runner leaving base

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by rottiron01

Slow pitch without stealing - Isn't the rule that a runner can leave a base when the ball crosses home plate? (Enters the strike zone.)
Are utilizing "tight bases" a ground rule?
Thanks for any help!

Closely paraphrasing from memory here...

ASA 8-7-R: The runner is out if he fails to remain in contact with the base to which he is entitled until a pitched ball is batted, reaches home plate, or touches the ground. Effect: Dead ball, runner out, pitch does not count.

It does not have to be a strike, it simply must "reach home plate." If you're the BU, it's tough to judge just how close it is to the plate, so I only call it if it's obvious. If you're the PU, you have a much better chance of judging it, but you have other responsibilities as well (judging the pitch, anyone?).

The most common scenario is when a runner pulls his foot on the swing. Well, if they're swinging, the pitch has most likely reached home plate.