My first post back.

[rwest]

Originally Posted by mbcrowder

No, they don't say either. The exact words are... "If no attempt is made to avoid being hit..." On the rare occasion that this is discussed at a clinic, a runner is generally responsible for avoiding the pitch IF SHE CAN. I cannot find a way to interpret that logically that doesn't include some sort of judgement as to the player's abilities (of which age/experience is a part)

Will you take player's ability into account when calling IFR? The rule says ordinary effort. Will you pass on enforcing the IFR because the players ability makes any catch of a infield fly more than ordinary effort?

I'm not disagreeing with you on the hit by pitch scenario by the way. At the younger ages I've been instructed that if they get hit by a pitch give them first base. I'm talking 10U here. At this age they are not looking to get hit by the pitch so they can get on base. Sometimes they get the dear in the head light look and don't know what to do.

I'm just pointing out the fact that you are using a phrase not in the book to help you enforce the rules, just like some of us use "she's doing what she is supposed to do" to help us with interference. Can this phrase get an umpire in trouble? Sure, if not used properly. But so can using the players ability. If not used appropriately it can lead an umpire down the wrong path.