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Originally Posted by TwoBits
Doesn't exactly speed up the game like the courtesy runner rule is supposed to do, does it?
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I have NEVER seen the courtesy runner rule ever used for anything other than tactical advantage. The reason somebody runs for the catcher or pitcher is ALWAYS because they are a faster runner. If the catcher was a speedster - I can assure you there will be no courtesy runner. As if the coach is going to care about the extra few seconds it takes for him to put on his equipment. According to the rules, there is no allowance for that time anyway. The defense gets ONE MINUTE for warm-ups. If that minute has expired by the time the catcher takes the field - it's "Play ball!"
As long as the outcome of the game hangs in the balance, you can be assured the coach will always exercise the option that places the faster runner on the bases.
It is naive to think the coach is more concerned about the SPEED of the game than he is the OUTCOME of the game.
David Emerling
Memphis, TN