Expert: Martin Hoover - 4/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: A runner is on second.  The ball goes past the batter, but not the catcher, so the runner heads about 1/3 down the base line to tease the pitcher.  The pitcher is not yet on the rubber.  At what time must the runner be back on second or make a break for third?  I have asked 5 umps and gotten diff. answers from each.

ANSWER: Doug,

The runner may return to the base or advance at any time until the pitcher has possession of the ball and is prepared to pitch, and the catcher is in the catchers box, ready to receive the pitch.  At that point, the umpire must place the runner back on the bag.

I hope this has helped.  Should you have any other questions, please feel free to ask!

-Martin Hoover

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The part about the catcher is particularly interesting.  Can I follow up on two short ones? If the pitchers foot is on the rubber but he is not in the set position I assume the runner can still go:?  Second, if the pitcher is on the rubber and ready to go but the catcher is still standing the play is still on?  Last, is there anyplace in the book or other place that speaks to this?  Everyone seems confused up here.  Thanks so much

Answer
Doug,

The key words: READY TO DELIVER THE PITCH.  It does not sound like the pitcher is ready to deliver the pitch in your first question, so yes, runners may advance.

If the pitcher is ready to deliver the pitch, and the catcher is standing in the catchers box, this can be interpreted as ready to receive the pitch (think intentional walks).  So no, the runners may not advance just because a catcher is standing.

As for a spot in the rule book, there is rule 7.13.  For more clarification in writing, you would need the publication of "The Right Call", which you can purchase from Little League.

-Martin Hoover