| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| 4 base errors | 11/20/2009 |
Q: last night, during a playoff game, a four base error was called and i did not even know such a term ...
A: This is the proper call by the umpire, it's actually called a "4 base award", if an error happens or ...
|
| strike zone | 11/13/2009 |
Q: In ASA men's slow pitch, I notice many of the seasoned players stand way up in the batter's box ...
A: I'm always amazed that someone who plays SP for any length of time doesn't know where the strike ...
|
| Coach interference? | 11/7/2009 |
Q: The batter swings and misses at strike three. The ball skips into the catcher's glove. Neither the ...
A: just based on your q I don't have the coach "assisting" the runner, so no I have nothing here. ASA ...
|
| Outs in softball | 11/6/2009 |
Q: Man at first and second with no outs - ground ball to the shortstop. Shortstop fields the ball, ...
A: Anxiously sending you my answer... 1) if they step on 2nd FIRST, R2 (coming from 1st) is out, R1 if ...
|
| softball | 11/5/2009 |
Q: When a batter hits a ball and runs past 1st base and turns around to go back to 1st base does the ...
A: 1st base is different than 2nd or 3rd. You can overrun 1st and turn right or left w/out liability ...
|
| Pitcher in the Basepath | 11/5/2009 |
Q: Ambrose, I play in a coed slow pitch softball league. The team we played against last night had its ...
A: this should answer it, you might want to print it out, that umpire doesn't understand obstruction in ...
|
| Pitching | 11/3/2009 |
Q: We have a girl in ou 12U division with a very unusal style of pitching. It's hard to explain but I ...
A: no pause or holding for any amount of time is required nor is in front of the body a requirement. ...
|
| Pitching Rules | 11/2/2009 |
Q: Our league uses the 11" ball for girls and 12" ball for guys, and the other pitcher and i have some ...
A: Well I must admit I've never seen this and I don't think I would like it too well as far as the ...
|
| is this interference | 10/29/2009 |
Q: Pitched ball was supposedly misplayed by catcher and bounced off backstop onto field. Third strike ...
A: This is interference, dead ball, b-r is out and all others return to the last base touched at the ...
|
| Obstruction | 10/28/2009 |
Q: Just read a post in which you said going to receive the ball was taken out of ASA rules. My ...
A: "I have had a stealing runner collide in the baseline between second and first with a defensive ...
|
| Rain Out | 10/28/2009 |
Q: Good morning. I have a question regarding rain outs. I play in a slow pitch D+ mens league and ...
A: If you play by ASA rules and don't have a local over-ride rule on this.....you re-start the game at ...
|
| Obstuction | 10/27/2009 |
Q: Umpire calls obstuction on the ss and the runner is thrown out at home. Ump rules the runner was ...
A: "I thought you advance at your own risk."....sometimes.... see below By rule an obstructed runner ...
|
| Obstruction? | 10/20/2009 |
Q: A baserunner is stealing but because she is looking toward home plate she inadvertently strays well ...
A: Obstruction is a judgment call, our umpire manual tells us that simply because there is a collision ...
|
| Infield Fly Rule | 10/16/2009 |
Q: Had a player from a team really get mad last night on a call that I made. I am new to ASA umpiring, ...
A: here's the def....INFIELD FLY: A fair fly ball, not including a line drive or an attempted bunt ...
|
| Signs to Pitchers | 10/15/2009 |
Q: During an ASA youth softball game, an illegal pitch was called on a pitcher because the coach gave ...
A: the only requirement is that the pitcher be on the pitcher's plate w/ hands separated and take or ...
|
| Runner struck by batted ground ball | 10/15/2009 |
Q: I play in a softball league and had an interesting play tonight. There were no outs and runners on ...
A: The way I understand it, in the game they play w/ that small ball you would be correct HOWEVER in ...
|
| Force Out Ruling | 10/12/2009 |
Q: Here's the situation from a recent game. Runners on 1st base and 2nd base, no outs. Batter hits a ...
A: before a play was made at 1st R2 was no longer legally entitled to it but there is no rule that they ...
|
| rule interpretation | 10/12/2009 |
Q: Please clarify correct ruling for the following and please consider how the ruling changes with ...
A: In the thousands and thousands of innings I've umpired I've never seen this happen...where F1 has a ...
|
| rule interpretation | 10/9/2009 |
Q: Please clarify correct ruling for the following and please consider how the ruling changes with ...
A: If the pitcher had no play w/ ordinary effort I would have obstruction. However if the ball is ...
|
| tipped ball | 10/6/2009 |
Q: Situation: 14u ASA softball Batter has two strikes She swings at pitch and makes contact with the ...
A: I had the Fed stuff handy, ASA is the same 1. If the ball moves DIRECTLY to the catcher's ...
|
| What constitutes "control"? | 10/2/2009 |
Q: ASA Co-Rec game: Runners at 1st and 2nd, two outs. Ground ball to short, tosses to 3rd base for ...
A: My opinion is based on ASA 8-7-c the runner is out... "When, on a force play, a fielder contacts ...
|
| Intentional Droped Fly Ball | 9/30/2009 |
Q: Men's D league slow-pitch softball. 1 out, runner on first base. Batter hits a pop-up to 2nd ...
A: Some orgs have different definitions of an intentionally dropped ball. In ASA the defense must ...
|
| inside fly ball | 9/30/2009 |
Q: My grand-daughter played softball last night and the empire called the runner out on a fly ball that ...
A: it's called the "infield fly rule" and it's meant to protect the offense from cheap double or triple ...
|
| runner on base hit by batted ball | 9/30/2009 |
Q: Sir: In looking the the rules supplement for the asa umpires manual.I came across a strange (to me ...
A: "It was my understanding that a runner on a base is out if hit by a batted ball except for when ...
|
| Dropped 2nd Strike | 9/30/2009 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, No I didn't mistakenly type the subject. What's the rule for this situation with a ...
A: yes this happens every now and then. We put the batter back at bat w/ the previous count and ...
|
| Ejecting players | 9/30/2009 |
Q: What guidance does the ASA rule book give on when and HOW TO eject player(s)? Recently, our league ...
A: Obviously it's the individual umpires judgment as to how much they will let go on. As an umpire ...
|
| runner on base hit by batted ball | 9/29/2009 |
Q: Sir: In looking the the rules supplement for the asa umpires manual.I came across a strange (to me ...
A: A runner hit by a fair batted ball while off the base is 1 set of rules. A runner hit by a fair ...
|
| Slow pitch | 9/28/2009 |
Q: Runner on third %26 first, batter hits the third base runner standing on the base, ball lands in ...
A: F5 plays 3rd, correct. The ball can hit a runner standing on a base and be a foul ball. If the ...
|
| Tag play 3rd out | 9/28/2009 |
Q: 1 down, runners on first and third. Fly ball to outfield caught for 2nd out, runner on first did ...
A: you are correct, this is a "timing" play and NOT a "force out". By rule the run would count if it ...
|
| Slow pitch | 9/28/2009 |
Q: Runner on third %26 first, batter hits the third base runner standing on the base, ball lands in ...
A: This assumes the ball hit R1 in fair territory, otherwise it's just a foul ball. In SP the closest ...
|
| Batter advancing after a walk (BB) | 9/27/2009 |
Q: After receiving a walk, can the batter keeping running to second base, even though the pitcher has ...
A: The fact that the pitcher has the ball in the circle does not prevent a b-r from advancing on a ...
|
| Is it a dropped 3rd strike | 9/27/2009 |
Q: In womens division of ASA FP softball we had a pitcher that released the ball to early or it slipped ...
A: The umpire is absolutely correct, this is a D3K situation. The rule is NOT if the catcher "drops" ...
|
| out or safe? | 9/27/2009 |
Q: "men on first and second.....one out...groundball to third...ball bobbled into foul ...
A: sure...the runner would be out. The rule on a force out only requires that the defense have control ...
|
| Tagging Up | 9/26/2009 |
Q: tried to find the answer in previous posts but couldn't so thank you in advance. Co-ed corporate ...
A: Just for future questions the standards we use is R1 for the farthest advanced runner and number ...
|
| Thrown Ball Hits Runner | 9/24/2009 |
Q: I have a simple question regarding Girls Softball ages 9 - 13 y/o. If a thrown ball hits a runner ...
A: As long as the runner does not intentionally interfere w/ the throw and is simply attempting to ...
|
| Tagging up | 9/21/2009 |
Q: ASA CO-ED Softball League - One out with runner on first - batter hit a fly ball to right field - ...
A: That would not be the correct call, in fact it would be a very bad call, there is no rule that a ...
|
| Runner hit by thrown ball in a run down | 9/20/2009 |
Q: Ambrose, I may have wrongly called a runner out today in a Little League Softball game at the Junior ...
A: You are incorrect in this case by calling the runner out. This is not interference, simply a bad ...
|
| pitcher's circle | 9/18/2009 |
Q: At last night's game during fall ball, there was a conflict of view point. third base runner stole ...
A: this is from our rules supp RS34. LOOK-BACK RULE (Fast Pitch) (Rule 8 Section 7 T). When a runner ...
|
| Runner hit by fair ball | 9/18/2009 |
Q: My player was running from 1st to 2nd and was hit by a hit ball. She was running and didn't see the ...
A: Intent or trying to avoid the ball has nothing to do with being called out. The runner is out... ...
|
| pitcher's circle | 9/17/2009 |
Q: At last night's game during fall ball, there was a conflict of view point. third base runner stole ...
A: We don't have a "mound" if softball, we have a "pitcher's plate" (PP). Hopefully you're asking me a ...
|
| time out question | 9/17/2009 |
Q: The ump we had last night was letting the other team raise the ball in the air and call timeout as ...
A: A player can NEVER call "time", only an umpire. ASA 10-4-I (Slow Pitch) When, in the judgment of an ...
|
| ball | 9/15/2009 |
Q: If a pitcher pitches a ball that hits the ground and then bounces up and hits the batter is the ...
A: "If a pitcher pitches a ball that hits the ground and then bounces up and hits the batter is the ...
|
| asa co-ed slow pitch | 9/15/2009 |
Q: The league we play in says we go by asa rules. They say when making the line up you must bat 10 ...
A: In strict ASA play you can bat 5 and 5 or 6 and 6. You cannot play more than 12 at a time, what you ...
|
| fair or foul ball? | 9/14/2009 |
Q: My brother plays softball on a 2a special olympic softball team. They lost a game yesterday on what ...
A: If the "base" the umpire is talking about is 1st base, the batted ball would be fair. FAIR BALL: A ...
|
| illegal - non approved bat | 9/4/2009 |
Q: Illegal bat is one to long or too heavy, yes? Altered (painted.shaved, etc.) and non-approved ...
A: "So a team appeals that a batter used an illegal bat saying it is on ASA non-approved list. ...
|
| Can't sleep over it | 9/4/2009 |
Q: We had a runner on the way to third with 2 outs. The 3rd baseman was off the bag to field the ball. ...
A: Ok now we have more information, w starting a game batting 11 and any 10 playing defense (it's ...
|
| illegal - non approved bat | 9/3/2009 |
Q: Illegal bat is one to long or too heavy, yes? Altered (painted.shaved, etc.) and non-approved ...
A: An illegal bat, an altered bat and a non-approved bat are 3 different animals. An illegal bat is ...
|
| Can't sleep over it | 9/3/2009 |
Q: We had a runner on the way to third with 2 outs. The 3rd baseman was off the bag to field the ball. ...
A: I'm sorry you're upset. On the tag or lack of, that's not an "appeal" play w/ those restrictions ...
|
| Strike Zone | 9/1/2009 |
Q: If a ball hits the plate is ASA slow pitch is it automatically a ball? We had a game the other ...
A: Pretty simple ASA 7-5. A BALL IS CALLED BY THE UMPIRE. B. (Slow Pitch) For each legally pitched ...
|
| illegal bat | 8/31/2009 |
Q: We had a game last night and the other team claimed our player hit a home run with an illegal bat. ...
A: The penalty for an illegal bat is just an out (and all runners return to their previous base(s) if ...
|
| Pitching and Base Stealing | 8/31/2009 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, I am not new to the game of softball, but need some clarification on when a runner can ...
A: It's pretty simple the pitcher can no longer have control of the ball by doing a few things This is ...
|
| batting out of order | 8/27/2009 |
Q: co-ed soft ball game, play off. The team we played aganist played all game with girls as their 9 ...
A: I'm not sure I can help you, many co-ed leagues have local rules that deviate so far from national ...
|
| Force plays and standing on base | 8/18/2009 |
Q: Here's an interesting situation that came up the other day. No outs, runners on 1st and 2nd. Ball ...
A: R1 no longer can legally occupy 2nd, on base or not, when tagged they are out, step on 2nd for the ...
|
| ASA Mens Softball substition rules | 8/18/2009 |
Q: Greetings, We play in a modified pitch mens league in NH and this is my situation: ...
A: In modified we don't have a DP (or a DH) so this is a local rule. So I can't tell you. Just for ...
|
| foul or fair | 8/18/2009 |
Q: The batter hits a weak popup with a lot of backspin. The catcher gets up to catch it but is unable ...
A: In umpiring 101 we learn that between home and 1st or 3rd the batted ball is fair or foul based on ...
|
| 4 base error home run call | 8/17/2009 |
Q: At a game this weekend (ASA sanctioned) a 4 base error home run was called by the umpire (also ...
A: If F9 had control of the ball before touching dead ball territory, it is a legal catch, this ...
|
| tagging up | 8/17/2009 |
Q: in a recent asa softball game runners on first and third 1 out fly ball to left runner on third tags ...
A: In this situation I have no idea why R2 would even leave the base by more than a few steps (they ...
|
| Throwing glove at a batted ball. | 8/13/2009 |
Q: I know that in MLB, throwing a glove at a batted ball (if and only if it makes contact), all runners ...
A: you mean THIS rule! ASA 8-5-F. When a fielder intentionally contacts or catches a fair batted, a ...
|
| batters box | 8/13/2009 |
Q: Does the batters feet have to be all the way in the box at the time of the pitch? We generally do ...
A: Yes, the foot may touch part of the line but no part of the foot may be outside the line at the time ...
|
| Batter's Box and other ASA rules | 8/12/2009 |
Q: Question A: I understand that with out a lined batter's box there seems to be some leeway as to ...
A: w/out lines the umpire manual says to give the benefit of the doubt to the batter. Now the BB ...
|
| interfearence | 8/11/2009 |
Q: while running to second base the runner yell s and causes the second baseman to lose concentration ...
A: RS33. INTERFERENCE. Interference is the act of an offensive player or team member that impedes, ...
|
| Questionable calls at first base | 8/11/2009 |
Q: We just played a best-of-three series for our division playoff finals and had a field umpire in ...
A: we'll always have differences of opinions on judgment calls. The only thing that may lead to a ...
|
| double first base | 8/10/2009 |
Q: If a girl playing first base catches the ball while standing on the orange portion of first base is ...
A: if there is a play being made at 1st on a batted ball on the b-r the defense must use the white ...
|
| orange bag at first | 8/10/2009 |
Q: A batter hits a ball in the infield, on the play to first base they touch the white portion of the ...
A: The runner would be called "safe" when touching only the white portion on this play HOWEVER if ...
|
| illegal batter contact with the ball? | 8/8/2009 |
Q: Mark, Please advise on the following. Our ASA league does not create a lined batter's box. During ...
A: W/out lines it doesn't make it impossible but it does make it more difficult. Our umpire manual ...
|
| Walk/Stealing bases | 8/8/2009 |
Q: this is my daughter's first year of playing and I'm not too fond about the rules in softball. My ...
A: In most cases in FP the ball continues to be live on a BB. Since the ball is live a runner or b-r ...
|
| infield fly rule | 8/7/2009 |
Q: runners at 1st and second base, infield fly is called by the umpire on batter. The ball is in the ...
A: The only difference between an IF and any other fly ball is that the batter is automatically out on ...
|
| ASA Softball game suspended | 8/5/2009 |
Q: Playing in our mens tournament we completed 4 out of the 7 innings. In the 5th inning the game was ...
A: depends where in the 5th and who was ahead, if you were the home team and had finished 1/2 of 5 the ...
|
| out of play catch | 8/4/2009 |
Q: 1)Is it legal catch, if fielder jumps in air from foul territory over out of play area and catches ...
A: 1) would be a legal catch as long as they had control of the ball before touching the ground. If it ...
|
| Walks | 8/4/2009 |
Q: the ball on a walk. we had a runner on 1st and 2nd and i was up to bat, and i walked.. as i was ...
A: In SP with NO stealing, the ball is dead on a walk and runners cannot advance unless forced. In SP ...
|
| Follow Up Question ASA ruling | 8/3/2009 |
Q: I had my 2nd baseman (female) injured on a side play at second. We submitted the batting line up ...
A: Well someone took a very simple problem and made it much more complex. The umpire should not have ...
|
| Injured Player Batting Line Up | 8/3/2009 |
Q: I had my 2nd baseman (female) injured on a side play at second. We submitted the batting line up ...
A: I don't know what they're protesting, by rule you take an out you don't ask the other team. If you ...
|
| Official Tag/Out | 8/2/2009 |
Q: I am volunteering as an umpire in a coed softball league. I am not certified. I guess you could say ...
A: empty glove, no tag, no out. Umpire signals "NO TAG" on the play. Once R1 leaves the field of play ...
|
| Injured Player Batting Line Up | 8/2/2009 |
Q: I had my 2nd baseman (female) injured on a side play at second. We submitted the batting line up ...
A: No, you only way you forfeit is if a player is ejected (not disqualified or injured) and you don't ...
|
| Injured Player Batting Line Up | 8/1/2009 |
Q: I had my 2nd baseman (female) injured on a side play at second. We submitted the batting line up ...
A: w/ 2 EPs (6 and 6)you're batting 12 and any 10 play defense. If you lose 1 and have no sub, you ...
|
| blocking the basepath | 7/31/2009 |
Q: this pertains to the question previously answered july 30 ie Runner on 1st and 3rd with 1 out. ...
A: I briefly considered that but I wasn't there and the OP made no mention that there may have been ...
|
| Batting Out of Order w/ Multiple Plays | 7/30/2009 |
Q: ASA Fastpitch - R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B and B4 batting with no outs. First pitch: R2 steals 2B and R1 ...
A: we don't have a CBP for this this, unfortunately. However we can read the intent of the rule ...
|
| ASA slow pitch strike zone | 7/30/2009 |
Q: In slow pitch batterleft handed batter is standing with left foot middle to back of plate, the pitch ...
A: Here's the def of a strike in SP STRIKE ZONE: That space over any part of home plate, when a batter ...
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| ASA softball umpire rule | 7/30/2009 |
Q: Runner on 1st and 3rd with 1 out. Batter hits a ground ball to the third baseman - runner on third ...
A: Here's our RS1-I. Plate and Tag Missed. If a runner misses home plate and the catcher misses the ...
|
| Bunted ball hitting bat | 7/29/2009 |
Q: What is the call in these 2 scenarios (scenario A happened last evening in the finals of a playoff ...
A: 1) if the bat out of the batter's hands dropped or thrown hits the ball in fair territory, it is a ...
|
| Question form 7/21/2009 Horrible calling from blue | 7/29/2009 |
Q: Mark, wouldn't/couldn't this also be unreported substitue. Like previous question I asked you about? ...
A: nice to speak w/ you again. I'm not sure what he meant by roster so at the end I gave him the IP ...
|
| Batters box | 7/29/2009 |
Q: I recently have started hitting to the opposite field and to allow greater opportunity for the ...
A: The umpire is correct, Both feet must completely inside the box at the time of the pitch, they may ...
|
| Triple Play/Run Count? | 7/28/2009 |
Q: I coach a squadron intramural team in the Air Force. We play by ASA rules. Here's the situation: ...
A: My only son is Marine Sgt. Ben Ambrose, currently somewhere in the Middle East, I don't know where, ...
|
| Which umpire has the call? | 7/28/2009 |
Q: There is a runner on 3rd with 1 out. The batter hits a fly ball to center field which is caught. ...
A: I have no idea in the world why the BU would give a "safe" signal on this call. They have no ...
|
| ASA Mens Slow Pitch Softball | 7/28/2009 |
Q: I was wondering if you could help me out with this explanation I got from an umpire on a call at ...
A: "How would you call a play if you honestly thought the runner did hit the base at the same time as ...
|
| fair or foul ball? | 7/28/2009 |
Q: Can a player who unsuccessfully attempts to catch a fly ball in the outfield, make the ball "fair" ...
A: On a ball in flight it is always where the ball is when 1st touched by the defense. If the ball is ...
|
| Bunt or Slap? | 7/27/2009 |
Q: What constitutes a slap vs a drag bunt? The situation was this...Left handed batter with 2 strikes. ...
A: AH the great bunt or slap problem. First of all the position of the hands are irrelevant to bunt or ...
|
| slowpitch softball | 7/27/2009 |
Q: Womens slowpitch tourny. ASA rules, a team has 12 gals down in book to bat, this is ok per their ...
A: It would be an unreported sub and depending on who and when it was brought to the umpire's attention ...
|
| slowpitch softball | 7/27/2009 |
Q: Womens slowpitch tourny. ASA rules, a team has 12 gals down in book to bat, this is ok per their ...
A: even though this local rule deviates somewhat w/ ASA rules we can still use it the same as ASA EP ...
|
| base running | 7/26/2009 |
Q: 1 in coed slowpitch must a pitcher start with both feet on the pitching rubber 2 if a person bats ...
A: In ASA the runner always gets 2 bases from the last base touched at the time of the throw on an ...
|
| Runner hit while on base | 7/25/2009 |
Q: In ASA slow pitch softball, what if the runner is hit in fair territory while standing on first or ...
A: By rule in this case the ball is dead, b-r is awarded 1st and all other runners only move if forced. ...
|
| missing home plate | 7/24/2009 |
Q: in a recent game we had a girl going to home, she missed the plate and upon entering the dugout was ...
A: That would not be the correct call, leaving the playing field only means she cannot come back to ...
|
| Dropped Third Strike | 7/23/2009 |
Q: I have been umpiring youth baseball and softball for 11 years, but I am not certified in either one. ...
A: depends on how many out, w/2 out yes, with less than 2 and 1st occupied, no. I'm glad you're ...
|
| Protesting a game after it is complete | 7/23/2009 |
Q: Mark, Our Church league team won in extra innings recently, only to find out that the other TEAM ...
A: Sorry Patty, The LD can do pretty much anything they want. However in ASA you cannot protest if a ...
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| Number of steps in batters box | 7/23/2009 |
Q: I've been watching a local Bar Slow Pitch League which is supposed to be running under ASA rules. ...
A: The BB extends 4' in front of a line drawn through the middle of the plate. 2or 3 steps probably ...
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| Intentionally Dropped Ball | 7/22/2009 |
Q: In our league game last night we had runners on 1st and 3rd, with no outs. Batter popped up to the ...
A: In ASA play you must actually catch the ball and the then drop it to have an IDB, merely guiding it ...
|
| softball fastpitch asa | 7/22/2009 |
Q: What is the circle around the rubber mean? Some people say it means dead ball some say runners can ...
A: the 8' circle is for the Look Back Rule. If the pitcher is in possession of the ball in the circle ...
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| obstruction/interference | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I was at a men's slow pitch game last night when there was a close play at home base. The runner ...
A: I didn't see the play but a defensive player cannot block the base or the base-path w/out possession ...
|
| Coach Interference | 7/21/2009 |
Q: Mark - In a recent slow pitch game, we had runners on second (R1) and first (R2), bottom of the ...
A: Yes as long as the coach did not assist the runner and it was just incidental contact. "The ...
|
| running on a caught fly ball | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I play in a men's slow-pitch league. Recently, while on third base, the batter flied out to center ...
A: leaving a base early on a legally caught fly ball is an appeal play by the defense. The umpire ...
|
| horrible calling from blue!!! | 7/21/2009 |
Q: i just played in a game with three ASA officials on the field and 1 ASA official keeping the book. ...
A: I'm going to be gentle on you, yet tell you how it is. I can see you are upset. You are absolutely ...
|
| asa slowpitch rules | 7/21/2009 |
Q: recently, i was instructed by a homeplate umpire that if i did not stay inside the third base ...
A: well we don't call the batter or anyone else out but you need to stay in the CB unless you are ...
|
| asa rules | 7/21/2009 |
Q: i am a rec league coach who is taking my rec league team to play in an asa tournament for the first ...
A: If this is SP you can play w/ 10 or 11. If you play w/ 11 all 11 bat and ANY 10 play defense. Now ...
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| double base ruling | 7/21/2009 |
Q: if a batter hits a ball in the gap and is going for extra bases,rounding first only hits the orange ...
A: No, the spirit and the intent of the rule is safety, it is not a "gotcha" rule. Even so the rule is ...
|
| tagging up | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I once read that if the ball is touch on a fly then it pops up on the player then he catches it the ...
A: The runner may legally leave the base as soon as a fly ball that is going to be caught 1st touches a ...
|
| dropped third strike | 7/21/2009 |
Q: Had a scenario I have never seen this evening. Bases loaded, two outs, dropped third strike. Catcher ...
A: When the D3K rule applies the batter becomes a b-r. In doing so force plays can now happen. R1 is ...
|
| does the runner score? | 7/20/2009 |
Q: Ambrose. Thank you in advance. Here is the situation. One out with runners on first and third. The ...
A: You're welcome in advance....sure the run would score if R1 touched HP before the appeal of a base ...
|
| Coed Force out rule | 7/20/2009 |
Q: ambrose, I umpire/run a coed league modified pitch league. My problem is with applying the 2 out ...
A: You can't find anything because it's wrong, no offense. ANYTIME the 3rd out of an 1/2 inning is a ...
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| batters box | 7/20/2009 |
Q: hey in ASA rules can a batter start out of the batters box and then run into the box to hit the ...
A: When the pitcher delivers the ball a batter must have both feet inside the bb. A foot may touch the ...
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| Substitution re-entry | 7/19/2009 |
Q: My question is regarding subs and re-entry during ITB. We went into International Tie Breaker. My ...
A: sure, a starter and their sub can each "re-enter" once #1 starts, 2 subs for 1, 1 re-enters for 2, ...
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| International Tie Breaker | 7/19/2009 |
Q: My question is regarding subs and re-entry during ITB. We went into International Tie Breaker. My ...
A: It's just called the Tie-Breaker Rule "I can't find a reference to that anywhere in the ASA rule ...
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| Umprire Rule | 7/18/2009 |
Q: Today in my softball game, after a batter hit the ball and was 3/4 of the way to first the umpire ...
A: well I guess you could print this out and show it to them. 10-4-E. An umpire will not call time ...
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| Umpire judgment | 7/18/2009 |
Q: We had an umpire (working single person) get out from behind the plate to make a call at third. ...
A: We don't normally call someone out w/out seeing the actual tag. If I don't see the tag for whatever ...
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| Must Slide Rule | 7/18/2009 |
Q: I've coached a fastpitch softball team for years (currently coaching U18 team) and have often heard ...
A: there are no "must slide" rules from any major nat org that I know of and CERTAINLY ASA has NO must ...
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| Sliding | 7/17/2009 |
Q: I need clarification on a couple of rules concerning sliding and blocking a base or plate. (NFHS) ...
A: you are correct that you cannot block a base or basepath w/out possession of the ball. Sec. 36 ...
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| Runner interference | 7/17/2009 |
Q: Runner on third, runner on second, no outs. batter hits grounder to shortstop and the runner on ...
A: w/out seeing the play it's sounds like interference to me, Interference is the act of an offensive ...
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| Mercy Rule | 7/16/2009 |
Q: I just played a playoff game and at the end of 5 innings the score was 13 to 4. It was a 15u fast ...
A: for JO play the run ahead rule is 15 after 3, 12 after 4 and 8 after 5. So 8+4=12. I have no idea ...
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| Slow pitch rule question. | 7/16/2009 |
Q: There was a runner on 3rd with 1 out, I was in right center field and a fly ball was hit to me the ...
A: happy to help............the runner may leave the base as soon as a fly ball that is going to be ...
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| Runner struck by Batted ball. | 7/16/2009 |
Q: We are playing ASA softball. There is a runner on first with one out. The Batter hits a line drive ...
A: When a runner is in contact with the base and struck with a fair batted ball, if the closest ...
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| Question on Umpire Mistake | 7/16/2009 |
Q: Runners on first and third with 1 out. Batter hits ground ball to short stop who fields ball and ...
A: Based on part of CH 10 the umpire must do what they can to make a "mess" they made, fair. IMHO ...
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| obstruction | 7/16/2009 |
Q: I had a runner obstructed between 2nd & 3rd, I held out my arm for the obstruction but the runner ...
A: Obstruction is always a DDB and we protect the runner either between the bases they were obstructed ...
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| ASA Slow-Pitch Rule Interpretations | 7/15/2009 |
Q: Dr Ambrose, I have a few questions that have come up during player discussions recently that I would ...
A: In ASA you can carry the bat all the way around the bases if you choose. You cannot use it as a ...
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| Obstruction | 7/15/2009 |
Q: Is it obstruction if the fielder starts in the baseline prior to and during a pitch? This is girls ...
A: Yes that would be obstruction...EVERYTIME! F6 must move out of the path of the runner if they are ...
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| Obstruction | 7/15/2009 |
Q: Is it obstruction if the fielder starts in the baseline prior to and during a pitch? This is girls ...
A: Section 5. DEFENSIVE POSITIONING. 6-5-A. The pitcher shall not deliver a pitch unless all available ...
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| Run scored? | 7/14/2009 |
Q: Base runners on the corners ,with 2 out. The batter hits a triple but misses 2nd base. After a ...
A: Since both R1 and R2 scored before the appeal of B3 at 2nd both runs would score. The only ways ...
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| follow up question | 7/14/2009 |
Q: I had asked Tom about an interference play and failed to mention something; so here it goes again. ...
A: In order to have "interference" the defensive player must have a reasonable opportunity to make a ...
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| double first base bag | 7/14/2009 |
Q: I don't know if the league matters. But, in an adult slow pitch game, the batter hit a grounder just ...
A: No change I know but based on 8-2-M-4. "On any force out attempt from the foul side of first base ...
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| DP/Flex | 7/13/2009 |
Q: Mark, a question for the DP/Flex. I understand the DP bats for the Flex and the Flex palys defense, ...
A: well you don't have pg 50 in the current ASA rule book but...no big deal Sure the DP is still ...
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| Slap hit - "double touch" | 7/13/2009 |
Q: Situation: 10U ASA fastpitch game in which the batter attempted a slap hit. Ball lands in field of ...
A: Neither of the 2 would be correct If THE BAT dropped or thrown hit the ball in fair territory we ...
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| JO rule interpretation | 7/13/2009 |
Q: A pitched ball hits the catchers shin guards and rolls over near the on-deck batter who picks up the ...
A: in this case it is not necessarily (and probably not)interference. If it prevented the catcher from ...
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| who is out on fair ball hit that hits a baserunner | 7/13/2009 |
Q: Dr. Mark, Runner on 3rd, 1 out, batter hits line drive toward third base and hits runner after he ...
A: If R1 was hit by a fair batted ball off base before it passed an infielder (exc F1) the ball is ...
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| 3rd out | 7/13/2009 |
Q: Here's the situation. Men's slow pitch softball. Runners on 1st and 3rd. 2 outs. Batter hits into ...
A: This is basic umpiring, the umpire is very incorrect, (as are you) but they should know better. I ...
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| Runner Interference and Infield Fly | 7/13/2009 |
Q: In a recent ASA Women's tournament, a team had runners on 1st and 2nd base with 2 outs. The batter ...
A: When F3 collided w/ R2 we have interference, dead ball R2 is out. Since there were 2 outs we need ...
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| overtime | 7/13/2009 |
Q: Could you please explain "sudden death" overtimes where they put a runner on second base to start ...
A: it's not sudden death nor is it overtime, it's extra innings and it's called the tie breaker rule. ...
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| Fastpitch pitching rule | 7/12/2009 |
Q: What are the rules governing the pitcher "displaying" the ball. My daiughter's coach has always ...
A: Here's the ASA rules.... 6-1-D. While on the pitcher’s plate, the pitcher shall take the signal or ...
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| Catcher Obstruction | 7/12/2009 |
Q: Pitcher is ready to pitch, batter is swinging at the plate, catcher is in his crouched position ...
A: AHA this is what umpires going for help call "new information" The pitch starts when 1 hand is ...
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| fast pitch pitching | 7/12/2009 |
Q: u10 girls fast pitch using ASA rules--Is it a legal pitch to not use the "windmill"? If it's legal ...
A: If all the other pitching regs are followed a "slingshot" type of pitch is legal. A pitcher using ...
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| Coaches Interference | 7/11/2009 |
Q: In a state championship tourney (16U), Batter hits fly foul ball towards the 1st base coach. The ...
A: Based just on your description I would have interference here. The coach's box is not a sanctuary ...
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| Runner interference | 7/11/2009 |
Q: ASA rules: Situation - The bases are loaded with no outs. The batter hits a ground ball between ...
A: Any time we have interference the ball is dead, and in this case R2 is out, b-r is awarded 1st and ...
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| tagging up women's slow pitch | 7/10/2009 |
Q: 1 out runners 1st and 2nd batter hits a pop up to 2nd.I call infield fly rule batters out.The2nd ...
A: a runner may legally leave the base on a ball that is going to be caught when it is 1st touched by ...
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| Hit by Pitch - Dead Ball | 7/10/2009 |
Q: We are playing 18 @ under girls fast pitch ASA rules. If a ball is pitched and it hits the ground, ...
A: it would not be a ball if it hit the hatter. a pitched ball hitting the ground remains "live" until ...
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| Hit by Pitch - Dead Ball | 7/10/2009 |
Q: We are playing 18 @ under girls fast pitch ASA rules. If a ball is pitched and it hits the ground, ...
A: When we award bases the ball always "dead". A hit batter, an overthrow, a catch and carry, etc, ...
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| Slow-pitch Softball question | 7/10/2009 |
Q: Here is the situation: bases loaded, no outs, the batter hits the ball(line shot that was caught on ...
A: this is what we call a mess!!!! once we have a "Time" everything stops. Now what do we do about ...
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| 8U ASA overthrow | 7/10/2009 |
Q: Real situation- 8U Coach pitch tournament Kansas ASA rules Runner on first, batter hits the ball ...
A: An overthrow is a thrown ball that goes out of play or becomes blocked. In either case the ball is ...
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| deflected line drive and tagging up | 7/9/2009 |
Q: Runner on second base leaves to advance to third when the batter made contact. The hit is a line ...
A: Actually Frank Ambrose is my long dead uncle. The answer is no, they cannot advance without being ...
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| softball | 7/9/2009 |
Q: With the bases loaded, and two outs. A slow ground ball is hit to the second baseman. He fields ...
A: The run would NOT count. It doesn't matter that they touched hp before the out at 2nd. By rule, No ...
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| foul ball | 7/9/2009 |
Q: Has the rule changed for how high a foul tip must be to be an out if caught?
A: A "Foul Tip" is a batted ball that goes sharply and directly from the bat to the catcher’s hand(s) ...
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| foot placement in between pitches | 7/8/2009 |
Q: When a batter steps out of the box to take a sign or practice swing does one foot need to remain in ...
A: you're asking about 7-3-C. (Junior Olympic, Modified Pitch) After entering the batter’s box, the ...
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| Pitched ball stuck in backstop | 7/8/2009 |
Q: In an ASA game, pitcher pitches ball that gets past the catcher and gets stuck under the bottom of ...
A: This is ASA 8-5-C. (Fast Pitch and Slow Pitch with stealing) runners are entitled to advance w/out ...
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| Adult Slow Pitch-Pitching question | 7/7/2009 |
Q: I know you must have one foot on the rubber before delivery. My question is can your body be in ...
A: as long as he has 1 foot in contact w/ the pp and complies w/6-1-c C. The pitcher must come to a ...
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| entering subs.. | 7/7/2009 |
Q: scenario.... if I was to take out original player ( say # 25) from the lineup and put in a sub (say ...
A: A starter and any sub may re-enter once. You can enter a sub for a sub etc. #1 starts, you sub #2 ...
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| FPSB LBR | 7/6/2009 |
Q: and catcher throws ball back to pitcher in circle before hitter reaches first. How far can ...
A: The b-r is allowed to round 1st, stop once and then immediately advance or retreat. Some very, very ...
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| Umpire Certification? | 7/6/2009 |
Q: Do the umpires at a 14u C-League game have to be certified? At my game the other night the umpire ...
A: that's my daughter's name only Beka. Umpires are usually but not always registered, that means ...
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| softball re-entry rule | 7/5/2009 |
Q: whats the asa rule for re-entry? we had a runner who wasnt in the game, ran for a guy and put the ...
A: A starter and their sub can each re-enter once. #1 starts, #2 subs for 1, 1 now re-enters for 2. 2 ...
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| running through first | 7/3/2009 |
Q: i seen in a previous answer that a walk is treated as a hit. i disagree. on a live ball awarded ...
A: here's 8-7-B. When the ball is live and while the runner is not in contact with a base, the runner ...
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| Ball hits bat second time | 7/3/2009 |
Q: Batter hits ball and ball hits bat second time over fair territory while one foot is still in the ...
A: I'm not sure I read your initial q correctly, I guess I assumed the bat hit the ball but maybe I'm ...
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| Interference | 7/2/2009 |
Q: ASA slow pitch softball: Runner on first, No outs: Batter hits pop-up between first and home. ...
A: "(if it landed in foul territory--you would award the b-r first base?"....I didn't say that, that ...
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| foul ball rule | 7/2/2009 |
Q: I am coaching my grand daughter this year in slow pitch. My ? is on a ball hit down the line, if the ...
A: great for helping out your DGD (darling granddaughter). On a ball in flight or on the ground ...
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| 16" softball | 7/2/2009 |
Q: runner on first, pitcher attempts pick-off on same runner who is leading off first. The first ...
A: I've never seen a 16" game. However if obstruction rules are the same and why wouldn't they be, we ...
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| ASA rule regarding the double base at first base | 7/2/2009 |
Q: Mark, Batter hits a ball to the SS. The throw is up the line and the batter is unable to run ...
A: I would like to have seen what happened but If the errant throw draws the defense off the white ...
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| Pitching motion | 7/2/2009 |
Q: This is a girls league ages 10-13. There is an opposing pitcher who takes 2 full strides off the ...
A: "(Women’s and all JO play) In the act of delivering the ball, the pitcher must take one step with ...
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| slow pitch softball strike zone | 7/1/2009 |
Q: As an umpire how would you call the strike zone on batters who get set in the back of the batter box ...
A: I'd call the same as any other batter in SP STRIKE ZONE: That space over any part of home plate, ...
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| Jewelery | 7/1/2009 |
Q: I run a girls' league and some umpires tell the girls the small earplugs are illegal for asa ball
A: here's the rule, what bothers 1 umpire might not bother another JEWELRY. Exposed jewelry, which is ...
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| interference | 7/1/2009 |
Q: ASA game. With a runner on first. BR hits a grounder to the short stop. Going for a double play, ...
A: R1 does not have to slide but in most cases must allow F4 the opportunity to to throw the ball w/out ...
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| Interference | 6/30/2009 |
Q: ASA slow pitch softball: Runner on first, No outs: Batter hits pop-up between first and home. ...
A: Interference need not be intentional in this case. The umpire felt R1 impeded or hindered F3 ...
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| Is player an automatic out after ejection (ASA)? | 6/30/2009 |
Q: One of our players was ejected last night. Is he then an automatic out when his turn comes to bat? ...
A: The problem is you deviate from ASA rules w/ a bat all. In ASA you bat 10/11 and if you have an ...
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| Batter's Box Slow Pitch Softball | 6/30/2009 |
Q: for adult SP Softball, How big is the batters box, and where is it relative to the Plate? We ...
A: OK the BB is 3' by 7', 4' in front of a line drawn thru the middle of the plate, the inner line 6" ...
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| running through first | 6/30/2009 |
Q: i seen in a previous answer that a walk is treated as a hit. i disagree. on a live ball awarded ...
A: you mean 8-7-B. When the ball is live and while the runner is not in contact with a base, the runner ...
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| intentional drop line drive | 6/30/2009 |
Q: I had a guy tell me last night he thought about intentionally dropping a line drive in order to turn ...
A: no it is not legal any time you have a potential force play, an IDB is a dead ball, batter out, ...
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| Obstruction | 6/29/2009 |
Q: With Runners on 1st and 2nd and two outs the batter hit a short fly ball just on to the outfield ...
A: we have interference, runner out, if in the umpire's opinion it was an attempt to prevent a double ...
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| Overthrow - Out of Play | 6/29/2009 |
Q: With a runner on first the batter @ the plate hit a double. When rounding second the throw came in ...
A: Sure, the award is always 2 bases from the last base touched AT THE TIME of the throw. it doesn't ...
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| hitting bat in fair territory | 6/29/2009 |
Q: The batter hits the ball his bat drops in fair territory and the ball hits it,he is out and if their ...
A: Sorry no, If THE BAT hits the ball in fair territory, we have a dead ball, out, runners return to ...
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| Batter Interference Rule | 6/29/2009 |
Q: I have a question regarding the batter interference rule for 11 year old girls fastpitch governed by ...
A: Yes she was interfering, it need not be intentional in this case. She needs to watch where the ball ...
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| injury replacment | 6/28/2009 |
Q: Last week i was involved in a game of mens slow pitch softball, i broke my wrist in the top of the ...
A: sorry about your wrist. It's actually an "EP" extra player, not a DH. You bat 11 and any 10 play ...
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| In Field Fly | 6/27/2009 |
Q: With the runners on the correct bases and the outs less then two. A batter hits the ball straight ...
A: "The home plate umpire stated no infield fly because the ball was not a routine play being able to ...
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| ASA (slow pitch) pitching and "bunts" | 6/27/2009 |
Q: Our league uses ASA rules (there are some local exceptions to cover the co-ed requirements, etc., ...
A: sorry for the delay, occasionally AE doesn't notify me of a question initially, only after a few ...
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| asa bat handle | 6/27/2009 |
Q: I play asa softball and have a new bat from approved list. I added padding to the bottom of the ...
A: I would think not. You can only have 2 layers of tape on the handle A “flare” or “cone” grip ...
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| Dead ball Fast Pitch | 6/26/2009 |
Q: Dr. The pitcher has the ball in the 8 foot circle, but hasn't put her feet on the rubber yet. When ...
A: In most of the FP game the ball is live much more than it is dead. When the pitcher has control of ...
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| 12ft illegal pitch | 6/26/2009 |
Q: Do you have some way to determine wheter a pitch is above or below the 12 ft celing. I get a lot of ...
A: I wish I could help you a lot but I'm afraid I can't. 12' is nothing we see in everyday life. Here ...
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| Dropped 3rd strike | 6/26/2009 |
Q: We had a play the other night where there was one out and runner on first (R1). Batter swung and ...
A: The batter is out because they struck out, that doesn't change. Umpire should have been forceful ...
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| 12 under softball | 6/25/2009 |
Q: A baserunner is on second. The ball is hit, and the fielder does not field it cleanly and the ball ...
A: The runner cannot intentionally interfere with the defensive player so they do have to avoid contact ...
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| fastpitch softball - presenting the ball | 6/25/2009 |
Q: My daughter plays 12U fastpitch softball. They follow ASA rules. In two separate games the coach ...
A: There is no rule on "presenting" the ball. Here's part of the rule you need ASA 6-1-d-e While on ...
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| ASA fastpitch softball | 6/25/2009 |
Q: The opponents runner received ball four and ran to 1B. She rounded the bag toward 2B and then ...
A: The umpire is 95% correct and did make the correct call or non call in this case, the b-r may round ...
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| SENIOR SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL | 6/25/2009 |
Q: ONE OUT. RUNNERS ON FIRST AND THIRD. BATTER FLYS OUT TO RIGHT. RUNNER FROM THIRD TAGS AND SCORES ...
A: I'm sorry Ed your wrong on this one, This is considered a "timing play" and is not a force out. ...
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| Coach touching runner... | 6/25/2009 |
Q: What does the rule specify concerning a runner rounding third and being touched by a coach?
A: Unless the coach aided the runner I have nothing. 8-7-E. When any offensive team member, other than ...
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| Flex Substitution | 6/24/2009 |
Q: The first baseman fielded a ball and on her way to beat the runner the 1B jumped on the base and hit ...
A: I'm confused by your question but I'll see what I can do and write me back if I misunderstood. the ...
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| 10-under ASA softball | 6/24/2009 |
Q: There is 1 out in the inning and R1 is on third and R2 is on second, B1 hit a fly ball to the ...
A: Sure the run counts if R1 scored before the "live ball appeal of a base left too early was made." ...
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| ASA slow pitch strike zone | 6/24/2009 |
Q: Can you provide me guidance on the ASA Slow pitch strike zone? We have trouble with complaining on ...
A: well I'm not sure how much I can help. As you know the STRIKE ZONE: That space over any part of ...
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| out of play | 6/24/2009 |
Q: if a player dives for a foul ball that is out of play, but his feet leave the ground from in play, ...
A: OMG..I'm sorry! thank you for following up with me. I was trying to get quickly through a backlog of ...
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| Fastpitch softball | 6/24/2009 |
Q: Runners are on 1st and 3rd. game is suspended because of rain. The game is rescheduled when both ...
A: In ASA if you don't have at least 8 players what happens to R1 and R2 doesn't enter into the ...
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| Interference or obstruction | 6/24/2009 |
Q: A ball is hit between the 1st and 2nd basemen. A runner is on 1st heading to second. The 2nd ...
A: I don't know, your question confuses me a little. If F4 had a legitimate opportunity to field the ...
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| Out Of Play Rule | 6/24/2009 |
Q: The field we were playing on only had a HR fence and the out of play area was chalked about twenty ...
A: The umpire made the correct call, if everyone was confused it's a good thing you had an umpire that ...
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| Interference | 6/23/2009 |
Q: Girls U12 softball. Last night in my daughter's game a batter hits a triple to right field but ...
A: Now it depends...if there was an opportunity for a play at the plate, dead ball, interference, ...
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| Interference | 6/23/2009 |
Q: Girls U12 softball. Last night in my daughter's game a batter hits a triple to right field but ...
A: I know that, and I know exactly what you're saying re the play, she held up in your opinion because ...
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| question - runner interference (situation based) | 6/23/2009 |
Q: Here is what occured. Runner on third - two outs - (10U) pop fly (FOUL BALL) hit down third base ...
A: You haven't seen it in Fed play because the rules are a little different. I'm not going to get into ...
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| ASA Double First Base | 6/23/2009 |
Q: The first baseman fielded a ball and on her way to beat the runner the 1B jumped on the base and hit ...
A: As long as the fielder touches any part of the white when they are required to do so, it is an out ...
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| Infield Fly Rule | 6/23/2009 |
Q: Bases loaded, one out. Hitter pops easily caught ball to shortstop. Umpire runs onto the field ...
A: I think they blew this one big time! but all would not have been lost had they remembered the "god" ...
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| slowpitch softball | 6/23/2009 |
Q: 2 questions really - #1- batter hits the ball, it is a bloop the goes to the foul line between the ...
A: #1 They only need look up the def of foul ball under Rule 1 #2 I can't give you what doesn't ...
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| Sticky towel? | 6/22/2009 |
Q: Ambrose, My name is Derek Volk and I am the U10 Manager for a girl’s fastpitch team in Maine called ...
A: "How can it be legal to reach under your shirt while on the rubber and putting a sticking substance ...
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| ada rule | 6/22/2009 |
Q: We recently played a team that had a player who played both offense and defense the whole game. In ...
A: I've never had an ADA player so I had to spend some time w/ this one. The ADA defines a covered ...
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| Controversial call in 10U softball play-off game | 6/22/2009 |
Q: During a girl's 10U play-off game in extra-innings, the batter hits the ball, past the infield and ...
A: I don't know what the call at the game was but this is not a controversial play at all. unless the ...
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| bases loaded, hit runner at 3rd, ball goes out of play | 6/20/2009 |
Q: So, I was playing 3rd base, the other team had the bases loaded with one out. Their batter hit a ...
A: Yes the scenario would play out if the ball was in fair territory and hits a runner standing on ...
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| slowpitch softball | 6/20/2009 |
Q: 2 questions really - #1- batter hits the ball, it is a bloop the goes to the foul line between the ...
A: #1 foul ball, it only matters where the ball is when 1st touched by the defense. #2 Crappola call, ...
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| batting out of order | 6/19/2009 |
Q: Batter 4 steps in hits foul ball 0-1. He should not be at bat yet.It is number 3 hitter.Scorekeeper ...
A: 1st of all a BOO is an appeal by the defense, the scorekeeper has no business making the ...
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| bases loaded, hit runner at 3rd, ball goes out of play | 6/19/2009 |
Q: So, I was playing 3rd base, the other team had the bases loaded with one out. Their batter hit a ...
A: If the ball is in foul territory and hits a runner on base, it is simply a foul ball. If the ball ...
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| fast pitch softball | 6/19/2009 |
Q: If you have obstruction at 1st base and the run goes to 3rd on her on and gets thrown out . She ...
A: depends, we protect the runner to the base they would have made in our judgment had they not been ...
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| ASA rule on "voluntary release" | 6/18/2009 |
Q: During a 12U fastpitch tournament last weekend (ASA), our team was in the field, and the hitting ...
A: I'm sorry your parent's didn't love you enough to spell your name right and so scar you for life, ...
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| ASA Question on Obstruction | 6/18/2009 |
Q: During a tournament game last weekend in an ASA 12U fastpitch game, we had an umpire properly call ...
A: A runner is protected to the base they would have made had there be no obstruction. They need not ...
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| runner interference | 6/18/2009 |
Q: I had a batter/runner running to first after an infield hit. As she was approaching first base, a ...
A: I don't know this is a htbt type of play. If it's a "wreck", that's all it is BUT you said she was ...
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| obstruction or interference? | 6/18/2009 |
Q: In a 15-U girls fastpitch softball game tonight we had a very controversial call made by the umpire ...
A: I've had to read your question a # of times to try to figure it out. I don't understand some ...
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| Look back rule | 6/17/2009 |
Q: U10 game, runner on 3rd. Batter walks and proceeds to 2nd base. The pitcher gets the ball in the ...
A: In our clinics we teach ANY type of motion toward any runner is considered "making a play". As you ...
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| Look back rule | 6/17/2009 |
Q: U10 game, runner on 3rd. Batter walks and proceeds to 2nd base. The pitcher gets the ball in the ...
A: A "fake throw' is considered making a play and the LBR should not be in effect. The umpire was ...
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| Force outs vs Double plays | 6/17/2009 |
Q: Ambrose, thanks in advance for taking my question. Here is the situation. There are two outs with ...
A: You're welcome! I assume you mean 1st and 3rd w/ 1 out, not 2. Well all 4 umpires and yourself are ...
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| Protesting an umpire's call | 6/17/2009 |
Q: This situation occurred during a slow pitch softball game. Obviously before the game both teams and ...
A: You don't give me a whole lot of info on the field. If you're playing on non-enclosed fields and/or ...
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| adult slow pitch 6-12 rule | 6/17/2009 |
Q: if 99% of the umpires do not have correct judgement on 6ft to 12ft is there any thing that can be ...
A: It takes a lot of training and experience to be a good PU. I don't agree w/ your 99% except that ...
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| Courtesy runner | 6/17/2009 |
Q: Dr Ambrose. I am currently at a head on debate about the courtesy runner in my league. I am in the ...
A: My son is Sgt. Ben Ambrose USMC currently aboard the USS Bataan. I'm sorry I can't help you much, ...
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| THIRD STRIKE | 6/17/2009 |
Q: ASA RULES, start with one and one count, one foul to give. Player gets a strike called and then ...
A: Well you deviate from ASA by allowing a CF. If all other things are equal with ASA if a foul ball ...
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| obstruction vs. interference. | 6/16/2009 |
Q: In a recent game I noticed a play in which the shortstop was playing inside the baseline. I soft ...
A: Your 1st questions is HTBT. Because both interference and obstruction are judgments calls. A ...
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| infield fly | 6/16/2009 |
Q: I read the rule on the infield fly. What is the purpose? I was always taught it was so one doesn't ...
A: the object of the IFR is to protect the runners from a cheap DP when the batter becomes a b-r. By ...
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| Blocking the plate | 6/16/2009 |
Q: What constitutes blocking the plate? My daughter catches for her travel team. She was taking the ...
A: yes it is the correct call, you cannot block any base and that's what she was doing, WITHOUT ...
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| Batting twice,...is that batting out of order? | 6/16/2009 |
Q: Runner on first, no outs. Batter hits a foul ball in the air that is caught by the Left Fielder in ...
A: strange situation I have never seen it in many thousands of batters. I would have a BOO, not sure ...
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| base on balls stealing | 6/16/2009 |
Q: upon getting a base on balls (a walk) and the runner rounds 1st base towards second base while the ...
A: A b-r has the right to round 1st base, stop once, (some umpires use 1001,1002 although that's not in ...
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| Reporting substitutions | 6/16/2009 |
Q: What is the 2009 rule on reporting substitutions to the ump? The ump @ a recent game stated that ...
A: True....Line-up cards should contain all starters and available substitutes. They shall contain ...
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| Overthrows | 6/15/2009 |
Q: pls. explain the "Exception" on overthrows in RS 38, I don't understand the distinction from ...
A: During a dead ball a runner must be given the opportunity to complete their base running ...
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| Overthrows | 6/14/2009 |
Q: pls. explain the "Exception" on overthrows in RS 38, I don't understand the distinction from ...
A: They're just making the distinction that even though the runner is returning to 1st ....."The ...
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| Foul to catcher an out? | 6/11/2009 |
Q: ASA Slowpitch softball. How high must a foul ball go in order to be an out when the catcher catches ...
A: ASA a "foul tip" goes "sharply and directly" from the bat to the catcher's hand or glove. A "foul ...
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| batter's box when there are no lines | 6/10/2009 |
Q: We always play with not lines for the batter's box. We had a case where the batter was clearly out ...
A: Gosh, I just hate it when they tell you to read the book and they haven't, makes them look bad. The ...
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| co ed softball | 6/10/2009 |
Q: When playing coed (5/5) if a woman is missing, when does the out get counted for her at bat? after ...
A: Co-ed has more local exceptions IMO than any other game of softball. In strict ASA if you are ...
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| bases loaded | 6/10/2009 |
Q: Situation: the bases are loaded the ball gets hit to third on the ground, the runner on third ...
A: This is NOT a force out but a live ball appeal of a base left too early, it is considered a "timing ...
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| 13 yr old girls softball | 6/10/2009 |
Q: 1. runner runs out of the baseline to avoid being tagged. safe or out? if the fielder is in the ...
A: A runner has 3' on either side of the "basepath" to move when a tag is being attempted. The ...
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| out of batter's box | 6/9/2009 |
Q: In ASA slow pitch the batter is required to be in the batter's box when the pitch is delivered. What ...
A: In ASA play both feet must be in the batter's box at the delivery of the pitch. You can touch the ...
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| swearing | 6/9/2009 |
Q: Can an ASA umpire give an out for swearing and if so can he forward an additional out for upcoming ...
A: I umpired a league where we had a team warning, then an out and if it was a third out, they start ...
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| Should game be suspended or cancel | 6/9/2009 |
Q: We were playing softball tonight when the power went out. We were in the 3rd inning and winning 10 ...
A: I'm answering this as quick as I can. The umpire is wrong we re-start the game at the EXACT spot it ...
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| hesitation question | 6/8/2009 |
Q: I just have a quick question on hesitation. I was umpiring a game and a girl rounded first on a ...
A: On a BB the LBR starts as soon as the b-r touches 1st and the pitcher has control of the ball in the ...
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| Catchers Obstruction - Mens Modified Softball | 6/8/2009 |
Q: In the game, there was a play where a pitcher's pitch sailed over the head of the catcher and the ...
A: This is not CO. CO occurs when the catcher obstructs the batter's attempt to hit a pitched ball. ...
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| Dropped 3rd Strike | 6/8/2009 |
Q: Intermediate 10-U fast-pitch travel. When a batter strikes out and thinks the catcher dropped the ...
A: If the D3K rule doesn't apply. The umpire should call "strike 3"...batter out"....(if necessary) ...
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| legal bat | 6/7/2009 |
Q: Is it legal to use a fastpitch bat in a slowpitch game? ANSWER: Hi david, yes, a softball bat is a ...
A: I see I missed putting bat after softball in my 1st answer sorry. There is no such thing as a fast ...
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| SENIER SOFTBALL | 6/7/2009 |
Q: RUNNERS ON FIRST AND SECOND. ONE OUT. BATTER HITS INFIELD POP UP. UMPIRE INVOKES INFIELD FLY RULE. ...
A: No problem lazy Sunday. I am having trouble sorting out your question but..... If after the fact ...
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| SENIER SOFTBALL | 6/7/2009 |
Q: RUNNERS ON FIRST AND SECOND. ONE OUT. BATTER HITS INFIELD POP UP. UMPIRE INVOKES INFIELD FLY RULE. ...
A: If the runner was struck by a fair untouched batted ball before it passes an infielder (exc the ...
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| force out | 6/7/2009 |
Q: 1 out in inning batter hits ball right fielder catches ball 2nd out man on first goes to 2nd does ...
A: this is NOT a force out but a live ball appeal of a base left too early, it is considered a "timing ...
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| foul ball | 6/6/2009 |
Q: Last night at our co-ed softball game we had a call that I need clarification on. A woman was up and ...
A: Everything depends on where the ball was when 1st touched by F1. If the ball was in fair territory ...
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| Circle of control and runners lead off | 6/6/2009 |
Q: The 2B runner had a large lead off after the pitch. The pitcher came back into the circle with the ...
A: The LBR is not in effect when the pitcher has the ball in the circle and makes any act that in the ...
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| Men's Slow pitch - Batter box | 6/4/2009 |
Q: We have had an agruement in our league with 1 team about standing in the batters box... When they ...
A: In ASA play both feet must be completely in the BB prior to the delivery of the pitch. They may ...
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| Information on a raint out game. | 6/4/2009 |
Q: my name is Amanda and i work for JPCenney. We have a coed softball teams at my job. I play 2nd base ...
A: Under ASA rules and I don't know what rules you use, any player on the roster may play at the ...
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| Safe or Out | 6/4/2009 |
Q: I hit a ground ball to right field and the right fielder bobbled it so I rounded first and proceeded ...
A: When you are "obstructed" (offensive players interfere) you are protected to the base you would have ...
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| ASA slowpitch | 6/3/2009 |
Q: Reading over other q&a's, you and Mr. Eddings disagree on the black being part of the plate. From ...
A: Occasionally I read the forum but not very often and I haven't seen the one you mention. I can only ...
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| Softball Infield fly rule | 6/2/2009 |
Q: During a softball 14u tournament championship game, the team batting has bases loaded and one out. ...
A: I don't think your going to like my answer. Obviously both the PU who did not call an IF and that's ...
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| fastpitch dp/flex | 6/2/2009 |
Q: assume a 10 player line-up utilizing a dp & flex. the pitcher bats in this line-up. pitcher throws ...
A: Ok got it now, Legal and here's why We don't care what position they play defense, only where they ...
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| ASA rules for interference | 6/2/2009 |
Q: Ambrose...we play in a church league governed by ASA rules. Here's the sitation: runner on 1st, no ...
A: first we must understand the runner cannot simply disappear, however they must vacate any space ...
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| bobbled ball | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I had a league game tonight. I was on 2nd base with 1 out. Batter hit the ball to RC and RC fielder ...
A: you made a legal tag and will win your protest as a runner can leave the base as soon as a ball in ...
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| fastpitch dp/flex | 6/2/2009 |
Q: assume a 10 player line-up utilizing a dp & flex. the pitcher bats in this line-up. pitcher throws ...
A: I'm trying to understand this....ie...starting F1 #2 bats at B1, "is replaced by another fielder" ...
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| Softball Infield fly rule | 6/1/2009 |
Q: During a softball 14u tournament championship game, the team batting has bases loaded and one out. ...
A: the umpire manual (ASA) states the umpire should raise the right hand, fist closed and verbalize IF. ...
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| ASA girls softbal rubber dimensions | 6/1/2009 |
Q: I am looking to put in a pitching rubber in my back yard for 14 year old daughter to practice her ...
A: The PP in JO HS and NCAA is 6"x24" since the PP sits flush w/ the ground your h doesn't matter and ...
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| Ball that hit the palte is called a strike. (fastpitch) | 5/31/2009 |
Q: Yesterday at our girls 12U fastpitch, the umpire called strikes that hit the plate. My ...
A: here's the def of a strike in FP STRIKE ZONE: That space over any part of home plate, when a batter ...
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| Foul Tip | 5/30/2009 |
Q: When a batter foul tips a ball straight back at the catcher and the ball is caught is it an out? I ...
A: Height relative to the batter doesn't matter but a "foul tip" goes sharply and directly from the bat ...
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| Interference Clarification | 5/29/2009 |
Q: This is ASA Rec Women's softball with stealing allowed. I was playing 3rd base, Runner on 2nd base. ...
A: the question is did you have control of the ball before you blocked the base? It doesn't sound like ...
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| Men's Sofball | 5/29/2009 |
Q: Mark, my question is in reference to the rule pertaining to a runner getting hit by a batted ball. ...
A: if a runner is hit by an untouched batted ball before it passes an infielder exc F1 they would be ...
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| Force out/Double play | 5/29/2009 |
Q: ASA Slow-Pitch Men's league. Runners on first and second with nobody out. Ball is hit sharply to the ...
A: R1 is no longer entitled to legally occupy 2nd since the batter has now become a b-r. R1 is "forced ...
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| base running and interferance | 5/29/2009 |
Q: i have two questions first is pitcher is on the rubber and a runner on third, runner comes off third ...
A: #1 If the pitcher is in the circle w/ control of the ball and R1 is stopped on 3rd and then comes ...
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| Flex/DP | 5/28/2009 |
Q: I might be over thinking this My starting pitcher is the flex my second pitcher is the DP can I ...
A: If the DP plays defense for the Flex, the Flex leaves the game are you are playing with 9. The Flex ...
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| Extra Player In Womens Slow Pitch Softball | 5/28/2009 |
Q: Can I use a substitute for an extra player or does the EP have to play the whole game?
A: Choosing to play with an EP you're batting 11 (the EP is listed in the BO) and playing defense w/ ...
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| rule book on game field | 5/28/2009 |
Q: My question is this ... Is there a rule that states if a coach or asst. brings a rule book on the ...
A: There is no rule in the rule book about a coach having a rule book on the playing field. Should a ...
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| ball and strikes | 5/26/2009 |
Q: what is the ruling if a pitch comes across a batter from shoulders down and hits deep in the batters ...
A: Here's the def for SP STRIKE ZONE: That space over any part of home plate, when a batter assumes a ...
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| Pitching | 5/26/2009 |
Q: My daughter plays in fastpitch asa tournaments and in high school (wisconsin) are the rules the ...
A: In Fed play legal, she can step backwards before bringing her hands together, in ASA play illegal. ...
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| Fair or foul | 5/24/2009 |
Q: Settle an argument. If a batted ball initially hits in foul territory and rolls back and settles in ...
A: here's the def of a fair ball, it doesn't matter that the ball first landed in foul territory. FAIR ...
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| Overrule | 5/24/2009 |
Q: I was the field umpire on a play that had a double play ball hit to the short stop. I called the ...
A: ASA 10-3-b Under no circumstances will any umpire seek to reverse a decision made by an associate, ...
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| Batter's box | 5/23/2009 |
Q: I play men's slowpitch ASA softball. What is ruling on how much of a batter's foot needs to be in ...
A: I don't mean to confuse you, the edge of the line is 6" from the side of the plate. If your entire ...
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| Runner Interference | 5/23/2009 |
Q: We had a 12U girls softball game this morning and a call was made that I thought shouldn't have ...
A: I'm glad your coaching or supporting your DD, relative or friends so I going to help you understand ...
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| Batter's box | 5/23/2009 |
Q: I play men's slowpitch ASA softball. What is ruling on how much of a batter's foot needs to be in ...
A: Any part of the foot touching any part of the line, front, back or side when contact with the ball ...
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| play at home plate | 5/22/2009 |
Q: there was a runner third and second ball hit to out field for a single guy on second try to score ...
A: If the ball, the defense and the offense all arrive at the same place at the same time, it's ...
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| EP, AP etc | 5/21/2009 |
Q: For 2009 championship play is there any additional player or extra players used to get more players ...
A: You bet it does!!!!! Now you can choose to play w/ the DP/Flex rule, much different from SP. Ok, ...
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| EP, AP etc | 5/21/2009 |
Q: For 2009 championship play is there any additional player or extra players used to get more players ...
A: I'll assume this is SP It is an EP, bat any 11, play defense w/ any 10 It must be made known on ...
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| designated player | 5/21/2009 |
Q: what is the definition of a designated player. Not trying to be facetious, but aren't they all ...
A: I really like the DP/Flex rule. It allows more girls to play, not just 1 but more if you want to ...
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| Obstruction | 5/21/2009 |
Q: I have a daughter in 8U. At a game last night, runners on 1st and 2nd. The ball was hit to RF9 and ...
A: Obstruction is always a delayed dead ball not a dead ball. Plus the runner is awarded the base(s) ...
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| Girls' Coach Pitch | 5/21/2009 |
Q: I have a batting order question. If a girl bats out of order during the game, what is the rule for ...
A: Ok here's the rules, take your time and read it over, should answer your question, which is not as ...
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| Ball in the Circle | 5/21/2009 |
Q: Bases empty. Ground ball hit to short stop who overthrows first base. As runner advances toward ...
A: A pitcher cannot stop a runner legally advancing simply by having the ball in the circle. If she had ...
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| Batter Runner (ASA Fast Pitch) | 5/21/2009 |
Q: Situation happened at my 12U Accelerated tournament over the weekend. Three-Umpire-System, where the ...
A: Since there was no play at the time of the contact, R1 on 3rd and b-r is awarded 1st, I would have ...
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| Last out of a game | 5/20/2009 |
Q: Real situation. Trailing by 1 top of the 7th. Runner on 2nd and 3rd. Groundball hit to short ...
A: In this case the BU's call put the defense in jeopardy so I'm going to use the "god" rule which ...
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| look back rule | 5/20/2009 |
Q: in girls 13 an under, runner cant steal in this league til the ball crosses home plate, my question ...
A: even though you modified the lead off rule the answer is yes. When the pitcher has control of the ...
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| ruling | 5/20/2009 |
Q: the team we were playing had the bases loaded and 2 outs the girl hit the ball between third and ...
A: Unfortunately for you the umpire was very, very wrong in this instance. This is pretty basic rule ...
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| pitching | 5/20/2009 |
Q: My daughter was in a game and the pitcher started off her windup on the rubber but before she ...
A: In FP the pitcher is never on the pp when they release the ball and there is no requirement that ...
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| Re-entry rule and application | 5/20/2009 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, Please define as a coach when exactly am I required to announce a player as a re-entry ...
A: Your question at least to me is a little confusing so let try it this way Am I required to declare ...
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| switching pitchers | 5/19/2009 |
Q: IN 10u fastpitch, is it legal to switch between pitchers on the same batter with every pitch? The ...
A: I've never seen anything like this, yes you can do it in ASA, not in some other orgs, yes the coach ...
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| ASA All Star Tournament DP/Flex Rule | 5/18/2009 |
Q: My daughter is playing 10U; and their 1st tournament has a rule stating each team play with 9 ...
A: Well lets go over the rules for DP/Flex In FP you can choose to have a "DP" designated player and a ...
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| Interference | 5/18/2009 |
Q: Could you please define interference call on a runner. I am under the impression that if a ground ...
A: this is a HTBT type of play so I can't opine on it. Interference was called on R1, what the umpire ...
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| Interference | 5/18/2009 |
Q: Could you please define interference call on a runner. I am under the impression that if a ground ...
A: You didn't tell me what happened but interference does not have to have contact, below is part of ...
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| LBR | 5/18/2009 |
Q: What is LBR? We are beginners, sorry.
A: I'll print out the LBR and you can ask me if you have specific questions. This is long and I've ...
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| Batting | 5/17/2009 |
Q: In our last game there was a batter from the other team that had his right foot out of the back of ...
A: in ASA a batter prior to the pitch must have both feet inside the bb. A foot can touch the line but ...
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| Umpire Interference | 5/17/2009 |
Q: Situation: 3-man umpiring system, runners on 1st and 2nd. Batter hits liner past left fielder, r1 ...
A: This would not be umpire interference, simply bad positioning by the umpire. Unless the umpire went ...
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| asa softball bat ratteling | 5/16/2009 |
Q: i have a asa legal softball bat. the bat is under a year old. if i put my ear to the bat and turn it ...
A: In ASA a bat can have no audible rattles when shaken. It is each umpire's judgment (or the UIC) on ...
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| runner being hit | 5/16/2009 |
Q: I played in a game tonight and we had a situation happen where bases were loaded and the runner at ...
A: The runner is not out.... 8-8- M. When hit by a batted ball while in contact with a base, unless ...
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| Safe or out? | 5/15/2009 |
Q: This is the first time I've seen this playing ASA softball. My team was batting with a runner on ...
A: The 3' lane is used only for interference on a thrown ball. The b-r must vacate the space necessary ...
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| Foul Tip and time out | 5/15/2009 |
Q: 2 questions. 1) On a foul tip strike 2 call directly into the catcher glove our batter was called ...
A: A "foul tip" w/ less than 2 strikes is just another strike. However if it was a "foul ball" legally ...
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| Obstruction call | 5/14/2009 |
Q: Extra inning game, home team has potential winning run on 3rd with one out. Batter hits a ...
A: You answered you own question...."The runner had slowed down in anticipation of a collision with the ...
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| Foul tip | 5/13/2009 |
Q: No matter the count, can a batter be called out if the catcher catches a ball that is tipped off the ...
A: a foul tip is a ball that goes sharply and directly from the bat to the catcher's hand or glove and ...
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| subs | 5/13/2009 |
Q: This is our first season in under 10 softball and the rules have changed quite a bit. I dont ...
A: There are many local leagues who modify the rules but in strict ASA you can only bat 9 in FP. You ...
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| ADA question | 5/12/2009 |
Q: we have a player in our league who has a prosthetic leg; what allowances do we need to be making for ...
A: here's the rules for ADA, and you already have the 2009 change Section 2. AMERICAN DISABILITY ACT ...
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| more info | 5/12/2009 |
Q: Mark, Thanks again for the prompt response. I'm not familiar with the term "LBR". What is that? I ...
A: OK I get it now...I think. The problem is you locally modified a FP game and then told me about the ...
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| Girls Fast Pitch High School Delayed Ball Call | 5/12/2009 |
Q: First inning first batter flies to left. Second batter steps up and on the first pitch the first ...
A: No, no no! There is absolutely no rule to do what they did. An illegal pitch is a DDB and must be ...
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| more info | 5/12/2009 |
Q: Mark, Thanks again for the prompt response. I'm not familiar with the term "LBR". What is that? I ...
A: LBR stands for look back rule, since you have a circle you probably play with the LBR. If the ...
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| Can you appeal tag-up rule after a dead ball? | 5/12/2009 |
Q: Runners on 1st & 3rd, one out. Batter hits a line drive, runner go on contact, shortstop makes a ...
A: During a dead ball a runner must be given the opportunity to complete their base running ...
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| Tape on pitchers wrist | 5/12/2009 |
Q: My daughter sprained the back of the wrist of her pitching hand while batting. She is now able to ...
A: You already know that a pitcher can't wear anything on the pitching hand, wrist, forearm or elbow ...
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| interferance | 5/12/2009 |
Q: a popup was hit between home and first base i ran from the pitchers mound and ran into the batter as ...
A: If the ball was in foul territory and in the umpire's judgment could have been caught w/ ordinary ...
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| Double Jeopardy? | 5/12/2009 |
Q: Last night at the ballpark in between my boy's ball games, there was an interesting play during the ...
A: you're telling me a fly ball was caught for an out, and no umpire or coach noticed we had a runner ...
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| Substitution and re-entry | 5/11/2009 |
Q: Can a bench player (non-starter) substitute for a starter, then be substituted for, then go back in ...
A: Just to make it easy, a starter and their sub can each re-enter once 1 starts, 2 subs for 1. 1 then ...
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| coed asa softball | 5/10/2009 |
Q: Is it asa to start at a 1 and 1 count? Is it asa to bat male female alternatively? Is it asa to walk ...
A: co-ed has more local exceptions to the rule than any other game of softball, if there are les they ...
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| ASA approved bats | 5/10/2009 |
Q: Sir: I run a Men's ASA Slow-Pitch League in the Buffalo NY area. Over the past few seasons illegal ...
A: the umpire should rule on the bat, most check them before the game, appeals can go to you. If it ...
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| score controversy after game has ended | 5/9/2009 |
Q: We play in a slow pitch co-ed softball league using ASA rules. WE were home team and we were up 10-9 ...
A: here you go a couple different rule interps on games should end. ASA R/S 1 Appeals e "on the last ...
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| Missing home plate | 5/8/2009 |
Q: A player missed home plate with the miss going undetected by the opposing team. No call was made by ...
A: A runner who misses a base is presumed to have touched the base unless the defense appeals. There ...
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| Please Help T-Ball Coach on Infield Fly Rule | 5/8/2009 |
Q: Ok in our leage the Infield Fly Rule is not allowed. So if i have a runner on first and 2nd and as ...
A: The IF rule is meant to protect the offense from cheap outs, I can't understand why a local league ...
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| USSSA vs. ASA rules | 5/7/2009 |
Q: I was informed last night that our league (12U girls fastpitch) is switching from USSSA affiliation ...
A: In ASA play you can bat 9 but play 10 using a DP/Flex. The DP bats for the Flex, the Flex listed ...
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| Caught foul tip 3rd strike | 5/7/2009 |
Q: Can you site and quote the specific rule in the rule book that says a caught, foul tip 3rd strike is ...
A: A "foul tip" is a batted ball that goes sharply and directly from the bat to the catcher's ...
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| Infield Fly Rule | 5/7/2009 |
Q: Ok, I have read the rulebook on infield fly rule but have a question about Ordinary effort. Does ...
A: No the ball need not be caught in order to have a judgment of ordinary effort, if an fielder catches ...
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| Catcher Interference | 5/7/2009 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose -- We had a situation in our girls fastpitch softball league (11-14 year olds) where ...
A: Just to keep the terms clear it's catcher's obstruction not interference. Offensive player's ...
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| girls fastpitch 12U | 5/6/2009 |
Q: last night at our game, the umpire called interference on HERSELF, and only after she heard the ...
A: You don't tell me what happened but umpire interference is pretty rare. If a fair untouched batted ...
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| Defensive Positioning | 5/6/2009 |
Q: I am coaching in the intermediate level girls fastpitch softball. We use continuous batting and we ...
A: You've already found the rule...all defensive players except for the catcher must be positioned in ...
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| Without stealing, if a batter does not hit the ball can you make a play against a base runner? | 5/5/2009 |
Q: I am coaching a 10u softball team. Some of the coaches are arguing over a particular scenario. We ...
A: Yes, the fact that you do not allow stealing is a local rule, which is fine. If pick-offs were not ...
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| player interference with runner | 5/5/2009 |
Q: in coed softball.. hear is the story..im a guy im on second the hitter hits a flare to right field ...
A: Defensive players obstruct and offensive players interfere in softball. Obstruction is the act of ...
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| Illegal, Uncertified, Altered bats - penalties | 5/5/2009 |
Q: What is the difference between: a banned bat, an altered bat, an illegal bat, an uncertified bat ...
A: In ASA play a bat must now have a ASA cert mark and NOT be listed in the non-approved list OR must ...
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| ASA rules mens slow pitch | 5/5/2009 |
Q: OK here is goes , 1 out, runners and 2nd and 3rd.Batter hits fly ball, runner on 2nd goes on ...
A: Correct call, what you have is a live ball appeal of a runner leaving the base too early, it is ...
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| Without stealing, if a batter does not hit the ball can you make a play against a base runner? | 5/4/2009 |
Q: I am coaching a 10u softball team. Some of the coaches are arguing over a particular scenario. We ...
A: I'm sorry Robin since you've already deviated from the national rules I can't answer your question. ...
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| Possession and Control? | 5/4/2009 |
Q: What is the definition of having possession and control of the ball? In a game yesterday, I observed ...
A: You will have good umpires that view this differently, we do talk about this play. While "trapped" ...
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| Pivot Foot Airborne | 5/4/2009 |
Q: My daughter is a pitcher. As part of her delivery at times her pivot foot becomes airborne by a ...
A: What you are describing is a "leap" and that is an illegal pitch. A leap occurs when both of the ...
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| softball "tagging up" rule | 5/3/2009 |
Q: runner on second, short line drive hit to right center, runner on second leaves base under ...
A: A runner can legally leave the base as soon as a defensive player 1st touches a ball that is going ...
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| rule question | 5/1/2009 |
Q: Had an incident last night and I'm just curious. about your thoughts. We were playing slow-pitch ...
A: If the ball deflected off the fielder's glove and went over the fence in fair territory, it is a "4 ...
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| NAIA college | 5/1/2009 |
Q: runner is on 3rd base, fly ball is drifting towards 3rd and the defender is trying to move across ...
A: This is a htbt type of play as it involves an umpire's judgment of a situation. Obviously by ...
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| foul ball | 5/1/2009 |
Q: At a local usssa tournament we had a disagreement with the away team. Away team hit ball about two ...
A: you're question is a little difficult for me to understand where the ball is...regardless of the org ...
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| dropped-3rd... does run count? | 4/30/2009 |
Q: 12U ASA Softball. We have a runner on 3rd base. The batter swings at pitch which is the 3rd ...
A: the answer is NO, the run dos not count. By rule anytime the b-r does not safely advance to 1st base ...
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| Proper Appeals | 4/30/2009 |
Q: This question is basically two-fold involving when and if a coach can make a live ball appeal and ...
A: 1 correct 2 correct 3 correct , in ASA any infielder can make the appeal, in Fed play any infielder ...
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| Proper Appeals | 4/30/2009 |
Q: This question is basically two-fold involving when and if a coach can make a live ball appeal and ...
A: a live ball appeal can only be made by a defensive player in possession of the ball contacting the ...
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| 3rd strike rule | 4/30/2009 |
Q: Mark, We just had our first game of the season (fast pitch girls u14)and there were quite a lot of ...
A: If the b-r safely attains 1st there is no out. You would have a runner on 1st and zero outs. The ...
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| question | 4/29/2009 |
Q: Runner on second and ball is hit between third base and third baseman. third baseman makes an effort ...
A: On a ball in flight it is where the ball is first touched by the defense (not applic. here) or where ...
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| private question | 4/29/2009 |
Q: after catcher missed the ball the pitcher came to home plate to help out, she is positioned with ...
A: private answer at op's request
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| Infield fly rule | 4/28/2009 |
Q: Runners on 1st and 2nd; or bases loaded. Less than 2 outs. Fly ball just beyond the infield area ...
A: tell the coach they owe you a adult beverage if you're over 21, plus also tall them to brush up on ...
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| Fielder's choice | 4/28/2009 |
Q: Bases are loaded with 1 out. Batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop who fields it and throws ...
A: Sorry Don as I state in my instructions Instructions by Expert: Please tell me what game of ...
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| Out or safe at home? | 4/27/2009 |
Q: Can a catcher block the plate awaiting a throw from the outfield. The ball was in the air, coming ...
A: A fielder cannot block a base or the basepath w/out possession of the ball or we have obstruction. ...
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| Interference | 4/27/2009 |
Q: This is softball for 12 and Under Girls. We had 2 outs, runner on 3rd and 1st. The batter hits a ...
A: In ASA on a foul ball not caught, if the ball could have been caught with ordinary effort, both the ...
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| umpire | 4/27/2009 |
Q: What does inside out theory mean for an umpire? I am studying to become a certified Dixie Youth ...
A: that would be false, the inside-out theory means that the BU stays outside the diamond if the ball ...
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| slap hitting | 4/26/2009 |
Q: My daughter is a slapper, and has been called out sporadically for stepping out(of the batters box). ...
A: let's just do some basics so you have a better idea on how this is called. The bb extends 4' in ...
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| female players coed | 4/26/2009 |
Q: How many females players do you have to have to start a game in coed.
A: Co-ed has more local exceptions I think that any other game Strict ASA is 5 and 5 but you can start ...
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| fair or foul | 4/25/2009 |
Q: pop-up on the first baseline. Fielder is straddling the line and reaches into foul territory where ...
A: This is BASIC...basic, basic umpiring, what kind of training IF ANY does this umpire ...
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| distance to pitchers mound | 4/24/2009 |
Q: what is the distance from home plate to the pitchers mound in asa mens church league
A: 50' mark shorty Just wondered why a 2 for timeliness, here's the log asked 4/24/09 05:05 PM ...
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| Batter/Runner out or safe and is ball dead | 4/24/2009 |
Q: HS Girls fast pitch softball Sutuation: Batter hits a ball to the third base player and runs in fair ...
A: A b-r would be out if in the umpire's judgment they are outside the 3' lane and they interfere w/ ...
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| Line up vs roster | 4/22/2009 |
Q: I watched a high school varsity game the other night and one team seemed to have a limitless supply ...
A: Player eligibility in not an umpire issue. We never rule on it, we would simply take the protest ...
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| 10 team double elimination bracket | 4/22/2009 |
Q: how many bye are in this bracket and who gets them
A: Actually there are 2 play-in games w/ 4 teams playing to get 2 into the next round of the winners ...
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| dp/flex players | 4/22/2009 |
Q: I was reading one of the past questions from 4/16/09. He was asking about using the DP/flex player. ...
A: The "Flex" is listed 10th and only plays defense, they do not bat at that position. The "DP" is 1-9 ...
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| Pitching | 4/21/2009 |
Q: What are the rules about pitching? As far as the foot on the rubber is concerned? I pitch with my ...
A: I assume this is SP. In ASA you need only to have 1 foot in contact w/ the plate. You can step ...
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| slap bunting | 4/20/2009 |
Q: we wer in a tournament this past Saturday and the batter slab bunted, stepping as she hit and came ...
A: the bb extends 4' in front of the a line drawn through the middle of the plate, maybe that's what ...
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| Infield Fly | 4/19/2009 |
Q: 14u girls fastpitch. Batter hits a pop up, umpire calls infiled fly. The ball lands fair up the ...
A: Incorrect call, we simply have a foul ball. Doesn't matter if there are runners on or not. A foul ...
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| dropped ball on ball 4 | 4/19/2009 |
Q: There is a lot of talk about rounding first on ball 4 - what if the catcher drops the ball or it is ...
A: A BB as far as the b-r is concerned is treated as a batted ball whether the catcher catches it or ...
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| Girls Fast-pitch Softball | 4/19/2009 |
Q: How do you train umpires to ensure a somewhat consistent calling of balls and strikes? I am ...
A: Different orgs have different standards. I know ASA, NFHS, NCAA have many yearly schools and ...
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| pitching | 4/18/2009 |
Q: I have been playing for 25 plus years but just recently started umpiring. Just wandering about ...
A: It's great that you're taking up umpiring, thank you. I just answered a similar question w/ some of ...
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| Strike zone | 4/18/2009 |
Q: I understand the rule stating "The strike zone is from front knee to back shoulder with a natural ...
A: You're under the misunderstanding that where the ball lands in SP has anything to do w/ it being a ...
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| define fly ball | 4/17/2009 |
Q: bases loaded no outs. Batter hits catchable line drive to SS who drops ball, no IFR called by umps ...
A: no actually a good question if you want to argue the point in the future. " I have been told that ...
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| Rules for NFHS | 4/17/2009 |
Q: In a case where a runner leaves early when an illegal pitch is also thrown, which rule takes ...
A: I am not an expert on Fed rules however I believe they agree w/ ASA on this March 2008 ASA Rule ...
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| define fly ball | 4/17/2009 |
Q: bases loaded no outs. Batter hits catchable line drive to SS who drops ball, no IFR called by umps ...
A: An umpire should always signal AND verbalize an IF. An IF "is a fair fly ball , not including a ...
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| Plays made at first base. | 4/17/2009 |
Q: I was wondering about the issue of the tie going to the runner for a play at first base. I was ...
A: ASA 8-7-c the runner is out when on a force play the fielder contacts the base while holding the ...
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| walkers going straight to second | 4/16/2009 |
Q: theres a runner on third,and the batter just walked and has intentions on going straight to second ...
A: No, the LBR does not go into effect until the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle AND the ...
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| obstructing runner | 4/16/2009 |
Q: 14U rec league. Short stop missed two earleir opoortunites to field and throw for an out. So now ...
A: Offensive players "interfere", defensive players "obstruct" interference is the act of an offensive ...
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| Fastpitch DP/Flex rule | 4/16/2009 |
Q: Good Afternoon. I'm struggling with a lineup that will allow me to keep two of my best hitters in ...
A: no, no no, no, NO! They both stay where they are in the batting order, it's just a tweak of the rule ...
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| Stealing second after a walk U12 Softball | 4/16/2009 |
Q: I am trying to interpret the stealing 2nd after a walk rule with a runner on third. If the ball is ...
A: The LBR is not in effect if the pitcher makes a "play" on any runner. "If the ball is in the ...
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| can a batter run | 4/15/2009 |
Q: the batter has three balls and two strikes,the next pitch is a one bouncer to the catcher and is ...
A: yes if the other DK3 requirements are met, she can run to 1st. The rule actually is "when the ...
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| slap hitting. | 4/15/2009 |
Q: when a batter is slap hitting dont they have to kinda break or roll there wrists so you can tell if ...
A: The difference between a bunt and a slap, A bunt attempt is any non-swinging movement of the bat ...
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| Slo-Pitch Softball - Orange Base | 4/15/2009 |
Q: Batter hits ground ball to third baseman and runs to first. (1) The ball goes through the third ...
A: On a ball hit to the outfield w/ no play on the b-r, the b-r may touch either the white or colored ...
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| little league softball girls 7-8 | 4/15/2009 |
Q: I'm hoping you can tell if this is correct or not, I have my doubts but not the knowledge of the ...
A: We # runners on base starting with the most advanced runner. In this case R1 is on 3rd, R2 is on ...
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| Flex rule | 4/15/2009 |
Q: Please explaint to me how the flex rule works? I have a flex batter who bats the whole game and a ...
A: I'll give you first the basics of the DP/Flex This rule is not complicated but people like to make ...
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| infield fly rule | 4/14/2009 |
Q: Playing USSSA rules 14u, runners on first and second with nobody out. Girl hits a pop fly behind ...
A: I don't answer specific questions about u-trip rules as I'm not an expert on them, but I'm not going ...
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| Outfielders in Softball | 4/14/2009 |
Q: Is there a limit to how many outfielders can play in co-ed softball? I played last year and there ...
A: Co-ed probably has more local rule exceptions than any other game of softball. In strict ASA play ...
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| 2-man mechanics | 4/12/2009 |
Q: Bases are loaded with no outs or one out. Base umpire is in position three where he should be. Fly ...
A: "by the book" the PU has responsibility for R1 The PU should move from behind hp, line up R1 and ...
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| illegal advance | 4/11/2009 |
Q: My daughter plays 10u,during a timeout the opposing 3rd base coach called over the base runner from ...
A: this is actually a very good question and different umpires might handle it differently. You might ...
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| Fast Pitch Softball | 4/10/2009 |
Q: Base loaded no outs, line drive to pitcher caught, runner leave bases, panic, runners try to get ...
A: You have no force outs in this play because the batter never became a b-r as F1 caught the ball. ...
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| Foul off of home plate | 4/9/2009 |
Q: At what point does a ball become foul when it hits home plate directly off the bat? Is there a ...
A: a batted ball that hits home plate (which is in fair territory) is a fair ball unless after hitting ...
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| First Base/Orange Base | 4/8/2009 |
Q: I coach a high school team. We had a situation where the 1st baseman's foot was touching only the ...
A: If a play is being made at 1st...... if the throw is coming from fair territory (see exception ...
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| Batting Order | 4/8/2009 |
Q: What is relevance of batting order? Coach stopped a game because he claimed we were out of order.
A: A BO is an essential and basic part of the game of softball. 1-9 (or how many can legally bat) must ...
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| Umpire Timeout | 4/6/2009 |
Q: FHCSSA (Florida Half Century Senior Softball Association)state tournament 65yr and older division. ...
A: There are really 2 questions here, when can an umpire call time and when should an umpire call time ...
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| batting (batters box) | 4/6/2009 |
Q: do both feet have to be in the batters box when hitting the ball ?? If one foot is out of the box ...
A: The batter's box is 3' by 7'. Both feet must be inside the lines, they may be touching the lines ...
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| interference/obstruction | 4/5/2009 |
Q: My niece plays little league softball in Florida. Upon hitting the ball, and running to first ...
A: " Hence, blocking the runners".... that is obstruction "when she would resume the Straddle ...
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| interference/obstruction | 4/5/2009 |
Q: My niece plays little league softball in Florida. Upon hitting the ball, and running to first ...
A: A defensive player must be allowed to initially field a BATTED ball anywhere on the playing field. ...
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| interference/obstruction | 4/5/2009 |
Q: My niece plays little league softball in Florida. Upon hitting the ball, and running to first ...
A: sounds like that umpire needs to go to some clinics!!!! This is basic umpiring. Obstruction is the ...
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| International Tie Breaker ERA | 4/1/2009 |
Q: Is it true that the runner placed on 2nd base in an International Tie Breaker is NOT considered an ...
A: Normally I don't answer scoring questions per the instructions on my site. "Instructions by Expert; ...
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| Fastpitch rules | 4/1/2009 |
Q: Can you pitch slow pitch in a fastpitch league ? Where the ball goes way high and falls down right ...
A: Sorry Marc, I meant to say and I guess I could have been more clear pitch speed and arc are not ...
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| Out on a walk. | 3/31/2009 |
Q: My granddaughter was playing a school fast pitch game in North Carolina. She was walked and ...
A: In ASA when the LBR is in force a base on balls is treated the same as a batted ball, once the b-r ...
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| DP/Flex Situation | 3/31/2009 |
Q: Doc - I have a specific question about the DP/Flex rule. I'll try to keep it short. ASA/NFHS rules ...
A: you understand the DP/Flex rule just fine. I'll add some so others who read this get some more out ...
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| Outfield positioning | 3/31/2009 |
Q: Is there a rule that the oufielders in a 10u game must be a certain number of feet behind the ...
A: you might have local rules that supercede ASA but in strict ASA (other than coed)the only ...
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| OBSTRUCTION/INTERFERENCE | 3/30/2009 |
Q: NO OUTS, BASES LOADED. BALL HIT TOWARDS 2ND BASEMAN. R2 IS OBSTRUCTED ON WAY TO 3RD THEN R1 RUNS ...
A: sorry for the delay, I did not get email notice of it and just found it when checking my que. very ...
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| fast pitch softball | 3/29/2009 |
Q: FOr a pitcher to make a leagal appeal play, what must happen? ON the rubber, hands together, step ...
A: There are 2 types of appeals, live ball and dead ball.Both must be made before the next pitch. In a ...
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| FP softball | 3/29/2009 |
Q: It's the first inning. R1 is on third base and R3 is on first base with 1 out. BR 4 hits a pop up ...
A: You are correct in ASA a runner hit w/ a fair batted ball while on the base would not be out, unless ...
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| illegal pitch | 3/26/2009 |
Q: In the wind up of girls fast pitch 18u ASA Gold the umpire yells ilegal pitch and the batter hits a ...
A: The rule for an IP is pretty simple.... In FP an IP is a DDB not a DB. If the batter hits an IP ...
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| after dead ball when does ball become alive | 3/25/2009 |
Q: In fastpitch softball, when does a dead ball become alive? What is the umpire mechanic? I've been ...
A: Sure if it's in necessary situation such a foul ball etc that makes the count important, part of the ...
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| after dead ball when does ball become alive | 3/25/2009 |
Q: In fastpitch softball, when does a dead ball become alive? What is the umpire mechanic? I've been ...
A: once we have a "dead ball" we can never have a "live ball" until the umpire says the magic ...
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| Obstruction? | 3/25/2009 |
Q: I play Mens ASA softball. The other night there was the following play: R1 is on 2B. B2 ...
A: As you know obstruction is the act of a defensive player not in possession of the ball and not in ...
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| 10U ASA girls fast pitch rules | 3/23/2009 |
Q: Sorry to ask such basic questions but i have had a hard time finding it myself. I am simply looking ...
A: the ball is 11" 35' yes stealing is allowed unless your local league changes or limits it D3K ...
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| home plate, after home run | 3/22/2009 |
Q: I have a situation that just happened in my slow pitch league governed by "ASA official rules". With ...
A: When HRs must be run....this is a dead ball appeal of a missed base, R1 is out and B2 scores, that ...
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| 2 outs dropped third strike | 3/22/2009 |
Q: Fastpitch girls youth softball ASA rules apply Bases loaded, two outs, catcher drops third strike. ...
A: The D3K rule applies with less than 2 out and 1st base NOT occupied or ANYTIME with 2 outs. In this ...
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| Balk in Softball | 3/16/2009 |
Q: In mid wind up the batter signals time out to the umpire and steps out of the box. The pitcher stops ...
A: there is no such animal as "balk" in softball. After the ball is live the batter may not step out ...
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| flex/dp fast pitch softball | 3/16/2009 |
Q: Does a DP have to have a specific positon assigned in the lineup???: Can a DP play any defensive ...
A: Does a DP have to have a specific positon assigned in the lineup???: yes they can be in any batting ...
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| highschool fastpitch softball | 3/15/2009 |
Q: The number three batter made the last out in one inning and then the first out in the next batting ...
A: OK B3 made the 3rd out in the xst inning, then led off the next inning. Didn't she realize she ...
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| DP and FLEX players/fast pitch softball | 3/14/2009 |
Q: I don't understand the rule book re: DP and Flex players. Can you give me specifics--??What is legal ...
A: I'll give you first the basics of the DP/Flex This rule is not complicated but people like to make ...
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| Catcher contact with Batter-runner | 3/13/2009 |
Q: Batter hit flyball to outfield for the first out of the inning. While leaving the plate area towards ...
A: If the catcher caused the b-r to be obstructed, then we would have a signal by the PU of ...
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| International Tiebreaker rules | 3/11/2009 |
Q: In an ITB game,the last person at bat is supposed to be placed on 2nd base. Can a substitute runner ...
A: under the tie breaker rule the player who bats ninth in that 1/2inning is placed on 2nd. This ...
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| worth bamboo slow pitch bat | 3/10/2009 |
Q: I just bought a worth bamboo slow pitch softball bat. I bought it for when we hit our homerun limit ...
A: The way I understand the directive this year is if a bat does not contain the ASA certification mark ...
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| Refree reversing decision. | 3/9/2009 |
Q: In an ASA 10U game, there are two outs and a runner trying to steal home is called out by the home ...
A: I'm really surprised that a PU would change his call on a play at the plate by talking with a BU. ...
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| ASA Softball | 3/8/2009 |
Q: Batter hits a ball up the inside first base line, first base person runs up to pick up grounder. ...
A: " While doing so, ball is deflected into foul territory." if any force out attempt is coming from ...
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| Softball Base Running | 3/7/2009 |
Q: In a game of slow pitch softball,with a runner on 1st,the ball is hit deep to the out field and ...
A: IF R1 rounded 2nd base and was advancing to 3rd, he would have to retouch 2nd on the way back to ...
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| appealing a call | 3/6/2009 |
Q: Can a coach appeal a call made by the home plate umpire made at home plate? A pitch was made it was ...
A: w/out seeing the play it's impossible for me to determine what happened and what the proper call ...
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| ASA softball | 3/5/2009 |
Q: Our team had a girl called OUT last night because the umpire said she took longer than 20 seconds to ...
A: Umpire calls "batter up" the batter now has 10 sec to take the batter's position or we call a ...
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| 1 vs 2 man mecanics , pro and con | 3/4/2009 |
Q: I have a boss who wants to cut costs and go to one man softball mechanics. I dont like it. So i am ...
A: Well 2 umpires are more expensive than 1 there's no doubt about that and usually the team cost is ...
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| Reasons for softball batting helmet faceguards | 2/27/2009 |
Q: Ambrose, In your opinion, why did the National Federation of State High School Associations' mandate ...
A: I certainly can't speak for the Fed or even ASA but I believe it boils down to 2 words..."player ...
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| Batted ball hit runner on base. | 2/25/2009 |
Q: Girls Fastpitch 14U. Runner on 1st (R1) and batter hits a ground ball to the second baseman who is ...
A: your question title says "Batted ball hit runner on base." but your question has R1 advancing from ...
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| Cast | 2/24/2009 |
Q: Can a player wear an arm cast during a game?
A: In ASA a cast must be padded for the player to be considered but in the judgment of the umpire if it ...
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| Illigal Mitt | 2/23/2009 |
Q: Here's a weird one, I know the rule, but not sure about the penalty. During a high School FP game ...
A: Not a weird one at all. I don't know what org or assoc runs your program but is ASA or Fed play any ...
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| force out or tag out | 2/21/2009 |
Q: With a runner on first, batter hits ground ball to pitcher. Pitcher throws ball to 1st base for the ...
A: I'm sorry I don't understand your question. What call are you talking about? I have no call on R1 ...
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| force out or tag out | 2/20/2009 |
Q: With a runner on first, batter hits ground ball to pitcher. Pitcher throws ball to 1st base for the ...
A: "Is the force out removed because the first out was at first base?" Gary that would be correct. ...
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| foul ball | 2/19/2009 |
Q: a ball is popped up in foul territory and the defense attempts to catch it. they touch the ball but ...
A: a ball in flight is fair or foul based on where the ball is when it is 1st touched by a defensive ...
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| brace | 2/18/2009 |
Q: My daughter is a fastpitch pitcher and was diagnosed with tendonitis a couple of weeks ago. She has ...
A: A pitcher cannot wear anything on their pitching hand, forearm or elbow that is distracting to the ...
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| catchers obstruction | 2/10/2009 |
Q: bases loaded 1 out batter swings hits catchers mitt and hits the ball at the same time, the ball ...
A: we have CO which is a ddb, and since R3 did not advance safely to the next base, the offense may ...
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| illegal pitch? | 2/9/2009 |
Q: just came home from a tournament and came out with doubts. here is my question. my daughter was ...
A: without seeing it obviously I can't be 100% sure but it's probably ok. IN ASA Women's and all JO: ...
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| ball thrown out of play | 2/4/2009 |
Q: On a ball thrown out of play from the infield are the base runners awarded one or two bases? Also ...
A: In ASA play anytime a ball is overthrown by ANY defensive player the award is always 2 bases from ...
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| Force out ruling | 1/28/2009 |
Q: Runner on 1st, 1 out. Hard line drive to 1st baseman which is dropped. 1st base runner, thinking ...
A: The ruling on the field was correct, we have 2 outs on this play. R1 is not protected even while ...
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| Foul ball | 1/26/2009 |
Q: if a ball is hit into foul territory and picked in foul territory, but the player picking up the ...
A: On a batted ball that touches the ground between 1st and home or 3rd and home and has not yet ...
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| Runner leaving early | 1/21/2009 |
Q: When is a runner from home or on base called out for leaving early. I have been told that ASA rule ...
A: In ASA play we don't have crs for the batter but a in sp a runner is required to keep contact w/ the ...
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| Guessing a runner safe or out | 1/20/2009 |
Q: Mark, Once in awhile, in a one-umpire fastpitch ASA softball game, just as the tag occurs, the ...
A: 1 man is the toughest game out there, you can't see everything. Just a suggestion as you see the ...
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| runner hit by batted ball. | 1/19/2009 |
Q: Does the decision to make an out or safe call in relation to a runner being hit by a batted ball ...
A: the rule is a runner would be out if they are struck with a fair untouched batted ball while not in ...
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| Interference, Obstruction or Nothing | 1/16/2009 |
Q: Runners on 1B and 2B with one out. The ball slips from the pitchers had during her delivery and ...
A: You hit it right on the head, "since the defender impeded the runner and was not "in possession of ...
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| Umpires Disagree | 1/15/2009 |
Q: Okay, this was a weird one and after asking several officials over the last couple months, have yet ...
A: Well I don't know if you'll get the same answer from me, I can only tell you how I'd handle it as a ...
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| dropped 3rd strike (pitch hit ground first) | 1/11/2009 |
Q: ASA girl fastpitch. 12U Is it a dropped 3rd strike if a pitcher threw the ball and it hit the ...
A: A pitched ball that hits the ground continues to be a live ball. If swung at and missed with 2 ...
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| baserunning | 12/14/2008 |
Q: Mens slow pitch softball. Runners on 2nd and 3rd. Ground ball is hit to 3rd baseman, runner on 3rd ...
A: I don't see a reason based on the facts in your question to call R2 out. He is allowed to stop and ...
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| Infield fly & tagging up | 12/5/2008 |
Q: My question is, infield fly is in effect, batter hits fly ball in infield and umpire calls infield ...
A: While a runner may legally leave a base as soon as a ball in flight is touched by the defense they ...
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| base running | 11/30/2008 |
Q: After hitting a base hit, the runner starts to first. The runner then turns well in front of first ...
A: a "base line" is an imaginary line directly between the bases and really doesn't figure into any ...
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| Steals | 11/19/2008 |
Q: Sir, I have a question on stealing. I am an official in Okinawa using ASA rules for Adult Men's ...
A: If you are a Marine, my son is Sgt. Ben Ambrose, 2nd Marine division The ball is dead on an ...
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| Illegal Pitch/Appeals | 11/17/2008 |
Q: Mark, I had an asa playoff game that I had where I called Illegal Pitches as soon as I saw they ...
A: here you go, you can also check the ASA website, if they're not up yet they should be soon along w/ ...
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| major softball walking while runners on base | 11/1/2008 |
Q: major divison softball girls....we have 1 out,runner on third base,the batter walks and runs hard to ...
A: Well you're both wrong. When the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle (she need not be ...
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| Catcher hits batter throwing down to third | 10/28/2008 |
Q: What is the proper ruling if a catcher in the act of trying to get the third base runner out hits ...
A: it depends on a lot of factors, It can be interference or it can be nothing the batter cannot ...
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| appeal plays | 10/26/2008 |
Q: situation: 1 out, runners at second and third. Fly ball caught for out # 2. Runners advance safely ...
A: Yes the run would count if R1 crossed the plate before the appeal was made. This is either a live ...
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| asa strike zone | 10/16/2008 |
Q: In an ASA game this past weekend, a batter did not swing at a pitch that landed an inch or two ...
A: a strike in ASA sp is a pitched ball enters the space over any part of hp between the batter's front ...
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| softball | 10/14/2008 |
Q: If a ball is hit down 3rd or 1st base lins and curves behind the base to foul is that cosidered a ...
A: a batted ball is fair or foul based upon where it is first touched or lands past 3rd or 1st. If the ...
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| Runner Interference?? | 10/8/2008 |
Q: I just had an extremely odd play and I don't know what the ruling should have been. Here's the ...
A: this is a situation that an umpire would have to see to call it. A player may stay on a legally ...
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| "Crow hopping" in the batter's box | 10/5/2008 |
Q: I am a pitcher in a coed slowpitch league governed by ASA rules. We have a batter in the league who ...
A: they cannot leave the batter's box and come back in and then hit the ball but they can move w/in the ...
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| Conferences with the pitcher | 10/5/2008 |
Q: I was umpiring a local league game and ran into a situation. The defensive team coach called time ...
A: A team may have 3 defensive conferences per 7 innings. They may use them all in 1 inning or spread ...
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| Catcher's box? | 10/4/2008 |
Q: Is there such a thing as the catcher's box, and if so where is it? In a recent game I was involved ...
A: Yes there is a catcher's box, it is 10' long beginning at the end lines of the bb and 8.5' wide. ...
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| runner hit by throw | 10/1/2008 |
Q: Last night a call was made that I'm not certain was correct. Here's what happened. There was a ...
A: If the b-r is outside the 3' lane (it can be a body part that's hit in ASA but a foot completely ...
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| base running | 9/30/2008 |
Q: There is a runner on first, line drive hit and caught. The runner heads back to first and the ...
A: You would be incorrect in ASA play. The award in simple terms is 2 bases from the last base touched ...
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| base running | 9/30/2008 |
Q: There is a runner on first, line drive hit and caught. The runner heads back to first and the ...
A: In ASA play the award is always 2 bases from the runner's position at the time of the throw, the ...
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| Out or safe? | 9/29/2008 |
Q: Scenario bottom of last inning with one out and bases are loaded. batter hits a ground ball to the ...
A: Ok if i got this right, bases loaded...ground ball to F5 who now steps on 3rd base, R1 was off 3rd ...
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| strike mat and batters box | 9/28/2008 |
Q: I am a vice-president of an adult slow pitch softball league and my question pertains to the ...
A: the only mat we use in ASA is in Senior play and it is 17" wide (as hp is 17" not 14")and 25.5" long ...
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| Pitching | 9/28/2008 |
Q: My daughter just recently turned 11 and she has been pitching for about 2 1/2 years and on June 10. ...
A: She has to regain her confidence, obviously. You can help with that by her feeling protected and ...
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| Base running on a walk | 9/26/2008 |
Q: We had 2 outs and one runner on 2nd base. After the pitch, our base runner started to run, but the ...
A: it depends on which game of softball you're playing and you didn't tell me which. in fp ball is ...
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| softball | 9/25/2008 |
Q: If a batter hits a line drive to the 2nd basemen and the runner on first leaves early but dives back ...
A: the award on an overthrow is always 2 bases from the runner's position at the time of the throw, not ...
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| Batter's box | 9/24/2008 |
Q: In reading your response to a previous question... "In ASA no, both feet must be completely inside ...
A: The previous question referred to where the feet could be prior to (at the start of) the pitch, and ...
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| Softball (safe or out ruling call) | 9/22/2008 |
Q: Hey Mark, Runners on 2nd & 3rd, 2 outs bottom of 7th down by 3 runs, batter hits a single, both runs ...
A: I can only tell you of my impressions of this play because I didn't see it. If B1 was attempting to ...
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| Batters box | 9/22/2008 |
Q: Are batters allowed to start with one foot in the batters box and one out of the box? Are runners ...
A: In ASA no, both feet must be completely inside the bb, they may touch the lines but no part of the ...
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| stealing 2nd on a walk | 9/20/2008 |
Q: During a Little League 12U game, a player was walked and ran to first base. Without stopping, she ...
A: A bb is treated the same as a batted ball. If the pitcher has the ball in the circle the b-r may ...
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| Tagging Out | 9/18/2008 |
Q: What does tagging out mean?
A: There are 2 types of tag outs. A legal tag is the act of a defensive player... 1 touching a base ...
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| HOMERUN OR NOT | 9/18/2008 |
Q: In a Georgia high school game. A girl hits the ball to centerfield. The centerfielder catches the ...
A: It's not a hr but rather it is a "4 base award" which is why the PU held up 4 fingers. In games ...
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| asa rule book | 9/14/2008 |
Q: where can i get an asa 2008-2009 rule book ANSWER: Hi Scott, you can get a 2008 for about 10 bucks ...
A: Gosh, I'm really surprised, and also have no idea if that is some kind of qualification for rule ...
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| Throwing the Bat | 9/12/2008 |
Q: What is the rule in regards to the consequence of a thrown bat from a b or b-r? Also, is there a ...
A: you're talking to an umpire whose left kneecap was fractured by a thrown bat in a rec coed game ...
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| ASA Coaching box | 9/11/2008 |
Q: I was coaching this base this past weekend for a 10U fastpitch game. There was a runner of third ...
A: especially at this young age group. in ASA play a coach may leave the box to signal a runner to ...
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| force out | 9/11/2008 |
Q: Durng a game with runners on first and second with 1 out. The ball is hit to 3rd, bobbled and the ...
A: the rule for an out only requires possession of the ball and contact with the base. fp umpires ...
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| slo pitch high arch mens softball | 9/7/2008 |
Q: We play for fun with experienced players from other teams as umps. Please tell me how this play ...
A: Zero runs would score. Anytime the b-r doesn't safely advance to 1st w/ 2 outs, no run can score. ...
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| CLARIFY LEAVE EARLY AND OUT | 9/6/2008 |
Q: Previous answer: "I assume F4 caught a fly ball or line drive. If F3 gains possession of the ball ...
A: It's sometimes difficult to determine the exact meaning of a question. I read the question as R1 ...
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| Courtesy runners | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I have worked this past year in a spring softball league and now in a shortened fall league. Both ...
A: This is a local league rule, not an ASA rule. In ASA we only allow crs in JO and Senior play and ...
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| Run score on 3rd out | 9/3/2008 |
Q: This is an ongoing debate between myself (scorer) and an ASAA umpire. Here's the situation: Runners ...
A: You can't find such a rule because it doesn't exist. I don't care if the ball deflects off the ...
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| softball | 9/2/2008 |
Q: If a batter hits a line drive to the 2nd basemen and the runner on first leaves early but dives back ...
A: I answered this on 08/27 but I'll answer it again for you.... I assume F4 caught a fly ball or line ...
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| stealing 2nd after walk | 8/30/2008 |
Q: my daughter plays 12u fastpitch, and last week we had a call that was questionable. we know that a ...
A: I READ THIS QUESTION WRONG!!!!! ON 2 I READ IT AS THE B-R WASN'T ALLOWED TO STEAL 2ND BECAUSE THE ...
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| Softball Legitimate Catch | 8/27/2008 |
Q: Scenario: There are men on bases. There was a fly ball to left field. The ball went into the left ...
A: A runner can legally leave the base as soon as a defensive player touches the ball. In the past ...
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| softball | 8/27/2008 |
Q: When a batter hits a ball and steps on home plate is the batter called out,also if the ball is hit ...
A: I assume F4 caught a fly ball or line drive. If F3 gains possession of the ball and touches the bag ...
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| Dead ball ruling in an ASA type league | 8/22/2008 |
Q: My team (visitor) was winning by one run in the bottom of the seventh inning. The other team had ...
A: well you tell me 2 things that can change what happens "My third base ended up in dead ball ...
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| Rule Interpretation | 8/21/2008 |
Q: I have been an umpire for 7 years and still get the play that only can happen on your field. ...
A: Interesting question and since I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night I'll give you the ...
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| CO-ED | 8/21/2008 |
Q: I am a umpire for Co Ed sofbal, I was umpring a game where a team had 6 men and 5 women the question ...
A: if you are playing by ASA rules and not a local rule the answer is no. In coed you can bat either ...
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| rule | 8/21/2008 |
Q: Situation: Runners on first and second...no outs. Line drive hit up the middle (two-three strides ...
A: In ASA in order to have an intentionally dropped ball the fielder must 1st catch it and then ...
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| softball | 8/20/2008 |
Q: When a batter hits a ball and steps on home plate is the batter called out,also if the ball is hit ...
A: if the batter makes contact with the ball while any part of their foot is in contact w/any part of ...
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| Strike zone... | 8/19/2008 |
Q: Mark, another question regarding strike zone for you! I pitch in ASA Men's Slow Pitch league, I ...
A: the strike zone is not only the front knee to the back shoulder but also that area with the batter ...
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| Interference | 8/19/2008 |
Q: Mark! I really enjoy reading your questions and answers, you are thorough and entertaining! My ...
A: I hope you continue to read my answers but we're going to disagree here. Unless R1 did something ...
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| Foul or Fair | 8/17/2008 |
Q: My husband and I play co-ed slow-pitch ASA in Kansas City. My husband hit a foul ball (or what we ...
A: if the ball was in foul territory when 1st touched by F3 it would be a foul ball regardless of what ...
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| illegal player/illegal re-entry | 8/16/2008 |
Q: The opposite team at the beginning of a game entered a line-up sheet with a DP on the tenth ...
A: it would be the flex who who be listed in the 10th position not the dp who must be listed 1-9 so ...
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| Leadoff from firstbase | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I paused to ask for explanation and she claims I left from the orange bag (post ball leaving ...
A: In ASA fp you can leave the base as soon as the ball leaves the pitcher's hand so I don't why you ...
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| Substitution/re-entry | 8/14/2008 |
Q: Mark, I am the commissioner of a Recreational coed league. We play under ASA rules. Scenario is ...
A: R1 can be substituted for by any legal sub, they do not need the permission of T2 to have S1 run for ...
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| Illegal Pitch/Appeals | 8/14/2008 |
Q: Mark, I had an asa playoff game that I had where I called Illegal Pitches as soon as I saw they ...
A: The coach doesn't know what he's talking about in ASA!!!!!!!! He might play in some other org that ...
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| pitching | 8/13/2008 |
Q: 1 in coed slowpitch must a pitcher start with both feet on the pitching rubber 2 if a person bats ...
A: If a ball is caught by the defense in "out of play" territory which means dead ball area, it is not ...
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| Foul tips | 8/13/2008 |
Q: Does the rule about the foul tips not going over the head of the batter apply for slowpitch as well.
A: In ASA play in all games of softball a "foul tip" is a batted ball that goes sharply and directly ...
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| Rosin bags | 8/10/2008 |
Q: I was recently coaching in an ASA National Tourney and had an interesting thing happen. The first ...
A: no there is no rule on colors....yet, and I have no info if they're even considering it. Sec 10 ...
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| Dead Ball | 8/8/2008 |
Q: Here was the situation: Bases Loaded Batter hits an infield fly to 3rd baseman Umpire calls infield ...
A: First of all there is no need for any runner to tag on an uncaught IF. Just like any uncaught fly ...
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| force out | 8/8/2008 |
Q: Runners at 1st and 2nd, batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop. The shortstop tags the runner ...
A: your teammate is correct, in this case R2 and R1 are no longer legally entitled to occupy their ...
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| softball rules | 8/7/2008 |
Q: what happens when you use an illegal bat? And what happens when you are already on the base?
A: If they are discovered in the bb w/ an "illegal" bat (such as a baseball bat) they are called out. ...
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| strike or ball | 8/6/2008 |
Q: slow pitch, legal pitched ball(delivery and height) hits the back black frame of the plate. Does not ...
A: ball, the plate is the plate is the plate..... as stated by one of the big ASA guys that I came up ...
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| UIC & Tourney Director | 8/6/2008 |
Q: Dr. Mark, When it comes to the halting and re-starting of play due to lightning/thunder what are ...
A: This is from my last umpire's pre-tournament meeting.... Weather---STRICKLY, EXCLUSIVELY, TOTALLY, ...
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| 2 intentional walks in a row... | 8/5/2008 |
Q: I'm an ASA certified ump, and LOVE just browsing your answers as a refresher for a lot of ...
A: Boy your state is much different than mine in ASA championship play, you did say this was an ASA ...
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| 2 intentional walks in a row... | 8/4/2008 |
Q: I'm an ASA certified ump, and LOVE just browsing your answers as a refresher for a lot of ...
A: My first reaction is WOW, this happened in an ASA state tournie. Both the offense AND the umpire(s) ...
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| Applying ASA Mercy Rule | 8/4/2008 |
Q: My question has to do with applying the ASA mercy rule. We were involved with a game utilizing the ...
A: The other coach doesn't know crap about this rule and it annoys me when they "insist" w/out ever ...
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| called third strike | 8/3/2008 |
Q: Last night, I had a full count and stepped out of the box and the pitcher pitched the ball and the ...
A: Only an umpire can call time, a player or coach can "request" time but it's up to the umpire if they ...
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| pinch hitting | 8/3/2008 |
Q: in a local asa league, teams can elect to "bat everyone present" and have free substitutions in the ...
A: In ASA sp play you can bat 10 or 11. If you start w/ 10 you cannot later add an 11th. Either way ...
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| Obstruction vs interference | 8/2/2008 |
Q: During a 10U game we had a player attempt to steal third base. The throw from the catcher was ...
A: The short answer is yes but you have to understand obs vs int obstruction is the act of a defensive ...
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| Lights Shut off during a play | 8/1/2008 |
Q: I play in an over 50 slow pitch softball league in Northern New Jersey and we follow the ASA rules. ...
A: Congrats!!! you've asked ma a question I can't answer. I would be on the phone to my state and ...
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| Obstruction vs interference | 8/1/2008 |
Q: During a 10U game we had a player attempt to steal third base. The throw from the catcher was ...
A: Unless the runner intentionally interfered with the throw or F5 had control of the ball and the ...
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| Base running | 7/31/2008 |
Q: I'm in a men's league slow pitch league and we had an incident last week in which a runner was ...
A: When a "basepath" (a direct line between a runners position and the base) is established by a ...
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| First Baseman Obstruction | 7/31/2008 |
Q: Runners on 1st & 2nd with no outs. Batter hits a base hit to RF. Ball gets slightly by F9 (no play ...
A: that is correct plus they need not attempt to advance any further, let's see...collision as rounding ...
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| subs | 7/30/2008 |
Q: does your DP/flex have to hit 10th on the line up or can they be the fifth batter?
A: The "DP" who bats for the flex can bat anywhere 1 thru 9 The "flex" does not bat, plays defense ...
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| Base awarded on throw under fence | 7/30/2008 |
Q: Ambrose, Playing in D level ASA Modified league, batter hit ball for single to Left Center. Rounded ...
A: In ASA play the b-r would get 3rd. On overthrows (balls that go out of play) we always award 2 ...
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| Injury rule | 7/29/2008 |
Q: My question is this: What is the rule when you have eleven players batting 1 is the EH. One of the ...
A: The player listed 11 is actually an EP or extra player. as you know all 11 bat and any 10 can play ...
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| rain | 7/29/2008 |
Q: In a nine inning softball game if it rains in the third inning and play cannot continue. When the ...
A: 9 innings wow, never heard of that in softball In ASA you would start at the EXACT spot, batter, ...
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| Double First Base | 7/29/2008 |
Q: Batter hits to outfield and no play is made at 1st. 1st basemen is standing on the corner of the ...
A: ASA 8-2-m-6 when a ball is hit to the outfield and no play is being made at 1st the b-r may use ...
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| ASA SOFTBALL | 7/28/2008 |
Q: Just last week I was playing in a softball tournament, and we were coming in from the backdoor ...
A: IF after the bat check for some reason I strolled by the dugout and saw a non-approved bat I simply ...
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| Foul Ball Ruling | 7/28/2008 |
Q: Last evening one of our players hit a weak ball that essentially died a few feet in front of home ...
A: you are correct, it never matters where the player is when they contact the ball it only matters ...
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| ASA SOFTBALL | 7/28/2008 |
Q: Just last week I was playing in a softball tournament, and we were coming in from the backdoor ...
A: If this was an ASA tournie, it was the wrong way to handle this. #1 is it ALWAYS the SOLE ...
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| Defensive Obstruction | 7/28/2008 |
Q: I play 2nd base in a men's ASA recreational league. We have a player on our team who played college ...
A: I don't know about that "other game" but in softball at ANY level I've got obstruction every time. ...
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| aggression rule | 7/26/2008 |
Q: situation, double play been made, runner slides to second, second baseman behind bag and is not ...
A: 10-1-j gives the umpire the power to eject a player for flagrant misconduct. we would obviously ...
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| Intentionally dropping line drives, for sure double play | 7/26/2008 |
Q: I recently played in an adult slow pitch coed game where twice the opposing team allowed a line ...
A: We do have a rule for an intentionally dropped fly ball but the player must actually catch it and ...
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| Baserunner interference | 7/26/2008 |
Q: In a 16U game today we had a call that confused everyone. We had runners on 2nd and third. A ground ...
A: part of what is not right is interference is called as soon as it occurs and is a dead ball, that ...
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| BASERUNNER FORCED FROM BASE | 7/23/2008 |
Q: Situation: Runner on first, one out. Batter hits hard ground ball directly to first baseman. Runner ...
A: wrong, R1 is forced from the base and if tagged (even on the base) is out as they can no longer ...
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| ASA on calling time | 7/23/2008 |
Q: Bottom of 7th, home team starts inning 3 runs behind. Home team scores a run and has no outs with ...
A: I agree with the umpires. 1) only an umpire can "call" time, just because a coach or player asks ...
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| base running | 7/23/2008 |
Q: There are no outs and a runner at first. Batter hits a groundball to the second baseman who fields ...
A: You're asking me to prove a negative and that's tough to do as we don't have a rule that says ...
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| Umpire question | 7/23/2008 |
Q: Two umpire system slowpitch, ASA ruleset, top 7, 0 out, runner on first. Girl sqaures up to bunt. ...
A: As you know bunting or chopping the ball in SP is illegal, dead ball, batter out. Rule 1 bunt a ...
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| Who won? | 7/23/2008 |
Q: This is for a co-ed slow pitch softball game in a recreational league. Team A and Team B are allowed ...
A: By ASA rules the game is official after 41/2 or 5 complete innings depending on who was ahead. When ...
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| legal play | 7/23/2008 |
Q: R1 is on first base , B1 pops up to first base, but does not run to first. The First baseman lets ...
A: Unless F3 caught the ball and then intentionally dropped it (at which time we would have a dead ...
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| ASA ruling on overthow and missing a base | 7/23/2008 |
Q: Mark, The question I have comes from an answer you gave a while back with an additional ...
A: R1 must re-touch the bases in reverse order and he would be out on appeal for missing 2nd on the way ...
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| 1st base coach leaving the coaches' box | 7/22/2008 |
Q: How far out of the coaches' box can a first base coach go? This involved a 14U girls' softball ...
A: a coach may leave the coaches box to signal the runner to slide, advance or return to a base or move ...
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| 8U Softball | 7/21/2008 |
Q: This is the type of play that seems only to happen at the younger age groups. Bases loaded 1 out. ...
A: this would be the correct call as R2 is forced from the base and is no longer legally entitled to ...
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| asa softball | 7/21/2008 |
Q: During a game a call was made and I am looking for clarification. 2 outs, runner on second base, a ...
A: It doesn't sound weird and certainly could be the correct call. Offensive players interfere and ...
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| Incorrect Count | 7/21/2008 |
Q: Here's the situation: Our pitcher requested the count from the umpire, who then put up his fingers ...
A: Actually I had this exact situation happen a few years ago in a state tournie. One of my best ...
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| Double First Base | 7/21/2008 |
Q: What are the ASA rules in regard to the double first base? The batter-runner was called out at ...
A: usually yes, white for defense, orange for runner unless the throw is coming from foul territory or ...
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| interference | 7/21/2008 |
Q: Runner going from 2nd to 3rd ground ball hit fielded by pitcher. My runner runs into the shortstop. ...
A: this would not be interference but obstruction. Offensive players interfere, defensive players ...
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| Nationals Pick up Player rules | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I see a lot of softball discussion sites seeking pick up players for national ASA tournaments. My ...
A: This is not a question for an umpire as we never, ever rule on eligibility. You need to contact ...
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| force outs | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I was wondering if a runner on first has to leave the base if the hitter hits a grounder to first. ...
A: this would no longer be a force on R1 as the b-r was put out. R1 is once again legally entitled to ...
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| Obscure Home Plate | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I been involved in softball for many years and have never seen this happen. I can not find any rule ...
A: I'm just wondering why R1 was laying there so long and didn't get out of the way? That could be a ...
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| look back rule with runner on third | 7/20/2008 |
Q: I recently had a scenario where I had a runner on third and the batter walked. Before the batter ...
A: You understand the rule pretty well. In ASA play the LBR goes into effect for all runners when the ...
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| Walks | 7/19/2008 |
Q: Our 12u club team is typically playing full ASA rules. I had an knowledgeable umpire tell me that ...
A: In ASA softball that would not be the case. A walk makes the batter a b-r (8-1-c)and a b-r can ...
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| Substitution | 7/19/2008 |
Q: Here is what happened at our softball game. The starting line up had #5 as the starter. In the third ...
A: sure you can do that as long as you have legal subs. #1 starts, #2 in for 1, #3 in for 2, #4 in for ...
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| Slow pitch softball | 7/17/2008 |
Q: Is the foul line or any part of it considered fair territory? How does the rule read? Example ball ...
A: fair ball, any part of the ball touching any part of the line is fair if it is 1st touched or ...
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| Senior Slow Pitch | 7/17/2008 |
Q: Can the catcher on an errant throw, reach back an touch home plate with his glove hand without the ...
A: that would be correct, umpires always want to see a voluntary release part of the def of no catch ...
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| infield fly rule | 7/17/2008 |
Q: In adult men's slowpitch softball using ASA guidelines. If a batter hits a low popup between home ...
A: this would be just a foul ball. The IFR would not apply. A ball between home and 1st or 3rd is ...
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| Senior Slow Pitch | 7/17/2008 |
Q: Can the catcher on an errant throw, reach back an touch home plate with his glove hand without the ...
A: All that is necessary for a force out in any game of softball at any base is the ball must be ...
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| girls u12 softball | 7/16/2008 |
Q: Team A has only 9 players (ie no subs). 1 player gets hurt leaving Team A with only 8 players. The ...
A: mostly correct or could be fully correct,depends.... when you play shorthanded an out is taken where ...
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| Umpire calling an illegal pitch | 7/16/2008 |
Q: My question pertains to an illegal pitch being called in an ASA slow pitch sanctioned league. If a ...
A: Yes I can.... the umpire is mistaken and should read the umpire manual In ASA the umpire manual ...
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| interference | 7/16/2008 |
Q: Runners on second and third with ONE out. Ball is hit up the middle and the runner on second base, ...
A: I would like to call both of them out but unfortunately I've only got R2 out. In ASA as soon as r2 ...
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| asa softball rules | 7/16/2008 |
Q: how many automatic outs do you have to take if you are only playing with 8 players?
A: In ASA fp beginning the game shorthanded you would take an out in the 9th position. If you're ...
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| men's slow pitch | 7/16/2008 |
Q: Mark, 2 questions if you don't mind. (1) Regarding substitutions, we bat 12 and have 10 in the ...
A: These would not be substitutions. You bat 12 and any 10 can play defense and you can move them in ...
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| Rain Out Ruling | 7/16/2008 |
Q: ASA League play after 6 1/2 innings games is called due to rain is it official after 5 innings or do ...
A: Unless this is ASA championship play where we want to finish every game if possible, the game would ...
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| runner obstruction | 7/15/2008 |
Q: Runner at first. Ball hit to right field. Runner rounds second watching right fielder (approx. 20 ...
A: sure, I gave you the answers to this problem but maybe need to add more 1)what did the odb ...
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| illegal pitching motions (senior slow pitch softball) | 7/15/2008 |
Q: A pitcher raises his left arm straight up in the air as if to call a time out and at the same time ...
A: No, not an illegal pitch as there is no rule against this. Only an umpire can call time, not a ...
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| collision between runner and fielder | 7/15/2008 |
Q: H1 drops a hit over 3B head, LF comes in to field the ball and does so. H1 stops at 2nd, but sees ...
A: I wish to help you ask any softball umpire questions, so call the batter if they reach base either ...
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| ASA slow pitch rule | 7/15/2008 |
Q: Sir, we have a pitcher in our league that continuously quick pitches the ball. What in the rule ...
A: 6-1-7 ASA " the pitcher shall not attempt a quick return of the ball before the batter has taken a ...
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| When has a pitcher officially entered the game? | 7/15/2008 |
Q: In ASA softball, is it true that between innings if a defensive player enters the pitcher's circle ...
A: My point was there is no rule that says this, and that his logic was faulty on calling it an IS ...
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| runner obstruction | 7/15/2008 |
Q: Runner at first. Ball hit to right field. Runner rounds second watching right fielder (approx. 20 ...
A: We have obstruction, delayed dead ball, and after play has ceased, we award the runner(s) the ...
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| third tip or foul ball an out! | 7/15/2008 |
Q: In slow pitch, I know in NSA the third tip or foul ball is still a strike and the batter would be ...
A: the same..out, forever as far as I know mark Hi Kristi, did you really mean to give me a "1" on ...
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| Positioning of infielders | 7/15/2008 |
Q: We play in a Men's Open league, under ASA rules. Tonight the umpire told our shortstop that he ...
A: In ASA play other than coed the only requirement is that all defensive players (other than F2) be in ...
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| Baserunner Interfering with Fielder | 7/14/2008 |
Q: Mark, Friday night in my Men's Slow-Pitch game the following situation occurred. Runners on 1B and ...
A: If as you say...if R1 was running in a direct line to 3rd and simply passed in front of F6 and the ...
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| Odd out of base path situation | 7/14/2008 |
Q: Odd situation in a 12U championship game and I'm not sure the correct call. Batter hits a slow ...
A: Confusing situation but in ASA as long as the b-r did not enter the team area or dead ball territory ...
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| When has a pitcher officially entered the game? | 7/14/2008 |
Q: In ASA softball, is it true that between innings if a defensive player enters the pitcher's circle ...
A: Never heard of this ASA rule, I wonder where he got it? A sub is someone who takes the place of ...
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| Forced Out? | 7/11/2008 |
Q: This situation is more common in younger players, since they are still unsure of a lot of rules. ...
A: The run would not count if there were 2 outs, there is no difference between tagging a runner before ...
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| baserunner interference | 7/10/2008 |
Q: I play in a men's 18 and over league. To avoid first base collisions, we play with two bases at ...
A: With double bases at 1st the b-r may touch either color on batted balls to the outfield when there ...
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| obstruction | 7/9/2008 |
Q: the batter(runner) hits a fly ball to center, the ball drops in for a hit, the first baseman is ...
A: what is considered a reasonable basepath for the runner. for obstruction a running path of common ...
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| obstruction | 7/8/2008 |
Q: the batter(runner) hits a fly ball to center, the ball drops in for a hit, the first baseman is ...
A: obstruction as you know is a judgment call by the umpire of a runner being hindered while legally ...
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| Force Out | 7/8/2008 |
Q: There were base runners on 2nd and 3rd with 1 out. A fly was hit to left and caught by the left ...
A: if R1 scored before the live ball appeal of R2 at 2nd the run would count. this is not a "force" ...
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| Strike Zone in slow pitch softball. | 7/7/2008 |
Q: My friend and I are having an arguement over where exactly the strike zone is. We agree that it is ...
A: Sorry neither one of you... Unless the ball hits the plate it's NEVER where the ball lands that ...
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| Appeallable Play | 7/6/2008 |
Q: Ball either hits batter or hits bat. Home plate umpire calls foul ball, ruling the ball hit the bat ...
A: this is a little different than a checked swing. On a cs the mechanic is if there is doubt to call ...
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| ASA softball. | 7/4/2008 |
Q: runner on first, fair ball hit to right field, fielder touched it in fair territory and then fumbled ...
A: I don't know how you can catch a foul fly ball in fair territory? Do you mean either the player is ...
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| Runner turning left instead of right at first base. | 7/2/2008 |
Q: What is the rule when a runner advances to first base after a dropped third strike, or anytime for ...
A: Anytime the b becomes a b-r and the pitcher has the ball in the circle they may round 1st base, stop ...
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| Catcher obstruction | 7/2/2008 |
Q: My daughter plays on a u14 team. At tonights game there was a runner at third, two outs, the batter ...
A: sure...based on the call in your question the catcher was blocking the plate w/out control of the ...
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| Running backwards to avoid tag on bunt | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Runners on 2nd & 3rd. Batter bunts ball or puts ball in play down 1st base line... 1st basemen ...
A: the b-r is out, the ball is dead and runners return to the last base touched at the time of the dead ...
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| Interference / Runner's obligation | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Runner on 1st advances towards second on a fair ball hit to F5. F5 flips ball to F4 for the force ...
A: The runner already put out has the responsibility to get out of the way and allow the throw. There ...
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| coach deceiving fielder | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Runner on third with one out. 1 ball and 1 strike count. Drop curve in the dirt, batter swings for ...
A: there's nothing technically illegal about the coach's actions. It up to the defense, especially the ...
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| best umpire books | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Other than the ASA fastpitch softball rule book, are there some softball umpire books or DVD's you ...
A: congrats on 8 yrs, always strive for excellence (not perfection) and get that national assignment. ...
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| softball pitching: harmful to 10yr old arm | 6/30/2008 |
Q: My daughter took pitching lessons for softball this year. Her coach was/is amazing. My daughter's ...
A: I've got daughters also and I know how dad's can be. Softball pitching is a natural movement of the ...
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| I have a question that I bet you have never had! | 6/30/2008 |
Q: Home team is up with 2 outs in the bottom of the last inning, and the score is tied. The batter ...
A: I'll bet you're right.....do you guys stay up nights thinking of some of this stuff???? there is no ...
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| Baserunning/Leads | 6/30/2008 |
Q: I have been a manager in a central park modified/fast pitch softball league for the last four or so ...
A: I'm not surprised the umpire made the call they did because your league rule of a "force" behind the ...
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| Obstruction / Interference | 6/29/2008 |
Q: U18 Softball. The Batter hits a ball slowly down the first base line. The ball is spinning back ...
A: You ask a question that is open to umpire debate, in fact I've discussed this play in the past w/ ...
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| illegal pitch and penalty enforced | 6/28/2008 |
Q: what constitutes an illegal pitch in asa slow pitch softball? what are the penalties enforced on an ...
A: In SP an illegal pitch is a ball but if swung at or hit it is what it is. There are a # of rules ...
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| Game ejection | 6/28/2008 |
Q: My daughters 16U ASA team recently had a player ejected and it prompted me to ask thisRunner on ...
A: The rule states that the runner is out when a defensive player has the ball and the runner remains ...
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| Substitution question | 6/27/2008 |
Q: During the game the visiting team has one substitute player who enters the game in the 4th for the ...
A: The LD is incorrect (to put it nicely). The team must play shorthanded 8 with an out in the 7th ...
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| foul then fair | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I think this would pertain to all baseball and softball. A ball that lands foul initially in front ...
A: Actually NO runs would score, not even the runs in front of him in this case. When the 3rd out of ...
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| Infield fly situation | 6/26/2008 |
Q: 0 outs. runners on 1st and 2nd. Lazy one hopper to second baseman turns into 4-6-3 double play. ...
A: I didn't see the play so here's just some guidelines A line drive cannot by rule be an IF, however ...
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| umpire decision | 6/26/2008 |
Q: Recently my 14U team entered a softball tournament, played their first game against a tough team ...
A: Good luck at state this weekend, I hope you're playing ASA. I agree this is a very bad situation. ...
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| softball | 6/26/2008 |
Q: Is there a second count on how much time a runner has when they round 1st base after a walk to make ...
A: when the LBR is in effect the b-r may round 1st base, stop and then immediately advance or retreat ...
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| RUNNER HIT BY BATTED BALL | 6/26/2008 |
Q: MARK, I HAD A SCENARIO WHERE THE INFIELDERS OVER SHIFTED. THE SHORT STOP WAS ON THE SECOND BASEMAN ...
A: if the runner is on the base and does not intentionally interfere the runner is not out. If the ...
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| dropped 3rd strike and advancing runners | 6/26/2008 |
Q: U-12 game....1 out bases loaded. BR called 3rd sttike dropped runs to 1st...catcher follows her down ...
A: ..catcher follows her down first base line and throws to first" she shouldn't have done that, it is ...
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| foul then fair | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I think this would pertain to all baseball and softball. A ball that lands foul initially in front ...
A: It probably would but I don't do baseball rules at all. A bb that settles or is 1st touched between ...
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| interference | 6/25/2008 |
Q: A batter hits a pop fly that the first baseman runs up to try and catch. The ball is about half ...
A: It doesn't matter fair/foul this is interference, dead ball b-r out. The defense must be given the ...
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| over throw | 6/25/2008 |
Q: I would like to know if the runner is headed to first and the over throw occures, but the runner has ...
A: the award is always 2 bases from the last base touched at the time of the throw....in this case they ...
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| umpire decision | 6/25/2008 |
Q: Recently my 14U team entered a softball tournament, played their first game against a tough team ...
A: This is what umpires call a mess....after he changed his mind. 1) an umpire can "rectify" some ...
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| tag up | 6/25/2008 |
Q: Can a runner leave on first touch of a bobble ball(hit in the air) and be safe even if its still ...
A: ASA 8-4-d runners are entitled to advance w/ liability to be put out when a legally caught fly ball ...
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| Sliding! | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I am working on getting certified as an ASA umpire because the last 3 years I have volunteered to ...
A: I can't give you a copy of what doesn't exist. ASA has no "must slide" rule and neither does any ...
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| Questions Softball | 6/23/2008 |
Q: Question #1 a bunted ball lands on top of home plate, is it a fair or fould ball Question 2 A ...
A: fair ball, the plate like any other base is in fair territory still a grd (or 2 bases from the time ...
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| Obstruction? | 6/23/2008 |
Q: B1 hits ball over F9 head. F3 standing on first base bag causing B1 to (a) alter route and (b) trip ...
A: obstruction is the act of a fielder not in possession of the ball or in the act of fielding a batted ...
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| Possible batter's interference? | 6/23/2008 |
Q: Had an interesting one today. Runner on second, batter foul tips the pitch (caught by the catcher). ...
A: I have the same as was ruled. The batter did nothing to interfere which is actively hindering the ...
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| RUNNER HIT BY BATTED BALL | 6/22/2008 |
Q: MARK, I HAD A SCENARIO WHERE THE INFIELDERS OVER SHIFTED. THE SHORT STOP WAS ON THE SECOND BASEMAN ...
A: A runner hit by a fair batted ball before it passes an infielder (exc F1) is out, dead ball, all ...
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| infield popfly rule | 6/22/2008 |
Q: if the batter hits a infield popfly the runners cannot advance right because its a dead ball if they ...
A: an IF is NOT a dead ball. It is the same as any fly ball only the batter is out. Runners can ...
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| Force Play | 6/22/2008 |
Q: During my daughter's game last night, the other team had a runner on first base. The ball was put in ...
A: Well lets understand what a force out is. A force out is a play that may be made only when a runner ...
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| Foul ball ruling | 6/21/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, Sir, in a recent (and very close) game - one of our batters hit a fly ball to right ...
A: you answered you own question "I know the basic rules of if the ball is touched in fair territory - ...
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| hitting a ball down the foul line | 6/20/2008 |
Q: Can you help me clarify a fair/foulball hit down the line? Is it fair if a hit ball travels in fair ...
A: a ball "in flight" is fair or foul based on where the ball is when 1st touched by a defensive player ...
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| Softball interference/obstruction | 6/20/2008 |
Q: Great info. 3 Questions, all from our game last night - that we won. 1. Runner on Second, ground ...
A: You really give me minimal info but we'll try 1) if F6 is attempting to field the batter ball I ...
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| tagging up to advance a base | 6/19/2008 |
Q: I have not found the answer to this in the rules. I play in slow pitch mens league softball (ASA). ...
A: that is unfortunately a terrible call by an umpire that doesn't know the basic rule(s). show him ...
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| Walk off walk | 6/18/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, On a topic dated 6/11/08, you stated that in a situation with bases loaded, winning run ...
A: I want people who ask questions to understand the rules of softball so that's what I try to give. ...
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| occupied base | 6/18/2008 |
Q: What constitutes an occupied first base on a dropped 3rd strike? When there is a runner on first ...
A: A base is occupied until the runner is put out or advances to the next base. Yours is a common ...
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| Walk off walk | 6/18/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, On a topic dated 6/11/08, you stated that in a situation with bases loaded, winning run ...
A: I read tom's q&a and the situations are different. In tom's q R1 at 3rd and R2 at 1st, fly ball ...
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| DP/Flex | 6/16/2008 |
Q: In a recent game, our 14U All Star team was playing with the DP/Flex. The Dp was batting 6th and the ...
A: this would be an incorrect understanding of the DP/Flex rule by the umpire. The DP can play defense ...
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| Infielders positioning | 6/16/2008 |
Q: What is the ASA rule (co-ed) for the positioning of the infielders such as the shortstop or second ...
A: In ASA coed you must have 4 infielders and 4 outfielders. In strict ASA play we do not use lines in ...
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| batting out of order | 6/16/2008 |
Q: At a girls 10-12yr.old softball game a batter is batting out of order, the young umpire doesn't know ...
A: the director is correct, if discovered during the bat by either side, the correct batter comes to ...
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| advancing a runner | 6/16/2008 |
Q: This just happened yesterday during a tournament game my grandaughter was playing in. We had 2 outs ...
A: F4 would not interfere with the runner, the defense would obstruct. If F4 obstructed the runner it ...
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| Force out | 6/14/2008 |
Q: 12U Fastpitch Softball, Runner on First 1 out ball is hit to 2nd baseman throws to first for force ...
A: that would NOT be correct. If the B-R is put out at 1st there is no longer a force out on R1, they ...
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| does the run count? | 6/14/2008 |
Q: Here's the scenario....we had one out. There were runners at 2nd and 3rd. The batter popped out to ...
A: In this case the run would count 1) it is not a force out at 2nd, it is considered a timing play. ...
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| batters box | 6/13/2008 |
Q:
A: Sure the box still exists even if there are no lines. It is the umpires judgment, giving any ...
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| force play | 6/13/2008 |
Q: Bases are loaded with two outs. The batter hits a ground ball to shortstop that is bobbled. Runner ...
A: No the run would not count because R2 is still forced from 2nd and it doesn't matter if the runner ...
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| Interference on throw to second | 6/13/2008 |
Q: First let me say how much I appreciate the great work you do for this site - I have learned a lot ...
A: The situation here is that the batter is already out when they interfered. 8-7-p says when after ...
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| orange part of first base | 6/13/2008 |
Q: If the fielder touches the orange part of first base,( ball in possession) but not white part of ...
A: depends where the throw is coming from. If the throw is coming from foul territory or on an errant ...
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| Verbal Obstruction | 6/12/2008 |
Q: ASA rules, we recently played a team that constantly screamed as our pitcher was releasing her ...
A: "No player, manager, coach shall call time, employ any other word or phase or commit any act while ...
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| overthrow and over ruling umpire | 6/12/2008 |
Q: if an infielder catches a ball in the outfield and then overthrows a ball attempting to throw a ...
A: It doesn't matter the position or where they threw it from, the award is always 2 bases from the ...
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| Walk off walk | 6/11/2008 |
Q: I have a question on a play that recently happened to my team. Bases loaded 2 outs bottom of the ...
A: This is an appeal and not a protest. In ASA if all the infielders had left fair territory (crossed ...
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| ASA Flex Player - Please confirm role at start of game | 6/11/2008 |
Q: This question pertains to ASA 14U Fastpitch. At the beginning of a game, if a designated player ...
A: you had an umpire that doesn't understand the flex/dp rule! the DP bats for the FLEX! The DP and ...
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| Batter Interference | 6/10/2008 |
Q: Wild pitch/passed ball. Runner from third stealing. Batter stays in the batter's box hindering our ...
A: This umpire is wrong from top to bottom his rule knowledge. I could write a couple of paragraphs on ...
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| Verbal Obstruction? | 6/9/2008 |
Q: Dr. Mark, I really enjoyed your response to the pitcher’s verbal obstruction asked by a previous ...
A: This would not be obstruction. It would have to be loud enough and distracting enough (as the ball ...
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| Base Running | 6/8/2008 |
Q: I actually have three questions. The first two are about base runners. 1) There was fly hit to left ...
A: B1 would be out, they are called out as soon as they pass the lead runner and the ball remains ...
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| Coaches Box | 6/8/2008 |
Q: Hey, I'm am trying to find out clarification on a ruling for interference. During a foul pop up ...
A: the coach must give the defense the opportunity to execute a play w/out being hindered or impeded ...
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| Coaches Box | 6/8/2008 |
Q: Hey, I'm am trying to find out clarification on a ruling for interference. During a foul pop up ...
A: "I always though that as long as the coach was inside of the box then he was unable to be charged ...
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| pitching instruction | 6/8/2008 |
Q: My daughter is a 10 year old pitcher who wants to start learning how to throw curveballs and other ...
A: I am not allowed to give out specific advice on the internet by my malpractice carrier. I can only ...
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| batting first our last | 6/8/2008 |
Q: Although I thought the same thing, I needed to hear it from someone more with knowledge on this ...
A: there is no right choice although 95% of the time winner takes home so they can either bat last and ...
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| Last batter in CBO | 6/6/2008 |
Q: We have the following rule in our in-town U14 softball league: MERCY RULE: A team may score no more ...
A: It's aways tough to comment on local rules In ASA if we were playing shorthanded where the 9th ...
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| pitching rules | 6/6/2008 |
Q: i am a pitcher in a sarasota, fl slowpitch league, seniors division. i understand that i may pitch ...
A: the rule states that you must take a position from the front edge of the pitcher's plate to six' ...
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| interference | 6/6/2008 |
Q: Runner on 2nd with 2 outs. Ball hit to short and runner advancing to 3rd jumps over grounder and ...
A: Interference is that act of an offensive player that impedes, hinders or confuses a defensive player ...
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| Girls softball | 6/6/2008 |
Q: girls on 1st and 2nd. batter hits ball to out field the girl leaving 2nd rounds 3rd collides with ...
A: If the umpire called obstruction of R1 and felt they would have scored had there been no ...
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| Balls vs Strikes Incident | 6/5/2008 |
Q: Mark, So at a recent co-rec ASA softball game I had a 3-2 count and was pitched a ball that hit the ...
A: This is the 1st time anyones sent me a video. I hesitate to get involved, I almost rejected the ...
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| blocked ball | 6/4/2008 |
Q: Runner on 2nd, past ball that bounces towards the on-deck batter. On deck batter kicks the ball. ...
A: It is a blocked ball, dead ball all runners return to the last base touched unless in the umpire's ...
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| asa fastpitch 9-13 yr olds rover player in softball | 6/4/2008 |
Q: its a junior division 9 - 13 yr olds we follow asa the rover postion where exactly and please be as ...
A: it doesn't matter the age group unless you have local rules to the contrary or it's coed, in ASA the ...
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| foul tip -out? | 6/4/2008 |
Q: During a game a batter foul tips the ball directly into the catchers glove, no elevation of the ...
A: A "foul tip" is a batted ball that goes sharply and directly to the catcher's glove or hand and is ...
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| Runner hit by batted ball | 6/4/2008 |
Q: This is a follow-up question. Your answer was "A runner off base hit with a fair untouched batted ...
A: depends on F4 position, and infielder's positioning changes depending on the situation and what game ...
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| runner hit by batted ball | 6/4/2008 |
Q: Following up on base runner hit by a batted ball. If the fielder is in front of the base, the batted ...
A: if a runner is hit with a fair untouched batted ball after it has past an infielder (exc F1) and no ...
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| Black part of the Plate | 6/3/2008 |
Q: I am in my third year of umpiring in PA Co-ed ASA and i was trying to explain to my fellow ...
A: #1 this would be a blocked ball and the overthrow rule would apply. #2 yes but caught in fair or ...
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| dead ball or play on | 6/3/2008 |
Q: ASA men’s softball Runner at 1st and 2nd base, batter hits to the shortstop - picks up grounder and ...
A: As we both know...Interference is the act of an offensive player OR team member that impedes, ...
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| appeal for running leaving early | 6/3/2008 |
Q: Runners at 3rd and 2nd with 1 out. FLy ball to center that is caught for second out. Runners tag ...
A: By rule 8-3-f the run does not count from R2. It is a still timing play but while any ...
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| Illegal Pitch -- Plate Mechanics | 6/3/2008 |
Q: When a pitch (ASA slow pitch) is deemed less than 6 feet or more than 12 feet high, must the umpire ...
A: yes I might....page 209 2006 umpire manual (might be a different page in 2008 manual, mine's at the ...
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| runner hit by battad ball | 6/3/2008 |
Q: r1 on 2nd base, r2 on 1st. Line drive up the middle, bounces off pitchers' glove, then proceeds to ...
A: A runner that is hit by a fair batted ball after it touches or is touched by any fielder including ...
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| Runner hit by ball | 6/3/2008 |
Q: We had a situation where their were runners on 2nd and 3rd and 2 outs. 2nd base runner was hit with ...
A: "This was the last play of the game and caused us to lose." Then you had a real bad call from an ...
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| Running Lane | 6/2/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, we had a situation in a recent travel game where I think the umpire might have followed ...
A: The ASA code is a different document from ASA playing rules and ASA does not publish it's playing ...
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| ASA softball - runner interference | 6/2/2008 |
Q: I was told by an umpire that if a fielder (infront of the basepath (ex: in front of a line b/n 1st ...
A: A runner is not out when hit with a fair batted ball after it passes an infielder (exc F1) and no ...
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| out of play rule & question 2 | 6/2/2008 |
Q: if an attempted catch on a ball in fair play was missed and dropped out of play but the player ...
A: It never, ever, never matters where the fielder is on fair/foul. It only matters where the ball is. ...
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| Runner hit by batted ball | 5/31/2008 |
Q: Situation: ASA tournament, bases loaded, runner hit by batted ball running to second, umpire calls ...
A: I don't know what they disagreed with, this is pretty basic. A runner off base hit with a fair ...
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| Overthrow | 5/31/2008 |
Q: Tonight I was playing third and there was 1 out and a runner on second. It was a hard hit ground ...
A: Absolute correct call. The award is always 2 bases from the last base touched at the time of the ...
|
| Slow pitch strike zone | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I pitch in a women's rec. slow pitch softball league. The umpires vary significantly on their ...
A: The strike zone is the space over any part of the plate between the front knee and back shoulder of ...
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| bases loaded groud ball | 5/29/2008 |
Q: We had an interesting situation occur in our game last night. We were in the field and the bases ...
A: Well it was the right call by the umpire because F5 didn't play it properly. A force is when a ...
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| strike zone | 5/29/2008 |
Q: What is the strike zone for ASA6-12'? I just read an answer that didn't make sense to me. Does it ...
A: The size of the batter matters because this is not "mat ball" The rule tells us front knee to back ...
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| pitching | 5/29/2008 |
Q: i have a 10 year old grandaughter who pitches. she starts with her foot on the rubber but when she ...
A: I don't know what org she's playing but in ASA she must take a step forward with the non pivot foot ...
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| baserunners on a infield fly rule | 5/29/2008 |
Q: We had bases loaded w/ no outs infield pop up ump calls infield fly , 1 of are baserunners was not ...
A: If the ball was not caught, it's like any uncaught fly ball, the runner can advance anytime at their ...
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| ASA slow pitch ADA player | 5/29/2008 |
Q: I have a documented disability and am able to play defense only. What do I put on the line up card ...
A: I'll tell you if you tell me why helpfulness was a 9 and how I can improve my next answer to someone ...
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| strike zone | 5/29/2008 |
Q: What is the strike zone for ASA6-12'? I just read an answer that didn't make sense to me. Does it ...
A: "Does it matter where the ball lands as well as going over the plate?" No "I always thought that ...
|
| girls slow pitch softball chatter | 5/28/2008 |
Q: Is there an ASA rule about chatter? Whether it be on the field, in the dugout, or the catcher? ...
A: "barks like a dog"????? ok, sounds like some girls I dated in college. This is something the umpire ...
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| Foul Ball - Infield | 5/28/2008 |
Q: If a grounder is hit down the 3rd baseline, and rolling fair, then rolls out of play and then back ...
A: Rolling "out of play" is not the same as it rolling into foul territory which is what I think you ...
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| ASA slow pitch ADA player | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I have a documented disability and am able to play defense only. What do I put on the line up card ...
A: Under the ADA rule for defense only in sp your team must have at least 11 players You will be ...
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| girls slow pitch softball chatter | 5/27/2008 |
Q: Is there an ASA rule about chatter? Whether it be on the field, in the dugout, or the catcher?
A: We have no rules about "chatter" but we don't need any. Some chatter is a part of the game. A good ...
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| Fair / Foul | 5/27/2008 |
Q: The other day I was at bat. There was a runner at third. I hit the ball about 5 - 7 ft in the air ...
A: A ball is fair or foul depending on where it settles or is first touched between home and a base. ...
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| Dropped Third Strike/Baserunning | 5/26/2008 |
Q: Runner on third base with less than two outs and there is a dropped third strike. The right-handed ...
A: A "baseline" is an imaginary line directly between the bases A "basepath" is a line directly ...
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| Baseline | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Quick question for you. This would be for Fastpitch, under ASA rules. On a drop 3rd strike, the ...
A: A "baseline" is an imaginary line directly between the bases A "basepath" is a line directly ...
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| Pitching mens ASA slow pitch | 5/23/2008 |
Q: Dr. Mark I need to understand what constitutes a strike. I had our umpire tell me that I could ...
A: a strike is sp is a pitched ball that enters the strike zone between the batters back shoulder and ...
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| Dead ball advancement of runners | 5/22/2008 |
Q: Runner on 3rd and 1 out. Batter hits a fly ball to right center where it's seemed to be caught as ...
A: If the BU went out it's their call,if not it's the PU call. This is what happens when 2 umpires are ...
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| Girls Softball 9-10 year olds | 5/22/2008 |
Q: Our team has an exceptional hitter. She can hit almost any pitch that comes anywhere near the ...
A: "Is this legal" Yes "If so, why?" because there are no rules against it "Why would we want to ...
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| Interference-blocked ball | 5/21/2008 |
Q: Situation: R1 at 3B, R2 at 2B and R3 at 1B and one out. BR hits grounder to F6 who throws to F3 at ...
A: part of the def of a blocked ball is a thrown ball that is handled or stopped by a person not ...
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| flex player | 5/21/2008 |
Q: Can you explain how the DP and Flex players can be utilized Thank you
A: This rule is not complicated but people like to make it so. Just read each section, understand what ...
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| softball rule | 5/20/2008 |
Q: what happens when theres a popup on the infield with no outs and runners on b1 and b2; ...
A: IF after the play the umpires determined it should have been called an IF and was not (umpire ...
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| rainout rule | 5/19/2008 |
Q: Question for you is we were playing the first game of a doubleheader in NYC Big Apple Softball ...
A: In ASA play when we have a non-regulation game which means that 4.5 or 5 innings (depends on who's ...
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| American softball | 5/19/2008 |
Q: DO you have any idea how many Americans play the game of ASA league slow-pitch and fast-pitch ...
A: off their website # The Amateur Softball Association registers over 245,000 softball teams ...
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| slow pitch softball (stealing) | 5/19/2008 |
Q: what is the rules for slow pitch softball? can you steal, when can you steal if you can.
A: In ASA SP play stealing is legal except in coed, senior and master's play. You cannot leave the ...
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| Infield Fly Rule | 5/17/2008 |
Q: Little League Softball Girls 10 - 11 years. Runners on all bases, batter hits infield fly. It is ...
A: an infield fly is like any other fly ball only the batter is out while the ball is still in the air. ...
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| infield fly rule | 5/17/2008 |
Q: Dr. Mark: Previously you answered the question re teh infield fly rule: "By the book" with less ...
A: This is just a MESS, a terrible mess made by umpires that don't have a clue and shouldn't be ...
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| batted balls and batting out of order | 5/16/2008 |
Q: We just had two interesting "plays" in our slow pitch league (ASA rules). 1. A ball was swung at ...
A: If the ball settles or is 1st touched in fair territory it is a fair ball, so this would be a fair ...
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| dropped third strike | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I am aware of the fact that a dropped third strike occurs when first base is unoccupied and there ...
A: Are you sure, absolutely there was only 1 out, is it possible there were 2? A batter can run on a ...
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| Running Lane | 5/16/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, we had a situation in a recent travel game where I think the umpire might have followed ...
A: Based on your info I would say the call was incorrect 8-2e the b-r is out " when the b-r runs ...
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| DOUBLE FORFEIT | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I am in charge of an 8 team playoff tournament for my women's softball league. We may have a ...
A: This should be in time, it's very simple The following steps should be taken when a double forfeit ...
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| dp/flex player | 5/15/2008 |
Q: my question is if im playing with 11 girls and i want to keep one for a sub and use the tenth player ...
A: This rule is not complicated but people like to make it so. Just read each section, understand what ...
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| Side Arm Pitching | 5/14/2008 |
Q: I coach a 5th and 6th grade in town team. we have a child who's parent insists that they pitch side ...
A: If this is softball and not baseball, they can't do that and it is an illegal pitch. If you have ...
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| Re-entry rule | 5/13/2008 |
Q: Here's the basic story: A screaming line drive is hit back to the pitcher, Danny. He bobbles it, ...
A: I'll bet this is SP sound like Danny is one tough dude, maybe a little too much. A player is is in ...
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| Infield Fly Double Play Ruling | 5/13/2008 |
Q: When an IF rule fly is caught and runners have left base early, must they be tagged out or can the ...
A: an infield fly is like any other fly ball only the batter is out while the ball is still in the air. ...
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| Stealing question....ASA,Pony, etc... | 5/13/2008 |
Q: Runner at first leads after the release of the ball from the pitcher and stays 10-15 feet off the ...
A: When a runner is stationary, off base and the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle, the ...
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| Runner interference clarification | 5/13/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, I have a follow-up question to an answer you provided on 25 Apr. The question dealt ...
A: God keep you, as I've mentioned before in some answers my only son is Marine Sgt. Ben Ambrose and ...
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| umpire ehics/rule violation | 5/13/2008 |
Q: Hey Dr. Ambrose, haven't talked to you in a while. Had a situation arise tonight. Don't know if it ...
A: Nice to talk with you again. I'm surprised an umpire would do this. In ASA play missing a base is ...
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| Obstruction and Protection from missing HP | 5/12/2008 |
Q: Mark, Here is one from a recent game that I'd like your input on. R1 on 2nd base when B1 singles to ...
A: have you ever seen the movie 12 angry men where it's 11-1 for conviction and it ends up 12-0 for ...
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| infield fly rule | 5/12/2008 |
Q: Dr. Mark: Previously you answered the question re teh infield fly rule: "By the book" with less ...
A: an infield fly is like any other fly ball only the batter is out while the ball is still in the air. ...
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| Runner doubled up question | 5/12/2008 |
Q: We are in a co-ed, recreational, slow-pitch league in Iraq, playing with ASA rules (with a few minor ...
A: If you're military my only son is Marine Sgt. Ben Ambrose, God bless you all and come home safely. ...
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| Runners on first and third situation | 5/11/2008 |
Q: Runners on first and third. Runner on first takes second, but walks very slowly to second, trying ...
A: You can't do that, when a runner has legally started to advance the runner may not be stopped by the ...
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| Banned Bats | 5/11/2008 |
Q: I have been out of the softball playing for a few years and are getting back into play. I have a ...
A: you're bat is "non-approved" (or banned) from ASA play. You cannot use it, a non approved bat being ...
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| Designated player | 5/11/2008 |
Q: Having coached in Little League for many years and now switched to 14U ASA grils fast pitched, what ...
A: I'll give you the basics of the DP/Flex This rule is not complicated but people like to make it so. ...
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| running after a strike out | 5/11/2008 |
Q: Recently we played a team whose coach has every girl who strikes out, even when the ball is caught ...
A: I meant the PU should empathize the batter is out, maybe I used the wrong tense of the word, been a ...
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| Runner hit with a batted ball | 5/10/2008 |
Q: Using ASA rules a batter hits a ball and infielders miss the ground ball which were play inside the ...
A: In ASA if a fair batted ball passes an infielder (exc F1) strikes the runner, and no other fielder ...
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| base running | 5/10/2008 |
Q: In girls softball 15 and under. The runner going to first turns inward towards second.The first ...
A: A b-r overrunning 1st may legally turn either to their left or their right. If any attempt is made ...
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| running after a strike out | 5/9/2008 |
Q: Recently we played a team whose coach has every girl who strikes out, even when the ball is caught ...
A: The umpire should be emphatic with a batters' out, a couple of times if needed, not much else an ...
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| Calling a runner out for running inside the base line | 5/9/2008 |
Q: My 16 year old daughter is umpiring for our local recreation department softball league. At ...
A: If the throw is coming from foul territory and the defense is using the colored portion of the base, ...
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| co-ed softball on minimum number of players | 5/3/2008 |
Q: what is the minimum number of players you can play with in co-ed softball? How many have to be ...
A: I've found that many, many leagues have their own rules on this to avoid forfeits. In strict ASA ...
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| in field fly rule | 5/2/2008 |
Q: This is a regular season game for girls slow pitch ages 14 thru 18 . With runners on first and ...
A: This is a mess caused by the umpire. An IF is (always, everytime, until Jesus comes back)a live ...
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| ASA House League Game | 4/30/2008 |
Q: Last Friday Night we had a game in the middle of the fifth inning the game was called due to rain. ...
A: In "strict" ASA play you need 41/2 or 5 innings to have a reg game. 41/2 if the home team is ahead, ...
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| Ruling on 11 man line-up | 4/30/2008 |
Q: I was recently playing in a ASA league game. The other team had 11 hitters in the line-up and no ...
A: this is ok, they can play "shorthanded" and take an out in the batting position. They could not ...
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| force play | 4/30/2008 |
Q: for 7th grade girls fastpitch softball. There was a runner on third with 2 outs. Slow ground ball ...
A: The play at 1st is not really a force play (I don't want to get into that) but realistically it is ...
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| DP / Flex substitution | 4/29/2008 |
Q: Coach had flex bat in the DP spot (no problem) but my question is can the removed DP Courtesy Run ...
A: A CR is not considered to have been in the game (it is not a substitution and they can CR multiple ...
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| Softball - Co-Ed, slow pitch | 4/29/2008 |
Q: Mark, here is another one. Last nights game utilizing the 20 ft no return line from 3rd base and ...
A: Bases loaded, R2 is forced at 3rd, There is no force now for R1 at 3rd and they didn't cross the cl. ...
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| Black part of the Plate | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I am in my third year of umpiring in PA Co-ed ASA and i was trying to explain to my fellow ...
A: Remember an illegal bat is different from an altered or banned bat to which we add a ...
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| asa softball | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I thought you answered ASA softball rules? I played in an ASA state tournament last year and they ...
A: It is my understanding that ASA used some "test" areas in the country to evaluate a "pitcher's box" ...
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| BUNTING FAST PITCH SOFTBALL | 4/28/2008 |
Q: Player squares around to bunt. Never pulls bat back. Pitch comes in high. Umpire calls a ball ...
A: That is correct for NCAA softball however it is NOT correct for ASA or Fed ball. My profile states ...
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| Girls 12 & under asa Fastpitch softball | 4/27/2008 |
Q: On ball 4, can a runner run directly to second base all in one play or must they take only first? ...
A: A BB is treated the same as a batted ball. The LBR does not go into effect until the b-r touches ...
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| third strike -- bounced before reaching plate | 4/27/2008 |
Q: With two strikes, one out, and a runner on third base, a pitch hits the ground before reaching the ...
A: the problem with the dropped 3rd strike rule is it's title. People think the catcher has to drop ...
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| overthrow | 4/26/2008 |
Q: 10 and under we follow asa rules unless noted here we go runner on first batter hits a grounder to ...
A: It is not an overthrow it is simply a muffed play. As an umpire you can't make up your own rules. ...
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| Running outside the baseline. | 4/25/2008 |
Q: My daughter plays on our jr. high team. We play by Ohio High School Rules. At one game the umpire ...
A: A "baseline" is an imaginary line directly between the bases. A "basepath" is a line directly ...
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| softball - little league minor girls | 4/25/2008 |
Q: If a batter hits a ground ball that initially hits in foul territory between home and 1st base and ...
A: is it fair or foul? fair On batted balls between home and 1st or 3rd and on balls in flight if ...
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| interference | 4/25/2008 |
Q: In co-ed slow pitch adult softball there is a runner on first with a ball hit to the ss. The ss ...
A: Yes this is interference and since the runner is already out, the runner closest to home would also ...
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| over throw | 4/25/2008 |
Q: heres the deal,10 and under girls softball we follow asa rules unless noted.runner on first ball hit ...
A: An overthrow is a ball that goes out of play. we then award 2 bases from the last base touched at ...
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| bunting (fair or foul ball) | 4/24/2008 |
Q: In our game tonight, one girl squared and bunted the ball. It landed fair and then rolled over the ...
A: It never, ever, never matters where the fielder is on fair/foul. It only matters where the ball is. ...
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| Pitching | 4/24/2008 |
Q: I had umpire to night question my pitcher say that she must show the ball to him. What the told me ...
A: I agree it's really hard to see the ball if it's in the glove, it's a good thing there is no rule on ...
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| OVERTHROW ASA Rule 8-5-G, Clarification | 4/23/2008 |
Q: is the dugout definitly out of play as soon as the ball enters it? What if it enters then bounces ...
A: Is the dugout definitely out of play as soon as the ball enters it? yes, dead ball What if it ...
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| double first base appeal - follow up to 4/18 | 4/21/2008 |
Q: Ambrose, This is a follow-up question to your answer about the double first base on 4/18. Please ...
A: A LBA is usually the way it is done, possesion of the ball, contact with the bag and "blue runner ...
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| injured player in 14U ASA recreational fastpitch game | 4/21/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, I have a question concerning injured players. If a player severly sprains an ankle in a ...
A: The correct answer in ASA play is the team plays shorthanded and an out is recorded in the injured ...
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| rules/protest | 4/21/2008 |
Q: ASA rules apply to our local league. Its a league playoff game, opposing team begins game with 8 ...
A: If I got it right... basically they started with 9, 1 of whom is not on the roster (this must be a ...
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| Glove Rules | 4/20/2008 |
Q: I was playing third base in a church softball game with my old baseball first base glove (this glove ...
A: Church softball and being called out for an illegal glove? that's a new one on me. In ASA Gloves ...
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| Mens ASA slowpitch | 4/20/2008 |
Q: What is the size and placement of the batters box? I was called out for stepping to fart forward ...
A: the box is 7' by 3' with 4' in front of a line drawn through the center of the plate. remember that ...
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| senior softball | 4/19/2008 |
Q: with the two first base bags, is it mandatory for a batter to run to the outside base if he hits a ...
A: the key is"whenever a play is being made" You said he didn't run through the base, just stopped on ...
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| Stealing | 4/18/2008 |
Q: I coach a U12 girls fastpitch team and we encountered actually two situations the other night. The ...
A: We don't have a hesitation rule but rather a look back rule that controls this. It sounds like R1 ...
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| Protests | 4/18/2008 |
Q: If I understand protests correctly, if a legal protest is filed the game continues. If the team ...
A: Correct No I don't think so, I understand your logic. Only the affected (or disadvantaged) team ...
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| senior softball | 4/18/2008 |
Q: with the two first base bags, is it mandatory for a batter to run to the outside base if he hits a ...
A: Anytime a play is being made at 1st (even from the outfield) the runner must use the colored portion ...
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| pitching | 4/16/2008 |
Q: We are playing in a 12-14 yr old fastpitch league. Umpires and coaches are telling my pitchers that ...
A: I'm sorry for the delay in answering your question I'm supposed to get an email from AE when a ...
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| Slow pitch Softball - Safe or Out? | 4/15/2008 |
Q: Runner on 1st base. Sharply hit ground ball hits 1st base without being touched, bounces up, and ...
A: I assume the runner is on base, did not intentionally interfere with the batted ball and since this ...
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| Interference | 4/15/2008 |
Q: OK, I see you answered the baubled ball question regarding tagging up and I understand why the rule ...
A: When a coach intentionally interferes with a thrown or batted ball the runner closest to home would ...
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| Tag up | 4/15/2008 |
Q: OK, I see you answered the baubled ball question regarding tagging up and I understand why the rule ...
A: I think you meant this question for me so I pulled it out of the question pool. A runner can ...
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| Flex/DP | 4/15/2008 |
Q: State of NJ High School Fast Pitch Girls Softball Flex/DP Rule. Situation: DP 7th in the ...
A: I'm glad you like the site. I think most of the time fans, players, coaches and parents get some ...
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| girsl fastpitch sofball | 4/14/2008 |
Q: I read an answer of yours from 7-14-06 about runner on first, running on hit ball to outfield. ...
A: You are correct in what I said, the runner is awarded home. Runners are always awarded 2 bases from ...
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| foul tick caught by catcher -softball | 4/14/2008 |
Q: With a runner on 1st, 1 out, girl stealing on pitch, 2 strikes on batter and the batter foul ticks ...
A: Just for others, a foul "tip" and a foul ball are not the same. Among other things a foul tip is a ...
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| fair/foul ball | 4/14/2008 |
Q: Confirming ruling in our weekend game. Short pop up lands in play and has bounced outside the third ...
A: Sorry I can't confirm, based on the info I got from your question I have a foul ball, since the ball ...
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| Black part of the Plate | 4/12/2008 |
Q: I am in my third year of umpiring in PA Co-ed ASA and i was trying to explain to my fellow ...
A: Congrats on making your 3rd year, most umpires don't. It's not downhill from here but you're on ...
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| 9-10 girls fast pitch softball | 4/12/2008 |
Q: when a batter is awarded first base on 4 th ball, are they allowed to steal second base if the ball ...
A: Although it's not my field please fax me you HIPPA release so I may interview all your therapists ...
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| Tag Rule | 4/11/2008 |
Q: A fly ball is hit to left-center field. Runner on third comes back to tag. The ball hits off the ...
A: Actually 8-4-d says "when a legally caught fly ball is first touched by any defensive player". I ...
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| courtesy runners substitutes | 4/11/2008 |
Q: If a coach replaces a courtesy runner with a PINCH RUNNER, and the courtesy was running for the ...
A: Yes but you are burning a sub and then a reentry for the pitcher yes but may re-enter once an ...
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| Hit by Pitch and Third strike drop ball | 4/10/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, I have two questions. 1. Per ASA Girls 14U rules, how many times can a pitcher hit the ...
A: Under ASA rules they can hit as many batter's as their coach lets them (putting someone else in to ...
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| Warm up swings | 4/8/2008 |
Q: I am coaching a 10 and under team for the first time this year and last night I had ump tell me that ...
A: that is correct In JO play the batter must remain in the batter's box with at least 1 foot between ...
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| fly ball | 4/8/2008 |
Q: Baserunner on second base, flyball hit deep to right field. Ball hit rightfielders glove then ...
A: A runner can legally leave the base as soon as a batted fly ball that is going to be caught touches ...
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| ASA Slow pitch - Subs and batting order | 4/7/2008 |
Q: Our league is basically goverened by ASA rules, with some tweaking. We have an "unlimited" sub ...
A: A starter and their sub or a sub for the sub can never be in the game at the same time. A starter ...
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| four base error? | 4/3/2008 |
Q: Ok Doc, we were playing in a recreation league game where only 3 home runs are permitted, and after ...
A: A batted fly ball that touches a defensive player and then clears the fence in fair territory is a ...
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| Softball ruling | 3/31/2008 |
Q: Girls 14U fastpitch question. With a 2-2 count on the batter she attempts to get out of the way of ...
A: In ASA play when the batter has 2 strikes on them and the 3rd strike is swung at and missed and the ...
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| Rules | 3/28/2008 |
Q: On a fly ball that is touched by the fielder who is standing in fair territory but the ball that ...
A: It NEVER matters where the fielder is, it ONLY matters where the ball is. If the ball is in fair ...
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| Infield Fly Rule Clarification | 3/26/2008 |
Q: I read on this site, in one of the responses to an infield fly rule question, that an infield fly ...
A: "My base question is this... the umpire must call an infield fly rule for it to be in effect, ...
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| Ball Dropped By Catcher On 3rd Call Strike | 3/25/2008 |
Q: First thanks for taking my question!!! Wanted to make sure I understood the 3rd call strike dropped ...
A: In ASA play unless your local league has exceptions (which they can) Case 1 batter is out, ball ...
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| Catcher throwing to the shortstop. | 3/24/2008 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, it's always a pleasure viewing your answers. My question is. Runner at second base, ...
A: If you're asking me simply can the catcher throw the ball to F6 in an attempt to make a play on R1, ...
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| Fastpitch Softball | 3/17/2008 |
Q: Can you slide to first base and it not be an out? Thank you, Casara King
A: Unless you have local league rules that prohibit it, ASA play does not prohibit sliding into 1st. ...
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| electronics | 3/17/2008 |
Q: Can a team video a teams signs. Also how dose it work when a batter bats out of order. Does the team ...
A: I'll answer your 2nd question 1st. When a out of order batter is discovered while at bat either by ...
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| interference | 3/17/2008 |
Q: If a ball is hit and headed over the fence and the outfielder throws his glove and hits the ball ...
A: If in the judgment of the umpire the ball would have cleared the fence in flight it is a 4 base ...
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| High School dead ball | 3/15/2008 |
Q: The batter hits the ball to right center. The ball gets stuck under the outfield fence. The ...
A: It is by rule a ground rule double when a live batted ball rolls under a fence and so R1 is awarded ...
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| Re: Look Back Rule | 3/14/2008 |
Q: Dr. Mark; in an earlier response (where R1 was on third and the BR had received a walk and continued ...
A: I agree if R1 was stopped on 3rd when the pitcher had the ball in the circle and the b-r touched 1st ...
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| "hestitation rule"-12 yr old city league | 3/12/2008 |
Q: Girl on second, batter hits a base hit. Ball is thrown in from the outfield to the pitcher. Girl ...
A: If she was stationary when the pitcher had the ball in the circle (and the pitcher is not making a ...
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| Base Running, ASA rules | 3/11/2008 |
Q: In a U12 softball game there was a runner on third, one out, and the batter was walked by the ...
A: With all due respect the look back rules are very clear but sometimes live play can be confusing. ...
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| softball | 3/5/2008 |
Q: bases loaded, batter makes contact with ball which comes to a halt, on home plate. catcher steps on ...
A: if the catcher has control of the ball and is in contact with the plate this is a force out on R1, ...
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| softball questions | 3/4/2008 |
Q: if the umpire notices that the batter steps into the batters box with an illegal bat, is she called ...
A: Just for info there is a difference between and illegal bat and an altered or non-approved ...
|
| Runner Interference Rule Question | 3/3/2008 |
Q: Ambrose, I'm hoping that you can help provide clarification on a runner interference play that ...
A: Interference is the act of an offensive player that impedes, hinders or confuses a defensive player ...
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| DP/Flex | 2/26/2008 |
Q: If I start one of my pitchers as my flex player, but I would like to use my other player as my DP ...
A: This rule is not complicated but people like to make it so. Just read each section and that's what ...
|
| Look back rule NFHS | 2/23/2008 |
Q: What do you think? With high school (National Federation) rules: Runner on third, ball four on ...
A: I'm an ASA umpire but I believe the fundamentals of the look back rule are the same for NFHS. In ...
|
| Re-entry | 2/18/2008 |
Q: Starter 26 was substituted by #1 to bat in the top of the second inning and in the bottom of inning ...
A: Q1 is an unreported substitute. If brought to the umpires attention by the defense before the next ...
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| Banned Bat List | 2/18/2008 |
Q: Mark, I play in a city open league twice a year in NC. We follow ASA rules and there is a ruling ...
A: well I can only chime in my opinion because this seems to be a local league decision and is not ASA ...
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| Third Strike rule | 2/18/2008 |
Q: Okay, the team I coach had a game this past weekend. This is what happened...our team was in the ...
A: The third strike rule is in effect when the catcher "fails to catch the 3rd strike before the ball ...
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| Batting out of order | 2/17/2008 |
Q: a coach ask me this question and not 100% sure. b3 hit in b1 spot and singles, b2 also singles. 1st ...
A: In #1 the next batter would be b4 because b3 (who follows b2 who was made legal by a pitch) is on ...
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| helmet-face guards | 2/16/2008 |
Q: Is there a difference between regular batting helmets and a pitchers helmet? I have looked on line ...
A: I'm not an expert on this but I also did some searches and I found what you did. As of right now I ...
|
| Re-entry | 2/11/2008 |
Q: Starter 26 was substituted by #1 to bat in the top of the second inning and in the bottom of inning ...
A: Yes that is legal. A starter and their sub may each "re-enter" the game once. It used to be only ...
|
| legal equipment? | 2/7/2008 |
Q: B1 steps into the batter’s box with a bat that has a certification mark, but appears on the ...
A: False, this is not a legal bat. The official bat in ASA Championship Play must meet all of the ...
|
| look back rule | 2/6/2008 |
Q: Runners at 2nd and 3rd,after pitch runner on 2nd runs 3/4 the way to 3rd attempting to get in a ...
A: This does fall under the look back rule and these rules apply in ASA play when a runner is ...
|
| Rules for Coed Senior Softball | 1/19/2008 |
Q: Where can I find sources for developing a set of rules for senior coed softball players? Age Group: ...
A: What a great idea. I think all you really have to do is combine the rules of ASA senior game with ...
|
| Protest, how to do it correctly | 1/5/2008 |
Q: Mark, I would really appreciate you spelling out just exactly how the different appeals are made. ...
A: A live ball appeal of a missed base or base left too soon is made obviously while the ball is still ...
|
| out of bounds rule | 12/14/2007 |
Q: say left feilder is going for the ball that is still in the air, it hits his glove when he is in ...
A: It never, ever, never matters where the fielder is when the ball is 1st touched, it ONLY matters ...
|
| Fair Ball/Foul Ball | 12/11/2007 |
Q: Mark, I have an ongoing dispute that I need resolved. I have been regional playoff high school ...
A: This is a BASIC rule of softball and you are absolutely correct. ASA rulebook Rule 1 FAIR BALL "A ...
|
| umpires resonsibilty | 12/3/2007 |
Q: you have 2 umpires runners on first and second. a pop up to short right field which ump should be ...
A: There's a few things that can happen here... "by the book"...anytime there are multiple runners in ...
|
| Time out rules | 11/27/2007 |
Q: Ambrose, My question is can an umpire call time out during live play. There was a runner on both ...
A: This is what umpires call a "mess". 10-4-e says an umpire will not call time while any play is in ...
|
| Buckett rule | 11/21/2007 |
Q: I do the little girls fast pitch and the girls coaches sit on a bucket of balls with a padded lid ...
A: We would never allow that here in ASA tournament play but I understand it's fairly common in league ...
|
| Tagging up. | 11/15/2007 |
Q: First all thanks for your help. Second, I was reading a past question about runners tagging up on a ...
A: You are correct in what I said, a runner can leave the base legally as soon as a fly ball or line ...
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| Infield fly -additional info | 11/14/2007 |
Q: Being an amateur coach for my wifes softball side we have to do our share of umpiring. Quite happy ...
A: With an infield fly ball - runners on 1 and 2 - less than 2 out - batter is out - I believe if ball ...
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| Interference. | 11/13/2007 |
Q: Can't find in the book as to exactly what is interference! Assuming NO contact,nothing said ...
A: "Assuming NO contact,nothing said verbally,no arm waving etc,no stopping in front of the fielder.Can ...
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| time limit | 11/9/2007 |
Q: Sir, my question is; we were playing a championship game and we had 5 minutes left in the ...
A: Usually in games with a time limit, there is 1 official clock run either by the umpire or the ...
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| coaches | 11/8/2007 |
Q: Is there a book or anything on how to handle with coaches if they're arguing or something? Game ...
A: I don't know of any books devoted to this. Our MASA state clinic usually has a class devoted to ...
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| legal delivery | 11/6/2007 |
Q: pitching regulations fast pitch. 2006 ASA is the book I am currently looking at. pretty sure same ...
A: It's farther down in the book, 6 sec 8 effect "any infractions of sec 1-5,7, 8 is an illegal pitch." ...
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| player hit by throw | 11/2/2007 |
Q: this is my question we had a game last week (14 and under fastpitch softball) were down 4-3 last at ...
A: I've got to tell you "Ismael Alvarez" that's made my top 5 list of cool names. Back to your ...
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| bunting | 11/2/2007 |
Q: Had this issue at a double header with my lead off batter squaring to bunt. Batter squared to bunt, ...
A: In ASA play the umpire is incorrect and you are correct. A batter may put the bat over the plate ...
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| player hit by throw | 10/31/2007 |
Q: this is my question we had a game last week (14 and under fastpitch softball) were down 4-3 last at ...
A: If the b-r is in the lane and did not intentionally interfere with the throw, the ball continues to ...
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| runner interference | 10/29/2007 |
Q: ASA girls fastpitch 14U is the level. Runners on 1st and 3rd. Batter hits ground ball to second. ...
A: In this case... ...
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| time being called | 10/24/2007 |
Q: time out was called to the field umpire by the center fielder and short stop. It was granted and ...
A: Good morning Adam, Time can be called by ANY umpire on the field. The hp umpire has no special ...
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| slow pitch | 10/20/2007 |
Q: is there a new rule that states. a foul tip to the catcher on the first or second pitch .that ...
A: This is a common misunderstanding of the rule. A foul tip is a batted ball that goes "sharply and ...
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| lineup | 10/19/2007 |
Q: i coach a 12U girls team and i have 10 on the team. can i bat all ten....if i can...what is the ...
A: sorry to make you wait but this is rather an involved question and I needed time to sit down and do ...
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| asa slow pitch softball | 10/19/2007 |
Q: bases are loaded with 2 outs. line drive back up the middle and pitcher deflects the ball back ...
A: When we have a deflected batted ball, the runner is NOT out if they could not avoid contact with the ...
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| lineup | 10/19/2007 |
Q: i coach a 12U girls team and i have 10 on the team. can i bat all ten....if i can...what is the ...
A: In ASA you can PLAY 10 but can only BAT 9. You use a DP (any batting position) who bats and in the ...
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| defensive positions | 10/18/2007 |
Q: I play in a softball league in lakeland, fl and we go by asa rules. Is there a rule that states ...
A: I pulled this out of the question pool (graveyard) for you. In ASA ball only co-ed requires ...
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| runner interference on double play | 10/18/2007 |
Q: with a runner on first a ball hit to the shortstop throws to the second baseman getting the first ...
A: a defensive player must be given the opportunity to field or throw the ball anywhere on the playing ...
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| men's slow-pitch softball | 10/15/2007 |
Q: I have been in a washington, dc men's slow-pitch league for over 2 years. I usually pitch and have ...
A: You know sometimes I wonder, I just wonder....where they get this stuff. In sp the pitcher is 50' ...
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| photography | 10/13/2007 |
Q: Photography I read in the rules book somewhere that the photographer must confer with the local ...
A: media coverage authorized by the tournament committee can be on the playing field but must not use a ...
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| Fair/Foul | 10/9/2007 |
Q: What defines "past 1B or 3B" when the ball is on the infield? I was taught somewhere in my past that ...
A: This is a situation that happens rarely in my experience. If a fly ball lands beyond the base then ...
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| Batter-runner interference? | 10/6/2007 |
Q: Situation: U-12 softball, 1 out, runner on second, batter hits a catchable pop fly along first base ...
A: The b-r has no right to the line here, just as a runner going from base to base has no right to a ...
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| Batter-runner interference? | 10/6/2007 |
Q: Situation: U-12 softball, 1 out, runner on second, batter hits a catchable pop fly along first base ...
A: the answer is I don't know because I didn't see the play. Interference is a judgement call by the ...
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| Rule interpretation and application | 10/5/2007 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, Scenario: One out, runners on 2nd and 3rd, the batter hits a line drive to ...
A: It looks to me like they moved 10-8 to 10-4 in the 2007 book and didn't change the index. I haven't ...
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| Rule interpretation and application | 10/4/2007 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, Scenario: One out, runners on 2nd and 3rd, the batter hits a line drive to ...
A: Sorry to take a little longer than usual to answer, when I read that, it didn't seem right and it's ...
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| Rule interpretation and application | 10/4/2007 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, Scenario: One out, runners on 2nd and 3rd, the batter hits a line drive to ...
A: You are 100% correct except for some procedures. I believe the umpire should have awarded both ...
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| Batter-Runner | 9/29/2007 |
Q: Slow pitch softball , co-ed league female batter hits a ball (diving in at it) ball hits in front of ...
A: We would have a foul ball if any part of the batter's person or clothing is hit with a batter ball ...
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| awarding bases | 9/28/2007 |
Q: Clarification please.. I've unpire in past but have been out of the game for a while.. running on ...
A: The direction of the runner has no bearing on the award. It is 2 bases from the last base touched ...
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| Called out for being off first base | 9/28/2007 |
Q: Dr Mark, I play in a park and rec mens D league (ASA) and in a recent game I was on first base with ...
A: With bases loaded the field umpire should be off the right shoulder of the 2nd baseman, that's a ...
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| 12 baters | 9/27/2007 |
Q: Last night in Adult Softball (ASA rules)I had team to bat 12 players. This was not caught until the ...
A: Unless your local league allows this, many do, under ASA the 12th batter is an illegal player and ...
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| tagging up | 9/26/2007 |
Q: Runner on 1st base, ball hit to right field right fielder bobbles ball, runner tags as rightfielder ...
A: A runner can leave the base as soon as the ball is touched a a defensive player. Let's use the ...
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| catchers interference | 9/24/2007 |
Q: Last year you responded to an inquiry regarding catcher's interference. You said defensive players ...
A: Obstruction or interference terminology are not my premise but ASA's. The rule book states very ...
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| Tag-up on thrown ball out of play? | 9/20/2007 |
Q: Situation: Championship coed softball, one out in final inning, we are the visiting team down one ...
A: R2 would be out on appeal if they were off base when the catch was made and if they went to 3rd on ...
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| playing in the field only | 9/19/2007 |
Q: I am in a men's slowpitch league. Is there a rule that allows a player to only play in the field ...
A: In strict ASA play in slowpitch everyone has to bat. Using an EP all 11 bat and any 10 play ...
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| defense | 9/16/2007 |
Q: Is there a rule where the infield and outfield players must position themselves? Is there a rule how ...
A: There is no ASA rule regarding defensive positioning (except in co-ed) except all defensive player ...
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| Ball out of play | 8/29/2007 |
Q: here's my question, a player is running from second base to third base, outfielder pitches the ball ...
A: When a fielder loses possession of the ball on an attempted tag and the ball goes out of play, each ...
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| interference | 8/27/2007 |
Q: Love the website and all the insight that you have provide on the rules for ASA softball. In reading ...
A: The 1st one is a little tough as we have all seen runners jump over or around a batted ball in ...
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| pitching nets | 8/21/2007 |
Q: I heard years ago that the southern states had pitching nets in front of their pitchers? I have ...
A: As you know ASA takes some criticism from some players (who think any bat made should be legal) for ...
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| pitcher hit by line drive | 8/17/2007 |
Q: I was pitching in a slowpitch softball game ASA rules and a line drive drilled me in the head. ...
A: I think it's time you bought a helmet-face guard combo, more and more pitcher's are wearing ...
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| EH and re-entry | 8/17/2007 |
Q: OK so if the extra hitter is not present at one of her at bats that is an out. Is she however ...
A: In ASA play, if you are using an EP (I assume this is a sp question) and they leave the game (not ...
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| Pinch Running | 8/15/2007 |
Q: In slow pitch ASA softball, what is the rules about pinch running. If a player has a bad leg, who ...
A: if you're talking about courtesy runner's, in sp they're allowed only in senior play. You can of ...
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| Re-entry rule | 8/14/2007 |
Q: we play modified fast pitch softball. 9 guys with the option of a DH/EH. Other team is playing ...
A: Under strict ASA play you can't do this, F3 can only re-enter in their original batting position, ...
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| asa softball | 8/10/2007 |
Q: batter hits the ball and the ball hits the runner standing on second. 2nd thing that happen to me ...
A: A batted ball that strikes a runner on base who does intentionally interfere with it, if the closest ...
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| INTERFERENCE? | 8/7/2007 |
Q: Runners on 1st & 2nd, 1 out. 3rd baseman is playing "back." Ground ball to 3rd, fielder deflects the ...
A: I would have to see the play but... On a deflected batted ball the runner must not intentionally ...
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| softball and baseball | 8/7/2007 |
Q: You responded to a question on 7/16/2007 from Jim on base awards and gave a follow-up situation ...
A: "but isn't this contradictory to rule 8.2.5 Situation A in the 2007 NFHS Baseball case book" It may ...
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| Caught third strike foul ball - not called out | 8/7/2007 |
Q: Dr. Mark, A real situation call at the Fast Pitch Girls Eastern Nationals U18 in York, PA 2007. ...
A: A foul "tip" or foul "ball" is no longer is dependant on the "above the batter's head" requirement, ...
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| Infield fly ASA U-14 Slowpitch | 8/7/2007 |
Q: Here is what happened. R1 is at 2nd and R2 is at 1st, there is 1 out. Br hits a pop fly to the ...
A: When the umpire called IF their judgement was that the ball could be caught with ordinary effort by ...
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| ASA slowpitch u12 ruling | 8/7/2007 |
Q: Situation, bases loaded batter bats the ball which lands on home plate and the ball settles there on ...
A: The plate like any other base is in fair territory, so this would be a fair ball. This is probably ...
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| 12U girls fastpitch softball | 8/7/2007 |
Q: 2 outs, runner at third. Batter swings for a third strike, catcher misses the ball. Third base ...
A: The run would not count. ANYTIME the 3rd out of an inning is a force out (as this is, because the ...
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| total knee repalcement/titanium shaft | 8/6/2007 |
Q: i have a total knee replacement and i want to know if an ASA Softball Director can he deny me or my ...
A: You must be physically challenged under the ADA guidelines in order to use a flex in sp. I do not ...
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| interferance | 8/4/2007 |
Q: In a game when with a runner on second base and the batter hits a double and makes an attempt to go ...
A: Was there an opportunity to make a play? The key here (w/out seeing the play) was the catcher ...
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| Force out situation | 8/4/2007 |
Q: In a slow pitch softball game, with runners on 1b &2B,batter hit a soft pop up to ss, umpire didnot ...
A: If I understand your question, No IF, ball drops, runner is forced out at 3rd, f5 throws the ball to ...
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| Two Fair or Foul Questions | 8/4/2007 |
Q: Question 1) The batter hits the ball which bounces in front of the plate and travels high into the ...
A: On any batted ball that has either not passed 1st or 3rd or is a fly ball... it is where THE BALL is ...
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| live ball on pitch | 8/3/2007 |
Q: there are runners on base there is not curtosiey step .the pitch is throwen high and it goes over ...
A: You don't tell me but I assume this is a sp game w/out stealing. If that is correct, the pitched ...
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| Protesting a game with no basis | 8/3/2007 |
Q: Recently, we played a semi-final slow pitch game. Our team won 6-5. The umpire has two daughters ...
A: I assume they're protesting the umpire. IMO they should have done that at the beginning of the game ...
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| asa slowpitch softball fair or foul | 8/2/2007 |
Q: I was the plate umpire when a fly ball was hit and the third baseman standing in fair territory made ...
A: This is a very simple rule for fair or foul.....where is the ball when it is 1st touched by a ...
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| Hit by a throw | 8/2/2007 |
Q: Here's the scenario I am on first base of a ASA mens slow pitch softball game no outs. The hitter ...
A: This is interference from your description as the fielder must be given the opportunity to execute ...
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| Dimaggio Rule | 8/1/2007 |
Q: I was reading a recent answer on this site regarding bobbled balls and tag-ups. The answer given ...
A: the runner can advance as soon as a defensive player touches the ball. It doesn't matter what ...
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| batters box | 8/1/2007 |
Q: We play ASA rules in a league and when they line the boxes they dont put an inside line on either ...
A: The batters box line begins 6" from the plate and extends 4' in front of a line drawn through the ...
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| runners score on appeal? | 8/1/2007 |
Q: Our church league plays on fields with no fence so all fair balls to the outfield are constantly in ...
A: If there are less than 2 outs, the runner appealed missing the base is out, everything else that ...
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| in field fly rule | 7/31/2007 |
Q: i watched a game the other day. bases were loaded and no outs. the batter hit a pop fly on the ...
A: On an IF runners can advance at their own risk. If the ball is caught they cannot leave the base ...
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| Slow Pitch delivery rules | 7/31/2007 |
Q: I started using a different technique last week by swinging my arm outward kinda underarm grenade ...
A: In sp the rules state that the ball must be delivered past the hip in an underhand motion. Let's ...
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| Verbal Interference by defensive player in slow pitch softball | 7/28/2007 |
Q: The pitcher pitches the ball. Before the batter swings at the pitch, the catcher hollers "right", ...
A: Offensive players interfere. defensive players obstruct, in softball the terms are not ...
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| Overthrows | 7/28/2007 |
Q: I know that when there is an overthrow from an outfielder baserunners are awarded 2 bases. Here's ...
A: "I know that when there is an overthrow from an outfielder baserunners are awarded 2 bases." That's ...
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| Over running first base in fair territory | 7/27/2007 |
Q: In a softball game i was umpiring, the runner over ran first base and turned toward fair ground. He ...
A: You are correct, after over-running 1st a runner can legally turn either to their right or their ...
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| run ahead rule | 7/26/2007 |
Q: Does the run ahead rule mean that a home team can win in any inning after the fifth if they have ...
A: Anytime after the required # of innings the rule applies. Let's just do the sp rule, in tournament ...
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| The Good Old 8-3 Play | 7/25/2007 |
Q: Mark, It has been a quiet year, lacking the usual controversies that I trouble you with. Our final ...
A: Nice to talk with you again. There is no such ASA rule re: that an outfielder cannot throw out a ...
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| runner double off after foul fly | 7/25/2007 |
Q: The other night in a co-ed slow pitch softball game a young lady was on first with one out. The ...
A: This isn't a "foul ball" it is a caught "fly ball" that happened to be in foul territory. You ...
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| Girls Fastpitch | 7/25/2007 |
Q: Batter had 2 balls and 1 strike. On next pitch she fouled off. During her swing she injured her hip ...
A: If a legal sub is available, it's a simple substitution and the sub assumes the count. If a sub is ...
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| Fair or Foul? | 7/23/2007 |
Q: Last night a ball was hit foul but due to either a rock or the spin it re-entered fair territory ...
A: This is a fair ball as it was 1st touched in fair territory, before reaching 3rd. It doesn't matter ...
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| TAG UP | 7/23/2007 |
Q: RUNNERS ON FIRST & SECOND. BATTERS HITS A HARD GROUNDER UP THE MIDDLE. RUNNER JUMPS OFF SECOND A FEW ...
A: When he retreated back toward 1st (to avoid the ball or for any other reason) after being on 2nd, he ...
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| world cup final play | 7/22/2007 |
Q: Why was the Japan runner at 1st base called out as soon as the ball was back in the pitcher's ...
A: I've watched the replay about 20 times, sometimes in slo-mo and pause, advance, pause... the rule ...
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| Does the run score | 7/22/2007 |
Q: Ther is one out. There is a man on first and one on Third. The batter hits a fly ball to center. The ...
A: "the runner at first was out by a force" that's not correct, although I know it kind of looks like ...
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| infield fly rule | 7/22/2007 |
Q: a follow up question - to an ealier question. here is a copy of the scenario given. "Question The ...
A: The key to the rule is ...which can be caught by an infielder w/ ordinary effort... the infielder ...
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| age group 6-8 fastpitch pitching machine litte league | 7/22/2007 |
Q: Runner to second intentionaly throws an elbow at second baseman. Is called out for unsportsman like ...
A: Unless f4 has the ball and we use the crash rule or there was interference, we would not call the ...
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| Runner entering team area | 7/19/2007 |
Q: This happened in a 12U game. Runner on 3rd, 1 out. Batter strikes out but catcher drops the ball. ...
A: The umpire was correct. IMO the manager that went "berserk" needs to apologize to the umpire and ...
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| infield fly rule | 7/19/2007 |
Q: The other day in a asa men's softball league there were bases loaded, no outs and there was a pop up ...
A: By def....An infield fly is with runners on 1st and 2nd or bases loaded on a fair fly ball that can ...
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| SS Throws Glove | 7/19/2007 |
Q: Hey Mark, We were playing a game the other night (Men's League, Slow Pitch, ASA Rules) and a ball ...
A: In ASA it's not illegal to throw your glove at the ball (though it is bad form and a stupid thing to ...
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| pitching-contact with rubber at mound | 7/18/2007 |
Q: When the pitcher of a slow pitch arc game pitches, does her foot have to be in contact with the ...
A: In ASA at present in sp the pitcher's pivot foot must remain in contact with the plate until the ...
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| runner avoids tag at home | 7/18/2007 |
Q: u16 fp softball: We had an unusual play at the plate that could use some clarifying. Catcher, ...
A: A runner does have 3' on either side of the base path to try to avoid a tag. This applies anywhere ...
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| check swing | 7/18/2007 |
Q: in a slow pitch softball game last night one of our guys swung extreamly slow ON PURPOSE and the ...
A: By def...a bunt is a ball that is intentionally tapped slowly within the infield. In sp you cannot ...
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| Thrown ball hits coach in foul territory | 7/18/2007 |
Q: This happened twice in two weeks during our Softball league this summer. Ground ball to the ...
A: Unless the coach intentionally interferes with the throw, we have nothing. The dead ball and award ...
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| Catcher Interference | 7/17/2007 |
Q: During a girls 13 and under fastpitch game, bases loaded and no outs, the pitcher goes through her ...
A: If R1 was attempting to get to the plate and the catcher blocked the plate from R1 w/out control of ...
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| changing balls | 7/17/2007 |
Q: Is it up to the umpires discretion as to when a new ball is to be used in a game? Or does it have ...
A: After the 1st inning the current game ball should be used until it goes out of play or becomes ...
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| LOOK BACK RULE | 7/17/2007 |
Q: I AM AN UMPIRE MY SELF AND HAVE BEEN FOR OVER 20 YEARS AND I WOULD LIKE A CLARIFICATION OF JUST HOW ...
A: I assume you mean when the runner is legitimately off base after a pitch or as a result of a batter ...
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| Mens Slo Pitch rule | 7/17/2007 |
Q: Recently a ball was hit to left field and the outfielder jumped caught the ball and fell over the ...
A: If the fielder had control and maintained control of the ball before and as they touched the ground ...
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| dropped third strike | 7/17/2007 |
Q: Our pitcher threw a low ball that bounced off the plate and into the catcher's glove. The batter ...
A: It is considered a trapped ball by the catcher and the batter can run if 1st base is open or there ...
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| Base awards | 7/16/2007 |
Q: This weekend's ASA 14U A State tournament. Situation: runner at first base, one out. Batter hits a ...
A: ASA UICs are usually very experienced senior umpires. I'm really surprised this happened. "He read ...
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| Equipment on Field | 7/16/2007 |
Q: This question came up this weekend. I understand the ruling on a batted ball making contact with a ...
A: "Granted the catcher or umpire should be removing the bat" the catcher can move it if they want to ...
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| Non attached 2nd.base | 7/16/2007 |
Q: ASA rules. We were playing on a field with non secure bases. My player hits a ball and heads to ...
A: I can't help you much here, I've never umpired with bases that were not secured and never had a play ...
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| bunting/running | 7/16/2007 |
Q: My daughter plays fast pitch high school ball and was called for interference after she bunted and ...
A: a fielder must be given the opportunity to field the ball anywhere on the playing field. a runner ...
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| Base awards | 7/16/2007 |
Q: This weekend's ASA 14U A State tournament. Situation: runner at first base, one out. Batter hits a ...
A: It is 2 bases from the last base touched at the time of the throw. When a runner is retreating to a ...
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| rule | 7/14/2007 |
Q: I was on first base and the batter swung and missed, as he did it I fell off the base. I was called ...
A: The league can over-ride ASA in league play, so they can have a "contact" rule if they want. I ...
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| Fair Ball/Foul Player | 7/12/2007 |
Q: Batter hits ball that bounces up just in front of the plate. The catcher, while standing in the ...
A: A batted ball, fair or foul has absolutely nothing to do with where the defensive player is. It ...
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| ASA Rules on worn bats | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I currently hit with a 2004 Demarini F2, I love this bat, it is broke in and provides me with more ...
A: As you probably know ASA umpires carry bat rings with them and in tournament play we "ring" every ...
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| Softball | 7/11/2007 |
Q: When a girl is running home and the catcher is down waiting for her with the ball, is it legal for ...
A: In ASA play they can jump over a defensive player in order to avoid a tag. In NFHS play the player ...
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| Interference call | 7/10/2007 |
Q: This occurred today at a girls' varsity high school game in Iowa. Home team trailing 7-2, bottom of ...
A: There are 2 possible answers to your question depending if it's ASA or NFHS. In ASA both the runner ...
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| bunting | 7/10/2007 |
Q: I was told by the umpire and another ex coach that unless the batter made a move to contact the ball ...
A: "I was told by the umpire and another ex coach that unless the batter made a move to contact the ...
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| Bat hitting live ball.... | 7/10/2007 |
Q: Batter bunts ball into fair territory and while dropping the bat, it makes contact with the live ...
A: In ASA play this falls under "hitting the ball a second time" "Batter bunts ball into fair ...
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| Ball Travels Out of Bounds... | 7/10/2007 |
Q: Mark R Ambrose, During a game tonight, the following happened: We had a runner on 1st -our next ...
A: It doesn't matter the the ball hit F3 or that F3 touched it if they never had possession. It is ...
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| Ball Travels Out of Bounds... | 7/10/2007 |
Q: Mark R Ambrose, During a game tonight, the following happened: We had a runner on 1st -our next ...
A: On a thrown ball that unintentionally goes out of play the rule is very simple....it is 2 bases from ...
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| Coed softball - postioning - slowpitch | 7/10/2007 |
Q: Mark, I have read the past questions/answers here about the defensive coed (ASA slow pitch) ...
A: Local leagues frequently have stricter rules than strict ASA play in co-ed positioning. In ASA ...
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| Umpire interference with batter-runner | 7/9/2007 |
Q: What happens when an umpire impedes a base runner? Situation: Bases loaded, 2 outs, bottom of last ...
A: That is 1 slow umpire, you're telling me that the b-r rounded 2nd before the field umpire could come ...
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| What would your call have been? | 7/9/2007 |
Q: I have read a few questions here that are similar, but haven't found one that is exactly the ...
A: As far as the actual play is concerned I have obstruction by the catcher and will protect the runner ...
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| Obstruction call | 7/9/2007 |
Q: Pony fastpich tournament - Girl on second base atempting to steal third base. My catcher throws the ...
A: This is a question that's very difficult to answer without seeing the play. If F5 is blocking the ...
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| Ball hits home plate | 7/9/2007 |
Q: ASA slow pitch - a batted ball hits home plate and rolls in front of home plate between the foul ...
A: By def....A fair ball is a batted ball that is 1st touched or settles over fair territory. "An ...
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| Presentation for a legal pitch | 7/8/2007 |
Q: If the pitcher steps on the rubber and has both feet in contact with the rubber, her hands are ...
A: In ASA play the pitcher must take the signal or appear to take the signal with the hands separated ...
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| Windmill pitch counts | 7/7/2007 |
Q: I have a daughter who pitched 15 games in a 2 day period, took 1 day rest, practiced on the next ...
A: I don't know how much is too much, except if something, wrist, shoulder, knee, etc starts to ...
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| ASA Slow pitch softball - 10th player out rule? | 7/4/2007 |
Q: We just had a league game where we had a questionable call that I would like clarified if you can. ...
A: 1 out, r1 is on 1st, b9 hits into a double play, 3 outs, 1/2 inning over, correct? Ok. Next inning ...
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| Runner interference | 7/3/2007 |
Q: There was a situation the other night (one umpire system)whereby the bases were loaded with nobody ...
A: No, I would not have interference here. R1 is entitled to a direct line to the base and can be in ...
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| out of order batter | 7/3/2007 |
Q: We have a huge controversy in our division. The last game we played the opposing team received an ...
A: Under ASA rules "When they sent the wrong batter up, our team caught the mistake and pointed it out ...
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| Altered Bat..... | 7/2/2007 |
Q: a team in our league was discovered using an altered bat. They were the second place team. As a ...
A: This is not an ASA rule but rather a local league rule and you might want to talk to the league ...
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| illegal pitch | 7/2/2007 |
Q: Runners on 2nd and 3rd, Pitcher starts windup. batter puts hand in air to call time,(umpire does not ...
A: The umpire is correct, we will call no pitch whenever a player, manager or coach commits any act ...
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| Dead ball rule | 7/1/2007 |
Q: In our example we had a runner at first base and the batter hit the ball along the first base line ...
A: Yes he should, when we have interference all runners return to the last base touched at the time of ...
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| Umpire's ruling | 7/1/2007 |
Q: Hey Mark, I was catcher in the middle of a high school softball game. The batter had 2 strikes on ...
A: This is a mess and you're right there is no good solution. As an umpire in this situation you ...
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| protest | 6/30/2007 |
Q: Sir, I have a question regarding a protest made by one of our coaches. The situation. Extra ...
A: When a protest is upheld we resume play at the exact spot of the protest, in this case it took a few ...
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| Overturning a call | 6/30/2007 |
Q: During our U12 ASA girls slowpitch game, the home plate umpire(the only umpire on the field) made an ...
A: I really don't know how to answer this because it sounds like this umpire is not very experienced ...
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| Runner interfernce | 6/30/2007 |
Q: A runner is running towards 3rd base and the fielder is blocking the base with ball in a non-force ...
A: I guess I need more info on "inadvertent contact" with the fielder who already has the ball and is ...
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| Obstruction | 6/29/2007 |
Q: I thought I had the correct interpretation of obstruction until I read one of your answers. Is 1st ...
A: I'm not sure what question you are referring to, obstruction and interference are popular topics. ...
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| inning ending out, time limit | 6/28/2007 |
Q: I was going to ask a question about an umpire calling "ballgame" immediately after the third out of ...
A: In JO play ASA does have a time limit of 1hr 40 min except for certain tournament games. The time ...
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| Base Runners Retreating | 6/28/2007 |
Q: Runners on first and second, 1 out. Ball hit to SS who fields it cleanly and looks to tag the runner ...
A: you are correct, a base runner can retreat back toward a base they are forced from to avoid a tag, ...
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| protest | 6/28/2007 |
Q: Sir, I have a question regarding a protest made by one of our coaches. The situation. Extra ...
A: We call this a mess! (a big mess) Umpires want to get the call right (the 3rd strike was dropped) ...
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| Force Out | 6/27/2007 |
Q: In men’s slowpitch can a runner return to a base they are being forced off of? I had this situation ...
A: If you back-pedal back toward home to avoid a tag between home and 1st, the b-r would out. This ...
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| Fielder interfering with a runner | 6/27/2007 |
Q: There was a runner on first with two outs. I hit a ball to right field and it looked like I would ...
A: Defensive players obstruct, offensive players interfere, so here we have obstruction of R1 by F6, ...
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| the "crow hop" | 6/27/2007 |
Q: Hey Mark - simple question regarding pitching: Does the pitcher's foot have to be on the rubber when ...
A: basically (this doesn't cover all situations) a crow hop is a replanting and pushing off with the ...
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| Runner interference? | 6/26/2007 |
Q: U12 tournament under ASA rules. 1 out, runners on first and second. Shortstop playing slightly in ...
A: There are some very limited situations where interference has to be intentional...this ain't one of ...
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| Umpiring Calls | 6/25/2007 |
Q: Ambrose, I had a few situations pop up this weekend at a 10U B national qualifier tournament. 1) R1 ...
A: A) yes you should always wait for your partner to indicate they want some help. There are numerous ...
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| RUNNER STRUCK BY BATTED BALL | 6/23/2007 |
Q: SOFTBALL: BASES LOADED NO OUTS, BATTER SENDS LINE DRIVE FAIR DOWN THIRD BASE LINE, BALL STRIKES ...
A: It depends where the closest defensive player was...(almost always f5 in this case) If f5 was in ...
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| running to first | 6/22/2007 |
Q: I have a couple questions about women's ASA fast pitch rules. 1. What's the ruling if the ...
A: Runners return to the last base legally touched touched at the time of the interference. If the the ...
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| runner interference | 6/21/2007 |
Q: there is a runner at second base when the batter hits a ground ball to the SS. The runner waits as ...
A: It's difficult to say w/out seeing the play. You saw it so I'll give you the rule to make your own ...
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| Calling Time | 6/20/2007 |
Q: How many times can a team manager call timeout an inning? How long does a batter get to get into ...
A: A manager can only request time from the umpire they cannot call time. The offense is allowed 1 ...
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| ASA fast pitch pitching rule | 6/20/2007 |
Q: Our pitcher was called for an illegal pitch for going to her mouth without wiping it off. The ...
A: Well 6A tell you it's an illegal pitch for the 1st offense and then ejection, so that's pretty clear ...
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| Batter's Box guidelines | 6/20/2007 |
Q: In my Adult Slowpitch ASA league some batter's stand quite far from the plate, however without ...
A: The box is 3' wide, 6" from the plate, so a bat length would still be in the box. Any part of the ...
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| Previous answer | 6/19/2007 |
Q: Ambrose, I was reading back through old answer, and this one caught my eye and I had another ...
A: You are absolutely corect that the runner must re-touch 1st before taking the award of home. They ...
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| Runner Hit by Batter Ball | 6/19/2007 |
Q: Is it interference when a hit ball strikes a runner as they are trying to advance to another base? ...
A: If a runner is hit by a fair batted ball after it passes an infielder and another infielder has an ...
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| 14U Girls FP (ASA & High School rules) | 6/19/2007 |
Q: I have 2 questions that relate to each other. 1. I have read many answers to questions relating to ...
A: Anytime the bat contacts the ball and an entire foot is on the ground outside the batter's box the ...
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| 10b girls fastpitch | 6/19/2007 |
Q: We had bases loaded, two outs, and catcher throws ball to first base to try and pick off our runner. ...
A: in 10ub a runner on 3rd can only score on a batted ball, a base on balls, a hit batter w/ bases full ...
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| Hitting pitched ball after it hits the ground. | 6/18/2007 |
Q: In ASA softball, what is the call if a batter hits a pitch after it has bounced in the dirt in front ...
A: What the umpire actually called was obstruction, which is a delayed dead ball. No verbal is given, ...
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| lookback rule | 6/18/2007 |
Q: I coach 11 & 12 yr old girls and 13 to 18 yr old. the other day we had on the sr girls a runner who ...
A: I'll just give you the basics of the rule because I'd really need more detailed info on what ...
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| Third out on an appeal play - does the run scored count? | 6/16/2007 |
Q: There was one out with runners on second and third. The batter hit a fly ball to center field which ...
A: That is absolutely incorrect. The run would count because the appeal at 2nd is considered a "timing ...
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| base on balls and steals 2nd called out ? | 6/16/2007 |
Q: had a runner on third umpire called her out said that she could not round 2nd BC third base was ...
A: You know, players should never give an umpire an opportunity to call an out, especially using the ...
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| base runners | 6/16/2007 |
Q: had a situation where two girls running the bases were not paying attention the girl that was on ...
A: Well 2 runners can occupy the same base at the same time but one of them is liable to be out if ...
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| Interference call and wrong dead ball call | 6/14/2007 |
Q: Situation was 14U NSA tournament game. Bases loaded with one out - infielders in (at base lines or ...
A: I normally don't answer questions about other orgs play but this is an interesting problem. ...
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| HIT BY LIVE BALL | 6/14/2007 |
Q: Girls fast pitch. Batter hits a hard line drive and bounces off the pitcher and hits the ...
A: In both cases if the batted ball deflected off the pitcher and the b-r or runner did not ...
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| sliding into home | 6/13/2007 |
Q: A few questions for you today that I hope you can help out with. I was told that the girls have to ...
A: Local leagues can have rules that modify ASA rules so you might have a "must slide" rule. Under ASA ...
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| Wreck vs. Interference | 6/13/2007 |
Q: I can't tell you enough how much it has meant to those of us really trying to understand the rules. ...
A: A "wreck" does not apply to an offensive/defensive collision when a batted ball is being attempted ...
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| Hitter advancing to 2nd on walk | 6/12/2007 |
Q: I read a few questions regarding hitters running through first on a walk and advancing to second ...
A: The same rules do not apply in sp and fp. In fp the ball remains alive on a bb, in sp the ball is ...
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| Running Out A Bunt | 6/12/2007 |
Q: In our 10-U girls fastpitch league (ASA rules) we have seen an increase in bunting. With that has ...
A: "Whenever a play is being made" the runner must use the colored portion of the base and the defense ...
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| Hitting pitched ball after it hits the ground. | 6/12/2007 |
Q: In ASA softball, what is the call if a batter hits a pitch after it has bounced in the dirt in front ...
A: If she swings and the ball hits her it is a strike and if strike 3 an out. You would replace her w ...
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| Question about interference | 6/12/2007 |
Q: Mark, This happened in our slow-pitch softball game last night. The defense botched a pop-up when ...
A: If F4 did not yet have the ball when R1 collided with him we would have obstruction and protect the ...
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| INTERFERENCE | 6/11/2007 |
Q: Runner on 2nd base, slow ground ball hit pass the pitcher, our short stop was running to make the ...
A: Interference is the act of an offensive player that impedes, hinders or confuses a defensive player ...
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| time limits in ASA | 6/11/2007 |
Q: I understand each league has different rules(adult co-ed softball) for tournament play but in the ...
A: In ASA play only JO has time limits and none of them is 70 min. Doesn't matter the actual # of ...
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| Another topic about interference... | 6/8/2007 |
Q: Last night I went over to the ball fields to watch a couple games (Men's ASA SP) to see if I could ...
A: On a deflected ball we would not have interference unless it was intentional which obviously in this ...
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| Slide/Veer Rule | 6/8/2007 |
Q: Mark, First let me enjoy that I enjoy this site a great deal and have learned tons from you and the ...
A: I welcome intelligent discourse so feel free to discuss your ideas anytime. Lets do the definition ...
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| Another topic about interference... | 6/8/2007 |
Q: Last night I went over to the ball fields to watch a couple games (Men's ASA SP) to see if I could ...
A: This is a very simple play, if a runner is hit by a fair batted ball before it passes an infielder ...
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| slow pitch stop play or time out rules | 6/8/2007 |
Q: I play in a women's adult slow pitch league that follows ASA rules for slow pitch. Here's the ...
A: Time is called in sp when all apparent play ceases. It seems to me when the runner is on the ground ...
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| Interference | 6/7/2007 |
Q: In ASA Men's SP, Can a runner pull an A-rod and scream I got it or "Hay" and cause the fielder to ...
A: Well I hope it's not your last. A couple suggestions....take the rule book into the bathroom with ...
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| ASA Softball rule | 6/7/2007 |
Q: The umpire in a 6 inning softball game involving 12-13 yr old girls ruled a batter who ...
A: to be...to be..or not to be....what? I think you forgot to tell me what the umpire did. Doesn't ...
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| my daughter's rights in softball | 6/6/2007 |
Q: My daughter plays softball for Washington Iowa. Any way she has been going to all practices etc, and ...
A: I don't know where you got that from. If it's from your local league, I would again talk to the ...
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| ASA pitching rules | 6/6/2007 |
Q: I have two pitching rule questions. First, I was told the other night while one of our girls was ...
A: In ASA the step must be forward, toward the batter and w/in the 24" of the pitching plate. I don't ...
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| Slide/Veer Rule | 6/6/2007 |
Q: Mark, First let me enjoy that I enjoy this site a great deal and have learned tons from you and the ...
A: In a play at any base if the defensive player has the ball the runner cannot remain upright and ...
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| Pitchers Hands | 6/6/2007 |
Q: Game 2, Arizona vs Tenn. 2007 College WS Finals. Arizona pitcher has a blister on her pitching ...
A: Great game last night though I'm rooting for the underdog Tenn. Just a side note the home plate ...
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| Resolving umpire mistake | 6/5/2007 |
Q: 12&U state championsip series. This was similar to one of your previous questions regarding the ...
A: Boy these umpire mistake questions are getting tough. There are so many factors I didn't see or ...
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| Coaches on the field | 6/5/2007 |
Q: I am one of the co-commissioners for our towns little league and youth softball league. We have a ...
A: You can show him this "real rule" 5-12 coaches, players, substitutes or other bench personnel shall ...
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| Botched infield fly call | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I am interested in your opinion on the bizarre situation we encountered at a tourney this weekend. ...
A: Sure the umpire could have said I screwed up, I put the b-r at risk because of my mistake, let's go ...
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| Appeal of check swing | 6/4/2007 |
Q: My understanding of umpiring in general is that an umpire is under no obligation to consult his ...
A: Rules Sup 10 tells us this is paraphrased If on a pitched ball is not in the strike zone and if the ...
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| windmill pitching - | 6/4/2007 |
Q: Right handed pitcher was told that her left leg (that starts behind and moves ahead) cannot leave ...
A: A pitcher is required to take a forward and toward the batter "step" with the non-pivot foot. Right ...
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| 10 and u girls softball - asa | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I understand on an overthrow that a runner gets 2 bases at the time of the throw.. However, If a ...
A: The award on an overthrow is always 2 bases from the last base touched at the time of the throw. ...
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| Botched infield fly call | 6/4/2007 |
Q: I am interested in your opinion on the bizarre situation we encountered at a tourney this weekend. ...
A: What would you have done? You mean before or after I shoot myself? You mention this is during a ...
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| Runner Interference | 6/4/2007 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose - I've been enjoying reading your insights since finding this website a few weeks ago. ...
A: I wrote a short response to your input but we can also discuss it here, maybe somebody else wants to ...
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| Slap hitting | 6/3/2007 |
Q: When a batter is executing a "slap hit," are they allowed to leave the batters box moving towards ...
A: A batter cannot contact the ball w/ a foot on the ground completely outside the batter's box, ...
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| baserunning | 6/1/2007 |
Q: heres the call, rnrs on 2 and 3 rnr goes for home then returns to 3. In the mean time rnr from 2 ...
A: R1 is still legally entitled to the base. If R2 was tagged while standing on 3rd base they would be ...
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| Runner continuing to 2nd base on a walk | 6/1/2007 |
Q: I have a daughter playing in 12u and based upon watching other teams in previous years I instructed ...
A: In ASA play a runner (inc a walk or dropped 3rd strike) may legally round 1st, they may stop once ...
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| Dropped third strike - 2 situations | 6/1/2007 |
Q: Mark - Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I have two questions on dropped third strike ...
A: 1) Is first base considered occupied? Yes a base is considered occupied until the runner legally ...
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| Infielder playing position | 6/1/2007 |
Q: I commission a U14 league and a coach argued that the infielders cannot play in front of the ...
A: That is not correct. The only requirement is that all defensive players (except the catcher) be in ...
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| Strike Zone | 5/31/2007 |
Q: Please explain the proper strike zone. Where do the Umps make the call? Is there a different strike ...
A: I assume this is fp. The strike zone is the space over any part of home plate when a batter assumes ...
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| Fair or Foul | 5/31/2007 |
Q: Batter hits ball towards third base line. The ball makes contact with in fair territory and bounces ...
A: In a case like this we judge a ball fair or foul where the ball is when 1st touched by a defensive ...
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| Strike Zone | 5/31/2007 |
Q: I'm a first year Ump, working Men's Slow Pitch. Our league is a One man crew. So every game I'm ...
A: 1st of all thank you for being an umpire. Your 1st year will be the hardest especially in 1 man and ...
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| Outfielder/ home run catch | 5/31/2007 |
Q: If the outfielder catches the ball over the fence and she also goes over the fence, is it counted as ...
A: good question the fence is an extension of the field making it legal for a player to climb and make ...
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| bats demarini type | 5/31/2007 |
Q: can 10 11 12 yearold girls use a doublewall demarini asa approved bat it is a slowpitch league which ...
A: If it's an ASA approved bat it can be used in any game of softball. That being said there are many ...
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| illegal pitch | 5/30/2007 |
Q: The organization we play for is a summer league program that states it follows ASA rules. My ...
A: In ASA female fp play she cannot do either or it's an illegal pitch. Once she assumes the pitching ...
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| Foul tips | 5/30/2007 |
Q: Ambrose, My understanding, from the ASA rule book, rule 7? is that the umpire calls a strike on a ...
A: Nice to speak with you again. "Is that the umpire calls a strike on a foul tip, and the ball ...
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| mens softball | 5/30/2007 |
Q: runner on third- batter hits line drive which hits runner while his foot is on the base-ball was in ...
A: What happens in ASA play depends on where the closest defensive player (in this case almost always ...
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| Catcher interference | 5/30/2007 |
Q: Base runner on 3rd and umpire calls catcher interference when the batter is swinging. Awards battter ...
A: Just for future reference it's catcher's obstruction, defensive player obstruct and offensive ...
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| softball catching | 5/29/2007 |
Q: last year my daughter(14yrs. old) broke her thumb catching behind the plate wore a cast and now is ...
A: The thumb is distinct from the other fingers anatomically and biomechanically. Accordingly, ...
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| runner at 3rd base (10 under B) | 5/28/2007 |
Q: runner at 3rd base goes home after we try to pick her off at third base.Is the runner at any time ...
A: A runner at 3rd in 10ub can only score under 1 of 4 conditions, you probably know those. If off ...
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| softball | 5/26/2007 |
Q: this happen in the PSL championship game It didn't come without a little controversy, though. In ...
A: that is the correct ruling, a runner is allowed to leave the base as soon as the legally caught fly ...
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| softball situation | 5/25/2007 |
Q: R1 at 3rd base, R2 at 2nd base . Baatter hits a shallow fly ball toward 2nd base and both SS and 2nd ...
A: I would like to see the play but if F6 had an opportunity to make a play and F5 had not yet made a ...
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| ASA fastpitch | 5/25/2007 |
Q: I was pitching in our league the other night and threw an inside rise ball that the batter bailed on ...
A: Some of the things we look for are, did the batter roll their wrists? was the bat out front of the ...
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| Defensive team coach on field | 5/24/2007 |
Q: This happened the other day. Defensive coach and scorekeeper on third base side in live ball ...
A: Scott, Gosh I'm sorry!!! I misread the question, somehow I read offensive not defensive, senior ...
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| equipment interference | 5/24/2007 |
Q: Runners on 2nd and 3rd. Batter singles to left. Runner on 2nd rounds third, throw is wild and hits ...
A: In ASA play Interference should be called immediately as it happens. If in the judgement of the ...
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| Runner Interference | 5/24/2007 |
Q: Here's our situation from last night's fastpitch softball game. Runners on first and second with ...
A: Even with a "light body check" as F6 is attempting to field the ball, we have interference, dead ...
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| strike zone again | 5/24/2007 |
Q: I played in a slow pitch game last night and the umpire called me out "looking" of all things. The ...
A: if it hits the plate it is a strike--is there any league or rule that plays like this? Not that I ...
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| equipment interference | 5/24/2007 |
Q: Runners on 2nd and 3rd. Batter singles to left. Runner on 2nd rounds third, throw is wild and hits ...
A: If a ball is blocked due to offensive equipment on the field the ball is dead and all runners are ...
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| Baserunner hit by batted ball | 5/23/2007 |
Q: Runners on first and third. Batted fly ball hits first-base runner when she is about 2 steps off the ...
A: when a runner is hit by a fair untouched batted ball AND the umpire calls interference, we have a ...
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| Dropped Third Strike | 5/23/2007 |
Q: A long-winded question similar to one from last summer. Bases loaded, one out, the batter swings ...
A: I believe that question was about a play by the offense that seemed to be planned to confuse the ...
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| girls 10&under softball | 5/23/2007 |
Q: & thanks for your time! first,where can i get an ASA rulebook? here's what happened... my daughter ...
A: you can buy a rule book from the ASA website. If the team went through the batting order 2X and the ...
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| fast pitch or quick pitch in asa slowpitch | 5/23/2007 |
Q: When a catcher throws back to the pitcher, while the pitcher runs to the rubber. He catches it on ...
A: In ASA The pitcher must take a position with both feet firmly on the ground and with 1 or both feet ...
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| double stealing | 5/22/2007 |
Q: since you have been so helpful if you don't mind i would like to ask another question. 9-10 girls ...
A: Ask all you want. In 10uA they play by the same rules as the rest of JO so in that class both ...
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| coach controlling umpires decisions | 5/22/2007 |
Q: recently my daughter (9-10) had a game the there opposing coach, was screaming out the calls ...
A: You can't protest the game but you can discuss this with your softball officials and tell them of ...
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| Crash at plate | 5/22/2007 |
Q: Please clear up I call that I made that may have been bad. It was a bang bang play at home the ...
A: I wish you continued success in umpiring. In this case if the catcher had control of the ball and ...
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| 12u girls fastpitch softball | 5/22/2007 |
Q: Batter squared around to bunt. Lays down the dunt in fair play directly in front of homeplate. Ump ...
A: If the bat is in the hands of the batter when the ball comes into contact with the bat a 2nd time ...
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| Dot Regulations | 5/21/2007 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, The organization I work for is hosting a slowpitch softball tournament, and while ...
A: There are alot of ball out there and they are used in different games and orgs of softball. What ...
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| overthrow at first | 5/21/2007 |
Q: My daughter recently played in a 10u fastpitch tournament. She hit the ball past the shorstop to the ...
A: "The umpire did not award my daughter second base because she turned to the right and did not try to ...
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| 10-under FP stealing | 5/21/2007 |
Q: I understand in 10 & under FP Class B that the runner on 1st or 2nd can only steal 1 base per pitch. ...
A: In 10UB a runner on 1st or 2nd can only steal 1 base per pitch as you say. They cannot advance to ...
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| runner tagged before he vacated base | 5/20/2007 |
Q: Runners at first and second, no out. Groundball hit to me at shortstop. The runner on second base ...
A: CONGRATS!!!...you did indeed get a triple play.... as long as you tagged the runner @ 2nd first and ...
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| rounding first base after a walk | 5/19/2007 |
Q: I'm unclear with the rule!! When the batter gets to first base on ball four, I've been told that if ...
A: If the look back rule is in effect A b-r walked can legally round the base stop once and ...
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| ejections and suspensions | 5/19/2007 |
Q: We had a player ejected from a game and was at first told that he was suspended from the next game. ...
A: ASA doesn't address this except in the case of using a banned bat in a tournie. You are gone for ...
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| trips to the mound | 5/19/2007 |
Q: my duaghter plays 9-10 fast pitch how many trips to the mound in one innning is a coach allowed to ...
A: If you're playing by ASA rules the offense is allowed 3 charged conferences per 7 innings. They may ...
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| Base coach interference | 5/17/2007 |
Q: In a adult amateur game, with runners on first and third, no outs, a fly ball is hit to left-center. ...
A: Ok, here's the rule 8-7-O When a coach intentionally interferes with a batted or thrown ball or ...
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| out field | 5/17/2007 |
Q: According to the ASA official rules, How many girls may I have in the outfield for the pigtail ...
A: I don't what the pigtail division is but it doesn't matter to the answer. Except in co-ed, In ASA ...
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| Commitment line | 5/16/2007 |
Q: 2 questions for you. #1. Runner on 3rd base, less than 2 outs. Batter hits a fly ball to ...
A: In ASA play the only div that uses a committment line is senior sp play and uses 2 home plates. To ...
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| blocked ball | 5/16/2007 |
Q: Is it a blocked ball if the 1st base coach pick up the ball that is still lived? Coach did not ...
A: A coach should never pick up or purposely touch a ball that is live. Since there was nothing going ...
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| Base runner hit with a batted ball. | 5/15/2007 |
Q: A base runner is hit with a batted ball before it passes an infielder other than the pitcher, is she ...
A: If it's a fair batted ball and the runner is not standing on a base... We have a dead ball, runner ...
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| asa fastitch softball youth coach pitch | 5/15/2007 |
Q: we were in a game lastnight runners on 1st and 2nd batter hit the ball the ball was hit and fielded ...
A: I didn't see the play, obviously but... If a defensive player loses control of the ball during a ...
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| Fly Ball Question | 5/14/2007 |
Q: Here's what happened last week playing softball. A fly ball was hit far out to left field. Running ...
A: The batter is not out, the ball continues to be live and runners advance at their own risk for as ...
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| Injured player re: lineup change | 5/14/2007 |
Q: I recently took a hard gounder off my right middle finger, completed the play to get us out of the ...
A: If you had a legal substitute available, he would simply sub in for you and bat and then play ...
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| Fair, Foul or Out | 5/14/2007 |
Q: We had a confusing play in a ASA fastpitch softball game that we want clarified. A player bunted ...
A: Ok let's settle this "by the book". By rule if the bat is out of the batter's hands (dropped or ...
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| drop 3rd strike | 5/13/2007 |
Q: ASA A catcher drop a ball on a 3rd strike. Ball get away. Batter-Runner running toward 1st base to ...
A: There's a couple things that can go on here. Defensive player and b-r can now use either part of ...
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| Running with bat... | 5/12/2007 |
Q: Here is the situation. Under 8 girls softball game. Top of the 6th inning. Defense is up by a ...
A: It doesn't matter if the ump told her to carry the bat or not...it is not illegal to carry your bat ...
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| retouch of 1st base | 5/11/2007 |
Q: On another board, much disagreement on whether a runner who turns right after touching 1st, must ...
A: In ASA play in this situation a b-r over-running 1st with a playable live ball can continue on to ...
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| 9/10 girls fp playing asa rules | 5/11/2007 |
Q: If a player is on third base, player on first steals and is now on second, def. team always throws ...
A: 10UA plays by the same rules as the rest of JO In 10uB you can score from 3rd on a batted ball a ...
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| Re-entry | 5/10/2007 |
Q: In ASA Co-ed play. It has always been my understanding that once a player was substituted for in the ...
A: he can sub back in only at the batting position he originally occupied. 1 starts and is B1 11 subs ...
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| Re-entry | 5/10/2007 |
Q: In ASA Co-ed play. It has always been my understanding that once a player was substituted for in the ...
A: Any player may be subbed for and re-enter once in the same batting position It's pretty easy but ...
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| ground rule double | 5/10/2007 |
Q: What are the rules regarding base runners already on base when a ground rule double is ruled. I had ...
A: I had an umpire tell me that if there is a runner on third and only on third and somebody its a ...
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| Umpire mistakenly calls a catch | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I play Men's D slowpitch. The situation was a runner on first, nobody out. The batter hits a ...
A: This is a difficult situation (for everyone). One of the hardest calls an umpire has is a sharp low ...
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| HBP | 5/9/2007 |
Q: I have been an umpire and a coach for the past 9 years and have never heard of this rule. Our ...
A: sometimes I just wonder.....where they get stuff? "I can't find this anywhere in my rule ...
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| In field fly rule Sliding into home. | 5/9/2007 |
Q: Please explain this rule, our umpire uses this very often. Is there a rule that you have to attempt ...
A: Is there a rule that you have to attempt to slide if the play is at home? Unless you have local ...
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| bunt attempt | 5/9/2007 |
Q: On a bunt attempt, is it automatically a strike if the batter doesn’t pull the bat back out of the ...
A: No the bat may be left across the plate. There must be movement of the bat to the ball as it ...
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| infield fly rule | 5/8/2007 |
Q: I was recently in a game where an infield fly was called. There were runners on 2nd and 3rd with no ...
A: First of all this is NOT an infield fly w/ runners on 2nd and 3rd. That's the 1st problem. The ...
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| ASA girls fp rules | 5/5/2007 |
Q: I can't seem to find this, but beleive I have seen it before. This is a 2 part question. We have a ...
A: part 1, by f3 touching the bag 1st the force is removed and r1 is safe on the bag part 2 is ...
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| No Hesitation Walk Rule | 5/5/2007 |
Q: How does the "no hesitation" rule work? Under walk circumstances can/can't the runner advance. How ...
A: There is no specific rule called that. I assume you are asking what the b-r can do under the look ...
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| Check swing | 5/4/2007 |
Q: In a recent 14U ASA game we had an ump who called strikes on check swings. In each case it looked as ...
A: POE 10 helps us with checked swings did the batter roll their wrists did the batter swing through ...
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| 2 part question...pitching & times | 5/4/2007 |
Q: Hey Mark, I am pretty sure I am correct in this as my husband is a picthing coach and we have ...
A: part 1 is still the same part 2 you can have 3 defensive conferences per 7 innings and 1 offensive ...
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| Balk / Illegal pitch penalty | 5/4/2007 |
Q: Mark. I have a two part question. Now in ASA rules, there is no Balk in softball, correct? And if a ...
A: Soory I can't clarify because these are in house rules for your 10u and the leagues are allowed to ...
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| Batting out of order | 5/3/2007 |
Q: Batter #9 bats in batter #7's spot. The first pitch is ball 1. The opposing coach protests at this ...
A: In ASA play....Is this the proper decision? NO in both calls. Since b9 was discovered (it doesn't ...
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| Bunting | 5/3/2007 |
Q: In my daughters game last night the other teams coach has taught his players a strange way to bunt, ...
A: I'm really sorry for taking so long to answer your question. Things just happened over the weekend, ...
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| Thrown ball hits runner | 5/2/2007 |
Q: To clarify the thrown ball hitting a runner interference call. Situation: Bases loaded, B-R hits a ...
A: When we have interference we had a dead ball and all runners return to the last base touched at the ...
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| Thrown ball hits runner | 5/2/2007 |
Q: To clarify the thrown ball hitting a runner interference call. Situation: Bases loaded, B-R hits a ...
A: In your play as described... R1 on 1st being forced to 2nd is out, as f6 touches the base Now R1 ...
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| Balk / Illegal pitch penalty | 5/2/2007 |
Q: Mark. I have a two part question. Now in ASA rules, there is no Balk in softball, correct? And if a ...
A: that is correct there is no such thing a balk in ASA softball. a crow hop is an illegal pitch and ...
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| Simple Clarification Questions | 5/1/2007 |
Q: I play slow pitch softball for men's class D. My questions. 1) B-R hits ball it bounces off plate ...
A: 1) foul ball 2) I cannot give you a full definition. I had an umpire write me and say that running ...
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| Girls U11 Softball | 5/1/2007 |
Q: If the bases are loaded with one out and the ball is hit between second and third base, the third ...
A: The runner is not out if a runner is hit with a fair batted ball after it touches or is touched by ...
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| runner hit with ball | 5/1/2007 |
Q: In a question earlier there was a ball thrown and hit the runners foot, than out of play. My ...
A: That answer was specific for that particular play. In that case they were simply sliding into a ...
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| balk | 5/1/2007 |
Q: What happens if a pitcher drops the ball while on the rubber in high school fast pitch softball? Is ...
A: If the ball slips from the pitcher's hand during the delivery a ball is called on the batter, the ...
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| Ball thrown out of play | 4/30/2007 |
Q: Situation: U14 ASA fastpitch. R1 at second base attempting to steal third. Cather throws to third ...
A: The ruling was incorrect, all runners should have been awarded 2 bases from the last base touched at ...
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| overrunning first on a walk | 4/30/2007 |
Q: This relates to girls 14U fastpitch. Let's say the batter has just recieved Ball 4 and begins down ...
A: After over-running 1st base the b-r may legally turn to their left or their right when returning to ...
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| Designated player in high school | 4/28/2007 |
Q: Can the designated player start the game on defense. For example can you decide to let the ...
A: In ASA play they DP may play defense for any player at any position. Should the DP play defense for ...
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| HIT BY A PITCH | 4/28/2007 |
Q: I coach a little 13 and Under team and we play by ASA rules. The batter was hit by a pitch that had ...
A: In sp a ball that hits the ground in front of the plate is a dead ball and a ball on the batter. In ...
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| ASA 12U fastpitch look back rule | 4/27/2007 |
Q: Mark, Bear with me while I 'frame' my question Girl running to 1st after walk, ball still live. ...
A: I had this question a year or so ago and I asked my friend Byran to help w/ it so that we would have ...
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| asa rules on overrunning first base | 4/25/2007 |
Q: ball was hit, batter ran to first and overran first and turned in play but didn't make a move to ...
A: A b-r may legally turn to their right or left after over-running 1st base and returning to the base. ...
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| Dropped third strike | 4/24/2007 |
Q: This situation happened during a Jr High Girls Fastpitch game. There was one out and a runner at ...
A: Unless the batter interfered with the catcher attempting to make a play. I don't know of a rule that ...
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| guarding 1st base in asa high school softball | 4/24/2007 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose, Can a first baseperson stand directly over 1st base covering the area phyiscally so ...
A: Unless they have the ball or are in the act of fielding a batted ball the answer is no. If they are ...
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| Base Stealing | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I had a situation come up in a game Friday (girls 14U fastpitch)that I question... We had 2 new ...
A: sure there is, if the ball is not in the strike zone, 8-f exception, if no attempt is made to ...
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| Catcher interference | 4/23/2007 |
Q: R1 is on second base and batter his the ball to left center field. Center fielder handles the throw ...
A: Just to start, offensive players interfere, defensive player obstruct. In softball the terms are ...
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| Base Stealing | 4/23/2007 |
Q: I had a situation come up in a game Friday (girls 14U fastpitch)that I question... We had 2 new ...
A: by rule the ball is live on ball 4 unless it is blocked 8-1-c and 8-4-a runners are entitled to ...
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| out of baseline | 4/23/2007 |
Q: the bases are loaded they have a 7 run per inning rule so the batter is walked forcing in the 7th ...
A: You do not want a player to carry a ball out of play, you need not go into the dugout. The runner ...
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| runner hit by batted ball | 4/22/2007 |
Q: Girls 14U Fast Pitch League Runners on first and second with no outs. Infielders are playing in ...
A: The rule is that a runner is out if they are hit by a fair batter ball BEFORE it passes an infieder ...
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| 10U Play at Home | 4/21/2007 |
Q: Runners on second and third with one out. Ball was batted into play and the runners each begin to ...
A: The catcher cannot block the plate or the basepath with out the ball in their control. The runner ...
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| HS fastpitch rule question | 4/20/2007 |
Q: Batter in batter's box performs a drop step bunt for a hit. Bunt is successful and batter reaches 1B ...
A: Let's talk about the batter's box first, it is 7' long and 3' wide 6" from the plate, 4' in front of ...
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| softball, tag-up force out | 4/19/2007 |
Q: I have read the ASA rules and I can't find a direct answer to this question. Can you direct me to ...
A: You are asking about a live ball appeal of a "base left too early" and what can happen It's an out ...
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| DP/FLEX RULE | 4/19/2007 |
Q: WHAT IS THE ADVANTAGE OR TACTICAL USE OF HAVING A DP/FLEX RATHER THAN A STRAIGHT NINE?
A: Yoy might want to ask Mike on forum this question. I'm just an umpire who cares less about tactics ...
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| middle school fast pitch third strike rule | 4/19/2007 |
Q: Runner at first and third there is a dropped third strike. the batter runs to first. The officials ...
A: In this case a base is occupied when a runner is legally entitled to and has advanced to that base. ...
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| softball, tag-up force out | 4/18/2007 |
Q: I have read the ASA rules and I can't find a direct answer to this question. Can you direct me to ...
A: A live ball appeal is an appeal made during a live ball by any fielder in possession of the ball ...
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| 10u girls fastpitch softball | 4/16/2007 |
Q: I started my first headcoach job for my little girl team saturday...the ump. were call foulballs ...
A: I mean this in the nicest way (I really do)but you asked, you're missing the boat here and the ...
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| Third base line tag | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I am an 8 and under softball coach and had a strange situation today. we were on offense with a ...
A: Well as you stated we don't have a legal tag as the offensive player must be tagged with the ball ...
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| fastpitch softball | 4/12/2007 |
Q: It is my understanding that all players who want to play a scheduled game must be present and ...
A: In ASA play a team is permitted to start the game "shorthanded". That would mean 8 in fp and an out ...
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| softball, tag-up force out | 4/10/2007 |
Q: I have read the ASA rules and I can't find a direct answer to this question. Can you direct me to ...
A: You can't find the rule on this under force out because (I know it kind of looks like one to ...
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| Can first baseman stand in baseline when runner running to first? | 4/9/2007 |
Q: My daughter has been playing softball for years and started playing this spring in 10 and under fast ...
A: Defensive player "obstruct" and offensive players "interfere" the terms are not interchangeable. ...
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| appeal play | 4/9/2007 |
Q: can you tell me how to make a proper appeal play when a girl misses a base in high school softball?
A: There are 2 types of appeals in this case, live ball and dead ball. In live ball appeals you simply ...
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| fake tag | 4/8/2007 |
Q: runner on first is stealing and batter hits single to outfield, runner stealing does not locate ...
A: In ASA play in the umpire's opinion if this impeded the runner we would have obstruction. ...
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| substitutes | 4/7/2007 |
Q: What is the rule for starters re-entering and subs. Can a sub re-enter a second time? This is ...
A: IN ASA play a starter and their sub can RE-ENTER once. #1 starts, #2 subs for 1, 1 re-enters for 2, ...
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| infield fly ball | 4/7/2007 |
Q: What is a infield fly ball rule? I think the ball is dead, but tonight I saw that is was not. If ...
A: an infield fly is called w/ runners on 1st and 2nd or bases loaded w/less than 2 outs. It must be a ...
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| Batting out of order | 4/6/2007 |
Q: B1 hits out of turn, double. B2 gets caught as the batter out of turn. What is the status of B1 ...
A: OK... B1 bats and is the incorrect batter, let's say B8 should have batted. B2 now comes to bat and ...
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| fastpitch softball batting out of order. | 4/6/2007 |
Q: First inning. B2 bats first, gets on first. B1 bats second gets on first, B2 to second base. B3 ...
A: On this play I relying on a case book play that states b3 errroneously bats for b1 and the ...
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| Base Running | 4/5/2007 |
Q: My daughter plays high school softball in Oregon and also plays on a travel team. I have seen this ...
A: In ASA play you cannot remain upright and crash into a defensive player who has the ball. You would ...
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| batter running through first and turning in. | 4/5/2007 |
Q: Can a runner run through first and turn in? If she makes no attempt toward second, and simply turns ...
A: not a problem, it's my day off and we're having a winter storm, there's not much to do and I'm not ...
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| batter running through first and turning in. | 4/5/2007 |
Q: Can a runner run through first and turn in? If she makes no attempt toward second, and simply turns ...
A: POE 37 over-running 1st base "After over-running 1st base the b-r may legally turn to his left or ...
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| girls fastpitch | 4/5/2007 |
Q: Batted ball passes fielder and hits runner, is the runner out?
A: There are 2 answers to this If the runner is hit by a fair untouched batted ball that has passed an ...
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| Look Back Rule | 4/4/2007 |
Q: The way I understand the look back rule, you can round first on a walk and stop. However, you must ...
A: While in the circle and in possession of the ball any act by the pitcher that in the umpire's ...
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| Bunting/offering at the ball | 4/4/2007 |
Q: The opposing batter pivoted to a bunt position with the bat extended out over the plate during the ...
A: I'm really glad you controlled yourself so as not to set a bad example for your players......you'll ...
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| pitching regulations | 4/4/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me what the ASA rules are for pitching? Can the pitcher take a step back, both feet ...
A: Sorry for the delay, this is the only ae question that ever got sent to my spam box and I seldom ...
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| interference call | 4/3/2007 |
Q: international tiebreaker - runner @ 2nd. Batter hits ball sharply down past 3rd base to left field; ...
A: This is obstruction not interference. Offensive players interfere and defensive players obstruct. ...
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| Larry | 4/2/2007 |
Q: May Larry RIP .. thanks for all the memories and the love of the game of fastpitch
A: I assume this is true because it has been posted for almost 2 weeks. Umpires in particular are ...
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| Safety issues for a corporate co-ed league | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I am trying to find a safe ball and any other rule modifications to use for a corporate co-ed ...
A: I think that's a good ball. Just some ideas to throw out. No sliding Double 1st base Maybe a ...
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| travesty of the game | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I play in a women's league and at tonight game we were ahead 21-3. I was on second base with no one ...
A: A good umpire..."umpires when they have to umpire". I don't think this is a scenario when we have ...
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| Untucked Jerseys | 4/1/2007 |
Q: Would you please direct me to the rule regarding calling a strike on a player for an untucked ...
A: Certainly some unsporting behavior is more serious than others. A hat worn backward is extremely ...
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| CATCHER VERS FRIST BASE MIT IN FAST PICTCH GRILS SOFT BALL | 3/31/2007 |
Q: My daughter play 10 and under fast pitch soft ball.She is a catchers and sometimes plays first base ...
A: IN ASA play... Any glove or mitt legal for softball is legal at any defensive position. This rule ...
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| infield fly and interference | 3/31/2007 |
Q: Runners at 1st and 2nd one out. Routine popfly towards SS R2 breaks towards 3rd and collides with ...
A: I'll pick this one up for you. I don't know how the contact can be incidental, the defensive player ...
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| high school softball | 3/31/2007 |
Q: in slow pitch softball, if a girl hits the ball and the ball hits a girl on 3rd base and the ball ...
A: Ok let's do a play R1 is on 3rd Batter hits a shot down the 3rd base line R1 is hit by the batted ...
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| Batter interference | 3/30/2007 |
Q: Could you look at the question dated 3/29/07 titled "Batter Interference" and let me know if that is ...
A: I did look at Mike's answer and he states it's for Utrip. We don't have very much of that around ...
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| dropped 3rd strike | 3/30/2007 |
Q: Dr. Mark, no outs, runner on 1st base, the catcher drops the 3rd strike , batter takes off for ...
A: I assume this was more than a step or two. A runner who is called out and continues to run and ...
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| high school softball | 3/30/2007 |
Q: in slow pitch softball, if a girl hits the ball and the ball hits a girl on 3rd base and the ball ...
A: This answer is for ASA play. I assume the player is on 3rd base and does not intentionally ...
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| Throwmax legality | 3/29/2007 |
Q: Mark, you recently answered a question regarding the Thowmax training device and it being used in a ...
A: "Therefore, I feel that it affects the player's safety and renders the player's performance more a ...
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| Stealing | 3/29/2007 |
Q: Time is called with a runner on first. On the next pitch, the runner steals second safely, but left ...
A: Mike and I are trying to get caught up w/ questions from the pool. I believe they were addressed to ...
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| Throw down to 2nd question | 3/28/2007 |
Q: My daughter is the Varsity catcher for her H.S. softball team. She had a question about throwing ...
A: Mike and I are attempting to catch up on the pool questions, A batter in the batter's box cannot ...
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| Batter Interference | 3/27/2007 |
Q: 12 and Under Girls softball Batter attempts to bunt but misses. The ball bounces off the catchers ...
A: The umpire was incorrect in calling r1 out. If we have batter interference in this situation, we ...
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| definition of levels in mens slow pitch | 3/26/2007 |
Q: What are the rules that dictate the level of play that a team or player plays at?
A: This is not an umpire's concern but rather than not answer your question, I can give you some ...
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| Nine Players -- Co-Ed | 3/26/2007 |
Q: At the beginning of the game we had 10 players: M/F battery, 2 M/ 2F infielders, 2M / 2F ...
A: Well I have done ASA coed many times at the highest levels both as an umpire and a tournie UIC so I ...
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| stealing | 3/26/2007 |
Q: My daughter plays in the minor league softball division (9& 10 year olds. Can they steal bases?
A: Unless you have local exceptions to ASA rules or play something else other than ASA.... Yes they ...
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| Tag rule, does the run score | 3/25/2007 |
Q: Bases loaded one out. Catcher catches pop up for 2nd out. Runner on third holds on third, runner ...
A: You are correct the run would count. It would count if R1 scores before the tag or a touch at the ...
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| Throwmax Elbow support allowed? | 3/25/2007 |
Q: My daughter uses the Throwmax elbow support when pitching. This device helps keep her elbow straight ...
A: I actually checked their web site, looks like a good product to me. Part of what it seems to me to ...
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| Ball hit, but doesn't leave the batter's box | 3/25/2007 |
Q: A player on the other team hit a ball that never left the batter's box, but stopped in front of home ...
A: This really has nothing to do with the batters box. It is a fair/foul question. If the ball ...
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| girls fastpitch circle rule | 3/25/2007 |
Q: I have a runner on third base , the batter at the plate gets a walk and i have her run to first and ...
A: The look back rule doesn't go into effect until the b-r touched 1st. A walk is treated as a batted ...
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| Bat blocking home plate | 3/24/2007 |
Q: Is the umpire responsible for or allowed to remove a bat from home plate once the batter is on base? ...
A: Please take this in the good spirit it is meant....umpires are not bat-boys! You will see some ...
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| bat regulations | 3/24/2007 |
Q: I was told at a sporting goods store today that the ASA changed the regulation requirements on ...
A: It depends on your bat, some "grandfathered" bats will be illegal for ASA play in 2008. I can't ...
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| Obstruction on fly ball | 3/22/2007 |
Q: Obstruction rules (ASA, NFHS, several codes) do not allow a runner to be put out between the bases ...
A: Well I was WRONG! Sometimes umpires miss one and I missed this one. After you're last post, I ...
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| ASA slow pitch softball, fast pitch bats | 3/22/2007 |
Q: I mean it seems like a simple no, but we go by ASA rules and we could not find anything stating no ...
A: I know bat manufacturers are now making what they call "slow pitch" or "fast pitch" bats. A bat ...
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| Obstruction on fly ball | 3/22/2007 |
Q: Obstruction rules (ASA, NFHS, several codes) do not allow a runner to be put out between the bases ...
A: My profile states a number of times I am an ASA umpire. I do not answer questions about other orgs. ...
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| Obstruction on fly ball | 3/21/2007 |
Q: Obstruction rules (ASA, NFHS, several codes) do not allow a runner to be put out between the bases ...
A: This answer only applies to ASA play! There are some situations where an obstructed runner who was ...
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| Bat Decals | 3/21/2007 |
Q: I have and use a 2003 Worth PST137, all of the decals/stickers have come off. It has the ...
A: This is only my opinion but I don't think any bat manufacture will send you decals, there are some ...
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| infield fly rule | 3/20/2007 |
Q: I play in a casual "league" (slow-pitch/co-ed) with no umpires. I was playing shortstop, runners on ...
A: "In this league, you see just about everything." I can imagine! In umpire talk it's not a force ...
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| ruling on pitching stance | 3/20/2007 |
Q: Fast Pitch Softball ASA Rules through Rec dept. At what point can a pitcher come off the rubber? ...
A: In ASA play the pitcher must take one step forward with the non-pivot foot simultaneous with the ...
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| softball and/or baseball foul or fair | 3/19/2007 |
Q: the ball is hit in fair territory just in from of the plate, bounces fair, but has enough spin to ...
A: I assume you mean bounces "foul" but then returns to fair territory. In this case if the ball is ...
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| infield fly rule | 3/19/2007 |
Q: I play in a casual "league" (slow-pitch/co-ed) with no umpires. I was playing shortstop, runners on ...
A: No umpires, huh.....must be something on bang-bangs especially if the game is on the line. Ok, a ...
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| Fast Pitch International Tie Breaker | 3/18/2007 |
Q: What is the rule about subbing for the base runner that is initial put on second base?
A: You can use a legal sub for the runner at 2nd, not a problem. Mark Hi again Richard, Thank you ...
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| runner interference | 3/15/2007 |
Q: We had an instance last night at Tampa Bay LL Girls Major Fastpitch Softball. There was a runner on ...
A: If F6 would have had the opportunity to field the ball if they had not been hindered it would be the ...
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| Pitching | 3/14/2007 |
Q: I have pitched through both high school and college and am now giving pitching lessons. I was just ...
A: the rule states the pitcher must take (or appear to take) the signal with the hands separated and ...
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| substiturions | 3/7/2007 |
Q: If I sub player A for B and then want to sub later player B for player C, where will player B go in ...
A: Good morning Dee, I can see why you have a problem because if I read your question correctly you ...
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| Runner interference | 3/7/2007 |
Q: I do understand the intent of the interference rule, which is to allow the defense the opportunity ...
A: Good morning Jim, I agree with a lot of what you say. As both of us know it is a judgement call. ...
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| Runner interference | 3/6/2007 |
Q: Situation: runner moving from first to second on a ground ball to second baseman. Runner jumps over ...
A: As you know interference is the act of an offensive player that impedes, hinders or confuses a ...
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| 12U ASA softball - requesting timeout | 3/1/2007 |
Q: Mark, Whan may the defense be granted timeout during live ball play? Specifically - girl #1 on 1st, ...
A: We're having a winter storm here and my DSL was down, sorry for the delay. I actually think there ...
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| Fly ball/ tag up | 2/28/2007 |
Q: Bases loaded, less than two out, outfield fly ball is caught. All runners advance one base including ...
A: This is a fairly common appeal. It is a considered a timing play and not a force out and the run ...
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| pop up | 2/26/2007 |
Q: I have a question. I participate in slow pitch softball. Today, I hit a long fly ball that hit the ...
A: Well, you should never be called out on this as it is not a legal catch (it hit the fence) nor it is ...
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| thrown ball hit coaches/bucket | 2/23/2007 |
Q: ASA: A bucket that coaches sit near outside of the dugout. Is a bucket not part of the field? Is ...
A: I've got to tell you this is a new one, I've never heard of or seen this before...sitting on a ...
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| miss first base | 2/22/2007 |
Q: Situation: ground ball in infield. Br beats the throw to first base, but misses the bag. Is the ...
A: By rule the runner is considered to have touched the base if they pass 1st base before the ball ...
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| ASA Class A/B rules | 2/20/2007 |
Q: What are the residency requirements, if any, that separate ASA Class A and Class B teams. We are a ...
A: You might want to contact ASA through their website on this (as I am just an umpire and tournament ...
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| missed bag | 2/20/2007 |
Q: Two outs, runners on 2nd an 3rd. Our batter (B5?) hits a double to the fence in left center. She ...
A: If you are playing under strict ASA rules missing a base is an appeal play by the defense. As in a ...
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| missed bag | 2/19/2007 |
Q: Two outs, runners on 2nd an 3rd. Our batter (B5?) hits a double to the fence in left center. She ...
A: Good morning Jim, This is one tough, tough call. If this (as you said) is a 2 umpire system the ...
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| batting out of order | 2/17/2007 |
Q: batting out of order... any advance of a runner(s) and any runs scored are nullified in which I see ...
A: If appealed before the next pitch legal or illegal to the next batter, it means the batter who ...
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| obstruction | 2/16/2007 |
Q: ASA.. If a runner is obstructed, let say between 1st and 2nd base and runner continue to run toward ...
A: When obstruction occurs the umpire will protect the runner to the base(s)they would have made in the ...
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| run down obstruction | 2/13/2007 |
Q: In a rundown situation where several defensive players get involved and the umpire signals ...
A: This is a fairly common occurrence especially at the lower levels of play where the players don't ...
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| ball hits bat after bunt | 2/13/2007 |
Q: I coach a J.V. girl's fastpitch softball team in High school. If a girl bunts the ball and the ball ...
A: It doesn't matter if it's a bunt or any other type of swing here's what happens 1) if the bat is ...
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| ASA slowpitch rule | 2/13/2007 |
Q: (1) Quick pitch, I know I can't do the USSS release, but how long must the pitcher pause/show the ...
A: Rule 6-1-b the pitcher must come to a full and complete stop with the ball in front of the body. ...
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| pitching rules | 2/13/2007 |
Q: Is a pitcher required to show the ball when approaching the mound or can it remain hidden in the ...
A: I'm assuming this is a fp question. When she takes the pitching position she simply must have ...
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| 2 man mechanics | 2/11/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me where to find info about umpiring softball specifically 2 man mechanics and their ...
A: You'll need an ASA rule book (umpire's edition)to read about it. Many ASA areas teach it in their ...
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| size of softball field | 2/8/2007 |
Q: Is there a rule about the dimensions of a fastpitch softball field high school
A: Sure are, under ASA bases are 60', pitching is 40' min fence distance is 200' and max is 225'. ...
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| How to make our coed league more coed | 2/7/2007 |
Q: I help run a coed slow-pitch softball league with a 7:3 men:women ratio. We are looking for ways to ...
A: I would absolutely use a 11" ball for the girls. It's not a big deal for the umpire to switch balls ...
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| catcher obstruction | 2/6/2007 |
Q: I got this from asa test. a. R1 is awarded 2B and the batter 1B b. The appeal is denied and R1 ...
A: I'm not sure what the question is, my answer agrees with "d" and is supported by case book plays ...
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| catcher obstruction | 2/6/2007 |
Q: R1 at 1B and catcher obstruction occurs on a hit by B2. R1 is thrown out at 3B, but missed 2B on the ...
A: The offense may want CO on this but they're not going to get it. CO in this case is a delayed dead ...
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| Player Ejection | 1/31/2007 |
Q: Team A started with 10 players, team B had 9. Team A had a player ejected in the 3rd inning for ...
A: Good morning Darrin, Unless you have local rules that are different from ASA.... There are a number ...
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| Softball infield fly rule | 1/30/2007 |
Q: I know that but what if there is only one runner on first. The pop up occurs and the runner on ...
A: You are correct that if the b-r doesn't run an infielder can guide the ball to the ground or let it ...
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| Softball infield fly rule | 1/28/2007 |
Q: I am training to be an umpire using ASA rules. Our trainers are telling us that the infield fly ...
A: Good morning Doug, I'm glad you have people mentoring you, too many programs just throw you out ...
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| ASA look back rule | 1/18/2007 |
Q: Mark, No one on base. Batter is walked, runs to 1st, continues past 1st without hesitation directly ...
A: This answer does not apply to JO 10U A runner legally advancing may not be stopped by the pitcher ...
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| fastpitch softball question | 1/14/2007 |
Q: Please explain the look back rule to me.
A: The look back rule is basically (this is a short version, you need to get a rule book or take a ...
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| Sr Slow Pitch | 1/13/2007 |
Q: We have been told that there is a new rule this season which makes a coucht foul tip an out. There ...
A: Sorry for the delay in answering your question, here in MI we're having a winter storm and my dsl ...
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| batter interference | 12/15/2006 |
Q: This question pertains to fastpitch softball. The age group is junior high. On a passed ball or ...
A: I see Larry has already answered your question and I agree with his answer. I can add a little from ...
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| Infield fly rule | 11/29/2006 |
Q: In August, Richard Eddings(sp?)answered an infield fly rule question and suggested that an I.F. is ...
A: I have not read that question or answer but imaginary lines between the bases have nothing to do ...
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| Batting Out of Order | 11/29/2006 |
Q: Dr. Ambrose - When citing a team for batting out of order, should one call for a pitch to be thrown ...
A: If an out of order batter is discovered by the defense while still batting (or about to bat) the ...
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| A force at any base | 11/29/2006 |
Q: If say 1st baseman dives for a ball,ball in glove he only has time to touch base with his freehand ...
A: There is no difference. The rule only requires contact with the base while in legal possession of ...
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| Can a DH be taken out of the game and in his place hit for by the player he was hitting for? | 11/19/2006 |
Q: Here is the situation...from the beginning of the game, we were batting 10, and we were DHing for ...
A: With batting 10 I assume this is slowpitch? In slowpitch we do not have a DH (ASA does not use ...
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| WINDMILL PITCHING | 11/14/2006 |
Q: I've been pitching for the last 2 years of fast pitch softball. recently, a coach told me that my ...
A: I'm sure there is an answer to this, but instead of just giving you the legal requirements of ...
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| infield fly ruling | 11/12/2006 |
Q: Men's City league ASA rules. Runner on first and second one out, batter hits a very high pop-up to ...
A: It is incumbent on the umpire to call the "infield fly" loud enough for players and runners on the ...
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| fog | 11/9/2006 |
Q: the umpires called our game in the top of the second inning due to fog.we are scheduled to play next ...
A: I hope this "clears" up your question, sorry I couldn't resist. The game will restart at the EXACT ...
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| ASA Pitching rules 10u | 10/31/2006 |
Q: We faced a pitcher who after taking position on the pitching plate, swung her arms back twice before ...
A: It's always difficult just from a description so let's talk about some aspects of a legal pitch ...
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| batter box and batter | 10/31/2006 |
Q: Is it legal for a batter to intentionally step in front of the plate with one foot during the pitch ...
A: "I understand that I cannot swing and hit the ball while outside the batters box." You cannot come ...
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| timing play | 10/25/2006 |
Q: Mark, I have a sense of knowing a timing play when I see it or read about it, for example a missed ...
A: Sorry for the delay, I didn't get an e-mail of this question. It's a timing play basically when ...
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| foul ball outs | 10/25/2006 |
Q: when is a batter out on a foul ball? is he out if the ball just tips the bat and goes straight to ...
A: The rule has changed and here it is Starting this season, 2006, the reference of the “height of the ...
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| look back rule 2 | 10/25/2006 |
Q: ASA. Ball 4 on the batter ... if the pitcher has the ball in the circle can the batter-runner ...if ...
A: I'm not sure what you mean by "hesitates". If she fakes, jukes etc. she would be out. Q2 I put ...
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| Fly ball to the out field | 10/25/2006 |
Q: A ball hit to short right and the second baseman chases after it. The ball might go foul if he does ...
A: Everything depends on where the ball is when it is first touched, it does not matter where the ...
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| Batting out of order | 10/24/2006 |
Q: This is a slow pitch ASA softball ? In a game last night the opposing team had a player in the line ...
A: This is a little unusual situation as the opposing team could have corrected their lineup and didn't ...
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| Appeal Play | 10/24/2006 |
Q: I play in a medium pitch league in Albany, Ny.We play under ASA rules. The situation was runners on ...
A: Yes both runs would count if they score before the legal appeal. This is considered a timing play ...
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| hitting ball outside of batters box | 10/24/2006 |
Q: We play in an ASA slow pitch softball league. I was called out for stepping out of the batters box ...
A: Even in tournament play the box doesn't survive the whole game. As you know it is 3' by 7' 6" from ...
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| Titanium & Composite Bats | 10/23/2006 |
Q: I have looked at the list, and have researched the science behind the composite bats. I can not ...
A: Good morning Susan, I understand and agree with what you are saying and I've seen the evolution of ...
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| Bunting | 10/21/2006 |
Q: My 11 year old daughter squared around to fake bunt and was moving the bat around in a circular ...
A: The only rule we have that's even close is that the batter cannot hinder the catcher, but that ...
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| Titanium & Composite Bats | 10/21/2006 |
Q: We are on a 12u softball team, and are participating in a USSSA National Qualifier Tournament. ...
A: I normally don't answer non ASA questions because other organizations are not my forte. However ...
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| Infield Fly rulw | 10/13/2006 |
Q: Slow pitch - limited arc softball. With bases loaded and 0 outs, there was a popfly to the Lifers' ...
A: You know sometimes I just shake my head. Doesn't the infield fly rule apply with runners on 1st and ...
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| the ball | 10/12/2006 |
Q: are you out if you are running and the ball that is hit, hits your foot while your running and no ...
A: If a runner, not on base, is hit by a fair batted ball before it passes an infielder, excluding the ...
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| Foul Poles | 10/12/2006 |
Q: I am constructing a softball field for NJCAA play and plan to use 5" by 30' square light poles for ...
A: Sorry this took so long, I've been looking all over myself. I usually don't answer non-umpire ...
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| Baserunning rule | 10/10/2006 |
Q: I play in an over 60 men's softball league. The following situation occured. Runner A is standing ...
A: I'm afraid I can't help you on your follow up question as I've never umpired a baseball game in my ...
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| batters box | 10/10/2006 |
Q: I see a lot of batters getting a running start while taking a swing at the ball. Sort of like a ...
A: If there was a rule change, they didn't tell us older umpires about it either. Here's what a blue ...
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| Baserunning rule | 10/9/2006 |
Q: I play in an over 60 men's softball league. The following situation occured. Runner A is standing ...
A: As long as the runner did not intentionally interfere with the batted ball 1 of 2 things can happen ...
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| runner interfearance | 10/9/2006 |
Q: bases full less than 2 out,batter hits ball down 3rd ball hits runner standing on 3rd base. is ...
A: As long as the runner did not intentionally interfere with the batted ball 1 of 2 things can happen ...
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| Intentional slow play | 10/3/2006 |
Q: Sir, My question involves intentional slow play. Our team was losing by two runs in the bottom of ...
A: It's unfortunate that the umpire did not address your concern in a more professional way. By rule ...
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| Runner is out or not out | 10/1/2006 |
Q: I recall a few years ago, ASA made a change in the runner getting hit by a batted ball. It said that ...
A: A runner would be out if they are hit by a fair batted ball (while the runner is off base, in fair ...
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| Baserunner hit with batted ball | 9/21/2006 |
Q: If a batter ball hits off the glove of a pitcher, then hits the runner going to 3rd base, is the ...
A: Once a ball is deflected by the defense as long as the runner cannot avoid contact and does not ...
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| Intentional Walk | 9/19/2006 |
Q: Game Situation Runner on 3rd 2 outs extra innings Right handed batter up to bat catcher stands up ...
A: By rule the catcher must remain within the lines of the catcher's box (not the batter's box) until ...
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| fielding | 9/19/2006 |
Q: my daughter is in the 7th grade and this is her first year playing school ball she has played spring ...
A: It sounds to me that your daughter's team in playing 10 and using your daughter as the "flex" ...
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| does the run score? | 9/18/2006 |
Q: asa womens modify this situation took place at a game that played yesterday. my team plays in the ...
A: It's hard to understand how a b-r could score before R1 was tagged but...stranger things happen. ...
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| outfielders positioned at edge of infield | 9/14/2006 |
Q: Our men's slow pitch league changed to wood bats last year. This year, a few teams in the league ...
A: Good morning Kevin, In men's or women's softball the only requirement is that all defensive players ...
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| ASA 10U obstruction and collisions | 9/14/2006 |
Q: Mark, Thanks for the quick answer. I'd like to explore further, hypothetical. SS was indeed not ...
A: Absolutely, obstruction is the act of a fielder not in possession of the ball or not in the act of ...
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| ASA 10U obstruction and collisions | 9/14/2006 |
Q: Mark, I just found this forum and have learned much. My question involves obstruction and ...
A: This has a very simple answer..... A) If F6 was attempting to field a batted ball we have ...
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| DP/FLEX | 9/11/2006 |
Q: My question is a team is using the DP/FLEX in their line up, the coach wants to put the flex in for ...
A: Let's do an example so we're on the same page. Let's say the DP is B3, that of course would make ...
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| A force out call | 9/11/2006 |
Q: My question to you is on a force out once the fielder has control of the ball in her glove hand can ...
A: The rules only require contact with the base while the ball is in the control of the fielder, so the ...
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| BASE RUNNING WHEN FORCED | 9/11/2006 |
Q: Playing under ISF Rules when you are forced to advance due to a fair hit ball are you permitted in a ...
A: I'm am not an ISF umpire, I believe ASA rules are very similar but I cannot promise they are the ...
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| touching plate | 9/5/2006 |
Q: ok..lets say there are only 5 home runs allowed in the game... as the game goes on we hit four..Now, ...
A: That is really a strange rule, I've never heard of something like that before. So I'm going to ...
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| fair or foul | 9/2/2006 |
Q: A pop up in the infield. Player is in foul territory, goes off his glove while still standing in ...
A: It doesn't matter where the fielder is it only matters where the ball is. It also doesn't matter ...
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| dropped third strike | 9/1/2006 |
Q: I coach in a U12 "modified" softball league. The entire league - coaches, umpires, girls, parents - ...
A: Had a email problem getting this question, sorry for the delay. A base is occupied when a runner is ...
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| Girls fastpitch umpire responsibilities | 8/30/2006 |
Q: The followup is somewhat hypothetical but interesting. Same situation as above ... the tag play ...
A: Interesting question. I think my 3rd example is a little misleading...I was just looking to give ...
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| fielder control | 8/30/2006 |
Q: With a runner on first and second a grounder was hit to the shortstop. The ss threw to 3rd who ...
A: A fielder must show complete control of the ball in order to have a a valid catch. In this case I ...
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| Girls fastpitch umpire responsibilities | 8/29/2006 |
Q: Runner caught in rundown between third and home, close play at the plate. Questionable whether ...
A: This is a tough question because it involves variables we don't know. On a run down usually in a 2 ...
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| Re-Entry of players | 8/29/2006 |
Q: Ambrose I am running a league in NY that is 3 years in existance. We have came across a situation ...
A: If the sub was reported to the home plate umpire they are now in the game regardless if a pitch was ...
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| Designated Player (DP) situation | 8/28/2006 |
Q: Mens Fastpitch softball. 2 part question. Part#1 At the start of the game the pitcher is being ...
A: Just so you fully understand the relationship between the DP and Flex...the DP (whomever you ...
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| Designated Player (DP) situation | 8/28/2006 |
Q: Mens Fastpitch softball. 2 part question. Part#1 At the start of the game the pitcher is being ...
A: The DP and the Flex (in this case B3 and #10 on the line-up card, your pitcher) can be on defense at ...
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| catchers blocking home plate | 8/28/2006 |
Q: I have read the answer that was given to Ken but is still a little unclear for me! My daughter is a ...
A: Let's talk about obstructon first..obstruction is the act of a fielder not in possession of the ball ...
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| 1 or 2 feet on |
