[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

Originally posted by TwoDot
I was watching a LL Juniors game last night and the following situation occured that has me puzzeled. Runner on third in a close game batting team down by one run. The third base coach is trying to get the runner to charge down the line faking a steal of home by talking to him somewhat loudly, "farther, farther, farther."

This of course is happening while the pitcher is just starting his motion to pitch.

After the pitch, the field umpire, calls time, tells the coach that he can't do that while the pitcher is in his motion. He then told the Plate ump to put the count back at 2-2 (what the count was before the pitch).

My question is was this the proper call and procedure? I have umpired many years LL, Babe Ruth, Legion, and have never had a situation like that occur. HP umpire was from batting team, certified, and the field umpire was from the fielding team, adult, looked like he may be an umpire.

Any rule cites would be kindly accepted so I may add to my knowledge. Thanks!

While I agree that we should not allow the third base coach from commiting acts of verbal interference with regard to the pitcher, the situation described in this play is not interference. The coach is giving instructions to his runner with regard to his lead and I would tread very lightly trying to define the coach's actions as interference. There is nothing in the rules that prohibit a coach from giving directions and information to his runner.

MTD, Sr.