couple of seconds with both hands together above his head. RULING: This is illegal. After he starts his movement to pitch, he must continue the motion without interruption or alteration.

(6-1-2)

032. If a pinch hitter is used for the DH, the role of the DH is terminated for the balance of the game.

(3-1-4a,b)

033. With no outs and R1 at 1st base, B4 hits a triple. Both R1 and B4 miss 2nd base. The ball is returned to F4 who stands on 2nd base, telling the base umpire that he wants to appeal. RULING: If F4 properly appeals both runners individually, both should be called out.

(8-2-1; PENALTY; 8-2-6b)

034. According to the LHSOA Umpire Mechanics Manual, in 2-man mechanics with runners on 1st and 2nd bases and the base umpire positioned in the infield, the plate umpire is responsible for all fair/foul decisions as well as the left fielder moving toward the LF line and the right fielder moving toward the RF line.

(LHSOA Umpire Mechanics Manual Pg. 79 “Initial Pos. & Outfield Coverage)

035. The DH, batting for F5, reaches 1st base on a single. Pinch runner S1 replaces him. RULING: a. S1 now becomes the DH. b. The DH may re-enter the game in the same spot in the batting order provided

this is his first time to be replaced. c. The DH may re-enter in any defensive position provided he bats in the same

spot in the batting order and F5 is removed from the game. d. All of the above. (3-1-4)

036. With a 2-2 count, R1 steals 2nd base as B2 swings and tips the ball directly to the catcher. It first hits his chest protector and then rebounds directly into his glove. RULING: Foul tip, the batter is out and R1 stays at 2nd base.

(2-16-1d,2; 7-2-1c; 8-2-9a)

037. An illegal substitute is a player who re-enters the game without eligibility to do so or who re-enters the game in the wrong position in the batting order.

(2-36-3a,b)

038. If a runner intentionally interferes with a throw, the runner is out and the ball is dead immediately. Other runners return to the base occupied at the time of the interference, unless the umpire judged the interference prevented another out.

(5-1-1e; 8-2-9; 8-4-2g)

039. A pitcher may use a multi-colored glove provided it does not have any white or gray on the glove and it is not judged to be distracting.

(1-3-6)

040. R1 is on 2nd base and R2 is on 1st base with no outs. B3 hits a sharp ground ball to F4 who flips to F6 for a force-out at 2nd base. R1 advances to 3rd base on the batted ball. R2 executes a pop-up slide into F6 which causes him to throw wild past F3 at 1st base. RULING: R2 is out for the illegal slide. The batter-runner is also called out and R1 remains at 3rd base.

(8-4-2b PENALTY)

041. The starting pitcher for the home team feels a pull in his elbow during his warm-up throws, and is not able to face the first batter of the game. RULING: a. He must face the first batter. If he cannot pitch, he must intentionally walk the batter. b. He is out for the duration of the game and cannot return at any position. c. He may return to pitch later in the game if his coach feels he is able to do so. d. He may later return to play another position, but he may not pitch.

(3-1-1 PENALTY)

042. When a force-play slide interference occurs, the runner is out and the batter could be called out if the umpire judges a double play could have been made.

(8-4-2b PENALTY)

043. With R1 on 1st base, left handed pitcher F1 feints a throw to 1st base then delivers the pitch to B2 at the plate. RULING: This is a balk; the ball is dead immediately. R1 is awarded 2nd base and B2 is awarded a ball on the pitch.

(6-2-4a; 7-2-2; 8-3-1a)

044. The batting order is Abel, Baker, Charles, Daniel, etc. Abel is the proper batter but Charles bats instead and hits a double. Abel then comes to bat and strikes out. Baker follows and also strikes out. Charles is now the proper batter but he is on 2nd base. RULING: The umpire correctly leaves Charles on base and skips over him in the batting order to Daniel, now the proper batter.

(7-1 PENALTY 5 NOTE)

045. With R1 at 1st base, B7 holds the bat over the plate as if to bunt, but does not move it. The pitch is outside the strike zone. The umpire should call the pitch:

a. A ball. b. A strike. (7-2-2)

046. B1 hits a ground ball to F6 who throws to F3. F3 juggles the ball so that it rolls up his arm and is trapped against his body by his elbow when B1 touches 1st base. This is a catch and B1 is ruled out.

(2-9-1)

047. The base umpire calls B1 out on an extremely close play at 1st base. The assistant coach, in the 1st base box, runs several steps onto the field near the base umpire to vehemently argue the call at 1st. After a heated argument, the base umpire may: a. Restrict both the head coach and the offending coach to the dugout for the

remainder of the game. b. Eject the offending coach and restrict the head coach to the dugout. c. Resume the game after verbally warning the head coach that future offenses

will result in his ejection. d. Either A or B. (3-3-1f6 PENALTY)

048. There are no runners on base when B1 swings and misses a pitch in the dirt for “strike three”. F2 blocks the ball, which then rolls forward. As he leaves the batter’s box, B1 kicks the ball into foul territory and is safe at 1st base. RULING: If the plate umpire judges the kick to be unintentional, the play stands and B1 is safe at 1st base.

(7-4-1b1; 8-4-1a)

049. Alteration, modification and “doctoring” of bats is considered by certain manufacturers to be unlawful and may be subject to civil and criminal action.

(1-3-2d NOTE)

050. With a runner on 1st base and the ball in the first baseman’s glove, the pitcher places his feet astride the pitcher’s plate. RULING: This is a balk.

(6-2-5)

051. Umpire interference occurs when: a. The catcher makes contact with the plate umpire as he is throwing the ball in an

attempt to retire a runner. b. Any fielder or runner runs into an umpire. c. The base umpire is hit with a fair batted ball before it has been touched by any fielder or passed by any infielder other than the pitcher. d. A and C.

(2-21-2)

52. The ball becomes dead when time is taken to award an intentional base on balls to the batter.

(5-1-3)

053. If a player who is bleeding must leave the game for appropriate treatment, the re-entry rule is suspended and he may return to the game regardless of any prior substitution being made for him. (3-1-6)

054. With R1 at 3rd base and R2 at 1st, R2 takes several hard steps in what turns out to be a bluff to steal 2nd base. In the set position, F1, without simulating a pitch, wheels, steps toward and feints a throw to 2nd while R2 is taking his steps to 2nd base. The plate umpire will correctly call:

a. A balk, both runners are awarded 1 base. b. A balk, as F1 did not step back legally from the pitching plate before he made the feint. c. A legal move in the given circumstance. d. The move is legal only if R2 actually attempted to steal 2nd base. (6-2-4b)

055. A pitcher may wear a white or gray compression sleeve on an arm provided it does not extend below his elbow.

(1-4-2)

56. Team A has one of its players in uniform sitting in the stands behind home plate using a radar gun to chart his team’s pitchers. This is legal provided he only measures the speed on his team’s pitchers and not his opponents.

(3-3-1a,i) 057. B1 hits a sharp grounder deep to F4’s right. F4 makes a great play on the ball and

his throw to 1st base arrives at the same time as the speedy B1’s foot touches the bag. RULING: The base umpire will call the runner “safe” as, by rule, this was a tie.

(8-4-1f)

058. R1, at 1st base, is stealing on the pitch as B5 swings at a tight inside pitch which hits him on the wrist. The ball goes past F1 toward F4 who fields the ball and tosses the ball to 1st base for the apparent out. RULING: Immediate dead ball, R1 returns to 1st base, B5 returns to bat and a strike is charged. If this is his 3rd strike, B5 is declared out.

(5-1-1a1; 7-2-1b; 8-2-9)

59. F7, while attempting to catch a fly ball near a dead ball area makes the catch then steps with both feet into the dead ball area. This is a legal catch, the batter is out and the ball is dead. Any runners on base are awarded 1 base.

(2-9-1; 5-1-1i; 8-3-3d)

60. With R1 on 1st base, B3 swings and misses the pitch for “strike one”. His follow-through hits the catcher, interfering with his throw to 2nd base attempting to put out R1 who is ruled safe. RULING: B3 is called out for his interference and R1 is returned to 1st base.

(7-3-5c; PENALTY)

61. The batting order is B1, B2, B3, B4. B3 erroneously bats for B1 and reaches 1st base on a single. The batting infraction is not detected by anyone before a pitch to the next batter. The next correct batter is: a) B2 b) B4 c) None of the above.

(7-1-1 PENALTY 5)

062. Bats that are altered from the manufacturer’s original design and production are illegal.

(1-3-5)

063. At the pre-game conference, the plate umpire asks both head coaches if they have listed all their substitutes on the lineup card. The home team's head coach states he has some substitutes but did not have time to list them on his line-up card. The plate umpire will: a. Start the game and tell the coach he may add the substitutes as soon as he can get the names to him. b. Inform the head coach that he cannot occupy a coaching box for the balance of

the game. c. Not accept the home team’s lineup card until all substitutes are listed. The

game cannot begin until the umpire has received lineup cards from both teams. d. Inform the home team’s head coach that there will be no substitutions allowed

for his team in the game. (1-1-2)

064. A team playing with 8 players may not return to 9 players. (4-4-1f NOTE 2)

065. Neither a line drive nor an attempted bunt can create an infield-fly situation. (2-19)

066. With R1 on 1st base and a 2-2 count on the batter, the plate umpire calls a balk on F1 just as he delivers the pitch. The batter hits the ball over the fence for a home run. RULING: The ball is dead immediately, R1 is awarded 2nd base and the batter returns with the same 2-2 count.

(5-1-1k; 7-2-2; 8-3-1a)

067. On a deep fly ball that was caught, R1 misses 2nd base on his way to 3rd but touches it as he safely returns to 1st base. R1 will be declared out upon proper appeal at 2nd base.

(8-2-6l)

068. An unreported substitute is a legal player. (2-36-2)

069. R1 is at 1st base when the batter bunts down the 3rd base line. The ball, in foul territory, begins to roll toward fair ground when the pitcher throws his glove and knocks the ball well toward the dugout. At the time the glove hit the ball, it was still foul by 3 or 4 inches. The umpire should rule that:

a. It’s just a foul ball. b. F1 is guilty of interference; the batter is awarded 1st base and R1 is awarded 2nd. c. F1 is guilty of interference; the batter is awarded 2nd base and R1 is awarded 3rd.

d. F1 is guilty of interference; the batter is awarded 3rd base and R1 is awarded home.

(8-3-3b)

070. B9 is scheduled to be the 3rd batter in the bottom of the 7TH inning. Before the inning starts, the coach approaches the plate umpire and says that S1 will hit for B9. After the first two batters reach base, the coach changes his mind because B9 is a better bunter than S1. The umpire should rule that:

a. S1 was legally entered into the game and must hit or be substituted for by S2. b. This is a projected substitution and is not permitted; B9 is still in the game.

(3-1-1)

071. A charged conference is a meeting which involves the coach or his non-playing representative and any player(s) of that team.

(2-10-1)

072. If the game goes into extra innings, both teams, while on defense, will be allowed to take 1 charged conference each inning without penalty. For each subsequent conference during the same inning, the pitcher must be removed as pitcher for the duration of the game.

(3-4-1; Penalty)

073. In the 8TH inning, the coach comes out and replaces his pitcher. 2 batters later, he goes to the mound to discuss strategy with his pitcher and catcher. The opposing coach claims that the pitcher must now be replaced. RULING: Since the coach replaced the pitcher on his 1st trip, he still has his 1 allowed conference remaining and does not have to change pitchers.

(3-4-1)

074. If a pitcher is ambidextrous, he may change from a left-handed pitcher to a right- handed pitcher any number of times while pitching to one batter. (6-1-1)

075. With 2 outs, R1 is at 3rd base and R2 is at 1st base. The batter hits an inside-the-park home run. R2 misses 3rd base. R2's infraction is properly appealed by the defense. The team at bat scores:

a. 1 run. b. 2 runs. c. 3 runs. d. No runs. (8-2-1 PENALTY; 8-2-6k)

076. Even though the plate umpire is designated as umpire-in-chief, he cannot, by rule, overturn a call by the base umpire(s) unless asked for help by the umpire who made the call. (10-1-4)

077. A batted ball is ruled fair when the ball: a. Lands on fair ground after touching a player who was over foul ground. b. First falls on foul ground past 3rd base, but settles on fair ground. c. Touches 1st or 3rd base or touches the ground beyond an imaginary line between

1st and 3rd base. d. Touches a bat resting on foul ground and rebounds into fair territory.

(2-5-1b,e)

078. In a 10-player lineup (with a DH), the defensive player for whom the DH is batting may only hit or run for the player in the DH spot in the lineup.

(3-1-4)

79. From the windup position, F1 begins to bring his hands up, as if to begin his windup, and then steps back off the rubber with his pivot foot and throws to 3rd base in an attempt to pick off the runner there. RULING: Balk.

(6-1-2 PENALTY)

080. It is permissible for the umpires to review video in certain situations in order to render the best decision and correct call.

(10-1-5)

081. A foul tip is a batted ball that goes directly to the catcher’s hands and is legally caught by the catcher or any infielder.

(2-16-2)

082. In the 3RD inning, the coach requests his 2nd time-out of that inning to talk to his pitcher. RULING: That player must now be removed as pitcher for the duration of the game since it was the 2nd charged conference of that inning.

(3-4-1 PENALTY)

083. R1 is on 1st base when the plate umpire calls a balk just as F1 delivers the pitch. B3 hits the pitch over the outfield fence for a home run. RULING: The umpire will give the offensive team the option to ignore the balk and take the result of the play.

(5-1-1k)

084. A slide is illegal if the runner uses a rolling or “pop-up” slide into the fielder. (2-32-2a)

085. Prior to the start of the 6TH inning with the visiting team leading 6-5, rain causes the game to be halted. After waiting 45 minutes, the umpires determine that playing conditions are not safe to continue the game. RULING: This is an official game with the visiting team winning 6-5.

(4-2-3a)

086. In Louisiana, all games, including play-offs and championships, are "official" after 4½ or 5 innings if stopped for darkness or weather conditions.

(4-2-3a; LHSAA HANDBOOK Pg. 80 – 10.5; 10.5.1 #1)

087. Once playing action is over, the defensive coach may verbally appeal a missed base.

(8-2-6c)

088. To give the batter an intentional base on balls: a. The pitcher must throw 4 pitches out of the strike zone. b. The catcher or coach may request the award before the first pitch to the batter. c. The catcher or coach may request the award on any ball and strike count. d. Both B and C.

(2-4-3)

89. Edwards, the #5 hitter, strains his knee sliding into 2nd base on a double play. He is not able to continue and the team does not have a substitute available.

a. Edwards is declared out. b. The on-deck batter will run for Edwards. c. The most recent batter not on base is allowed to run for Edwards. d. The game is forfeited to the opposing team. (4-4-1 NOTE 1)

90. The umpire may authorize more than 8 warm-up throws because of: a. Inclement weather. b. An injury. c. An ejection. d. A, B, and C. (6-2-2 EXCEPTION)

91. While in the wind-up position, the pitcher may throw to an occupied base as long as he clearly steps toward that base.

(6-1-2)

92. A fielder who catches a ball and, whose initial momentum carries him several more steps after which he drops the ball, is considered to have made the catch for an out.

(2-9-1)

93. The LHSAA does not require that balls used in high school competition be stamped with the NFHS Authenticating Mark.

(LHSAA GUIDELINES)

94. If the player for whom the DH is batting hits or pinch-runs for the DH: a. The DH may no longer participate in the game. b. The DH may re-enter the game to hit for another player. c. The role of the DH is terminated for the game. d. The DH may return to play on defense for a player in a different batting position in the lineup. (3-1-4a)

95. Before the plate umpire puts any dead ball back in play, he must first ensure that the pitcher is legally holding the ball while touching the pitching rubber, the catcher is in the catcher’s box and the batter is in the batter’s box.

(5-1-4)

96. A charged conference will occur if an assistant coach is granted a time-out to confer with the first baseman.

(3-4-1)

97. R1 is on 1st base with no outs when B2 bunts the ball in the air. Hoping to turn a double play, F5 intentionally drops the ball. RULING: The umpire should immediately kill the play, call B2 out and return R1 to 1st base.

(5-1-1j; 8-4-1c)

98. R1, running on the pitch, has touched and passed 2nd base before the fair batted ball bounces over the outfield fence. RULING: The umpire should send R1 home on the 2-base award since R1 touched 2nd base before the ball cleared the fence.

(8-3-3c; 8-3-5b)

99. R1 is on 1st base and F1 is in the set position. F1 stretches and, without stopping, steps and throws to 1st base in an attempt to pick off the runner. This play is legal even though F1 did not make a 1-second pause before he threw the ball.

(6-1-3)

100. Courtesy runners may be used for the pitcher and/or catcher but only after 2 outs. (Rules Book Pg. 64 Courtesy Runners 1)

101. With 1 out, R1 is at 3rd base and R2 is at 1st base. B6 hits a fly ball deep to right field which is caught by F9. R1 tags and scores but R2, running on the pitch, has to return to 1st base. F9’s rifle throw doubles off R2 for the 3rd out just after R1 crosses home plate. RULING: The plate umpire correctly rules that R2’s out was a “force-play” out so R1’s run does not count. (8-2-6h)

102. With R1 on 3rd base and 1 out, B3 hits a high fly ball that F9 catches in foul territory. R1 legally tags and scores. Before the next pitch, it is determined that F9’s glove has been sprayed with a substance that creates a “tacky” condition. a. This is legal, no problem. b. The offense has the option of taking the play or having the catch nullified and

treated as a foul ball. R1 would be returned to 3rd base and F9 must replace the illegal glove immediately.

c. This is an illegal glove. Award B3 three bases and score R1. d. This is an illegal glove. Eject F9 and the head coach. (1-3-6; 1-5-7)

103. From the set position, the “time of the pitch” is: a. When the pitcher starts any movement prior to delivering the pitch. b. When the pitcher comes set with the ball in both hands. c. When the pitcher’s non-pivot foot passes behind the back edge of the pitcher’s plate. d. When the pitcher, after coming to a complete and discernible stop, starts any movement with arm(s) and/or leg(s) that commits him to pitch. (2-28-3)

104. B1, wearing #21 on his uniform but listed as #3 on the lineup card, gets a base hit in the 3RD inning. The defensive coach appeals to the umpire that B1 is batting out of order. Being on top of his game, the plate umpire correctly informs the coach that the batting-out-of-order rule only requires that the name be in the proper order. B1’s at-bat is legal. (7-1-1)

105. In the 5TH inning, starting pitcher F1 is replaced by S1. The catcher then indicates to the plate umpire that his team wants to grant an intentional base on balls to the current batter after which, S1 is replaced by S2. RULING: This is legal since S1 has faced the necessary one batter. (3-1-2)

106. R1 is advancing to score when F7 throws home. F2 completely blocks home plate with his lower leg/knee while juggling and attempting to secure the ball to tag R1. The contact prevents R1 from touching the plate. R1 is then tagged by F2 after he has caught the ball. RULING: Legal defensive play since F2 had to be in that position in order to make the play. (2-22-3)

107. Going into the top of the 5TH inning, the score is 5-5. The visiting team scores a run and has a runner on 2nd base with 2 outs when a heavy rain halts play. After an hour’s wait, the umpires rule that the field cannot be made safe to play. The plate umpire rules this a “suspended game” to be continued at a later date from the point of interruption with the visitors leading 6-5, a runner on 2nd base and 2 outs. This ruling is correct. (2-17-3; 4-2-2,3)

108. With no substitutes available, B9 fouls a pitch that hits him in the face. B9 is injured and cannot continue to play. The plate umpire will: a. Forfeit the game to the opposing team. b. Allow the last player not on base to finish the at-bat. c. Call B9 out and allow the game to continue. An out will be declared each time B9’s spot in the line-up comes to bat. d. Call B9 out and end the game the next time B9 is to bat. (4-4-1 NOTE 1)

109. In the bottom of the 6TH inning, right fielder B7 gets a base hit. The coach goes to the plate umpire and tells him B7 will be his pitcher in the top of the 7TH inning and wants to put in a courtesy runner for him so he can begin warming up in the bullpen. RULING: Since B7 will be the new pitcher, the plate umpire will allow the courtesy runner for B7. (3-1-1)

110. A defensive conference, held in fair territory, is concluded when the coach crosses the foul line. (3-4-3)

111. It is a balk if the pitcher, after having his entire non-pivot foot pass behind the perpendicular plane of the back edge of the pitcher’s plate, attempted to pick off the runner at 1st base. (6-2-4f)

112. Obstruction of the batter is only ignored if the batter-runner reaches 1st base and all other runners advance at least 1 base. (2-22-1; 8-1-1e)

113. The strike zone is that space over home plate, the top of which is halfway between the batter’s shoulders and the waistline, and the bottom being the knees, when he assumes his natural batting stance. (2-35)

114. It is an immediate dead ball if the plate umpire interferes with the catcher who is attempting to throw out a runner and that runner must return to his original base. (5-1-2c)

115. In the top of the 3RD inning, the offensive coach requests a time-out in order to confer with his batter. The defensive coach immediately hustles to the mound for a quick word with his pitcher. Upon seeing this, the offensive coach claims that a defensive conference should be charged. RULING: The plate umpire correctly disagrees, stating that as long as the defensive coach does not delay the game after the original time-out ends, no conference will be charged. (3-4-5)

116. The 1st base coach leaves the vicinity of his coaching box to argue a close call at 1st base. RULING: a. The umpire shall instruct the coach to return to the coaching box. b. Both the assistant coach and the head coach are immediately ejected. c. The assistant coach and the head coach shall be restricted to the bench for the remainder of the game. d. Only the assistant coach is restricted to the bench for his action. (3-3-1f6 PENALTY)

117. An ejected coach: a. May remain in the dugout area but cannot coach any player. b. May continue to coach from the bench if he is the only coach for the team at the game. c. May be re-instated as a coach of the team if he is truly contrite for his actions. d. Shall leave the vicinity of the playing area immediately and cannot have any further contact with the team. (3-3-2)

118. Both coaching boxes must be occupied by the team that is at bat. (3-2-1)

119. At the time of the pitch, all fielders shall be on fair ground except the catcher, who shall be in the catcher’s box. (1-1-4)

120. The ball remains live and in play when the umpire gives the “Do Not Pitch Signal.” (5-1-1h)

121. Pitching regulations begin when the pitcher takes his sign from the catcher. (6-1-1)

122. From the wind-up position, the pitcher must hold the ball in his gloved hand. (6-1-2)

123. R1, on 1st base, advances past 2nd base during a deep fly ball which is caught. He retreats to 1st base and is between 1st and 2nd base when F8 throws the ball which gets past F3 and goes directly into the dugout. R1 will be awarded: a. 3rd base. b. 2nd base. c. 1st base. d. Home plate. (8-3-3c; 8-3-5)

124. After the head coach has verified to the plate umpire that all his team’s equipment is legal, B9 hits a bases-loaded home run with 2 outs in the 3RD inning. While he is circling the bases, F2 hands the bat to the plate umpire to examine the barrel. It is discovered that the bat’s end cap has been removed and the bat has been stuffed with ping-pong balls. The plate umpire correctly rules the bat illegal, calls B9 for the 3rd out, cancels all runs scored and, if this is the 1st violation of the rule, restricts the head coach to the bench for the duration of the game. (1-3-5; 4-1-3 PENALTY; 7-4-1a)

125. Any player who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the game and shall not return to play until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. (3-1-5)

126. The bases are loaded when the batter takes ball 4. The high outside pitch sails past the catcher and lodges in the backstop fence. The plate umpire correctly declares the ball dead and advances the batter and all runners 2 bases – 1 base for the base on balls and 1 base for the ball going out of play. (5-1-1g3; 8-3-3d; 8-3-5b)

127. There are 2 outs when R1 attempts to steal home. B2 swings and misses the pitch for strike 2. On B2’s follow-through, he releases his bat which strikes F2 in the facemask. RULING: The ball is immediately dead and R1 is declared out. B2 will lead off the next inning. (2-21-4; 7-3-5 PENALTY)

128. With 1 out, a runner on 2nd base who is not moving on the pitch, and a 1-0 count, the batter attempts to hit the pitch to right field. The catcher reaches out for the ball and obstructs the batter, causing him to foul off the pitch. RULING: Since the batter and all runners did not advance at least 1 base on the play, there is no option. The batter will be placed at 1st base and the runner will be awarded 3rd base. (2-22-1; 8-1-1e)

129. If a batter crouches or leans over to make his shoulder line lower, the umpire will determine height by what would be the batter’s normal stance when he swings at the pitch. (2-35)

130. A player may not run as a courtesy runner for the pitcher or the catcher and then be used as a substitute for another player in that half-inning unless an injury, illness or ejection occurs and no other runners are available. (Rules Book Pg. 64 Courtesy Runners 5)

131. To be considered in fair territory, a fielder must have both feet touching the ground in fair territory. (1-1-4)

132. It is a delayed dead ball when interference is committed by a runner or a retired runner. (5-1-1e)

133. With the bases empty, the pitcher drops the ball during his delivery. The ball rolls to a stop in front of the plate. The plate umpire should properly declare a no-pitch and start again. (6-1-4)

134. R1 is on 2nd base. F2 obstructs the batter who hits the ball and reaches 1st base safely. R1, not running on the pitch, comes around attempting to score but is thrown out at the plate. RULING: Since the batter and all runners advanced at least 1 base, F2’s obstruction ignored. R1’s advance past 3rd base was at his own risk and his out stands. (2-22-1; 8-1-1)

135. With runners at 2nd and 3rd bases and 1 out, the infield is playing in to prevent the runner on 3rd from scoring. The sharply hit ground ball goes up the middle, passing F1, F4 and F6. There is no other infielder in position to make a play on the ball. The batted ball hits the runner standing on 2nd base. RULING: The runner at 2nd base is not out and the ball remains live and in play. (5-1-1f2; 8-4-2k)

136. The pitcher places his pivot foot on the pitching plate with the toe of the pivot foot in front of a line through the front edge of the plate and the heel of his pivot foot behind the back edge. His non-pivot foot is in front of a line extending through the front edge of the pitching plate.

a. This is a legal wind-up position. b. This is a legal set position. c. This is an illegal pitching position.

(6-1-2,3)

137. With the bases loaded and 1 out, B1 hits a ground ball to F3, who steps on 1st base and throws to F6, who tags R3 heading to 2nd base. RULING: Since the force on all runners was removed when F3 touched 1st base, R1's run will count if he touches home plate before the 3rd out is made. (8-4-2j1; 9-1-1 EXCEPTION b) [T]

138. An infield fly is a fair fly ball that: a. Is declared only when there is 1 out and the bases are loaded. b. Includes an attempted bunt. c. Is caught only by an infielder. d. None of the above. (2-19)

139. R1, on 1st base with no outs, is stealing when B6 hits a fly ball to centerfield. R1 does not see F8 drop the ball and as he retreats back toward 1st base, B6 passes him by 2 steps with both runners ending up on 1st base. RULING: B6 will be called out and R1 will be at 1st base with 1 out. (8-4-2m)

140. R1 is on 3rd base and R2 is on 1st base with no outs. B7 bats in B6's spot in the batting order and hits a ground ball to F4 who tosses the ball to F6 to retire R2. F6 then throws to first to retire B7 for the double play as R1 scores. The defense properly appeals the batting out of order. a. B6, the proper batter, is declared out for the batting order violation. B7 will return to bat again. b. R1 is returned to 3rd base. c. The out on R2 will stand. d. A, B, and C. (7-1-1; PENALTY 2,4)

141. S1, an unreported substitute, bats for B2 instead of B3. While S1 is at bat, his coach realizes S1 is not batting for the correct player. S1 became a legal substitute for B2 when he entered the batter’s box and the ball became live. (3-1-1d)

142. Runners on 1st and 3rd bases with no outs. B5 hits a grounder to F6 who throws to F4 for the double-play attempt. 1st base runner R2 slides illegally into 2nd base and interference is called. RULING: The umpire should call both the runner from 1st base and the batter-runner out. 3rd base runner R1 will score if he touches the plate prior to the interference. (8-4-1h; 8-4-2b PENALTY)

143. The score is tied after 7 innings and the game heads into extra innings. The home team has used only 1 of its allotted charged conferences. RULING: Going into extra innings, they will now have 3 charged conferences available to them - the 2 from regulation play plus 1 for each extra inning. (3-4-1)

144. R1 is on 1st base with 1 out. B8 swings and misses the pitch for the 3rd strike. The pitch hits the ground and B8 starts running to 1st base while R1 heads to 2nd base. F2, confused, picks up the ball and attempts to throw out B8 but the ball hits him in the back while he is legally in the running lane and rolls toward the fence in foul territory. RULING: The plate umpire should declare R1 out for B8’s interference since B8 was not entitled to try for 1st base because it was occupied at the time of the pitch. (7-4-1b; 8-4-1g)

145. R1 is on 3rd base with 2 outs. F1 contacts the pitching rubber in the wind-up position with his glove hand in front of his body and his pitching hand by his side. As he brings his pitching hand to his glove hand, R1 takes off for home. F1 steps legally off the rubber with his pivot foot and throws to F2 to tag out R1. RULING: Legal play – R1 is out if tagged. (6-1-2; 8-4-2h)

146. In the bottom of the 4TH inning, S1 comes up to pinch hit for B6. Upon checking his lineup card, the plate umpire sees that S1 is not listed as a possible substitute and correctly prohibits S1 from entering the game. (1-1-2)

147. Jewelry is not allowed to be worn by any players. However, a player may wear a religious medal provided it is taped down under his uniform. (1-5-12)

148. During the pre-game meeting with the coaches, both teams shall remain in their dugouts or bullpen areas until this meeting is ended. (2-10-2)

149. If a runner misses a base and is on or beyond a succeeding base when the ball becomes dead: a. He will be declared out immediately by the umpire. b. He may legally return to touch the missed base provided he does so immediately. c. He cannot return to the missed base and is subject to being declared out upon proper and successful appeal. d. The defense must wait until the ball is made live to appeal. (8-2-5; 8-2-6d1)

150. With the bases loaded and 1 out, B5 hits a line drive to the right-field fence. R1 and R2 both score, but R3 is thrown out at home. B5 safely arrives at 3rd base but missed 1st base. The defense properly appeals B5’s missing 1st base. RULING: a. No runs score. b. 1 run scores. c. 2 runs score. (9-1-1 EXCEPTION a)