Restricted to dugout?

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by johnnyg08

Well, I titled it that way since while we might not be able to judge MC, maybe we could restrict him, teach the rest of the team a lesson and save the player from a 1 game suspension in MN. Thanks for your reply.

It's not our job to "save" the player from anything. And, even if he stays in the dugout, it's still an ejection.

If it's clearly an accident, treat it as such. If it's clearly as intentional, eject and MC. If you can't tell, address it so both teams know you saw it. An "accident" won't happen again.

[johnnyg08]

In the spirit of discussion...it appears as though the rule does give us some latitude for what we might judge "minor" infractions to restrict a player to the dugout.

behavior in any manner not in accordance with the spirit of fair play

Other things that give us an opportunity to "restrict"

For discovery of an illegal player (2-36-3) on offense by an umpire or either team, that player shall be called out and restricted to the bench/dugout for the duration of the game.

An illegal player discovered on defense shall be restricted to the bench/dugout for the duration of the game.

A coach, player, substitute, attendant or other bench personnel shall not:

g. commit any unsportsmanlike act to include, but not limited to,

1. use of words or actions to incite or attempt to incite spectators
demonstrations,

2. use of profanity, intimidation tactics, remarks reflecting unfavorably
upon any other person, or taunting or baiting. The NFHS disapproves of any form of taunting that is intended or designed to embarrass, ridicule or demean others under circumstances including race, reli- gion, gender or national origin.

3. use of any language intended to intimidate,

4. behavior in any manner not in accordance with the spirit of fair play;

5. be in live ball territory (excluding team’s bullpen area) during the opponent’s infield practice prior to the start of the game.

6. any member of the coaching staff who was not the head coach (or designee) in 3-2-4 leaves the vicinity of the dugout or coaching box to
dispute a judgment call by an umpire.

For violation of g (6), both the head coach and the offend-
ing coach shall be restricted to the dugout for the remainder of the game, or if the offense is judged severe enough, the umpire may eject the offender and
restrict or eject the head coach.

So it looks like based on my OP, the option we have is a "warn" then eject if we can't prove malicious contact if B/R steps on F3's foot that is in the proper place on 1B. It does not appear (as others pointed out, "thank you") that we have a "restrict to the dugout" option on this type of play.

[ozzy6900]

I don't have to "prove" MC..... it's MC if I call it!