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TAP: "as it's defeating the purpose of the courtsey runner rule."
C1: " because it violates the spirit of the rule. Most CR use is just to get in a pinch runner for a slow pitcher or catcher,"
The CR is a speed up rule! It is available only for the catcher and pitcher - to get them off the bases and ready for the next inning. Most H.S. coaches will at least get their catcher off the bases, especially when there are two out.
Thus I can not see where allowing a CR in this situation would be a violation of the intent or spirit of the rule; it actually supports the CR rule.
After the first inning, the pitcher is identified as the last player to play that position defensively. So if slow Nellie gets on base, you can not say she is going in to pitch in the bottom of the inning and send a CR in for her. But is this case, the pitcher has been established, and is now legally on base - so if it was my call - I would say legal.
So - when does Mike "chime" in?
WMB
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