Use of Stopwatch

[bob jenkins]

Originally posted by blacktiger
I recently saw a base umpire tell a first base coach that the coach couldn't use a stopwatch to time pitchers and catchers. The umpire stated that it was use of an electronic device. I thought that this was a stretch of what an electronic device was. I know there is a rule that prohibits the use of electronic devices. Was this umpire right? Opinions or comments?

FED 3-3-1i "A coach shall not ... have any object in his posession in the coach's box other than a rule book or scorebook (which shall be used for scorekeeping purposes only)."

The umpire made a correct, but booger-picking, ruling.

On the "electronic devises" issue -- rule 3-3-1e lists a restriction on "television monitoring or replay equipment."
An interp this year extended that to a radar gun.