On Deck Batter

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by rwest

Mike, I meant no disrepect. I was just debating a point. Had you mentioned conversations with the NUS, I would have taken that as the truth.

I apologize for any disrepect that may have come through from my post.

Sincerely,
Randall

Thank you, but not really necessary. I like a good discussion as well as anyone, probably more so. And, as most on here know, I will push back a little harder than some.

BTW, I still think you are reading more into it.

[rwest]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

Thank you, but not really necessary. I like a good discussion as well as anyone, probably more so. And, as most on here know, I will push back a little harder than some.

BTW, I still think you are reading more into it.

Your comments? The rule? I've given up my interp. Now its either a blocked ball or interference no matter where the ODB is!

[Dakota]

RS 16 on Dugout Conduct comes pretty darned close. You do have to read a little between the lines to get that the ODB is not one of the "players involved in the game" but rather a player allowed to be outside of the dugout by rule.

[RKBUmp]

As it appears that a ball contacting the ODB must be ruled either a blocked ball or interference, what is to stop the defense from using this to their advantage to kill a play and return runners to the last base touched or attempt to get a free out?

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by RKBUmp

As it appears that a ball contacting the ODB must be ruled either a blocked ball or interference, what is to stop the defense from using this to their advantage to kill a play and return runners to the last base touched or attempt to get a free out?

The umpires.

Use the same judgment and authority that allows you to refuse to rule obstruction when you judge a runner goes out of their normal running pattern to appear to be impeded, to refuse to award a base to a batter that appears to want to be hit by the pitch, and to declare a catcher aiming at a runner out of the running lane without making an attempt to make the play an unsportsmanlike act. Rule 10.

[HugoTafurst]

Originally Posted by RKBUmp

As it appears that a ball contacting the ODB must be ruled either a blocked ball or interference, what is to stop the defense from using this to their advantage to kill a play and return runners to the last base touched or attempt to get a free out?

In addition to the information from AtlUmpSteve.

In most cases the defense would be taking quite a chance trying to force that blocked ball.