[CelticNHBlue]

Well there has been some strong discussion about this situation, which is what I hoped for. I will let you know that this was an NCAA quiz and therefor the following answer is based on these rules and comes straight from the newest member of the National Staff:

D #10 bats (without reporting). On the second pitch #5 steals second. On the fifth pitch, #10 flies out to right scoring #7 and advancing #5 to third.

The defensive coach now appeals (before next pitch):

Ultimately, this is the only real issue, the rest was merely a distraction. According to the rules of NCAA, when #10, the Flex, enters the box unreported, there is only one place in the BO that she may do so, and that is for the DP in the 9 slot. That eliminates the opportunity for an illegal player penalty.

The reasoning was explained this way: lets say that during an offensive half inning, a coach makes multiple substitutions and at the end of that half inning reports to the plate umpire, "I am re-entering X, Y, Z". Where do you assume these players re-enter? Naturally, the only place they are allowed, by rule. Similarly, when the appeal is made, whether for BOO or illegal player, we must assume that the unreported flex player must be batting in their only legal position in the order.

Several of us discussed the options mentioned here as well as some others and I wanted to share what we learned with everyone, but only after letting you think about what you would do in a similar situation.

Mike - having read your responses with great interest, I am curious as to how ASA specifically wants us to deal with this situation. Do they agree with NCAA or with your previous remarks regarding substituting as the next batter due up and therefor no BOO, but yes to illegal player (BTW this was my first thought). Your pipeline to those in command is always welcome and appreciated.