Expert: John McInnis - 5/27/2007

Question
I coach high school baseball in Utah but my question is regarding 12 year olds.  In this league the base-runner can lead off.  If an attempt to steal home is made is there any rules about the hitter swinging the bat on purpose.  I know this is dangerous and shouldn't be allowed, but is there a rule.  I know this could happen if a batter misses a sign but have you ever heard of such a thing?  A team from Idaho practices this play and my nephew has been hit by the swinging bat and he is the catcher.

Answer
Hi Steve,

that's a cunning move on the part of the coach to signal a faux swing on a steal home.  If an umpire suspects such a call, I would think he'd rule the batter out and give out a bench warning to the team.  That's a dangerous means of interfering with the play and it's the umpires call to ensure a safe game.

I'm with you...its not proper and should be discouraged.  It will make take more than one time for the ump to recogize this act before he makes a call.

Regards,

JohnMc