[LIUmp]

I had a tourney two weeks ago where coaches did not know what the DP/Flex was. I wasn't about to have a rules clinic at home plate during our pregame conference, so when he asked I told them to remember that the DP and Flex are "twins" that can not ever be on offense at the same time.

He lists his Flex at number 10 pitching. His DP is batting 4th.

Sixth inning and the home coach comes to me and says:

"Blue, my right fielder hurt her arm and she can't play anymore. I have no other subs. I'm going to put my Flex in for her and have my DP pitch. Can I do that?"

"Coach, your Flex can play right field. Then you have your DP come in the field and go from 10 players down to nine. But if the original right fielder can't bat, there will be an out called when her position in the lineup comes up to bat. The Flex can't bat for her."

"Why not, I'm just subbing her in."

"Remember that the DP and Flex can not play offense at the same time. Ever. The Flex has a position in the lineup. She is number 10. She can't take someone else's spot in the lineup. In the field yes, but at bat no."

Coach turns away, then turns back to me and says "Even though I don't like it...unfortunately, that makes a lot of sense."