Courtesy Runner/Substitution

[UmpTTS43]

Originally Posted by mrm21711

Under NFHS rules: SS bats a double and coach wants to put in a substitute runner for the him. Coach requests time and is granted time and makes the switch. Earlier in the game, the same SS has already had a PR for him, so he has already used his reentry privileges and would be out of the game. However, coach realizes he made a mistake and wants the SS to come back out in the next half inning to pitch. As time is still out and the ball is still dead, coach has the SS return to 2B to run.

My understanding of the NFHS rule is the substitute is not entered until he takes his place and the ball is live. Therefore, he would be allowed to come back in and run. Is this correct? I noticed 3-1-1 contains some language about "should there be no announcement of substitutions..." the substitute has entered the game when ball is live and he takes his place. Does this mean announcement by PU to the scorekeeper? The rule does not seem to explain this. Thanks.

Sticky situation here. The question becomes when do you recognize the substitution.

IMO, if the coach realizes the ramifiacations of the PR before you put the ball back in play, I would allow the "re-entry" of the SS." If, however, the defensive coach brings it to your attention, the SS would not be allowed to return. Preventative umpiring in this sitch. My determining factor would be, who knows the rule better? Call me on it and I would enforce the rule to the letter. Otherwise, no harm, no foul. This is where we are to make judements that we are paid for. I can explain it either way.