|
I apologize for a post in a different thread questioning your "official" nature. I posted that prior to seeing this thread.
Carl, you start out stating that your BRD has "opinions" of certain porfessionally related authorities, yet near the end of of your post you reference these as "official interpretations". Which is correct?
The importance being that if a baseball official is to waiver from something specifically stated in the book, should it not be "official interpretation" that causes him to do so? This is not to undermine the importance of authoritative opinion in areas where "clarification" is necessary as opposed to "different than". Although the General Instructions may not be part of the rules themselves, they are part of the book. I have yet to see a book without them---maybe it exists, I don't know. Regardless, since we are only a small minority getting these "changes" of interpretation and/or opinion, the large majority is officiating to the wrong information. Is that not correct? Should it not be only "official interpretation" that can countermand that which is published in the rulebook and used by the large majority of umpires in the field?
We also need to recognize the broad majority of baseball played is amateur and not professional, yet we continue to accept and apply interpretations and opinions directed from and specifically for the professional level. Can you see the problem? No wonder there are inconsistencies on the diamonds. Am I supposed to take pride in enforcing an interpretation that is different than that which is in the rulebook, different than that which the coaches have seen published, and different than that which even my partner(s) may be aware of? Of course, I can tell them "I am right and current. I got it off the internet!" Can you see the problem?
Are we wrong in questioning this system? You have significant influence within the game itself. You have earned that influence. Can you think of any better way to improve the game than spearheading a move toward a universal set of rules geared toward amateur baseball---even if those rules have various exceptions for age differences? BTW, I will buy the new amateur rulebook, casebook, and another BRD---to make your efforts worthwhile.
All the fuss that occurs is no different than different religions arguing the Bible. Their are varying views and interpretations in the many gray areas. People accept what best suits there needs. Some practice the philosophy of verbatim. Others practice the philosophy of intent and neo-romanticism, and others a mix of both to suit there own needs. Can you see the problem?
Most importantly, to question an imperfect system is not wrong, Carl. And to disagree with those who state or imply you are wrong in questioning it---------------well, that's not wrong either. I am not in Pleasantville and I have no intent in moving there (unless of course I consider running for Mayor).
Just my opinion,
Steve
Member
EWS
|