Expert: Andrew Senger - 7/24/2009

Question
There was a play at the plate. Catcher was 4 ft. in front of the plate on the baseline and had possession of the ball. Runner jumps over the catcher to avoid direct contact. IS the runner safe or out? Little League 9-10 division. By the way, I called him safe.

Answer
Henry,

The ruling here all depends on the Official Rules for the league you're umpiring. I'm not experienced with Little League Rules, so I would suggest you check with the Umpire-in-Charge or a league official.

That said, I will answer a bit with my experience. While kids are younger, rules are changed to make the game safer. Sometimes, rules are added as well, and your question is one that shows up somewhat frequently. However, it's not even universal. For example, in Major League Baseball, it is legal to leap or jump over a fielder. In High School baseball (Fed Rules), a runner can only leap or jump if the fielder is on his stomach or back. In a local league I work, no leaping or jumping over fielders is allowed.

You can see how confusing it can get. My advise is to find your answer in the Little League Rulebook.