2 outs defense leaves field...call?

[youngump]

Originally Posted by rybo

I solo umpired a 14U JO game. Situation runners on first and second, 1 out...runner on second tries to steal 3rd gets thrown out defensive runs off the field they think it is 3 outs. Runner on first waits with first base coach and then they start to run off the infield, runner gets two steps beyond 3rd base foul line...not out of play. Third base coach asks me "umpire two outs right?" I say, for both sides to hear, "YES and ball is in play" (ball laying on the ground in pitchers circle). Runner starts back to first base and makes it back safely. Defensive team trys to come back on the field and tag out the runner. Defensive team claims the runner is out for running out of the base line. I deny it and say your team left the field there was no play on her and she was not out. In my rules review I found ASA section 8 RUNNER IS NOT OUT. B "When a runner does not run in a direct line to a base, provided the fielder in the direct line does not have the ball in their possession". Any thoughts in confirmation to what I called or otherwise will be appreciated. Also by rule 8 B the runner could have run from the third base foul line direct to second base?

As long as the defense thinking there were three outs is not your fault than I don't see how you could kill it or do anything else besides let it play out.

As for the runners behavior, she's certainly not out, what rule could make him out? The runner could go to second as long as she hasn't passed third. Passing third is a judgment call, and I'd have trouble saying a runner missed second and third in this description. But if she stepped right over third, then I think you'd have to.