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Originally Posted by bob jenkins
Was F1 on the rubber when the runner returned to first? That's illegal (7.03? -- I don't have my OBR handy), and at least one authoritative opinion has it as an out.
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You're close, Bob. It's 7.01
7.01
Official Notes - Case Book - Comments: If a runner legally acquires title to a base and the pitcher assumes his pitching position, the runner may not return to a previously occupied base.
Evans says this in his notes.
When the pitcher assumes his position on the rubber prior to delivery, no runner may return to a previously occupied base. If he attempts to do so, the umpire shall call "time" and declare him out. Originally adopted to eliminate a trick play and unorthodox strategy, this rule accomplished its purpose. Such shenanigans are unheard of in the modern game. Umpires should be alert and declare out any runner who should return to his previous base after the pitcher has assumed his position on the rubber. This could most logically happen when the runner felt that he "left too soon" on a tag-up and would attempt to return before an appeal was made on him.
Tim.