I wanted to pick your guys' mind on this little practice.

I don't know if it's a local thing or what, but here's the deal.

Let's say Team A is on the 1st Base Side Dugout. Well, if a right handed batter is due up next in the lineup. He will move to the third base side dugout and warm up in Team B's "on-deck" circle.

Is this illegal in any way? And if it is . . . (What if there is a right handed batter currently batting? Wouldn't the on-deck batter be in danger of getting hit with a foul ball).

Inside Knowledge: At the field I usually officiate on . . . the "on-deck area" is in a rather close and dangerous location.

Furthermore . . . how would you more experienced fellas legislate this practice? I appreciate it

Each team uses the on deck circle on THEIR side. If the on deck circles are in dangerous territory, don't allow them to be used.

Bob

Fair enough . . .
 

So . . . do we just not let the next batter come out of the dugout until it is his time to bat?

Re: Fair enough . . .
 

Many local youth leagues allow the practice of BOTH TEAMS using the on-deck area that it "behind" the batter (that is, by the 3rd-base dugout for RH hitters and by the 1st-base dugout for LH hitters).

Ignore it until the coaches complain, or seek direction from league officials.

Since it's a safety rule, don't allow the first batter of the inning to cross-over (there's no safety issue with standing by your dugout with no one at bat).

Keep the teams on the correct sides at HS and above (and anywhere else there is sufficient room).

Thanks
 

That's the direction I was leaning too, Bob. Thanks for the input.

Re: Fair enough . . .
 

Think about it. Are you going to allow players to be in a dangerous area?

Bob

No . . .
 

That's why I feel there is really no harm in allowing them to use the opposing team's on-deck circle.