Quote:
Originally Posted by Manny A
If the crux of the issue is the preventing the opposing team from gaining an opportune out, then why are umpires told they should intervene to prevent illegal substitutions? Isn't an illegal batter who gets on base and is then appealed/protested/complained/whatever disqualified and called out? The only difference is the disqualification penalty. Wouldn't the out+disqualification be more of a benefit to the offended team than just the out?
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I've been told to inform the coach in a subtle way that he can't do that but that if he insists allow it. For example: "Coach, do you really want to do that? Are you sure?" The reasoning is the exact one given for this discussion. If you don't allow it you don't give the defense an opportunity for an out. I understand and can sympathize with your point of view. However, sometimes when the book says that can't do something doesn't mean we prevent them from doing it. For example, not allowed to return to a base missed or left early after they have scored. The rule book says they can't but if they decide to go back, we let them and I still have an out on a dead ball appeal.