JEA:
5.10(e)
5.10 The ball becomes dead when an umpire calls Time.
The umpire-in-chief shall call Time-
(e)When the umpire wishes to examine the ball, to consult with either manager, or for any similar cause.
Cross References: 3.03, 3.12, 5.02, 8.06
J/R:
(13) any need for time according to the Discretion of
5.10e
an umpire, such as to examine the baseball.
It would almost appear that 9.01(c) could come into action on this issue!
Umpire turns back to playing field to dust off the plate; and, inadvertently hinders a play coming at the plate.
Not terribly difficult to yell out "Time"; but, we all have our moments when the mind goes blank.....
A couple of really good books to get:
"The 2002 B.R.D." by a kid : - ) named - Carl Childress
[email protected]
and,
"The Professional Rules of Baseball" -aka- J/R
[email protected]