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Steve has covered the "dead ball" part of this. During a live ball appeal, there must be an indication of some type for the umpire to define the action.
For example, if a runner missed a base or left it too soon on a caught fly ball, the throw comes to an infielder who turns and trips over the bag is not an appeal. However, if the infielder runs to the base and calls for the ball and stretches like a first baseman, she is doing this for a reason. Same thing with a fielder getting the ball, sprinting over and tagging a runner. She is doing it for a purpose.
The key here is that the umpire knows what is going on through some sort of definitive action by the fielder. If this happens, do not call the runner safe or just stand there. Just ask, "What are you doing?" and the player will undoubtedly give you a verbal appeal. And remember, the appeal is effected when the action takes place, not when a verbal is given.
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The bat issue in softball is as much about liability, insurance and litigation as it is about competition, inflated egos and softball.
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