I don't know FED either, so like Hugo I won't "opine" on that subject. Take the following to be OBR only:
1. Can a runner return after he enters the dugout after passing home plate?
YES. According to Cris Jones of PBUC, UNLESS in the judgement of the umpire the runner had lingered there far too long. (This prevents a runner returning, say between innings, while the infield is still "occupied" by at least one defensive infielder eg F5 heading for 1B dugout but the catcher and everyone else is off the diamond readying for their offensive half inning).
2. Is the catcher able to carry the ball into the dugout and the ball remain alive?
YES. Play is still alive on a catch and carry into dead ball territory. [
cf OBR 5.10(f)]
3. Can the catcher throw the ball from dead ball territory after carrying the ball there?
YES. The ball is alive and in play (provided he hasn't dropped it first, of course). [
cf OBR 5.10(f)]
4. Is the runner's return from the dugout a nexus between "relaxed" and "unrelaxed" action?
YES. While the runner is in the field of play and attempting to return to a missed base the subsequent action is "unrelaxed" and the runner must be tagged for the out. If he makes no effort to return, the subsequent action is "relaxed" and an obvious appeal by tagging the base will suffice.
5. Does the run score in this case?
You BETCHA! We had neither a tag out nor a timely appeal ("runner beat the ball").
Cheers,
Warren Willson
(PS. Carl, I hope I haven't stolen your "thunder" on this'n. I refrained from posting until all others had an opportunity, and I DID leave you FED.
)
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Member and Co-Moderator, UT