Expert: Andrew Mullins - 3/31/2009

Question
In our recreational league, I had a player hit a home run (out of the park), and as he rounded the bases, I gave him a "high-five" as he passed third.  Then, as he approached the plate, one of his teammates patted him on the head a second before he stepped on the plate.  The home plate umpire called the batter/runner out because he was touched by another player before touching home.  He further stated that I, as coach, could touch the player but that the other players could not.  I have looked in the rule book and consulted with numerous coaches and umpires, and I cannot find any such rule in recreational, high school, college, or pro baseball.  Can you advise if this is in fact a rule, or just a myth?  Thanks

Answer
You are correct....In all levels from little league to high school to college & the pros, once a home run is hit, the ball & all play becomes dead.  So he can high five, pat, anything can happen before or after he touches the plate & the run counts w/ no penalty.

He can even remove his helmet & throw it on the ground & continue to run the bases.  No penalty....The umpire was incorrect in his ruling.

Thanks for the question....Andy

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