Quote:
Originally posted by ChampaignBlue
ASA Rule Change 2003
.. Once a base runner advances to and passes the next awarded base, the runner may no longer return to touch any missed base or any base left too soon
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"Next?"
Quote:
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...Returning to touch a missed base or one left too soon must occur prior to an award. Once the umpire awards base(s), and if a runner reaches the first base of the award, and then for any reason, retreats to a previous base missed or left too soon, this would be an illegal act, and the defense could appeal. The umpire would rule the runner out.
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"reaches the
first base of the award?"
I don't mean to sound like a rookie, but I'm pretty much ASA only, so I don't know the FED rules very well to compare.
The ASA rule change seems to be implying some kind of positive action by the runner to proceed to an awarded base after the award is announced by using the word "next", but then talks further about reaching the "first" awarded base.
Situation: she missed 2nd, throw made while she is between 2nd and 3rd & ball is thrown out of play. Runner comes to a stop on 3rd; umpire calls "dead ball."
Now, is this runner not allowed to return to touch 2nd once I announce the award, since 3rd is the "first" awarded base? Or, since the "next" base in the award would be home, is she allowed to return even after I announce, so long as that is her first move - back toward 2nd?
Am I parsing this too close?
I think I know the intent of the rule, but it sounds like I can strand a runner by announcing the award too soon. Or, maybe not...
If this is the existing FED rule, how long do you guys wait after the dead ball call to see if the runner has any intention of trying to return? Does it matter if a coach is yelling at her to return but she's not reacting yet?