On deck batters

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by darkside

Thanks. I got it under definitions and under Rule-7, Section 1.

Is there a reason why they implemented this rule? Lawyers?

It was never a rule until someone tried it. You have to remember, these rules are for everyone, JO FP to Senior SP.

Ever have a game involving two teams that JUST DIDN'T GET ALONG?
Would you really want to put a player in the line of fire away from his/her own dugout? And you can make all the rules you want about no blocking the other coach's view of this or that, but to be honest, as an umpire I've got more important things to worry about than playing babysitter.

[7in60]

Hmmm. In Canada the on-deck batter can use either circle. I guess we play nicer up here.

[Dutch Alex]

Overhere we used to be easy as well in this matter. However since our batters have been sent back to their own circle in ESF and ISF tournaments, we (the ump's) are more strickt in enforcing this rule.

Whenever a lady is at bat, the on deck is in the circle and a pitcher change is coming, I sent the on deck batter back into the dug-out and the batter into the circle. The pitcher can now have the 5 warm-up pitches without an opponent watching her close-by...

Early May I had a game in Amsterdam, the home team sent two sub.'s behind the backstop, while they're at bat. These young ladies we're directed back into the dug-out aswell. If they want to spy on the pitchers, they can visit a game where they're not involved. And they will figure out my zone when they're at bat...The players are in the dug-out when they must be there, can only come out when suposed to be on the field!