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The 2002 HS Rules Book, p.69, describes Dugout Decorum as a point of emphasis. This needs special attention. I don't see this rule enforced my any umpire in Utah. Last week I observed a whole team sitting in front of the cyclone fence protecting the dugout. Coaches on a regular basis sit on ball buckets outside the dugout.
The rule is in place to protect players and coaches. If it isn't inforced, I can picture heated arguments, injuries and law suits. If a ball hits the bucket outside, is the runner awarded an extra base? Is this interference on the part of the offensive team? It seems like this could be argued.
In reality this should never happen. As rule 3-3 states players and coaches should be in the dugout. All equipment should also be off of the playing field and not sitting in front of the dugout (or anywhere on the playing field).
As an umpire am I vulnerable to a law suit if a player or coach gets hit in the head as they sit outside the dugout on a plastic bucket? I am in charge of the game and responsible for enforcement of the rules. Does my insurance pay for the third baseman's broken leg when he trips over the coach's bucket (chair)sitting on the playing field?
I'd like to see this rule enforced to the letter. It's more important than requiring a helmet for a player wrming up a pitcher.
I don't want lawyers to become rich at the expence of baseball. Of more importance, I don't want any player injured because as umpires we ignore an important rule!
Bill Johnston
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