Ball 4, You're Out?

[UmpJM]

Originally Posted by BayStateRef

I don't see any rules support for "appealing" a runner who has not touched a base to which he is entitled by rule. All the other explanations (abandonment, desertion, etc.) are supported by rule.

BayStateRef,

Neither do I. As a matter of fact, the rules explicitly and unequivocally state that "abandonment" is NOT an appeal play. The umpire calls it when he judges that it has occurred.

I aslo find PWL's assertion that is a simple missed base appeal just plain wrong. It's not. The runner did not advance past his advance base without touching it - he simply hasn't advanced to it - yet.

I'm a little curious as to what exactly Rich I. advised the manager to do in the LL tournament game. When I have thought about it, were I to choose to do so, the only thing I can think of would be to:

1. Make sure my (defensive) players did NOT leave fair territory.

2. When the BR finally entered the dugout or left the field of play OR the umpires started to leave the field, request "Time!" and then appeal their misapplication of the 4.09 Penalty. However, if the umps start to leave while the BR is still in LBT,

a. I don't think it would be proper for the umpire to grant Time prior to the BR completing his award (unless he had been "incapacitated"), and
b. I'm afraid it would "tip" the offense that the BR REALLY ought to go touch 1B.

So, Rich, what DID you tell the manager to do?

BayStateRef,

FWIW, I thought the way you handled the situation in your game was fine, & I don't think I would suggest you do anything differently in the unlikely event you encounter the situation again in the future. Per Bob P.'s comments quoted above in my earlier post.

JMO

JM