Balk/Illegal Pitch???

[David Emerling]

Originally Posted by bkbjones

Why others publicly publish their rules I have no idea, but it's a stupid idea. Anyone who pays their dues can get a rule book. Teams get rule books, leagues get rule books, umpires get rule books - all they have to do is register.

Your question is backwards. The question should be, "Why do some organizations not publish their rules (on the internet)?"

To be fair to ASA, they are joined by NFHS in this proprietary approach to their rules.

Why should the rules only be available to umpires and registered teams? What's the logic in that?

Why can't the average person (i.e. fan) have access to those rules?

Face it - it's a money making thing!

Umpires frequently complain about how ignorant fans are of their rulings. I think anybody should be able to look up (and educate themselves) as to what "obstruction" is, how it is determined, and what the penalties for the infraction are. What's the big deal?

What's the harm in making the rules open to the general public?

They'll take your money at the gate but not extend you the right to fully understand the game you're paying for.

The game is not all about the players, coaches, and umpires.

Sporting events are public exhibitions!

Heck, if you like a certain song you can easily find the lyrics to that song on the internet. You may have to PAY to hear the song, but the lyrics are FREE. Why would a sporting event be any different?

David Emerling
Memphis, TN