Injuries

[IRISHMAFIA]

Portion lifted from another topic.

Originally posted by Andy

This runner is out for violating the LBR. Don't like it and would expect some heat from the offensive coach, but really don't have any choice. Ball is live, this is not a life-threatening injury, I have no rule basis to kill the play and place this runner on either first or second base.

Maybe in this scenario where you've been given the cause.

However, let's look beyond that. How do you know it's not a life-threatening injury? Even a doctor, nurse, EMT, etc. is not capable of an immediate, long-distance diagnosis.

This is the only problem I have with the rule from the umpire's side. What is to keep a player realizing they may be in trouble if F8 really lets one loose, so s/he just drops and howls as if in pain? Or just goes down silently!

I'm not against getting a player medical attention as soon as possible, but I don't care for the burden of determining what is a minor or serious injury. I can only invision an umpire thinking a player pulled up lame and not stopping the play only to find out that the individual may have had a stroke.

I can hear it now, "that umpire caused this by not calling time." Next thing I know, I'm getting a call from a lawyer. Thank goodness, we are insured, but to be honest, I'm still uncomfortable with the responsibility.