Courtesy Runner

[David Emerling]

Just to add to the discussion ...

Under ASA, let's say the offense screws up and uses a CR for the pitcher when this same runner CR'd for the catcher in a previous inning.

If the umpire recognizes it, he should immediately prohibit the substitution - correct?

What if the umpire does NOT notice? This makes the runner an illegal substitute - correct? But yet, the only thing that is "illegal" about the substitution is that she is a CR. In any other respect, the player COULD substitute for the catcher, just not as a CR.

Let's say the coach announces, "#15 is running for my catcher!"

The umpire needs to have him make it clear whether this is a COURTESY runner or a PINCH runner. The player can't be a CR but she can be a substitute.

This could become a real can of worms.

David Emerling
Memphis, TN