"Leaving Early" (pitch) to pull up socks

[blueskysblue]

It may not be called routinely, however, FED rule 8-7-1 is pretty clearly stated: "Once the runner stops at a base for any reason, she will be declared out if she leaves the base". This, of course, is when the pitcher has the ball in the circle.

In my opinion, that's what "Time, blue", is for. Until it's granted, better be safe and keep contact with the base.

I have worked games for several coaches who want that called, both on their team and the opposition. So, around these parts, it usually doesn't happen at varsity level.

[Rachel]

I agree with AtlUmpSteve.

Does it have a material effect on the game?

Another question in this same vein. Do you call leaving early if they aren't stealing? You can probably guess my answer.

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Rachel

I agree with AtlUmpSteve.

Does it have a material effect on the game?

Another question in this same vein. Do you call leaving early if they aren't stealing? You can probably guess my answer.

That one I have more trouble with, although it is clearly a Billy P. philosophy; and knowing where you are, of course that is one of your teachers. My problem is that we are to call leaving early immediately, with a "no pitch"; and to me, to be believable and credible, that call has to happen before the ball reaches the plate. Later than that, we are in danger of appearing to decide who, and when we choose to enforce the rule against. In order to know that an aggressive lead isn't a steal, you just can't wait that long without losing some credibility.

I understand the philosophy and the rationale (and have the greatest respect for Billy P.); just have some issues getting that timing right, without appearing to pick and choose when to enforce.

[SC Ump]

I had similar situation in playoff games this year.

R1 at first had left lead foot on the bag and right foot was behind the bag in foul territory.

R1 decided to switch feet by first moving left foot behind the bag and then placing right foot on the bag as the lead foot.

Clearly not trying to "take a lead", just a dumb mistake.

I 'warned' the base coach after the inning, asking her to explain to her player to please not put me in the position where I have to call a nit-picky out.

I coached a FP travel team for seven years, playing in a tournament I had a runner on third lose her balance and stumbled lifting her foot off the base and the ump rung her up. I looked at him and said I know you can make that call I just don't believe you did it. He just smiled and walked away.

[ASA/NYSSOBLUE]

Yet another rule which needs to be worded better....

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by Rachel

Another question in this same vein. Do you call leaving early if they aren't stealing? You can probably guess my answer.

Speaking ASA

We all have our opinions of how to handle this, but one thing must be remembered. An umpire who makes this call is NOT wrong. Nothing in the rule even remotely suggests that the runner is out for "leaving early" or to advance to the next base. The runner would be out for failing to remain in contact with the bag prior to the pitcher releasing the ball.

If the umpire calls the runner out, don't jump on the umpire. Jump on the runner for not keeping contact, or the coach for not teaching the player the rules.