AboutTom Mielke Expertise Rule and scoring questions for Fastpitch Softball. Primarily High School (NFHS) and ASA. I will answer some coaching questions as well for youth through high school/18U fastpitch. Please do not rate me, good or bad for coaching responses. There is to much subjective matter to the coaching area as opposed to rules/scoring.
Experience Rec and Travel Ball Coach and High School Umpire
Education/Credentials Michigan High School Athletic Association registered official: Softball, Basketball, Volleyball
Question A player, who had previously batted and played in the field in the game, was found to be wearing metal cleats as he came to bat for the second time. He had entered the box, but not taken a pitch. The umpire called time when the catcher pointed out the metal cleats. The umpire was going to allow the batter to continue to play in the cleats, until the opposing manager protested this. What is the correct plan of action for the umpire to take?
Answer I would simply instruct the coach of the offending team to get a legally equiped batter up to the plate.
If this was a "friendly" tournament. I would give the player a minute to change shoes. If I felt there was an intent to violate the rules, I might eject the player and the coach.
There has been a lot of confusion at some tournaments this summer about what kind of cleats are allowed. Speaking ASA, no metal cleats at any level.
