Monday, April 24, 2006

by Erik Nilson
Contributing Editor

High School Liabilities

Nilson,

I have some questions about high school rules because I am concerned about possible liabilities. I think I remember these points from training, but nobody else seems to remember. I can't tell you how many coaches, when I enforce any of the following say, "You know hardly anybody enforces that but you!"

1. Should we keep all players in the dug-out when they're not in the game?

2. Do all ball shaggers and spotters have to wear a helmet?

3. On a pitch that is a called ball (doesn't bounce), or called strike, must the batter keep one foot in the box?

4. Can teams keep their bats outside the dug-out?

– DT

DT, excellent questions.  

1. First of all, yes, all players must stay in the dugout if they are not playing on defense, batting, on deck, or coaching a base. The same rule requires coaches to remain in the dugout too, but we generally give them a little more slack. We must make sure the players are off the field and protected. Rule 3-3-1 (j)

2. All non-adult ball shaggers and non-adult spotters must wear helmets, which is the number one point of emphasis this year. That means any players chasing down a foul ball, or anyone protecting players warming up in the bullpen must wear a helmet. The use of a spotter is not required, but if they choose to use one the helmet is required. A good time to give a quick reminder about this rule is during the plate meeting, immediately following the coaches' confirmation that all players are legally equipped.   Rule 1-5-1

3. Any time a pitch is caught by the catcher and is called a ball or strike then is thrown directly back to the pitcher requires the batter to stay in the box with one foot. The penalty is a strike charged to the batter if, in your judgment, he caused a delay. The pitcher does not need to throw the ball for this strike to be called, and the ball remains alive. However, be reasonable. It is not necessary to call a strike every time a batter steps out of the box. A simple "Keep a foot in the box" will usually suffice.   Rule 7-3-1

4. Bats and other equipment must be kept inside the dugout when not being used, however this is rarely enforced. If you choose to enforce it, the rules back you up one hundred percent. The penalty for not keeping the bats in the dugout (as opposed to against the fence) is very umpire friendly. "If loose equipment interferes with play, the umpire may call an out(s), award bases, or return runners, based on his judgment and the circumstances concerning the play." That basically means you can do whatever you want to punish the team who left the bats out, if they interfere. If you choose to enforce the rule ahead of time, a quick reminder of that penalty will give the coach an incentive to follow the rule.   Rule 1-3-7

Nilson

Erik Nilson answers your umpire rules, mechanics and other questions in "NAIL it!" as needs arise. Send your questions to eriknil@hotmail.com