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Patrick, you nailed problem on the head. Is an advantageous non-appeal 4th out allowed. J/R , as quoted elsewhere, seems to indicate it is. Whereas, it is my understanding that the rulebook pretty specifically states the inning (half) is over after the 3rd out. My position was strong with J/R on McGriff's , but I yielded to the explanation of Warren and others.
Let's look at reason. Two out, R2 & R3 and batter hits mid speed roller to F6 who elects to throw to 3rd. BR stumbles out of box and sees ump call R2 out (for 3rd out) at third base. Why should he continue to run???? Rules say inning is over after 3rd out. Again, why run. It is possible here that R3 crossed plate before 3rd out. Good example, I think to go against J/R here. Of course we all know run can't score if 3rd out made at first base, but it wasn't. If they played at first it would now be 4th out. Book goes on to recognize cases of 4th due to running infractions. BR hasn't made running infraction, there was just no need for him to go there due to 3rd out occurring. Warren changed my mind on this one, and I will stick him (but only to show that I CAN change position when good reason is shown).
Just my opinion, (as amended by Warren)(Aussie Grin)
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