[Steve M]

Originally Posted by DaveASA/FED

Agree with MNblue, but I would handle this as follows I would call time and walk out to the pitcher with one hand in my ball bag, as if I am thinking of giving her a new ball. When I go there I would ask to see the game ball then as I am "inspecting" the ball I would inform her that she can't rub the ball in the dirt like that it is interpreted as adding a substance to the ball, which would call for an illegal pitch. Hopefully that would make her realize it was a no-no and all would be good.

Had one in a state tournament a couple of years ago....mud spot behind plate (leaking hose area from watering field) passed ball got in that mud, F2 didnt' notice returned ball to F1, who took it and rubbed the ball on the edge of the pitching plate and ground to remove this mud. Well BU calls IP for rubbing ball in dirt. This scores a runner from 3rd to tie the score.....well after a not so nice conversation between the UIC, ASA rep(also a very good umpire) and coaches (and I am sure others) the IP was upheld but that BU, got the above advice, with a you know what she was doing when there is mud like that stop the game make sure the ball is ok and remind her she can't do that.

I know some will say this is preventive umpiring and I will say yep, and a good example of where it should be used IMO. Some purists will say call the IP and she/he will learn from that....guess I am just soft, explain on this "gray" area stuff and let the game play, if they do it after they have been told then bang 'em.

Now wouldn't you think this situation was covered by "ground rules"?