Batter-Runner on uncaught 3rd strike and loose ball

[Andy]

Originally Posted by chapmaja

Ok, I lied, I will comment again.

Finally, I think we are on the same page. Personally to me, it still doesn't matter how far away the ball bounces. The defense has caused this situation by failing to catch the pitch. Unless the offense does something to actually interfere, I will not call anything.

The rule sucks for all of the reasons you have mentioned. But it is the rule.
I had to call this Friday night in a state tournament semi-final game.

I also had to talk to the coach who gave me all the reasons that it shouldn't be interference...it wasn't intentional, the ball hit the B/R, she was only running to first, etc, etc.....

Until the rule is changed, we MUST call it the way it is worded, no matter our personal opinion.

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by Andy

The rule sucks for all of the reasons you have mentioned. But it is the rule.
I had to call this Friday night in a state tournament semi-final game.

I also had to talk to the coach who gave me all the reasons that it shouldn't be interference...it wasn't intentional, the ball hit the B/R, she was only running to first, etc, etc.....

Until the rule is changed, we MUST call it the way it is worded, no matter our personal opinion.

FWIW, there are other rule sets (primarily in baseball) where BRs are not always held accountable for unintentionally contacting an uncaught third strike on their way to first base. I believe under pro rules (OBR), the BR is only guilty if he clearly had an opportunity to avoid the ball (e.g., the ball ended up ten feet up the first base line).

Unfortunately, that's not the case in softball.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Ooohh....let's see if we can pry another post.

If you have a problem with this rule, how do you feel about the NFHS interpretation on the application of the 3' lane on a BR who has been awarded 1B via a base on balls?

[CecilOne]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

Ooohh....let's see if we can pry another post.

If you have a problem with this rule, how do you feel about the NFHS interpretation on the application of the 3' lane on a BR who has been awarded 1B via a base on balls?

AAAGGGGHHHH ~!!!!! (the post, not the rule )