Confusion on the bases...

[AtlUmpSteve]

Like others, I haven't ever done USSSA. But I think the biggest and most telling points in the OP have been ignored.

First,

Originally Posted by OP

I here PU call time when the ball had reached back into the infield.

Does any umpire ever call time after a foul ball is returned to the infield?? PU obviously ruled a fair ball.

Second,

Originally Posted by OP

I here PU call time when the ball had reached back into the infield.

Dead ball!! Time was called. No "abandonment", or any other rule about leaving a base. No organization can possibly have a rule allowing any such ruling during dead ball play. Ever.

Just handled wrong by the umpires on the field. The OP doesn't say (or even remotely suggest) the next batter was in the box and umpire made the ball live. No rules support possible.