Slung the bat

[Al]

Originally Posted by Smiley

Substitution was proper. Penalty does not include an out.

In USSSA coach pitch throwing a bat results in a team warning and the next player that throws a bat is called out, with no one advancing on the play. It's a complete judgment call as to what constitutes a thrown bat. I had to use that judgment a few times last year, and only once did the second offense come where I rules an out, and I had no arguments from any coaches. I don't judge a bat to have been thrown, unless it is pretty obvious and could have put someone in harms way. ..I did have one lady tell me she thinks I should call it more often. I told her I don't think just tossing the bat down towards foul territory, as they are starting towards first base, is what is meant by throwing the bat. In a nice way I told her if she wants to make judement calls she should seek an umpire job. ...

Nothin' like fun at the ole' ball park!