| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| correct email | 10/1/2008 |
Q: I just posted a question about postseason wildcard rules(If the Wildcard beats #1 team, can they ...
A: Jack, The team with the best record (after the first round of the playoffs) gets the homefield ...
|
| left hander pitching from stretch | 9/29/2008 |
Q: My son's a lefty and when he pitches from the stretch position he kicks his right foot towards first ...
A: Glenn, I just can't answ3er this question based on a description alone. Balks are difficult to ...
|
| Arm Strength | 9/20/2008 |
Q: My son is 7 almost (8 in Nov.). He plays 2b most of the time, a little outfield and short. He is ...
A: Brock, Just make sure that you son practices throwing. Not just catch, but long throws. He ...
|
| winning pitcher | 9/14/2008 |
Q: My husband and I can't figure this one out. A team is winning when the starting pitcher leaves the ...
A: Typically, the pitcher awarded the win is whoever is in the game when the team takes a lead it never ...
|
| extra baseball on the field | 9/10/2008 |
Q: If while a pitcher is warming up in the bullpen and a ball bounces out of the bullpen and into the ...
A: RJ, Typically, if there is a ball that goes into play (between plays), the umpire will call time ...
|
| Wild Card Teams, Selection, Playing Games in Post Season | 9/5/2008 |
Q: I am very confused about how the Wild Card system in baseball works. I think I understand that ...
A: John, Thanks for the kind words. In my response, it was a typo. Team 4 is the wildcard team and ...
|
| Wild Card Teams, Selection, Playing Games in Post Season | 9/4/2008 |
Q: I am very confused about how the Wild Card system in baseball works. I think I understand that ...
A: John, Here's an example and I'll try and explain how it works: East Division Team 1 50-40 Team 2 ...
|
| Scoring in Baseball | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I was watching a Major League game, the batter hit into a double play 6-4-3, the runner on third ...
A: Melody, The short answer is because that's what's written in the rules. I think that it was ...
|
| Baseball Pitching Accuracy | 8/28/2008 |
Q: I am a graduate student and for my thesis I am studying the effects of a proper warm-up on pitching ...
A: Ian, If this is a controlled experiment, I'd suggest marking the ball with a dye, powder, or paint ...
|
| 8.05 (d) | 8/25/2008 |
Q: Runner on first base. Pitcher in stretch position. With the pitcher's back foot engaged with the ...
A: Randy, In my judgement there is no way a pitcher can legally turn and make a throw to second ...
|
| MLB Rules | 8/17/2008 |
Q: If a baserunner is hit by a thrown ball and he is not interfearing with the thrown ball, I.E. if ...
A: Pat, The ball is live and the runner is neither out or safe. The runner must keep running while ...
|
| Base Stealing | 8/8/2008 |
Q: In Cal Ripken 10U Baseball can the runner advance to second on a walk without stopping on first ...
A: Donald, I'm not that familiar with that league, but typically a runner can charge down to first ...
|
| Base stealing | 8/6/2008 |
Q: Brian, In Pro baseball when can a runner start to steal a base. Thanks, Jim
A: Jim, Any time the play is live. Basically, as soon as an umpire throws the ball back to the ...
|
| third out caught stealing what is batter status | 7/26/2008 |
Q: There are 2 outs and a man on first (Kingston) and batter Thomas is batting with count 1 and 1. ...
A: Jeff, When the third out is made while a batter is at the plate, that partial at bat doesn't exist ...
|
| Balk on throw to first base | 7/26/2008 |
Q: Pitcher makes apick off move to first while the first baseman is behind the runner, away from the ...
A: Donn, As long as the pitcher follows the other rules (stepping toward the base, stopping as they ...
|
| Balk on throw to first base | 7/25/2008 |
Q: Pitcher makes apick off move to first while the first baseman is behind the runner, away from the ...
A: Donn, The pitcher must disconnect from the rubber before making any type of move toward first base. ...
|
| batter's box | 7/21/2008 |
Q: Brian, I am a mexican league baseball fan and assume that we follow the same rule as american triple ...
A: Julia, Both feet must be within the batter's box. However, touching any part of the line around ...
|
| AAU rules | 7/19/2008 |
Q: In AAU baseball if there is a play the the plate can the catcher block the plate? and also can a ...
A: Emily, A catcher can only block the plate if they have the ball. They can't obstruct the runner ...
|
| Baserunning | 7/18/2008 |
Q: I am seeking clarification regarding defensive strategies when an opposing runner is caught in a ...
A: Brant, If the base runner decides to vacate 2nd and return to first, then the runner who was in a ...
|
| Scoring a run when 3rd out is recorded at first on missed 3rd strike | 7/14/2008 |
Q: The situation is 2 outs, 2 strikes on the batter, runners on 2nd and 3rd. The pitch is in the dirt ...
A: Tom, The umpire missed this. He can't make a call after the fact - he ruled that it was a ball ...
|
| drop third strike | 7/10/2008 |
Q: Two parter: 1) is a pitch in the dirt and batter swings and the catcher catches it clean off one ...
A: Mike, 1) Yes - this is a dropped third strike. Rarely called because typically the catcher will ...
|
| Fielder setting up in foul territory | 7/8/2008 |
Q: My son's team played in their state tournament this past weekend. Their classification is Cal ...
A: Chris, It is against the rules for any fielder (other then the catcher) to position themselves in ...
|
| Balk Call by Umpire | 7/8/2008 |
Q: We had runners on first and third with 2 outs. The third base coach decided to steal the runner on ...
A: Bob, When the balk was called, the ball was dead and the pitch to the batter doesn't count (unless ...
|
| Better Speed | 7/6/2008 |
Q: I am 12 years old and play 3rd base. I have quick hands but am very slow. What are some drills i can ...
A: Brendan, Luckily, 3rd base doesn't require someone who can run ultra fast. This sounds kind of ...
|
| Replaying a Game | 6/30/2008 |
Q: We have an independent league which adheres to Little League Rules. Here is an incident and any ...
A: Jerry, I don't know the Little League rules, but the baseball rulebook in general typically rules ...
|
| Losing pitcher | 6/30/2008 |
Q: Brian, I've checked the MLB rules and am still confused on this one. Home team is team 1. The ...
A: Barb, The starter is the losing pitcher. A determination on the winning and losing pitcher is ...
|
| 1st base obstruction | 6/30/2008 |
Q: During a PONY tournament today, a batter was awarded first due to obstruction. The runner was about ...
A: Jason, A fielder can not impede the progress of a runner. Also, a runner is entitled to the base ...
|
| Force Outs | 6/30/2008 |
Q: This is actually 2 questions in 1 but I believe they are the same concept. 2 outs, runners on 1st ...
A: Steve, Both of these are force out situations. As long as a batter or runner is 'forced' to go to ...
|
| All Star Rules | 6/28/2008 |
Q: Tomorrow was to be opening day of our all star festivities , as well as my sons teams first game. I ...
A: Matt, It all depends on how the tournament is run. I suspect the organizers would rather play the ...
|
| All Star Rules | 6/26/2008 |
Q: Shouldnt there be at least one or more player be chosen for the all star team from each team?
A: Elizah, In my opinion, no. In fact, I'm against the rule forcing a player from each team on the ...
|
| balk | 6/19/2008 |
Q: While umping a junior league I was faced with the following situation... Runners on 1st and 3rd... ...
A: Jeff, Once the pitcher has broken contact with the rubber, they can fake a throw to first (or ...
|
| foul ball | 6/17/2008 |
Q: At our last game a batter hit the ball and it struck the ground directly behind home plate(not the ...
A: Jesse, Yes - the umpire got it right. Until the ball reaches 1st or 3rd base, it is ruled foul ...
|
| Interference? | 6/11/2008 |
Q: With a runner on second, a ground ball is hit towards the shortstop. The shortstop charges the ball ...
A: Mike, The runner must attempt to avoid a collision in the case you mentioned above. You are ...
|
| Relief pitches allowed | 6/9/2008 |
Q: Is there any NCAA rule regarding the number of relief pitchers allowed in a game/inning?
A: Bob, I don't have the college rulebook, but each reliever must complete an at bat against a hitter ...
|
| All players reacting to fair ball as foul | 6/9/2008 |
Q: We had the following happen in our little league game (9-year-olds) and nobody was quite sure how to ...
A: Wayne, According to the rulebook, the umpire did everything he should have, except that he should ...
|
| batting lineup | 6/5/2008 |
Q: We were recently in a dizzy dean tournament for 8 year olds. Inning 4, the unpire told our ...
A: Penny, I'm sorry, but I don't have the rules for that league. I know that when a player use to ...
|
| Baseball Rules Question | 5/31/2008 |
Q: There are bases loaded and 2 outs. The runner from 2nd on his way to third is hit by the batted ...
A: Scott, If the runner hit by the ball was in front of the defensive players, then the batter is ...
|
| Pitching styles | 5/30/2008 |
Q: What are the most effective pitching styles? Is throwing Fastpitch Softball style against the rules ...
A: David, There are no requirements against pitching underhanded in the major leagues. There have ...
|
| betting on pitchers | 5/29/2008 |
Q: I live in australia and love watching the baseball streamed live on pay tv. I also like betting on ...
A: Matt, A pitcher that starts a major league game must pitch at least five complete innings to be ...
|
| player disiplineary actions | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I have three sons that have been involved in little league since t-ball.My two younger sons are in ...
A: Deana, I don't have a copy of the Little League Official Rules, but I don't believe the rulebook ...
|
| small town politics in pitching machine | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Ok first let me thank you for your time,And i will try to be brief, What should i do ,I have been ...
A: Danny, Clearly I can't say anything here. Anytime anything is organized, politics is sure to ...
|
| Fielder Blocking the Base | 5/21/2008 |
Q: Brian, In a Babe Ruth League game the other night a runner was attempting to steal second, the ...
A: Drew, It is always an obstruction play if a fielder is in the baseline without the ball and a ...
|
| Runner hit by ball - AB ? | 5/20/2008 |
Q: If a runner is hit by a batted ball and declared out, is the batter charged with a time at bat, and ...
A: Jim, It depends on where the fielders are in relationship to the runner. If the ball has passed a ...
|
| Infield Fly Rule | 5/14/2008 |
Q: In yesterdays game, my team had the bases loaded with one out and my batter hit a pop up between the ...
A: Mike, They definitely made a mistake if you have described the situation adequately. About the ...
|
| Dropped third strike | 4/22/2008 |
Q: Two outs runner at third, catcher drops third strike, batter backs out of box as the runner advances ...
A: Jeff, You are right on this one. Because the out at first was a force out, a run can not score on ...
|
| Ball in Play Question | 4/21/2008 |
Q: I was at a 15-16 age level League game and saw a ruling that confused me. The situation was a runner ...
A: Mike, The ball and play is live when the umpire starts play again. A pitch home is not required. ...
|
| Balk | 4/14/2008 |
Q: We have a 12 year-old travel team and have run into situations with left-handed pitchers. With a ...
A: Mike, It is almost impossible to diagnose a balk thru just discussion about it. You need a ...
|
| Runner struck by thrown ball | 4/10/2008 |
Q: Runner is on 3rd base, pass ball, catcher retrieves the ball and throws ball to 3rd base as runner ...
A: Sonny, Unless the runner blocks the ball on purpose or is running way out of the baseline (more ...
|
| balk | 4/7/2008 |
Q: With runner on second or any base for that matter,the pitcher from the stretch starts his delivery ...
A: Stephen, If by the 'balance position' you mean that the pitcher comes set, there is not a balk ...
|
| Balks | 4/6/2008 |
Q: I'm a high school pitcher in North carolina. Just this year, my coach has added emphasis to ...
A: Joby, If you step toward home, but throw to first, you have committed a balk. The rule of thumb is ...
|
| Pickoff for 3rd out | 4/3/2008 |
Q: SimpleIf a player is picked off for the 3rd out of an inning, before the current batter has a ...
A: Alan, You are correct. Anytime the third out is made with a player at bat, that player leads off ...
|
| MLB STADIUMS DIMENSIONS | 4/3/2008 |
Q: Why major league stadiums are different in terms of size and dimensions?? Is there any rule for ...
A: Jose, There are almost no rules associated with the dimensions that you build your stadium. About ...
|
| Scoring an RBI | 3/29/2008 |
Q: With a runner at third base, batter hits a ground ball and is thrown out at first. 1st baseman ...
A: Danny, If an error is scored on the play, then there is no RBI awarded. If the official scorer ...
|
| Interference Question | 3/19/2008 |
Q: Scenario: 7-8 year old Cal Ripken league rec baseball. One out, runners on first and second. ...
A: Buzz, I almost agree with your call here. The runner who interfered is definitely out. If the ...
|
| Ball lodged in catcher's equipment | 3/16/2008 |
Q: In a game tonight, the ball became lodged under the catchers mask or chest protector. I could not ...
A: Scott, What I was trying to explain (I think I did it rather poorly) was that if the runners ...
|
| Ball lodged in catcher's equipment | 3/15/2008 |
Q: In a game tonight, the ball became lodged under the catchers mask or chest protector. I could not ...
A: Scott, If the ball is lodged in the player's gear, that to me is a little different then if the ...
|
| ruling on errors | 3/13/2008 |
Q: A third baseman charges a bunt and bare hands the ball, throws off balance and the ball short hops ...
A: Randy, It is completely within the judgement of the official scorer. If the play could not be ...
|
| Pitched Ball Bounce Hits Batter | 3/6/2008 |
Q: In JohnMc Answer he indicate that a bounce ball hits the catcher then the batter hits the ball and ...
A: Tom, The ball is not dead just because it has hit the catcher. As long as the batter legally hits ...
|
| Who gets the win | 2/25/2008 |
Q: MLB rules state that a starting pitcher must go 5 innings to get the win. Example, team is behind ...
A: Ross, It depends on what rule book is used. If the high school rulebook doesn't talk to scoring ...
|
| Who gets the Loss? | 2/21/2008 |
Q: I play baseball and I'm not sure who gets the loss in this situation... I started and pitching 5 ...
A: Derek, Sorry buddy - you get the loss. Whichever pitcher is in the game when their team gives up ...
|
| Yellow line | 1/22/2008 |
Q: What is the purpose of a yellow line on outfield fences? I think I have seen balls hit the yellow ...
A: Jerry, Only certain fields have the yellow line, but in most cases, if the ball hits above the ...
|
| Slugging Percentage (follow-up) | 1/8/2008 |
Q: Brian, my question more simply is can we suggest that Bonds broke the 80+ year-old record for SP if ...
A: Paul, Your question is kind of like asking if a tree falls in the forest and no one is around, does ...
|
| Slugging Percentage | 1/4/2008 |
Q: It's very easy to calculate and the internet is full of people who are able to describe slugging ...
A: Paul, Interesting question! Major league baseball officially incorporated slugging percentage into ...
|
| Runner Advancement question | 12/10/2007 |
Q: I had a recent game in which I an unsure if the umpire made the right call. The situation was I had ...
A: Mike, Rule 7.05 (g) The runner may with liability advance two bases when, with no spectators on ...
|
| balk | 12/5/2007 |
Q: re: your answer to michael on 6/11/07. Can you please site the rule that says a righthander must ...
A: Stephen, Right handers are facing away from first base when they are in contact with the pitching ...
|
| pitching rules | 10/26/2007 |
Q: WAS THERE EVER A TIME IN MLB THAT THE PITCHER HAD TO BE REPLACED IF HE DID NOT TAKE HIS TURN AT BAT?
A: Peggy, This happens a number of times each season. The starting pitcher doesn't last long enough ...
|
| mlb | 10/25/2007 |
Q: how many innings need to be completed for a game to be a complete game?
A: Robert, If a single pitcher pitches all of an official game, then they get credit for a complete ...
|
| Bench Coach | 10/19/2007 |
Q: Brian... Was just wondering when exactly did the 'bench coach' position come into play? I'm 54 and ...
A: Steven, Somehow this member of the coaching staff has morphed into being. I don't have an exact ...
|
| Unorthodox pick off move balk or not | 10/14/2007 |
Q: Can a right hand pitcher raise his left leg,as to pick a runner off third, but instead of throwing ...
A: Tim, Balks are somewhat in the eye of the beholder. I can't answer this question unless I would ...
|
| "Ordinary Effort" | 10/12/2007 |
Q: Brian, I'm having a disagreement with a friend of mine on scoring hits and errors. Would you say a ...
A: Dennis, This is one of those things that falls into the realm of scorer's judgement. The official ...
|
| baseball | 10/2/2007 |
Q: Can a MLB pitcher pitch consecutive games without a rest period
A: Lonnie, There are no rules specifying when a major leaguer can pitch. If they were capable of it, ...
|
| WILD CARD | 9/6/2007 |
Q: Please explain, how works, the WILD CARD system in the major league baseball, in other words, what ...
A: Sergio, In each league in major league baseball (American and National) four teams make the post ...
|
| Balk - Set up | 9/6/2007 |
Q: I seen a right handed pitcher (12 yr old) take a stance with their left foot on the pitching rubber ...
A: Mike, I agree with you on this one. Moving that foot forward while in contact with the rubber is ...
|
| ground rule double | 8/11/2007 |
Q: Was the ground rule double a home run until 1930? How many ground rule doubles did Babe Ruth hit?
A: Eddie, No one knows exactly how many balls that bounced into the stands were called home runs for ...
|
| Ground rule double | 8/9/2007 |
Q: August 8 in a game between KC and the Twins, Justin Marneau hit a ball which hit the top of the ...
A: Maru, If the umpires decided it wasn't a home run after calling it one, they are basically forced ...
|
| 2007 MBL Playoff race (Wild Card) | 8/2/2007 |
Q: On average, how many games must a team win in order to make the playoffs? I'm interested because the ...
A: Peter, On average, it takes 86 wins to get into the playoffs since the wildcard has been in place. ...
|
| out or hit? | 7/12/2007 |
Q: little league game. batter hits hot line drive to third. third baseman "catches" it but ball is hit ...
A: Barry, Sure; this is in section 2.0 and is the definition of a catch: A CATCH is the act of a ...
|
| Scouting criteria for outfielders | 7/10/2007 |
Q: My name is Ethan Stetson and I am a 19yr old student at University Of Canterbury in Christchurch, ...
A: Ethan, Sorry - I can't send you a direct email. I don't have your address; All-Experts shields ...
|
| baserunner/catcher collision | 7/5/2007 |
Q: My son, age 11, is a catcher for his 6-8 grade baseball team. In his last game, his foot was on the ...
A: Dan, This is an umpire's judgement call. There are two rules in the major league rulebook that ...
|
| calling time out | 6/30/2007 |
Q: Does a coach have the ability to call time out when the ball is still in play. @ if a runner is ...
A: Doug, No one on the field can call time out except for the umpire. A coach or player can request ...
|
| Intentional walk | 6/30/2007 |
Q: When doing an intentional walk in LL. the catcher notifies the plate ump and the batter goes to ...
A: John, The reason the pitch count is used is to protect the pitchers' arms. Since an intential walk ...
|
| ejection | 6/29/2007 |
Q: My son is on first base 1 out next batter hits a base hit between 3/ss into left field. While my son ...
A: Charlie, The shortstop was in the baseline without the ball which is against the rules. So, in the ...
|
| balk | 6/28/2007 |
Q: Pitcher on rubber ready to pitch, starts his wndup and 3rd base coach yells balk (when he doesn't) ...
A: Fred, The coach should have been kicked out of the game and the balk should be overruled. Here's ...
|
| fair or foul? | 6/27/2007 |
Q: When the ball is hit and is hit into the air, is it fair or four if the ball curves around first or ...
A: Nate, If the ball goes past first or third base in the air, it is ruled fair or foul according to ...
|
| Calling Time! | 6/26/2007 |
Q: When can the defensive team's coach able to call time? Example: man on third, batter walks, Pitcher ...
A: Robert, No one on the baseball field can call time except for an umpire. Everyone else can just ...
|
| Time out / dead ball | 6/26/2007 |
Q: Players are 9-10 first year little league: With a runner on third, after the pitch the catcher ...
A: David, The umpire should not call time when a play is continuing. If they feel that the play is ...
|
| Foul Ball | 6/25/2007 |
Q: Can an offensive player standing in the doorway of the dugout catch a foul ball, or is this ...
A: Robert, Yes! If any fielder is in the baseline without a ball and impedes the runner's progress ...
|
| baseball | 6/23/2007 |
Q: If a ball that is hit, hits the top of the outfield fence and bounces back into the field is it ...
A: Mike, It depends on the ground rules at a particular field. Some stadiums have a yellow line ...
|
| Foul Ball | 6/22/2007 |
Q: Can an offensive player standing in the doorway of the dugout catch a foul ball, or is this ...
A: Robert, This is interference on the offensive player's team. The rule in the major league rulebook ...
|
| is there a rule on using 1st base mitt other than for 1st base | 6/21/2007 |
Q: My son, who is 11, recently tried a 1st base mitt when playing 1st. He does a much better job ...
A: mbw, I'm not sure about the little league rulebook, but there are specific rules about how large ...
|
| appeal plays | 6/21/2007 |
Q: Can you please clarify the procedures a pitcher (in this case a 10 year old) must use to appeal a ...
A: Jim, I don't know necessarily how this low level league would work, but typically, the pitcher must ...
|
| Runner advancement | 6/20/2007 |
Q: I coach the at the senior level (15-16). Last night, I had a runner at second base when the batter ...
A: Mike, Did the runner start at second or at first? If the runner was at 2nd before the ball was ...
|
| Baseball rule | 6/16/2007 |
Q: Runners on 1st & 2nd, the batter hits to short, short comes in to field the ball, the runner on 2nd ...
A: Amy, The umpire made the right call, but didn't apply the right penalty. The rule book rule is ...
|
| Baseball rules (History) | 6/14/2007 |
Q: How has the rule regarding foul balls and number of strikes changed over the years? Has foul balls ...
A: Roger, Foul balls have never been counted as a strike on the third strike. In fact, the rules have ...
|
| Blown Saves | 6/13/2007 |
Q: Similar to a previous question - can the SAME pitcher be charged with two blown saves in the same ...
A: Dennis, Blown saves are not an official major league statistic. So the record book is mute on how ...
|
| Balk Not stepping off the rubber & throwing to 1st | 6/11/2007 |
Q: Rule 8.05 says it is a balk to not step off and feint a throw to the base, it does not say that you ...
A: Michael, A left handed pitcher can step toward 1st base and make the throw without stepping off of ...
|
| when is a foul ball "live" again | 6/7/2007 |
Q: Batter fouls the ball off behind home plate and ball is overthrown by the catcher as he attempts to ...
A: Greg, The major league rule is: 5.11 After the ball is dead, play shall be resumed when the ...
|
| Balk | 6/4/2007 |
Q: Is it a balk if the first baseman has one foot in foul territory prior to the play? Your answer to a ...
A: Jim, The ball is live as soon as the pitcher starts throwing, so the first baseman (or any other ...
|
| Is a runner out at first if he turns left to return | 6/1/2007 |
Q: A batter bunts the ball. While in the process of running to first base, the catcher throws the ball ...
A: Greg, The major league rules are very clear. If the runner makes no attempt to advance, then they ...
|
| Dropped third strike - Babe Ruth Baseball | 5/29/2007 |
Q: This situation arose in a recent Babe Ruth baseball game. A baserunner was on third base with two ...
A: Tom, The ruling by the umpire was correct. A run can not score if the third out is made on a ...
|
| Balk to Second Base | 5/29/2007 |
Q: I was watching a game and there were runners on first and second. The pitcher Turned to throw to ...
A: Ryan, Unfortunately, I can't give you a definitive answer. It depends on the umpire's judgement. ...
|
| Baseball records question | 5/27/2007 |
Q: In MLB history, what is the farthest a batter has ever advanced on either a dropped or PB 3rd ...
A: Aubrey, I'm not sure, but I'd bet that a batter has gone to 3rd base. Baseball is a funny game and ...
|
| Clarification on Rule 4.04 in the rule book | 5/26/2007 |
Q: In our Little League we play Majors with a substuition line-up. In our game last night a player was ...
A: Beth, On the reentering of the other player, it depends on the league rules. Some leagues allow ...
|
| Clarification on Rule 4.04 in the rule book | 5/26/2007 |
Q: In our Little League we play Majors with a substuition line-up. In our game last night a player was ...
A: Beth, I'm sure the rule about nine outs and 1 at bat is to ensure that all players get at least ...
|
| changing a pitcher | 5/25/2007 |
Q: Can the starting pitcher get put back in the game after he has already been taken out?
A: Owen, Based on all the rule books of all the leagues I've seen, a player can not go back into a ...
|
| Umping | 5/24/2007 |
Q: where do you stand when there is a runner on 1st and 3rd base when umping?
A: Cory, On the assumption that there are two umpires for the game, I stand midway between 1st and ...
|
| Balk | 5/24/2007 |
Q: Two questions 1. Runner is on first base against a right handed pitcher. Pitcher goes into his set ...
A: Anthony, 1) Umpire's judgement - if the umpire believes he has started his movement home, then ...
|
| Replacement Player Eligibility | 5/23/2007 |
Q: I coach in the (9-12) minors division, and we picked up an 11 yr old replacement player who took the ...
A: Bryant, I'm not sure of the rules for your league, but in the major leagues, a team that has to ...
|
| Balk? | 5/22/2007 |
Q: Runner on 2nd. Pitcher in the set position lifts front leg, but then stops for just a moment. ...
A: Phil, I'd call a balk on this. In my opinion, the pitcher is halting his delivery and attempting ...
|
| Force Out Ruling | 5/19/2007 |
Q: This happened tonight at my son's PeeWee game. I'll not say which side he was on...Top of the 1st, ...
A: Michael, Baseball rules state that a run can not count if the out is made as part of a force play. ...
|
| 2 Questions (baseball related) | 5/18/2007 |
Q: 7 Inning game: 1st question, pitcher A starts the game and goes 2 innings leaves the game with no ...
A: Dan, For your first question, I'd probably award the win to pitcher B. He was effective (not ...
|
| Blown Saves | 5/18/2007 |
Q: Can a team have more than one pitcher charged with a blown save in the same gaame?
A: Matt, Yes. Here's an example: Team leading by 1 run in the eighth inning. Pitcher comes in and ...
|
| Balk? | 5/18/2007 |
Q: As an umpire, rule 8.05f of the MLB's pitching/balk rules is one of the few that throws me, no pun ...
A: Martin, This rule is rife with 'umpire judgement.' If I was umping and a pitcher didn't look at ...
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| Pitching changes | 5/17/2007 |
Q: Question about this scenario: You bring in pitcher A to pitch. Can you as the coach change ...
A: Emory, My first thought is that given that your team has a three run lead and that this is a youth ...
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| What's the rules??? | 5/12/2007 |
Q: OK Bases loaded no outs. Batter in place. Pitcher pitches low, ball hits homebase and bounces. ...
A: Melissa, It is not a dead ball. However, if the ball bounced after the batter hit it, but before ...
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| fielders choice | 5/10/2007 |
Q: question about 11-12 boys game I called this weekend. bases loaded, ball hit to second ...
A: Randall, A run can't score in this instance because the runner didn't reach the next base. If ...
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| trick play | 5/10/2007 |
Q: I coach 13-14 dixie boys, we had a play pulled on us this week, where there was a play at third, ...
A: Randall, Runner is out. Unless the pitcher is deceiving them by either being on the mound or ...
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| No-decisions | 5/6/2007 |
Q: Mr. Flaspohler, Which pitcher has the most career no-decisions? Also, if possible, which pitcher ...
A: Ken, I don't have the information on which pitcher has left a game the most times with a lead only ...
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| balk | 5/5/2007 |
Q: Right handed pithder from the stretch position. If the pitcher comes to his set position, lifts leg ...
A: Carson, The short answer is no. Not sure about which imaginary line you are referring to, but ...
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| Pitching from a flat surface | 5/4/2007 |
Q: A question came up in our local Babe Ruth (Ripken Division) league. Our league has only one ...
A: Buzz, I don't see it as that big a deal. The most damaging thing a little leaguer can do is throw ...
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| Runner Leaving Early | 5/4/2007 |
Q: There is a lot of confusion regarding what to do when a runner leaves before the ball reaches the ...
A: Michael, I can't answer this with authority, because the little league rulebook isn't available on ...
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| Pickoff move to 3rd | 5/3/2007 |
Q: I used to do this in Babe Ruth league, but I still don't know if it is legal. Guy on 3rd base, ...
A: Mark, This is perfectly legal as long as the first move and the step is toward third base. A ...
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| Qualifying for a win | 5/2/2007 |
Q: How many innings does a starting pitcher need to pitch to be eligible for a win? Lets say if Andy ...
A: Nathan, The starting pitcher must pitch 5 innings in order to qualify for the win in a major league ...
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| Balk | 5/2/2007 |
Q: We had the opposing team try the hidden ball trick on us last night with the bases loaded. The 3rd ...
A: Tony, You are half way correct - the second item you mentioned is against the rules, but your ...
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| Spin Move... Bases Loaded | 5/1/2007 |
Q: Are you familiar with the spin move to second base? Where the pitcher lifts his leg, then rotates ...
A: Matt, It doesn't matter who is on base. A balk is a balk is a balk. If there isn't a runner on ...
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| disengaging the rubber | 4/29/2007 |
Q: Brian, I am a Football, basketball and Softball official. I have a question about the balk rule in ...
A: Lee, All you have to do is stop touching the rubber and that has to be your initial movement in ...
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| Avoiding being hit by pitch | 4/29/2007 |
Q: The stock rule and answer about being hit by pitch goes "A batter becomes a baserunner and is ...
A: John, Unfortunately, this is one of those calls that goes into the all encompasing 'umpire's ...
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| Fielder's Choice | 4/28/2007 |
Q: Let's say runner on third. Ball hit to the infield. They can make the play to first but, they opt ...
A: Green, If 'ordinary effort' would have led to the team getting an out, then the play would be ...
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| infield fly | 4/25/2007 |
Q: we have runners on 1 and 2. The batter hits it up and short goes back to catch it. Ump calls infield ...
A: Allison, I don't think there is enough information in your description for me to interpret what ...
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| Determining a losing pitcher. | 4/23/2007 |
Q: In Highschool baseball,the starting pitcher shall be charged with the loss when he replaced and his ...
A: Carl, A passed ball is considered like an error (so if a run scores on a passed ball it is ...
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| first baseman taking up pik off throw with both feet in foul territory | 4/21/2007 |
Q: Is it a balk if the pitcher throws to first on a pick off when the first baseman has both feet in ...
A: Mark, All fielders (other then the catcher) must start play in fair territory. If they do not ...
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| Is this a balk? | 4/19/2007 |
Q: Here's the situation: High School Baseball - Runners on 1st and 3rd. Batter's in batter's box, ...
A: Karin, If the umpire did not grant the batter time, then the play is still live. The umpire should ...
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| Determining a losing pitcher. | 4/18/2007 |
Q: In Highschool baseball,the starting pitcher shall be charged with the loss when he replaced and his ...
A: Carl, Even if the pitcher only gives up unearned runs, those runs do count against him when ...
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| Balk's | 4/15/2007 |
Q: The pitcher is in the stretch position. He comes set and then in one motion steps back off the ...
A: Raleigh, As long as the FIRST move is disengaging from the rubber, the pitcher can basically do ...
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| Taking signal off the rubber | 4/9/2007 |
Q: Aloha, I would like to find out in baseball rule book about taking signal from catcher 1. off the ...
A: Richard, The baseball rulebook is silent on when it is acceptable to get a signal from the catcher. ...
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| Rules/situation question | 4/9/2007 |
Q: Two-part question. Is it legal to make a pitching change during during an at-bat? If so, what ...
A: Robb, The manager may make a pitching change during an at bat. The count remains where it is when ...
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| Pitchers Warm-up throws | 2/18/2007 |
Q: Prelude comment: I only wish the Baseball Rule Books were more similar..... <sigh> The NFHS Rule ...
A: Carl, In the 2007 NCAA rulebook: Rule Section 9 clause i states "At the beginning of an inning, ...
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| Rules | 12/11/2006 |
Q: Runner on first, with one out. Pitcher is on the rubber and goe into his stretch. By this I mean ...
A: Jeff, If the runner makes it to 2nd before the pitcher begins his motion, then it is a stolen base. ...
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| Label on wooden baseball bats | 10/23/2006 |
Q: Are professional baseball players trained to keep the label up on their wood bats to avoid breaking ...
A: Charles, I think it must be somewhat forgotten. I play on a base ball team that plays by the rules ...
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| Hit by pitch | 10/9/2006 |
Q: Does a batter take first base on a pitch that hits the dirt first then hits the batter while he is ...
A: Larry, As long as the umpire rules that the pitch is NOT a strike, then the batter is awarded first ...
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| Stepping out of the batter's box | 9/21/2006 |
Q: Brian - Here is myI know that when a batter steps out of the box (e.g., steps on the plate) when ...
A: Brian, As soon as the batter steps out of the box, the ball is dead, the batter is out, and runners ...
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| MVP | 9/19/2006 |
Q: Brian - Are there only 28 voters (or is it now 31?) from the Baseball Writers Ass'n of America that ...
A: Paul, Actually there are two writers from each city. So there are 62. I suppose the answer to ...
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| Consecutive game hitting streak | 9/11/2006 |
Q: Brian Can a consecutive game hitting streak be broken by intentional walks? Has it always been so? ...
A: Paul, I'm not sure how the rule has changed over the years, but the current rules in the major ...
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| Balks-illegal pitch | 9/5/2006 |
Q: Good day, is it a balk when: runners on base pitchers hat falls off when delivering a pitch to ...
A: Rich, I would interpret this as not a balk. It is a balk if the pitcher drops the ball, but there ...
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| error on dropped third strike | 8/29/2006 |
Q: Situation: Pitcher throws third strike. It hits catcher's glove but comes out (clearly a PB, not a ...
A: Sam, This should be scored as a passed ball and an E3. If both players failed to make plays that ...
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| Dropped Third Strike | 8/16/2006 |
Q: Yes, thanks! Does a FC count as a plus or minus for OBP?I haven't seen your answer to this question ...
A: Tony, It does count as a strikeout - for the hitter as well as for the pitcher. That's why the ...
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| Dropped Third Strike | 8/14/2006 |
Q: I haven't seen your answer to this question about the dropped third strike. The batter strikes out, ...
A: Tony, It is actually scored as a K error on the catcher. It counts as a 0 for 1 in terms of ...
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| battig and catching | 8/12/2006 |
Q: well first i wood like to ask why do they have cupping on wooden bats? secondly im not a very good ...
A: Gman, Bats are cupped on the end to reduce their weight just a bit. So you get the same length, ...
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| Overunning 1rst base | 8/8/2006 |
Q: Please clarify the rule re: when a runner may advance to 2nd base after overunning 1rst base. It is ...
A: Michael, Rule 7.08j states that he may be tagged out. Of course he may be tagged out if he ...
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| Overunning 1rst base | 8/6/2006 |
Q: Please clarify the rule re: when a runner may advance to 2nd base after overunning 1rst base. It is ...
A: Michael, Your friends are right on this one. There is no need to retouch first before heading over ...
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| Baseball | 8/3/2006 |
Q: How to play baseball? About baseball.
A: Aneesh, Wow...this is a little more then I can handle. I appreciate your interest, but you need to ...
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| ERA in Non-regulation length games | 8/2/2006 |
Q: In our American Legion season, teams play a 7 inning and 5 inning double header. Are you aware of ...
A: John, All ERA is is a calculation of the average number of runs a pitcher gives up per 9 innings ...
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| intentional pass | 7/30/2006 |
Q: In MLB when I was a kid, the catcher could stand to the side of the batters box for all four ...
A: Jack, In 1901 the National League passed a rule which stated that the catcher must be positioned ...
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| Save Rule in 1965 | 7/18/2006 |
Q: Brian, If no save rule for 1965, what criteria was used beginning in 1960 for Sporting News Fireman ...
A: Mike, I'm not sure what criteria the "Sporting News" used for their records. They may very well ...
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| baserunning | 7/17/2006 |
Q: Brian, I am confused on a rule. I had an umpire recently tell me to make sure i am going back ...
A: Joe, This rule is in the rulebook. Section 5.09 e "(e) A foul ball is not caught; runners return. ...
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| Save Rule in 1965 | 7/17/2006 |
Q: Brian, Like many baseball rules, the Save rule has undergone some changes over the years. What was ...
A: Mike, The rule for a Save did not exist in the 1965 version of the baseball rules. A save was not ...
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| scorekeeping | 7/16/2006 |
Q: I keep score frequently and I came across a situation that I did not know how to record in the book. ...
A: Kathy, The score in the book would be double play out 8-(either 5 or 6) depending on who covered ...
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| dropped third strike | 7/15/2006 |
Q: the batter strikes out but the catcher does not catch the ball but it deflects off of him and into ...
A: Sparky, I have to admit, no one has ever asked me this question before! If the batter runner hits ...
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| Hit or error? | 7/14/2006 |
Q: A high fly ball is hit and the outfielder is running in an attempt to make the catch. The ...
A: John, It really is completely within the judgement of the official scorer. There is a myth that if ...
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| errors on the field | 7/13/2006 |
Q: my question is; will a baseball player(in the major league)be charged a fee, in other words do they ...
A: Rebecca, There is no requirement that a player pay a fine or anything else when he misses a play in ...
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| What merits a win/loss? | 7/9/2006 |
Q: I've been a casual baseball fan for awhile and there's still something that seems like a bit of a ...
A: Joel, There are some exceptions, but in most cases the pitcher that is in the game when the team ...
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| Intentional walk rule | 7/7/2006 |
Q: Was there ever a time when the batter was simply awarded first base by the umpire without any ...
A: Allan, The major leagues requires that four balls are thrown to the batter in order to perform an ...
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| Handling Intentional Walks | 7/6/2006 |
Q: My son Jack was rewarded at last night's All Star tournament with a night's worth of intentional ...
A: Rainey, My only take on the situation is that you need to get your son playing against better ...
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| pitching grip | 7/5/2006 |
Q: Is it ok for a 12 year old pitcher to throw a pitch using a curve ball grip but not breaking the ...
A: Ted, The danger of pitching is two fold: 1) Pitching when tired, and 2) Putting unnecessary ...
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| baserunning rules | 6/17/2006 |
Q: What if lead runner misses 2nd base and secondary runner touches 2nd before lead runner. What is the ...
A: Mike, There is no ruling by the umpire unless the defensive team appeals. So, no appeal, no call ...
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| pitching grips & baseball drills | 6/13/2006 |
Q: Is there a site where i may print off to see certain pitching grips for my 14 year old and my next ...
A: Bruce, Check out "Baseball for Dummies" by Joe Morgan. It shows different pitching grips. As far ...
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| Runner hit by batted ball | 6/10/2006 |
Q: Based loaded, one out, kids league game goverend by MLB Rules. Batter hits ball to right side, ...
A: Jeff, First of all, sorry about the delay in answering. I was out of town this week! When the ...
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| ball in play | 6/9/2006 |
Q: Last night my son was playing in a game where the batter ducked to avoid a wild pitch. The ball ...
A: Martin, The ruling was correct. The ball hit the bat, landed in fair territory. That's a fair ...
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| Runner hit while on base | 6/7/2006 |
Q: Hope this one hasn't been asked before: A runner standing on third is hit by a hard hit ball down ...
A: Phil, If a runner is on a base, and unintentionally hinders a fielder, then he will not be called ...
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| Play on a walk | 6/7/2006 |
Q: With 2 runners on base (1st and 2nd). The batter has full count. The runner on second is instructed ...
A: David, The ball is not dead. Just because the catcher doesn't hear the call, that doesn't excuse ...
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| Disignated hitter and runner | 6/5/2006 |
Q: My son and I were listening to some of the baseball games on the radio and we had questions about ...
A: Sandra, The designated hitter may only hit in place of the pitcher. And, if the DH is removed from ...
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| Batter out for tossing the bat inadvertently | 6/2/2006 |
Q: I'm a scorekeeper for our Mustang League team, and we had a boy called out twice for flinging his ...
A: Paul, There really is no penalty in the rulebook for throwing a bat. However, if throwing the bat ...
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| Tournament Bracketing | 6/2/2006 |
Q: Where do you place seeded teams into a 9 and a 5 team bracket?
A: Libby, I'm not sure I can answer because I'm not familiar with what the brackets you are talking ...
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| triple play and run scoring | 6/1/2006 |
Q: Baseball situation: Bases loaded no outs. Line drive to short stop, who steps on second and throws ...
A: Kevin, The ruling was correct. The team must appeal to get the 'fourth' out so that out would take ...
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| fear of ball only by kid pitchers | 5/31/2006 |
Q: My 9 year old has developed a fear of being hit over the past year. When he first started kid ...
A: Terry, Not sure what the best method is of correcting someone's fear of the ball. My only thing ...
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| Injury Replacement during time at bat | 5/30/2006 |
Q: If a player has a 2 ball 2 strike count and is injured and the replacement hitter makes an out who ...
A: Mark, The substitute batter will be credited with the result of the at bat, unless he strikes out. ...
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| Ballpark influence on career stats | 5/29/2006 |
Q: When Babe Ruth was sold to the Yankees, his home field was the Polo Grounds for a few years and then ...
A: Fred, Ballparks always have an influence over stats. Just look at the most extreme example ...
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| Force play does the run count | 5/27/2006 |
Q: Runners on 1st and 3rd with 2 outs. The batter hits a ground ball to the 2nd baseman. The 2nd ...
A: Eric, Because the force is still on, the run does not count. One way the run could count is the ...
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| Missed Base | 5/26/2006 |
Q: Here's the situation: Two runners, Smith and Jones, are on base. The batter singles and the two ...
A: Paul, This is an appeal play, so the umpire will do nothing until the defensive team appeals. The ...
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| Infield Fly Rule and tag-ups | 5/24/2006 |
Q: I have a pretty good understanding of the infield fly rule except for this: do the runners have to ...
A: Chris, The runners do have to return to their bases before they can advance at their own risk if ...
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| First-baseman using a catcher's mitt | 5/22/2006 |
Q: I recently attended a little game (major division).The first-baseman was using a catcher's mitt. ...
A: Kelvin, As long as the catcher's mitt followed all the dimensional requirements stated in Rule ...
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| Dropped 3rd Strike | 5/20/2006 |
Q: Can you clarify the scoring on a dropped 3rd strike? Most say that you score it as a K-WP or K-PB, ...
A: Brad. You do score it as a K-WP or K-PB, depending on if the catcher should have made the play with ...
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| Batter Rotation | 5/17/2006 |
Q: If the last batter is at the plate for an inning and he hits a foul ball on a first or second pitch ...
A: J, The last batter at the plate when the out was made does start the batting order during the next ...
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| Baseball Record | 5/12/2006 |
Q: Some friends and I have been researching a question with no luck. Can you help us find the MLB ...
A: Sam, Sorry, I don't have the answer. I'd suggest looking for "The Sporting News" Record Book. You ...
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| Number of innings pitched to receive a win or loss | 5/12/2006 |
Q: Brian, Why is it that a strating pitcher must pitch a minmum of 5 innings to quailify for a win ...
A: Scott, Because that's what someone decided the minimum was... In the event of a rain shortened ...
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| Pick-off by left handed pitrcher | 5/11/2006 |
Q: What clues can you give to a 1st base coach and /or runner relative to the "move" of a left handed ...
A: George, The first move by a left hander must be toward first base if they are going to throw there. ...
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| HOME RUN OR GROUND RULE DOUBLE | 5/11/2006 |
Q: BATTERS BALL HITS THE TOP OF FENCE IN CENTER FIELD, THEN GOES OVER THE FENCE. IS THIS A HOME RUN OR ...
A: Scott, Depends on the ground rules of the park, but most of the time this is a homerun. Kind of ...
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| Dumb runner continued | 5/11/2006 |
Q: Brian, You answered a question from Bill concerning what would happen to a runner that stands on 1st ...
A: Mike, I answered based on a clause in the rulebook. It is possible I misinterpreted it, because ...
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| batter interference | 5/10/2006 |
Q: I had a player hit a double the other night with the bases loaded. On his follow through of his ...
A: Jon, I agree with your judgement on this one. The rulebook states that interference is when a ...
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| Rules | 5/10/2006 |
Q: I have a follow-up to the question. First base is unoccupied, dropped third strike, batter begins to ...
A: Bogus, He has to run within three feet of the baseline (according to rule 7.08) during the last 45 ...
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| MLB batting question:What is record for most pitches to a batter in 1 at bat | 5/9/2006 |
Q: Ive never seen this listed and i dont even know if this is a stat that is tracked but what is the ...
A: Jon, I'm not sure of the answer. Pitches is not an official stat and its only been tracked the ...
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| dumb runner | 5/7/2006 |
Q: A friend asked me this question and I wasn't sure of the answer. Situation is runner on first, ...
A: Bill, In this situation, as soon as the batter hits the ball, the runner on first loses his right ...
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| Dropped 3rd strike | 5/3/2006 |
Q: Here is the situation. Two outs, runner on third. The catcher drops the third strke, the runner ...
A: J Kay, If the out is made at first (and it is the last out of the inning), then the runner from ...
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| All-Star Selection | 4/30/2006 |
Q: Brian, I would like your opinion. I know it's early to be asking, but hey what the heck. In our ...
A: Jim, At the 7-8 level, stats truly aren't everything. One thing I've noticed is that some kids ...
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| Fielder's Choice? | 4/28/2006 |
Q: I recently played in a game in which I hit a low line drive in the 3B/SS gap with a runner on first ...
A: Alex, Sorry about this, but your batting average takes the hit. This is scored as a fielder's ...
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| "Suspended" games | 4/22/2006 |
Q: Scenerio: Top 7, tied 1-1 and the game is "suspended" due to bad weather.Exactly what happens now? ...
A: Jason, Player stats count, but the game goes into the books as unplayed. It will be rescheduled ...
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| baseball | 4/18/2006 |
Q: which position in baseball best describe a southpaw ace known for his yakker,sweet cutter and Uncle ...
A: Amelyn, The best position in baseball is the position you most want to play! A southpaw ace who is ...
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| where are the ex-players in mlb? | 4/13/2006 |
Q: where are the mlb ex-players?i will like to know how the are doing after retirement?if they open up ...
A: Steve, They all have different situations - just like people in real life. Many of them never ...
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| Embarrassing questions | 4/11/2006 |
Q: I was a baseball fan as a kid, but now I want to get back into watching the game. Since I am in ...
A: Jake, It's always the right time to get back into baseball. Welcome back! Players can be traded ...
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| hit by a ball in play | 4/7/2006 |
Q: What is the ruling on being hit by a batted ball while running to a base? The reason I ask is for a ...
A: Bryne, Here's the rule clause (in section 7.09 of the rulebook): (g) If, in the judgment of the ...
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| LOB | 4/4/2006 |
Q: What is the rule regarding left on base? How can a team have a total LOB greater than the number of ...
A: Josh, Here's how it works... Joe comes up with one out and two people on. He strikes out, leaving ...
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| Ambidextrous Pitcher | 3/31/2006 |
Q: My son Dalton is Ambidextrous. He's 8. The recent change in little league rules limiting pitching ...
A: Kenneth, I don't know that anyone has tried to rule on this, but if he was my son, I'd limit him to ...
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| little league baseball | 3/25/2006 |
Q: can a switch hitter switch sides of the plate during the count? i cannot find this covered in the ...
A: Stephencmcdaniel, Sorry about the delay in answering...I was out of town. After a hitter receives ...
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| Pitching, earned runs | 3/14/2006 |
Q: Brian, When a starting pitcher is relieved during an inning, after allowing two base runners on by a ...
A: Bill, Two runs are charged to the starting pitcher. I know it sounds unfair, but that's the way ...
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| Right-handed pitcher - pickoff moves | 2/15/2006 |
Q: Runner on first base, pitcher pitching from the stretch. Three basic options for a right-handed ...
A: Tom, It never hurts to learn a little bit. I'm pretty sure that if I got the test they give to ...
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| Right-handed pitcher - pickoff moves | 2/14/2006 |
Q: Runner on first base, pitcher pitching from the stretch. Three basic options for a right-handed ...
A: Tim, After checking the rulebook, I'd have to say I agree with you. The difficulty is in pivoting ...
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| Does the run count or not? | 2/8/2006 |
Q: Brian: I have a baseball scenerio and I'm not 100% sure of the answer. You have a runner on 3rd base ...
A: Odis, The run counts. The major league rulebook specifically gives this example in the definition ...
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| speed | 1/24/2006 |
Q: hello are the best pitchers the ones who can throw the fastest i have never played baseball before ...
A: Denney, Throwing fast in baseball is definitely a great advantage! The other skills required are ...
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| baseball call | 1/24/2006 |
Q: What is the call and what happens if a baseball player catches a ball in his cap ? thank you
A: Jake, No player may use any part of their uniform or equipment (other then their glove or bare ...
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| baseball player movement historical trends | 1/5/2006 |
Q: Is it really true that, as some claim, baseball players change teams more frequently now than in ...
A: Perry, I believe I did a pretty decent study on the player switching matter. I used an available ...
|
| All-star game in Cincinnati | 12/11/2005 |
Q: Been wondering about this one for a while: Most MLB All-Star locations are arranged as to showcase ...
A: Charlie, I don't know specifically why Cincy has not been tagged to host an All Star Game. I do ...
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| Rules | 11/7/2005 |
Q: This happened today in a Intermediate League Game in Hawaii. The umpire called ball four...the count ...
A: Matt, The umpire is king. Whatever he says goes. So if he says the count is four balls, then ...
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| Starting Pitcher Return to the mound | 10/30/2005 |
Q: Under the MLB rules, can a starting pitcher ever return to the mound for any reason? I have been ...
A: David, There is no rule prohibiting a pitcher from moving to a different position then returning to ...
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| Hi Brian, I am not really... | 10/26/2005 |
Q: I am not really a baseball fan but I have a few things that I hope you can explain. First, what is ...
A: Doug, Pitching from the stretch is what a pitcher does with a runner on base. Typically, a pitcher ...
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| Intentional base on balls | 10/19/2005 |
Q: When I first followed baseball, the catcher was permitted to stand wide of the plate to receive 4 ...
A: Dave, The rule is that all defenders (except the catcher) must be in fair territory when the ball ...
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| baseball | 10/9/2005 |
Q: what is a balk, and the penalties or results of calling one against a pitcher?
A: Shareef, A balk is one of the most complicated rules in baseball. I won't try to explain all the ...
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| bat for an 11 year old | 10/5/2005 |
Q: I have an eleven year old son who will play on a 12U traveling baseball team next season (he will ...
A: Mark, I'm definitely not an expert on this. Given that, I'll still have opinions I'll share. ...
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| al div title | 10/3/2005 |
Q: how can the yankees be the division title when boston has the same record has there ever been a ...
A: Bill, The Yankees were awarded the division title based on the tiebraker rules that are in effect. ...
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| force play | 9/26/2005 |
Q: I recently witnessed a play in a league game where the umpire called a runner safe when I don't ...
A: Jared, On the play you described, the runner is not allowed to stay at second base. If it is as ...
|
| Hi my name Alex and I am doing... | 9/23/2005 |
Q: If not I would greatly appreciate it if you could recommend me to someone who is able to. Thank you ...
A: Alex, For a research paper, you need to do a lot more then just ask my opinion of things. This is ...
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| intentional walks | 9/20/2005 |
Q: Why do major league rules require the pitcher to pitch four balls rather than just give the batter ...
A: Fred, The rule in place requires the pitcher to throw all four pitches outside the strike zone to ...
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| Pitching Stats | 9/16/2005 |
Q: If a pitcher is instructed from the bench to walk a batter how does this affect his pitching ...
A: Sandy, An intentional walk counts against a pitcher just the way a normal walk does. So it doesn't ...
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| Baseball | 9/13/2005 |
Q: I got some follow up questions if you don't mind answering. 1. If a batter is out on a flyball than ...
A: George, 1) It is up to the umpire's judgement to keep a ball in play on not. The last 20 years or ...
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| batting | 9/6/2005 |
Q: what's means OBP
A: Luis, OBP stands for On Base Percentage. It is a way to measure how often a hitter gets on base. ...
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| Throwing to first instead of second | 8/31/2005 |
Q: I have a generic baseball question. If a runner is at first base and the batter hits a grounder, why ...
A: Jeff, It all depends on the situation. With less then two outs, baseball players almost always try ...
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| BASEBALL RULING | 8/29/2005 |
Q: A FLY BALL HITS THE TOP OF THE OUTFIELD WALL, BOUNCES INTO THE FOUL POLE, LANDS IN THE OUTFIELD, IS ...
A: Larry, It depends on the ground rules in the stadium in question. In many cases, there is a yellow ...
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| era | 8/11/2005 |
Q: How do you calculate ERA? What is sabermetrics?
A: JT, ERA is Earned Runs * 9 / Innings Pitched. For Example - a pitcher gives up 3 runs in a nine ...
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| Pitching | 8/6/2005 |
Q: What would define a save for a pitcher in a major league baseball game?
A: Barbara, A pitcher receives a save if they pitch in a game in which their team wins, they finish ...
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| umpiring | 7/25/2005 |
Q: ------------------------- THE OTHER NITE DURING THE MET GAME,THE PITCHER TAKING A FULL WINDUP, ...
A: Gary, I didn't see the game you mentioned, but the situation you described above is definitely a ...
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| Speed of baseball | 7/19/2005 |
Q: We often know what the speed of the ball is as it crosses the plate (ie pitch speed), but what is ...
A: Allyson, A hit ball can be going all kinds of different speeds. From a little roller barely making ...
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| All-Star Game | 7/10/2005 |
Q: I believe there is a rule that every team must be represented in the All Star Game? The Dodgers had ...
A: RK, There is no rule that a replacement has to be from the same team as the injured player - even ...
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| scoring a run | 6/15/2005 |
Q: My friend and I are having a debate about a certain senario in baseball. There is one out with ...
A: Chris, The run does not count. Baseball rules clearly state that a run may not count on the third ...
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| Stealing | 6/14/2005 |
Q: Here is the situation. The runner on second steals third and occupies the base before the pitch ...
A: Tom, If the pitcher has started his motion toward the plate before the steal happens, then the ...
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| umpiring | 6/8/2005 |
Q: ------------------------- Can a pitcher, even though he is off the rubber,fake a throw to first ...
A: Gary, If the pitcher is off the rubber he can pretty much do whatever he wants. If the pitcher is ...
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| Pick off to 1st.base | 6/7/2005 |
Q: I coach a 12year old team. We play 50-70.High school rules. Runner on 1st, My 1st. baseman( lefty) ...
A: Jimmy, Maybe the rule the umpire was thinking of was this section in rule 8.05: (d) The pitcher, ...
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| BALKS | 6/4/2005 |
Q: I UNDERSTAND YOU HAVE TO STEP OFF THE RUBBER TO TRY TO PICK OFF THE BASERUNNER ON FIRST,BUT CAN YOU ...
A: Gary, If you break contact with the rubber, you can do pretty much anything you want. As long as ...
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| baseball | 5/28/2005 |
Q: I hear "walk on hit" or "walk off hone run". What is a "walk on" or "walk off". Thanks for the ...
A: Tony, I haven't heard the expression 'walk on' relating to baseball so I can't help you there. ...
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| To Err or Not to Err | 5/25/2005 |
Q: I have served all year as an official scorer on a High School baseball team in California (CIF ...
A: Tyler, Oh the joys of being a scorer! I agree with your decision - no error on the play. It is ...
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| Machine Pitch rules | 5/22/2005 |
Q: My 7 year old plays machine pitch. Yesterday he got two fly balls that went over the infield ...
A: Dana, Unfortunately, I don't have an answer to your question. Every little league seems to have ...
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| Rule 6.09 in 2005 Official Baseball Rules | 5/17/2005 |
Q: Bases loaded, two outs, the count is 0-2. The pitch is made and the ball is called a strike. The ...
A: David, The catcher can make a force out by touching home plate, but the pitcher will not get credit ...
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| Major League Draft | 5/17/2005 |
Q: So I have become obsessed with all types of Professional Sports Drafts. One that I have observed and ...
A: Josh, There is no 'declaring' for the major league baseball draft. A team can literally chose ...
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| Hi Brian, I am not a baseball... | 5/15/2005 |
Q: I am not a baseball fan but the other day I was watching a game and the following situation ...
A: Doug, Basically, what you think happens is what happens! The manager either asks for volunteers ...
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| Balk Rule | 5/15/2005 |
Q: I agree, but can you provide me with a cite or rationale?Thanks Brian, I would still like the ...
A: George, I checked the rulebook and I found I made a mistake with my earlier ruling. Section 4.09 ...
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| question on earned runs | 5/10/2005 |
Q: i know what earned runs are and what runs are unearned but there is a scenierio i'm not sure about. ...
A: Matt, I agree with you. In section 10.18 of the major league rulebook, it discusses earned runs. ...
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| balk rule | 5/10/2005 |
Q: May any part of the pitcher's foot (heel or toe) extend beyond the rubber on either side as he ...
A: Joe, In the major league rulebook section 8.01 it says: "...with his entire pivot foot on, or in ...
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| Balk Rule | 5/9/2005 |
Q: Brian, I call your attention to 8.05(b) of the little league rule book for 2005. 8.05 discusses ...
A: George, The next phrase under section 8.05 is quoted: (b) The pitcher, while touching his plate, ...
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| Baserunning | 5/9/2005 |
Q: What is the ruling when one player passes another while running the bases? Also, at what point is ...
A: Wayne, As soon as the following runner passes the leading runner, the following runner is declared ...
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| Infield Fly Rule | 5/9/2005 |
Q: Can you please explain the infield fly rule?
A: Dave, The infield fly rule is considered in effect if both of the following conditions are met: 1) ...
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| Balk Rule | 5/6/2005 |
Q: Right handed pitcher, with a runner on first or other bases, from the stretch position lifts his ...
A: George, The pitcher cannot pause during his motion. Any stop or pause during the motion should be ...
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| designated runner | 5/3/2005 |
Q: My daughter is 10th grade catcher on her High School baseball team. She is the designated runner or ...
A: Rita, I'm not sure I understand the situation. Please answer a question for me. Does your ...
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| Balk | 4/13/2005 |
Q: I read your explanation regarding the balk rule and it does not make sense to me. Why does a right ...
A: Dave, A right handed person is physically unable to step toward first base without stepping off of ...
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| baseball speech (economical/ financial aspects) | 4/9/2005 |
Q: I'm a student from Germany and I have to hold a speech about baseball. One part of my talk deals ...
A: Tim, I'm happy to hear that people all over the world are interested in American baseball! ...
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| warm up | 3/18/2005 |
Q: im 14 and a very good pither.. im undefeated for the past 2 years. but everyonce in a while ill get ...
A: Scott, Major leaguers are limited to 8 warm up tosses before each new inning. That is the rule ...
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| baseball | 3/14/2005 |
Q: I have 2... 1. From Babe Ruth League on up can a pitcher throw a ball while standing on the ...
A: Mary, First of all, I'm sorry for the delay in answering - my work life has intruded on my question ...
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| instruction | 3/1/2005 |
Q: As a 8-10 yr old's coach I'm looking for a guide as to what to foucs on at this age. A list of ...
A: Jerry, It might sound crazy, but the focus should be on fun! There is no better way to make a ...
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| Baseball rules--runner interfering w/fielder attempting to tag | 2/20/2005 |
Q: Great to find you out here! I'm a Red Sox fan, and shortly after the infamous "A-Rod" hack in the ...
A: Adam, Sorry about the delay in answering your question, but I wanted to make sure I researched the ...
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| steroid use | 2/12/2005 |
Q: When did Major League baseball make steroid use illegal?
A: George, I'm not sure exactly when Major League Baseball made steroid use illegal. It has been a ...
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| pro baseball | 1/14/2005 |
Q: i am 21 years old and have been in trouble with the law. will this affect me in anyway from playing ...
A: Chris, It depends what kind of trouble and how good a player you are. Just how scared would a ...
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| baseball | 1/13/2005 |
Q: what sport did baseball evolve from.
A: Dude, Sounds like an easy question, but it isn't so easy. Bat and ball games have been played for ...
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| A Baseball Scientific Question | 12/28/2004 |
Q: my name is harrison ...im in the 7th grade and i have a question...(its for a science ...
A: Harrison, I'm not sure I can answer your question, but I have a source you can consult. Check out ...
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| an out or not | 12/26/2004 |
Q: a batter hit a pop-up that the catcher can field,he takes off his mask but holds it in his right ...
A: Dscappa, It is NOT an out. No player may use any portion of their uniform to catch a baseball. ...
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| inactive list | 11/28/2004 |
Q: I would like to know how the inactive list works? What does it mean if you are placed on the ...
A: Jessica, The inactive list in baseball refers to someone who is not able to play for a reason other ...
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| Comment on a previous question | 11/22/2004 |
Q: I noticed that a person asked about the 3rd strike rule with bases loaded. You replied that a ...
A: Thomas, The 3rd strike rule applies in all conditions when there are two outs, even if there is a ...
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| Ground rule double? | 10/27/2004 |
Q: What is a layman's definition for the ground-rule double? When does it apply? How has it affected ...
A: John, A ground rule double is just what it says. When the ground rules for the stadium say a ...
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| balk | 10/20/2004 |
Q: In game 3 of the red sox & yankees series there was a balk called on the pitcher for stepping off ...
A: Joseph, If the runner had already taken off and the pitcher performed that manuever, then it would ...
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| how?? | 10/16/2004 |
Q: a baseball game was held and the final score was 1-0 and yet nobody tagged homeplate...how is this ...
A: Molly, I'm sorry but I can't answer the question. I'm not sure of the answer. It isn't a forfeit ...
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| set position | 10/12/2004 |
Q: say pitcher brings his back foot from the backside of the rubber to the front side of the rubber and ...
A: Rod, The pitcher may not disengage from the rubber and still be moving toward the set position. In ...
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| Playoffs | 10/7/2004 |
Q: How do the playoffs work leading to the Pennant?
A: Bill, Here's the deal... Each division winner qualifies for the playoffs. That makes three teams ...
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| Rules | 9/23/2004 |
Q: Explain the bunt rules. My friend says if you try to bunt with 2 strikes you are automatically out. ...
A: S, The only difference between the bunt rules and other batting is that a foul bunt is always a ...
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| how many-and which- major... | 9/18/2004 |
Q: how many-and which- major league teams have had 4 or more players hit 30 or more home runs in a ...
A: Chuck, The list is pretty short: The Los Angeles Dodgers in 1977 had Garvey - 33, Smith - 32, Cey ...
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| Batting Title | 8/19/2004 |
Q: How are you? I see where Barry Bonds (SF) leads the NL in batting with a .358 avg. thru (8/18). ...
A: Wilfredo, Great question! In fact, the number of at bats is not the qualifying number to determine ...
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| ERA | 8/12/2004 |
Q: I was looking at the boxscore from yesterday's LL game between NY and Wa. D.C. There were no erros ...
A: Dave, A passed ball does count as an error for calculating pitcher's ERA. If the passed ball ...
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| Blown saves | 8/6/2004 |
Q: I have a pressing question. I was recently watching a Yankees' telecast and the announcer stated ...
A: John, Any time a reliever comes into a game and blows a lead for another pitcher that would qualify ...
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| scoring rule regarding errors | 8/6/2004 |
Q: I am a coach on a 13U select team in Boerne, Tx. We have a 4 coach staff and have had some ...
A: Michael, I doubt an email from an anonymous person will persuade someone who doesn't believe, but ...
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| Hitting | 8/1/2004 |
Q: Brian, I am 35 and have been a hitting coach for about 12 years. I have been around and worked with ...
A: Mark, You are way outside my area of expertise! I am not a coach, nor do I profess to being one. ...
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| Saves | 7/27/2004 |
Q: What is a save in baseball?
A: Bill, Only a pitcher that finishes the game (and isn't awarded a win) may receive a save. They get ...
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| Baserunning rule | 7/23/2004 |
Q: Is a batter out if, after hitting a fair ball, he/she steps on home plate after leaving the batter's ...
A: Maureen, There is a rule dictating that a player touch the bases in order: "7.02 In advancing, a ...
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| Baseball | 7/15/2004 |
Q: Who had more players in the Hall of Fame Yankees or Giants
A: Kathy, It depends on how you count. Do you want to include just players or all the managers, ...
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| save | 7/12/2004 |
Q: What is a save?
A: Kevin, A save is credited to a pitcher if he is not credited with a win, but finishes the game that ...
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| baseball | 7/12/2004 |
Q: Two out and a runner is on third. The batter on his second swing (second strike) runs to first ...
A: Jim, In the instance you described, the umpire made the right call. The ball is not dead. ...
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| Questionable call | 6/29/2004 |
Q: On Sunday of this week my son was involved in a Babe Ruth game. Here's what happened. Bases were ...
A: Fred, If the umpires believe the runner intentionally interfered with the play, both the runner and ...
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| major league pitching rules | 6/28/2004 |
Q: Can a pitcher jump or lunge towards home, land on his left foot (right handed pitcher)then hop and ...
A: Jim, As long as the motion doesn't include a stop (and as long as the back foot remains in contact ...
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| era calculation without getting an out? | 6/21/2004 |
Q: How do u calculate an era when a pitcher faced 6 batters & didn't get an out? You can't figure it ...
A: Patrick, You are right. You can't calculate an ERA when the pitcher doesn't retire any batters! ...
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| LEANING | 6/2/2004 |
Q: Why is it that most (I know not all..) ML pitchers lean down when gettting signs? Randy Johnson ...
A: Tim, I think it has to do with the angle they are viewing the catcher from up on the mound. The ...
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| Rules on Balking | 5/24/2004 |
Q: Today I saw an umpire do something I've never seen before and it confused me. There was a runner on ...
A: Candy, The penalty against a pitcher for balking is to have the baserunners advance. If there are ...
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| Firstbase mitts | 5/20/2004 |
Q: What are the benefits of a Firstbase mitt Vs. a regular fielders glove? Why can it not be worn at ...
A: Kelly, By the major league rules, the first baseman's glove can be larger then is allowed by other ...
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| home run, or out | 5/18/2004 |
Q: I need to clarify this questions that I asked previously, so that there is no room for confusion. ...
A: Brian, In the situation you described, the batter has just been retired by a spectacular play ...
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| Home run, or out? | 5/16/2004 |
Q: Outfielder catches a fly ball and goes over the outfield wall with the ball. He never drops the ...
A: Brian, If the player catches the ball, regardless of where he ends up, the batter is out. The key ...
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| 3rd strike running | 5/9/2004 |
Q: if first base is occupied by a runner, less than 2 outs, can the batter run to first base, after a ...
A: Dan, If there are less then two outs, the batter cannot run to first base on a dropped third strike ...
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| pitchig and RBI | 5/8/2004 |
Q: What player has the most RBI's for one season and how many? Also I was wondering how do they ...
A: Daniel, Hack Wilson had 191 RBIs for the 1930 Chicago Cubs. Basically, the pitcher that is in the ...
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| Lingo | 5/8/2004 |
Q: What does it mean when a pitcher "strikes out on the side"? Is it the same as striking out the ...
A: Candy, I haven't heard the term used that way before. Striking out the side is getting strike outs ...
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| Baseball Records | 5/7/2004 |
Q: What are the records for : -rbi's in a season -homeruns in a season -hits in a season
A: James, Hack Wilson, Chicago Cubs 1930 had 191 RBIs. Barry Bonds, San Francisco Giants 2001 had 73 ...
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| Batting rules | 5/7/2004 |
Q: When can a batter switch from one side of the plate to the other? For instance, if I have one ...
A: Tim, As soon as the batter sees one pitch in the batter's box, they may not switch sides. They ...
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| infield fly rule | 5/3/2004 |
Q: can you describe the infield fly rule
A: James, Sure! The infield fly rule must be called by the umpire when: There are less then two outs ...
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| pickoff | 5/2/2004 |
Q: when a pitcher is in a set position from stretch,does he have to drop his hands first ,before he ...
A: Andy, The pitcher just has to stop his hands from moving for a period of time. The time period is ...
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| Balk | 5/1/2004 |
Q: Can you explain to me what a balk is to its fullest? I am a starting ump and would like to know. I ...
A: Jed, I think you need a live person to discuss this with. A picture or live demonstration is truly ...
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| RAIN DELAY | 4/26/2004 |
Q: WHat are the major leage rules for calling a rain delay and for caalling the game because of rain? ...
A: Bill, Before the game starts, it is the decision of the home team to begin playing the game. As ...
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| Hitting vs pitching | 4/25/2004 |
Q: How can I find info that proves over a long period of time that either pitching or hitting is more ...
A: Richard, You've broached one of the great debates in the history of the study of baseball ...
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| Balk | 4/21/2004 |
Q: From the set position how high can one lift his non pivot foot to point to a base before throwing ...
A: Bob, This is a judgement call kind of question, but the rulebook answer is that as soon as the ...
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| Dropped Third Strike | 4/16/2004 |
Q: Situation: Nobody on, nobody out and the batter has an 0-2 count. The pitch is low, so the batter ...
A: Brian, If the umpire has already called a ball, he will not change his call because the batter ...
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| Pitching | 4/12/2004 |
Q: .. 1.How many different pitches are thrown in baseball? 2.What are the pitches that are thrown? ...
A: Dusty, Let me take a crack at your questions: 1) Lots of different pitches with different names. ...
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| Saves | 4/8/2004 |
Q: How are saves "calculated" or awarded? thanks, Dilhan
A: Dilhan, Only a pitcher that finishes the game (and isn't awarded a win) may receive a save. They ...
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| Baseball general rules. | 4/7/2004 |
Q: I'm a German English teacher in Brazil, and we'll have a lesson about Baseball. Unfortunately I only ...
A: Herbert, I glad to hear of anyone who is interested in learning more about baseball! Your question ...
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| machine pitch rules | 3/30/2004 |
Q: I caoched my son last year in t-ball and I am leaving it up to the coaches this year for machine ...
A: Jason, A good source for the official little league rules is: ...
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| Performance Scores | 2/17/2004 |
Q: You are correct, how are pitching performances calculated? Regards RobHello, I read an article ...
A: Rob, Bill James called this his Game Score. It is calculated by: 50 + (3 x Innings Pitched) - 2 x ...
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| Performance Scores | 2/15/2004 |
Q: I read an article about performance scores in Baseball. I would be very grateful if you could ...
A: Rob, I'm not sure I know what you are talking about. Does this refer to pitching performances? ...
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| What is not considered an at bat? | 1/14/2004 |
Q: My asst. coach and I have been disagreeing over what is not considered an at bat. Can you clarify ...
A: Sean, An at bat is not charged to the batter for the following results: 1) Batter walks 2) ...
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| baseball rule | 11/15/2003 |
Q: what year did MLB disallow fielders leaving gloves on field between innings
A: Don, Sorry about the delay - my internet connection is in a state of flux! In 1953 it was legal to ...
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| Strike zone | 10/27/2003 |
Q: What is the area of the strike zone? I know the ball has to go over the home plate. I do not know ...
A: Caridad, The major league rulebook defines the strike zone as: "The STRIKE ZONEis that area over ...
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| Rules of Baseball | 10/1/2003 |
Q: What is the infield fly rule?
A: Beverly, The infield fly rule is invoked whenever the following game conditions are met: 1) There ...
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| world series- wild card | 9/29/2003 |
Q: understand 7 game w.s. between winners of a.l.-n.l., but were does wild card winner come in?.
A: Noel, I'm not sure I understand what you are asking. I'll explain the playoffs and if I don't ...
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| Balk | 9/9/2003 |
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