Coach Bringing Ball onto Field During a Conf

[JRutledge]

Originally posted by Tim C
Jeff, FEDERATION rules specifically do not allow any player or coach to hit balls to defensive players after the start of a game. It is clearly written in the "Field Conduct" rules.

Other than that there is no rule against infielders warming up with a ball during the change of a picther. If it is safe between innings it must certainly be safe at any other time.

As for an base umpire worrying about "his" own safety: well, during a change of pitcher I am in the outfield at either "B" or "C" extended so safety is not an issue.

So I think you better read your own posts:

You said the rules forbid warming up during the pitching change which is incorrect.

You yourself established that the "hitting of balls" was during a conference therefore it was not "during infield" . . .

Jeff, you've reach way out on this one.

Care to think it over?

[Edited by Tim C on Apr 19th, 2005 at 02:02 PM]

I think you are not really reading what I am saying. What I am saying is we are dealing with conferences here. We are only dealing with Rule 3-4-1 in this discussion (at least I am). We are not dealing with every single rule in the rulebook. In the conferences rules, there is no rule that allows anything outside of conferring with players.

The rule you are talking about (3-3-1d) deals with conduct that might lead to possible ejections. I am not talking about ejecting anyone. I am talking about what I am going to allow. I am not going to eject someone if they try this. I just will not allow this to talk place at all.

The casebook is the book for FED that gives interpretations or clarifications. There is no play that addresses this under Rule 3-4-1 as well.

If someone disagrees, contact the state and ask them. If they feel this should be allowed, then they will contact me and put out information that clarifies what is allowed or not allowed during a defensive conference. If the state allows it, I will do what the state allows. I never said the rules could not be interpreted that way, I am saying I do not see it that way.

Peace