Thoughts on a Look-Back Rule case

[RKBUmp]

For purposes of fielding a batted ball the circle has no meaning, the pitcher is no different than any other fielder. Rule supplement 34 E.

[chapmaja]

Originally Posted by RKBUmp

For purposes of fielding a batted ball the circle has no meaning, the pitcher is no different than any other fielder. Rule supplement 34 E.

The only question this brings up is at what point does the fielding of a batter ball end, and does the LBR portion requiring posession of the ball in the circle begin?

I'm not arguing with you, as I think we both would agree this OP is not a LBR violation, the question is when does the prohibition begin?

[BretMan]

Originally Posted by chapmaja

The only question this brings up is at what point does the fielding of a batter ball end, and does the LBR portion requiring posession of the ball in the circle begin?

When the umpire judges it to be so. That's why we get paid the big bucks.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by BretMan

When the umpire judges it to be so. That's why we get paid the big bucks.

^^^ this. Just like the pitcher who fields a ground ball or line drive.

The umpire must judge that the pitcher is no longer acting as a fielder, but is now taking the position of a pitcher.

I would strongly encourage the umpire to be very deliberate in making that determination and giving the runner(s) an extra heartbeat or two to react by returning or advance to the base prior to enforcing the LBR.