Quote:
Originally posted by CecilOne
If there are no runners, like this apparently spite walk, the pitcher could fake pitch in an illegal manner four times to not risk the batter reaching the pitch. Is there any prevention or prohibition?
p.s. Intentional walks are dumb in amateur league play, but at that age are something unmentionable.
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Pretty dumb idea if there are runners on base; but as you say, "no runners"... sounds shady, whereas...
Also, I object, as a matter of principle, referring to this legal strategy as a "spite walk."
The intentional walk has been a part of the game for ages. It is a valid defensive strategy wherein the defense takes the risk of putting another runner on base of the advantage of not risking a multi-RBI hit or wanting to have a force out at multiple bases.
Perhaps the coach who originally objected believes winning stragegies should not be allowed at 10U, but swearing and throwing fits should. Interesting choice.