Quote:
Originally posted by smoump
SNIPPED
My original question centered around the and/or of the rule. I have never issued a strike for this. I am comfortable with a deliberate strike and if this timing is too slow for an impatient batter, so be it.
7-3-1 does say "The batter must keep at least one foot in the batter's box throughout the time at bat".
But common sense dictates that we do not call this a strike. However, Pete is correct in saying that years ago (96 ish) when I coached, this was a strict rule. Anytime they stepped out, it was a strike (assuming not meeting one of the exceptions). For umpires that were not working or understanding the rule then, may not be aware now of its existence.
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Well back in the mid 90's, we were told to enforce the rule because everyone out there was playing the "Nomar Garciapara" game. Batters were stepping out and just being ridiculous.
In your situation, the batter assumed ball 4. He doesn't get punished for that. He is punished when you call "strike" and he stops jogging and looks like a fool!
Rule 7-3-1 is one of those rules that as an umpire, you have to really feel that B1 is intentionally delaying the game. In other words, you have the rule in your back pocket - it is your choice to use the rule.