What's the haps from Kentucky?

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

So then why are we even there? I think that's terrible.

The last league I called in that used a mat also had a provision that roughly stated "if the pitch did not hit the mat, a strike may still be called if the umpire judges it to be a legal ASA strike."

This "mat" rule, as recommended for approval by the Playing Rules Committee (REMEMBER THE PROCESS: THESE ARE NOT YET RULE CHANGES!!) applies only to the Senior Softball divisions.

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Skahtboi

This one is just going to lead to a lot of local leagues writing their own rule governing "beer" ball, or else a mass exodus to USSSA.

This was an amendment to the rule that also required ejections for smoking anywhere while the game is in process; and, as amended, was not subject to consideration by the other prior subcommittee's. Even though Playing Rules Committee approved, don't bet on it. Leagues are free to adopt local rules to allow the beer; the points raised were that 1) they would now have to formally approve the practice, whereas before, the "understanding" that is was considered acceptable left umpires and, thus, ASA, potentially liable, and 2) that this provided some teeth and support for leagues, umpires, and associations that did not wish to allow it.

Also, understand that some items that were recommended for rejection can still be reopened by any voting Council Member; it just requires a 60% +1 to override the committee recomendations.

[bkbjones]

Originally Posted by Ref Ump Welsch

The booze has already eaten away at their common sense.

Wait...you have SP players with common sense? Do tell...

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

I'm surprised it didn't include anything about the players showing up "tanked" before the game.

This proposed rule AND code change is nothing more than a tool for the umpire to use when the presence of alcohol is evident and associated with a participant. No need to go looking for problems, just act on what one observes. This may not be a problem in some places, but it is in others.

Originally Posted by bkbjones

Wait...you have SP players with common sense? Do tell...

We have a few. The others....hmmm, you're right!

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

This "mat" rule, as recommended for approval by the Playing Rules Committee (REMEMBER THE PROCESS: THESE ARE NOT YET RULE CHANGES!!) applies only to the Senior Softball divisions.

I know it's not done yet. And I figured when Mike said "Senior players want this rule" that he meant that the senior players proposed it, but that it would apply to all.

[wadeintothem]

Originally Posted by Skahtboi

This one is just going to lead to a lot of local leagues writing their own rule governing "beer" ball, or else a mass exodus to USSSA.

Pfft, cant wait to see if this is ever enforced. They'll be drinking their beer, while smearing gorilla gold and pine tar on the ball and swinging their weighted warm up stick at the next tourney I work.. guaranteed.

IMO, no worries about the rule change.. TDs will just insist they sneak it as now.

[wadeintothem]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

I know it's not done yet. And I figured when Mike said "Senior players want this rule" that he meant that the senior players proposed it, but that it would apply to all.

It should (and probably will soon) apply to all.. its great. All the beer leagues I work, worked, and know of use it.