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Originally Posted by Rufus
My question is this - when, if ever, can a coach come onto the field to discuss a play such as this? Also, when, if ever, can you request that the umpire making a call see if his partner had the same thing?
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Technically speaking the only time you have a RIGHT to come onto the field is to question a rule interpretation.
Example: using FED rules
B1 is obstructed rounding first base. After playing action ends BU simply protects the runner back to first only.
According to FED rules this is a mis-application of the playing rules ( In FED B1 gets second base) and you as manager have a RIGHT to request TIME and get an explanation.
After the explanation if you still do not agree you can then lodge a protest (assuming the HS district you play in has protest procedures)
For JUDGEMENT calls of which safe / outs are includied technically speaking you have NO such right.
Now it's been accepted practice to Grant the manager TIME and allow him to question the umpire who made the call, however, the Umpires do not HAVE to honor this request since it was a judgement call. It's similar to calling balls/ strikes. No matter how upset the manager is, we do not allow the manager to constantly question the strike zone.
In your situation, the umpire should have granted you time to speak to the BU.
However, keep in mind that the BU is under NO obligation to check with his partner. He may or he may not it's still his call.
You can also write a report and submit to the umpire association about the conduct demonstrated by this umpiring crew.