Quote:
Originally posted by Dakota
The rule, again, is prohibiting assisting the runner, not touching the runner. 2002 Case Play 8.8-19 rules a runner out for being tapped on the leg, "in an effort to tell him to advance." IMO, the critical element is the effort to assist, not the tap. If it is clear the touch is celebratory or otherwise non-assisting, then I have no call. The doubt, though, goes to enforcing the rule (i.e. calling the out for assisting).
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Answer me this. If the tap was at third base, would you make the call? If the winning run is on 3B and on a fly ball to the OF with less than 2 outs, the coach moves next to the runner and taps them on the back or shoulder? Was it a congratulatory pat for winning the game or was it an indication to leave as the ball has been touched by a defensive player? How do you differentiate one from the other? Where do you draw the line between the possibilities?
BTW, how far is that coach's box from the base? How long is that coach's arm? I'm not looking for a cheap out, I'm just trying to control the game using the rules available.