Quote:
Originally posted by Gee
Sorry, I cannot defend the call. The key words in your post were "This play happened in a bang gang manner."
I've got "NO CATCH". As you know from OBR #2 a catch is nullified when the catcher simultaneously or immediately (BANG BANG) comes in contact with a runner....Causing him to to drop the ball.
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Gee, et. al.:
You're close, but "out" by a whisker. (grin)
You are right that a fielder must demonstrate possession AFTER the catch, whether of a batted or thrown ball. A fielder who gloves a batted ball is not under the same compulsion, as we know from an official interpretation via Cris Jones (PBUC) posted on eteamz.
But notice that a catch is always established when a fielder in control of the ball goes to "do something" germane to the game. That's the case here, and I'm sure you'll agree after reflection.
There are three distinct elements to this play:
The fielder gloves the ball while accidentally stepping on home plate in a force situation.
- The fielder goes to tag the runner (unnecessarily).
- The force of the slide knocks the ball loose.
Therefore, when the catcher moved to tag the runner while still holding the ball, that was an action inherent in the game and demonstrated beyond doubt control of the ball. The slide knocked the ball loose AFTER the out was registered.
Good call, coach!