Thrown Bat

[dlsumpntx]

NFHS & ASA: What are the thrown bat penalties?

[RKBUmp]

Both nfhs and asa if it is done in anger it is an ejection. In nfhs a thrown bat is a team warning and next instance is a restriction to the bench . if a thrown bat interfere with a fielders ability to make a play on the batted ball it is interference in both nfhs and asa.

[Dakota]

Originally Posted by RKBUmp

Both nfhs and asa if it is done in anger it is an ejection. In nfhs a thrown bat is a team warning and next instance is a restriction to the bench . if a thrown bat interfere with a fielders ability to make a play on the batted ball it is interference in both nfhs and asa.

To clarify for NFHS. (Rules 3-6-3 and 3-6-16)

If done deliberately (doesn't use the words "in anger"), then the penalty is ejection, with the umpire given the option of a warning to the player if judged to be "of a minor nature", with the player ejected if the act is repeated.

If done "carelessly", the penalty is a team warning with the next offender on the team restricted to the bench.

(And, of course, the penalty for interference in both cases if that applies.)

[AtlUmpSteve]

To add on:

One of the still-remaining myths of the game is that umpires can call a batter out for throwing a bat; that is only true if it interferes with a play. It doesn't matter that it hit the catcher or the umpire, or if you have warned them. But, so many rec leagues have rules aout it that people believe there is such a rule.

You also cannot use the God rule which only applies when/if there is no specfic ruling. It is not an out, you cannot make it one. You can eject/restrict the player if 1) done deliberately, 2) done carelessly, or 3) endangers another player. Personally, I prefer referencing #3, if a repeat performance.

[MD Longhorn]

I hate that so many people think there's a penalty for this. It's worse than the hands are part of the bat myth.

[Dakota]

Interesting technicality from the way the NFHS rules are written...

Case 1:

2nd inning, player A deliberately throws her bat, but it is well clear of anyone, and while deliberate, it was judged to be a minor infraction by the PU. PU warns the player. 4th inning, player B accidentally throws her bat. PU issues a team warning.

Case 2:

2nd inning, player A accidently throws her bat. PU issues a team warning. 4th inning, player B accidentally throws her bat. PU restricts player B to the bench.