Game Management Opinion

[Manny A]

I'm assuming this is USA Softball guidance. If that's the case, it might work in 10U rec, or maybe Co-Ed Beer League ball. But that dog don't hunt in the vast majority of programs involving elite players. You call Time then, you'll have MORE of a problem than if we had allowed the play to continue.

Preventive umpiring in this situation would be a loud "THREE BALLS, ONE STRIKE!" the moment B2 takes off. No different than a loud "BATTER'S OUT!" when he/she takes off for first base on an uncaught third strike with less than two outs and first base occupied.

[RKBUmp]

And it goes directly against the rule book that says time should never be called with runners off base and playing action going on except in cases of medical emergency.

As I have already said on this subject, just how do you explain to the defensive coach whos team was heads up and threw down for the out that you called time and are returning the runner back to first? Both teams are responsible for knowing the game situation and playing appropriately, not the umpires job to bail out either team because they weren't paying attention.

[IRISHMAFIA]

This is not a new play or ruling. Been this way for decades.

[Tru_in_Blu]

Originally Posted by Manny A

I'm assuming this is USA Softball guidance. If that's the case, it might work in 10U rec, or maybe Co-Ed Beer League ball.

Co-ed Beer League could have stealing, but not D3K. Still, someone advancing to first on ball 3, the runner(s) are still at risk for a pick-off play correct? None of the slow pitch games I work allow stealing.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by Tru_in_Blu

Co-ed Beer League could have stealing, but not D3K. Still, someone advancing to first on ball 3, the runner(s) are still at risk for a pick-off play correct? None of the slow pitch games I work allow stealing.

As long as the pitch did not hit in front of or the plate, or the batter, it is a live ball