DP/Flex Redux

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by WestMichBlue

Saying it is not a sub just confuses the issue more; technically the position is not subbed in or out, but the player is.

If the FLEX is not playing defense you are playing with nine. If the player that played the FLEX position is out of the game, then she was either subbed out by a player from the bench (playing 10) or by the DP (playing 9). The DP player that was previously on the bench during the defensive half of the inningis now in the game at that time.

The reverse is true if the DP is no longer in the game; you are playing with nine. If the player that played the DP position is out of the game, then she was either subbed out by a player from the bench (playing 10) or by the FLEX (playing 9). The FLEX player that was previously on the bench during the offensive half of the inning is now in the game at that time.

Changes to the DP/FLEX players are controlled by the Substitution Rules, including ReEntry, Unreported Sub, and Illegal Sub. I find the rule easier to understand when I consider player changes as substitutions.

WMB

I think you are confusing the issue even more. The DP/FLEX is covered by the Players, Coaches and Substitute Rule (4). Neither is even mentioned in ASA 4.6 Substitutes/Illegal Player until Para. F which notes the penalties for different violations.

When the DP leaves the game it IS a substitution because a player not in the batting order is moving into such a position. When the FLEX leaves the game NO other player is entering the game.

Even the definition of "Substitute" in Rule 1 indicates the term does not apply in the scenario where the FLEX leaves the game. A player is not "subbed" in or out. A player is either a substitute or re-entry which replaces another or is replaced by another in the batter line-up. When the FLEX leaves the game, neither occurs.

If you want to use it as a tool to remember, no problem, but I don't believe it should not be sold as a fact of the rule.