[PeteBooth]

Originally posted by biglaz

]You show up at the game site and start your checks of equipment. It is realized that one, or both teams do NOT have any legal bats. What do you do?

I can just see this happening in some of my youth games this year.

If one team does not have any APPROVED bats then I agree with the other poster who mentioned see if the other team will share.

If both teams do not have APPROVED bats then it's a quick payday and a report to the AD and your assignor as to why the game wasn't played.

Why! If we as officials KNOWINGLY allow a team(s) to use Uncertified equipment or Not meet the regulations set forth in the rules and God forbid something happens we are liable.

I know it's been said that rarely is an umpire held accountable in a courtroom but this would be a case of GROSS NEGLIGANCE and therefore, the plaintiffs would have more weight and a good case.

Another scenario is in the modified division of HS. In our modified division they can use what they call an EP (Extra Player) but NO DH. Therefore, if you as an official allow the use of the DH and something happens again you are liable.

Side Note: In our HS association there is a coaches meeting prior to the beginning of the season and these safety type "things" are brought up so there should not be a case where a team does not have proper equipment.

Pete Booth