Baseball Instruction/Runner Leaving Early

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Expert: - 5/4/2007


Question
QUESTION: There is a lot of confusion regarding what to do when a runner leaves before the ball reaches the batter. Is there a situation where that runner would be out?
ANSWER: Michael,

I need more information about what type of league you play in.  In the major leagues, there is no such thing as leaving early.

Please send me a followup.

Brian

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

QUESTION: This is for the minors of Little League Baseball

Answer
Michael,

I can't answer this with authority, because the little league rulebook isn't available on line.  I believe the penalty is that the runner is ruled out for leaving early (if the defensive team appeals).  It must be an appeal play.

Hope this helps!

Brian

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Brian Flaspohler

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Questions about baseball rules, general information about the game, statistical analysis, questions about players, questions about Baseball records. I am a member of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) and a lifelong baseball fanatic. Don't ask me questions about training - this is not my area of expertise.

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