1st and 3rd

Originally Posted by johnnyg08

I understand all that you're saying and I also agree with you...my only question is how to explain this to a coach while using MLB rules...after all, we, as umpires, know it's okay...but what in the rules states that it is okay or is not okay. I read rule 7 with regard to the runner and the only thing I could find is as long as a play isn't being made on the runner that he can't violate the baseline rule...is that it? once a play is made on him the runner must head one way or another?

Again, I understand it...but when the politely coach comes out to discuss teh call after asking for, and being granted time...I think we owe him a better explanation than simply saying "that's how it is coach..."

Thank you for your previous post.

If any of you belong to the FED discussion forum - there was a long thread about a month or so ago. As far as running outside the baseline, the thread goes on to discuss how a runner makes his own baseline as soon as someone tries to make a play. If it's still available I'll see if I can find some of the posts. It was rather lengthy.