"Leaving Early" (pitch) to pull up socks

[Dakota]

14U rec level fastpitch. ASA rules.

Runner gets on base, and is of the type that sets up waiting on the pitch with her "back" leg on the bag and the "front" leg forward down the baseline toward the next base. She has a bad habit of once she has taken this position, she will pick up her foot (off the bag) to adjust her socks, or her slider, or whatever. Clearly, she is not taking her lead-off step. She is just adjusting her uniform, etc. I don't call it, but tell the coach between innings that her player #99 needs to be more aware of herself while on the bases and not lose contact with the bag, etc.

Long-winded way to the question.

In a game that mattered (higher level ball, tournament, etc.), would any of you NOT call this?

[WestMichBlue]

I would not. I don't think that breaking contact with the base is the same as leaving early, WRT the intent or spirit of the rule. I see runners breaking contact all the time, as they get up after sliding, or to change or re-adjust their feet, etc.

WMB

[CecilOne]

Originally Posted by WestMichBlue

I would not. I don't think that breaking contact with the base is the same as leaving early, WRT the intent or spirit of the rule. I see runners breaking contact all the time, as they get up after sliding, or to change or re-adjust their feet, etc.

WMB

Right, no call even by me, and if I mentioned it to the coach it would be after the game.

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Dakota

In a game that mattered (higher level ball, tournament, etc.), would any of you NOT call this?

No way is this called in higher level ball. In NCAA, say goodbye to your last assignment.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

No way is this called in higher level ball. In NCAA, say goodbye to your last assignment.

What's the difference between this and calling a runner out for stepping off to clear a few pebbles on the field out of the way where the runner would take her first step?

[Dakota]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

What's the difference between this and calling a runner out for stepping off to clear a few pebbles on the field out of the way where the runner would take her first step?

That situation was on my mind when I posted the question... The player I was describing was not merely lifting her foot above the base. She was a clear step off the base.

[CecilOne]

Originally Posted by Dakota

That situation was on my mind when I posted the question... The player I was describing was not merely lifting her foot above the base. She was a clear step off the base.

Still no call, if clearly not for taking a lead. Probably call time, in line with the player's probable thiinking. Don't say no mind-reading. The player is visibly doing something that has nothing to do with the game. Similar to noticing that two players are about to switch helmets and calling time to prevent a helmet violation.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by CecilOne

Still no call, if clearly not for taking a lead. Probably call time, in line with the player's probable thiinking. Don't say no mind-reading. The player is visibly doing something that has nothing to do with the game. Similar to noticing that two players are about to switch helmets and calling time to prevent a helmet violation.

Agree with the preventive umpiring measure of just calling time if you see this.

However, I don't believe the umpire who made the call against UCLA a few years back took any grief. If I remember correctly, Enquist seemed more frustrated with the player than angry at the umpire.

Reason you kill the play is that even though the move may look innocent, at what point do you determine it is okay and not a ploy trying to get a slight jump?

[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.