Pitching distance differences

[aimpink]

I've searched for this, but I cannot find if it's been discussed here already. Sorry if this is redundant.

Now that NFHS, PONY, USSSA and Babe Ruth have changed the pitching distance to 43' for some levels, what's the proper thing to do if (when) you arrive at a field with the pitching plate at the incorrect ("old" 40') distance?

Assuming that the home team (or groundskeepers) can't/won't move the pitching plate:

Common sense might indicate that if you and the coaches decide that it's not an issue, you just play the 40'. However, I think that might lead to a lot of heartburn about liability and not following the rules, etc. So, I'm thinking that's a bad idea.

I'm also thinking that you might declare the field unplayable, similar to that when it's too muddy.

Or you draw a line in the dirt? (I've seen this done for some younger 10U 35' games).

But in actual practice, what's the approach?

Thanks!

[RKBUmp]

Under FED regulations, if you find the pitching distance is incorrect, the game is not to be played until the plate is moved to the correct distance.

[derwil]

Make game management change the rubber to 43 feet immediately. If found during the game, it must be changed when found. If it's between pitches or half innings, so be it.

[MNBlue]

This is what the State of Minnesota has ruled:

Softball – must pitch from 43 feet. And there must be a pitching plate. If the plate is not at 43 feet the situation should be corrected as soon as the error is discovered. If the pitching plate cannot be moved, play the game using the plate that is in place, and be sure to file an incident report form immediately after the game.

[Tru_in_Blu]

MNBlue -

That seems to make a lot of sense. I know there are many multi-use fields in my area. Most varsity teams have a dedicated field, but JV & Freshmen might play most anywhere.

We had a tournament last year that was ASA. I had a couple of games on a field that had a PP at 40', but we had 16U games. We couldn't pull up the existing PP because it was anchored in cement. Someone came up w/ one of those temporary PPs and we used it. I was concerned about where the pitchers' would have to stride and if the plate at 40' would be a distraction at best and a hindrance at worst. Both teams' pitchers tried some pitches and they thought it would be OK. Not my preferred solution.

I think we're going to have more issues like this this season. One field could require PPs at 40, 43, 46, and 50 feet.

[dilligaf]

The direction that we have been given by NFHS in California is that the PP must be at 43' or we do not do the game. There is a huge liability issue that was cited. Even if the AD or TD states to go ahead, we are not to do the game until the issue is corrected.