I know it's been covered before, but I can't find the old thread

[MD Longhorn]

Originally Posted by SamG

Honestly, don't know. I think he just started walking out.

That totally explains the PU and BU taking their positions and saying play ball.

That makes sense. Is there a proper way to ask what the umpire saw? "Hey Blue, why is she out?" seems simple and too the point, but also sounds argumentative.

Not in this case. There is obviously confusion, as she was not ruled out initially. "Why is she out" is a completely valid question.

Is there any harm in protesting? Not to extremes, but let's say just once a tournament (like on this play). If a coach protests (I assume that's when UIC is called in) and the umpire's call is upheld, is there any downside? Do umpires "hold it against" a coach for getting the UIC's opinion?

BTW, thanks.

No, not at all. Most leagues have a protest fee that you get back if you're right. Tourney's? Heck no. You should absolutely protest when a rule is screwed up by an umpire. I know I don't hold it against anyone. Now ... protesting often when you're WRONG can have some repercussions, so you better know you're right.