Is that documented anywhere besides internet boards?

Yes. 2005 NFHS Casebook Rule 8-3-3 Situation B.

I don't yet have 2006 book to compare; in Georgia, it is a fall sport.

Thanks. It is still there in 2006, also without a rule reference. Odd ruling, IMO. Defense's best option is to just do nothing. No risk of overthrow or other error.

Tom,

Yes, I saw the response, but do not understand how R2 would be in voilaton of LBR if R2 started to return to 1st.

Here is my thinking about the situation. With the situation as described, R2 is liable to be put out if tagged, because R2 is not legally occupying a base. Since R2 is not legally occupying a base, R2 is technically off base between 1st and 2nd when the ball is received by F1 in the circle and LBR goes into effect. Why would the LBR not be applied as if R2 is off base between 1st and 2nd in this situation?

Thanks

GaryB

The LBR does not speak to a legally occupied base. It only talks about "a base".

So, while both runners are not entitled to remain on the same base, neither runner will be in violation of the LBR so long as they both remain there. But, if F1 has the ball in the circle, and the ball is live, and F1 is not making a play, then either runner would be out if either left the base.

Since the legal remedy of tagging the trail runner is in the book, how does she justify calling the out? I know you said there is no rule cited but dang. I like the ASA remedy better and if a fed game was protested over it, I guess I would get a game off for blowing it. If the defense can't make outs that are outs by rule, why reward them?
Mini rant over

BTW who is Mary Struckoff

Mary Struckhoff is the assistant director for the NFHS and the rules editor for softball.

Thanks Tom, I see now that last legal base touched is not to be considered when applying the LBR.

GaryB

Is that something like the above "if pitcher attempts (not coach deciding), then "dead ball, no pitch". I would then call R2 out"?

Found that ASA Casebook play -