Expert: Tom Mielke - 10/1/2009

Question
what is the rule for courtesy runner in the same inning.  believe the rule book states the last out of the last inning can courtesy run.  But does it state he can only run once in the inning?  For example my leadoff hitter got on, I call for courtesy runner.  he scored on the next hit.  i wanted to courtesy run the runner that was left on base with the same guy (last out of last inning).  legal?

Answer
Both ASA and high school.  The courtesy runner must be a player that has not been in the game.  If a player runs for the pitcher, they may only run for the pitcher.  They can continue to run for the pitcher even if the pitcher is changed.  Same rule applies for the catcher.

There is nothing in the ASA or HS book about the last batter.  This rule is often put in locally or at friendly tournaments to make sure there is always a courtesy runner available.  Teams want to keep their pitchers out of the sun as much as possible.  When you are playing a time limited tournament game, you often want the catcher off the bases and getting ready to catch.