Excessive Time Outs
 

I was working a JV game today, which was moving along well. In the 3rd inning, the coach of the home team instructed his batters to ask for time (to break the pitcher's rhythm). The batters asked for time about 10 - 12 times during the inning. The pitcher would toe the rubber and get the sign and the batter would ask for time. At no time did the batter ask for time when the pitcher began his delivery. Any suggestions or is this legit?

njdevs00cup,

Just say "No".

JM

It's really that simple isn't it? Asking for and getting are two different things.

this is where you just look directly at the pitcher, watch the pitcher start his motion, watch the pitch coming in, call the pitch...wash, rinse, repeat.

when you have obviously deliberate attempts to delay the game ten to twelve times in an inning, just dont give in.

Simply do not give them time.

Its too late now
 

It is not legit, but did you ask the coach about it?
The coach should only get one offensive visit per inning.
Advise the kid to go talk to his coach after granting his TO request.
;) In NJ, that's it, no more, ya basta! :D

If you think they are doing it to get in F1's head, just say "no, stay in here."

It's worth mentioning in this context that sometimes batters decide to step out even though we have not granted time out. We have a rule for that: stepping out with one foot yields an automatic strike, no matter where the pitch is. Stepping out with two feet can yield two strikes: one for the pitch (no matter the location) if the pitcher pitches, and one for delay. The ball remains live (until you call time to explain it to the O-coach :) ). 7-3-1

Just to clarify you point the way I understand it. If he steps out with one foot the pitcher must deliver the pitch for the strike to be called ? Two feet one strike for stepping out and one for the pitch if delivered?

Who knew that Nancy Reagan was an umpiring expert!:D

I've held up a hand, wnet in front of the plate, and asked the batters "are you all done with the gardening, now?"

Gets the pont across that you won't be granting time for no reason.

Thank you for the feedback and advice! Great quote!