Thread: Ten Seconds...
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Old Sat Feb 02, 2008, 01:30pm
BretMan BretMan is offline
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Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Columbus, Ohio
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Personally, it sounds like you might be overzealous in the application of this rule. You called four of these in one game?

Here are comments on this rule change from the NFHS web site:

TIME REDUCED FOR BATTER TO BE IN BOX (7-3-1): A batter must take her place in the batter’s box within 10 seconds after the ball is returned to the pitcher. Previously, she was permitted 20 seconds. The intent of the rule is for the batter to be ready to step into the batter’s box and take her turn at bat in a timely fashion. To abuse this rule by excessive waiting or prolonged signaling from the coach, disconcerts the pitcher and is not the intent of the rule. The committee felt that 10 seconds gives the batter ample time to receive signals, get in the batter’s box and wait for the pitch. The pace of the game will be enhanced when batters comply with the 10-second rule.

Note the intent of this rule: To keep the game moving along in a timely fashion, not to bang out batters on cheap strikes.

I believe that it is better to first warn or remind batters to "get in the box". Hold off on the penalties until after your warnings have been issued if the players continue to abuse the rule. Keep this rule in your back pocket and use it only as a last resort.
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