Quote:
Originally posted by jumpmaster
In upper level ball (American Legion and Large HS) I have noticed that about half-way up the bat, at about the area that the barrel begins to swell, a strip of athletic tape about 1/4 inch wide. In addition, while watching the CWS tonight, I have noticed tape up high on quiet a few bats as well.
Originally I thought no big deal, however, after watching a few bunts unfold in front of me, I realized that this tape is in the same vicinity as where the BR places his fingers for a bunt and could, if the ball strikes that area, absorb some of the impact on the ball upon the bat.
My question - guys that are calling upper levels - is making batters remove this tape considered booger pickin' or is it one of those "let it go"? My thinking is OBR Rule 1.10c states that any material beyond 18 inches from the end of the bat causes the bat to be removed from the game.
What say you?
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Booger picking. The tape should mark the 18 inch point, and help the batters keep the tar off the fat end. A piece of tap adds no advantage to a bunt, IMO, and if the other team complains and it is above 18 inches I treat it the same as a pitcher's glove that is black with some tan laces (ie multicolor) and that is to remove it before it is used again, but no penalty.