Babe Ruth rule question

[Blue37]

Originally Posted by johnnyg08

Yeah, there is a retouch the base rule which was designed for this type of play...

NCAA and MLB rules do require a retouch but, in Fed, the rule does not require a "retouch", only a "return". (8-2-2)

The following Authoritative Opinion from Jim Evans as cited in the 2009 BRD is applicable for MLB and, by extension, Babe Ruth if that is the source of their core rules: "Professional umpires routinely put the ball back in play before runners actually retouch. As a matter of fact, many runners never actually retouch their original bases before the next pitch is delivered. This is a common and accepted practice in pro baseball. Umpires, however, are cautioned to make sure runners are back in the close vicinity of their original bases before they put the ball in play in accordance with Rule 5.11."

Follow-up question: What is the penalty if the runner does not retouch after a foul ball?

[johnnyg08]

I'm pretty sure it's a "don't do that" then if he's non compliant, you can eject. As you stated, Babe Ruth uses modified OBR...there's a significant difference between kids and adults playing under pro rules. Umpires typically should manage the game differently. At least that's how I'd train a new umpire.

As I said earlier, I'm not going to ticky-tack if there's not a physical retouch. The purpose of the rule is to eliminate the sitatuation I listed above.

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by Blue37

Follow-up question: What is the penalty if the runner does not retouch after a foul ball?

Nothing. It's not even a "don't do that."

Without the rule, as has been alluded to before, either the offense would tak an 89' lead and easily steal the next base once the ball was in play, or the defense would try to get the ball in play when the runner was 45' from the base and get an easy out.

As long as both teams are happy with the runner's position, put the ball in play.

[mbyron]

I agree with Bob.

And, if you screw it up: fix it and start over.

[jdmara]

First of all, I agree with Bob. Once the ball is put in play by the umpire every runner is assumed to have retouched.

Some guys around this area take the literal approach to the rule and require each runner to touch the base before play can resume. IMO this is unneeded and drags the game out. I make sure they are close and then lets get going as long as everyone is ready for play.

-Josh

[johnnyg08]

Originally Posted by jdmara

Some guys around this area take the literal approach to the rule and require each runner to touch the base before play can resume.

Classic OOO