F3 in Foul Territory

[Delaware Blue]

Originally Posted by PWL

I was thinking all fielders must have at least one foot in fair territory. It is not just limited to F3. (FED rules)

You're correct. I slipped back to the original post which was about F3. But it applies to all fielders other than F2. It's just that F3 is usually the offender, but I've seen F5 do the same thing.

Originally Posted by PWL

F2 is supposed to have both feet in his box... On the other hand, you do get a great view of the strike zone........

Better hope he has long arms if the pitch comes inside...

[LakeErieUmp]

There's no penalty, it's a "come on, son. You know the rule" and hold up play until he complies deal. Hard to apply from C but you can certainly call over from B.

[DG]

Fed = one foot in, penalty=ball or balk at TOP. OBR = two feet in, penalty= any play is nullified, although in actual practice in the major leagues it's one foot in.

I have never called it or seen anyone call it.

[LakeErieUmp]

Probably for good reason DG. It's one of those we-shouldn't-let-him-pitch-until-F3's-in-place deals.
"Sorry coach. Yeah, I should have held up your pitcher until his first baseman was where he was supposed to be but I didn't so you lose." May as well start calling "catcher balks" for leaving the box on pitch outs.

[BigUmp56]

This is the professional interpretation:

Customs and Usage: First basemen often position one foot in foul territory while holding a runner on first base. On the Major League level, this is acceptable and not considered a violation of the rule. The National Association Leagues' umpires are instructed to permit this unless a complaint is raised. If so, they are told to enforce the rule as written for both teams (similar to the "coach being out of the box" type situation). Defensive players are not allowed to be in foul territory to back-up appeal plays or pitches. No penalty is provided. The umpire simply does not allow play while this condition exists. If a player refuses to comply, he should be ejected.

PLAY:In holding the runner on 1st, the 1st baseman has one foot completely in foul territory.

RULING: In Major League play, this is completely legal. National Association Leagues instruct their umpires to allow this unless a complaint is lodged. In that case, strict compliance with 4.03 is required.



Tim.