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"LBR is really a casual reference to a rule about controlling runners."
I don't know about this "casual" bit, Cecil. I have a rule book in front of me (NFHS - Rule 8) that has a section (7) titled Look-Back Rule. I find the same title in capital, bold letters in ASA 8.7.T
IMO, the term "look-back" applies to the pitcher, not the runner. The pitcher has NO obligation for any overt action to force a runner back to a base. All she has to do is hold the ball and "look the runner back." Without this rule, the pitcher would have to take continuous action (steps, fake throws, real throws) to get the runner back. (And, as soon as she turned her back, the runner would step off again and start the whole process over.)
Technically, the pitcher does not have to look at a runner. In the real world though she will. Otherwise the runner might go forward rather than back.
"Regardless of whether the 3 points mentioned are directly related to the normal run-stop-run aspects; they are restrictions placed on runers by the rules makers."
But they are related! There are 5 rules that apply ONLY to the batter-runner when she reaches 1B AND the pitcher has the ball. (A) applies when the B-R rounds 1B and was not part of my original post. (It is a normal LBR).
The other four (B - E) are applied to a B-R overrunning 1B (continuing down the line into right field). (B) is a normal LBR. C-D-E actually violate the LBR. They do not allow for a STOP; they do not allow the runner to PROCEED NON-STOP to 2B or back to 1B.
IMO, they are garbage rules that do not belong in the book. Because of their convoluted logic, no player, coach, or even umpire is going to remember them on the field.
Only one rule is required for the B-R. Simply state that: when a B-R has completed a time at bat, including a base on balls or a D3K, and the pitcher has the ball in the 16' circle, and after passing 1B, the B-R may stop, but then must immediately return to 1B or attempt to advance non-stop to 2B.
The only thing you may want to clarify is the definition of a "stop" for a B-R overrunning 1B. Is turning around to start back towards the infield considered a STOP? Or is that part of the overrun process and the B-R would be allowed to stop after she faces the infield (and thus knows where the ball is). Either way, we can call it, but I would be inclined to favor the 2nd interpretation of a stop.
WMB
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