Quote:
Originally Posted by Rich Ives
So how close is close enough? Do you carry a ruler to measure it?
Do you apply the same criteria to other bases?
If the catcher notices and appeals which team are you screwing?
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I am not sure I understand what you aren't getting. I am using the entire surface that is visible above ground, just as I would any other base. The "black" part of the plate is not to be used for judging balls and strikes (not supposed to be visible), but works quite well for touches (physically there on the field). Often there is no black left on the edges of some hard, slick, above-ground plates. Other times, the plate is old and chewed up, bordering on outright dangerous sometimes. Budget cuts and all, you know.
The black is not supposed to be sticking up to start with. If it is, however, I am treating it as part of the plate when incoming runners are trying not to trip and kill themselves on these treacherous slabs.
Here is what is not "close enough": Not touching the base, as in if I see the foot miss the base, he missed the base. The PHYSICAL base, which is what is on the field, just like I would rule on any any other physical part of the playing field.
And Rich, if you came out and argued very long with me about this at home plate, I would cheerfully jack your rat butt all the way back to New York.
