[Bagman62]

2004 ASA Rule 8 Section 2 Subsection M item 3 page 106 in part states, "the batter-runner is out when there is a play being made at first base and the batter-runner touches only the white portion, providing the defense appeals prior to the batter-runner RETURNING to first base. Once the runner RETURNS to the white, no appeal can be made.

In the situation you described the batter-runner never left the white portion of the bag, as a coach asked me during a discussion after an appeal, How can you return from a place you never left and the rule clearly states APPEAL PRIOR TO BATTER-RUNNER RETURNING TO FIRST BASE.

I changed my call to an out and advised the offensive coach of the rule. I also told him this was a rule interpertation subject to protest but he would have to explain to the protest committee how you can return from where you have never been.

I am sure this will muddy the waters and maybe a rule rewrite for clarification purpose.