1. 2012 Rules Interpretation Meeting And Clinic Feb. 19 Sponsored by Kyle Miller, Inc.

2. Agenda Opening Preview of 2012 Pre tournament Rules / Mechanics Break Positioning Quiz Wrap up

3. 2012

4. 3 Tournaments have been completed Tournaments scheduled every weekend in March

5. Kyle Miller College Showcase

6. 2011 62 teams 12 Fields Sunday Rained Out

7. Kyle Miller College Showcase Sept 22-23, 2012 60+ Teams 12+ Fields No Rain

8. Blast at the Beach June 15 – 17 Parker Complex

9. 2012 World Series Salisbury, Md. –July 18-22 10U, 12U, 10-18U-C –July 23-29 14U, 16U, 18U Kissimmee, Fl. –July 28-Aug. 4

10. Clinic and Rules Interp. What you want out of clinic Mechanics – Pre game – Game management – Line-up Cards Rules – Courtesy Runner – Batting Out of Order – DP/Flex – Look Back Rule – Obstruction / Interference Positioning Field Coverage

11. Your Feedback Please go over DP/Flex.. As the UIC, maybe the top five most misinterpreted rules that we must be known because of the frequency that they occur. B and C position review. Mechanics of working together and "getting it right." Coaches interference with runner rounding 3rd base. Illegal Pitching- Crow Hop, Leap and Re-planting( we as umpires are not calling these pitches) Illegal Bats- What we as Umpires should be looking for Positioning of field ump w/runners on base. Going out to cover fly balls to the outfield. Communicating w/fellow umpires.

12. Cover pitching rules---illegal pitches--footwork etc. with demonstration. Illegal substitutions and when coaches get options pitching regulations. what constitutes an illegal pitch? coverage of 3B Not having the UIC bailing you out of a bad call. Work it out on the field with your partner that is doing the game with you. It makes all look bad. Not saying strike three, you are out. Wrong mechanics Emphasis on rules is constantly discussed, however I hear the same old stories; ie, The umpires in the last game or two did not enforce that rule, why are you! All umpires need to be enforcing the rules alike. It makes it tougher on the next guy if you don't do your job. I realize I have no control over how well coaches understand rules, but when you pay so much to play in the tournaments it's the least you could do.

13. I am very interested in general coverage/mechanics with the two man system. We have some umpires that do not move enough especially from behind home plate. Early arrival of Umpires to Tournament Site(s). Some umpires arrive late and the partner is unsure to take Plate or Bases. Parking in different areas away from field is a problem. Be a responsible umpire. Supplying an Umpire Roster with phone numbers, home and cell to contact the night before would be greatly appreciated. METAL SPIKES WE HAVE TO DO A BETTER JOB CHECKING THEM ON THE LOWER LEVEL'S, AND DRESS CODE. 1. obstruction - when to award/or not award a base to a runner, after being knocked down, returns to the base they started from because after the obstruction they believe they can't make the base they wanted to advance to. 2. proper ways for a pitcher to step off the rubber once their hands come together. 3. crow hops - if the back foot hits first - after leaving the rubber - is it always a crow hop?

17. Pre-game with Partner Review of Rules DP/Flex Rule AP Rule Courtesy Runner Charged Conferences Pitching Rule Appeal Process Time Limit – Tie Breaker

18. Pre-game with Partner Field Coverage Batter Runner Going to Third Steals Pick off Attempts Tag-ups Base Umpire Leaving Infield Check Swings Pulled Foot at 1 st Base Batter Runner Tag Before 1 st Base Run Downs Look Back Rule Coverage

19. Inspect Field Check Bases Check Foul Lines Look for Holes in Backstop Look for Holes in Outfield Fence Look for Loose Debris on Field Inspect Condition of Infield Determine Ground Rules

23. Pre Game Conference Coaches / Umpires Inspect line up cards – Can use DP/Flex + 2 AP’s – First AND Last names – Subs listed – Give back for final check Ask Coach – Are all players equipped and in compliance with USSSA rules? Ground Rules – Keep simple / Enforceable Quickly remind coaches – Courtesy runner rule – 3 pitches between innings – All substitutions go through Home Plate umpire – State the time limit 1 hr. 30 min. Starts at conclusion of conf. Ask if there are any questions Be Prepared to answer KEEP BRIEF

24. Communication w/ Partner Outs / Count – Signal Infield Fly - Signal Alert during play, base coverage Appeal Plays – Ask for help, must comply with coach’s request Between Innings

25. Communication with Coaches Before games Between innings Explain calls when asked Treat them as you would like to be treated

26. Stopping of Games Rain Lightning (wait 30 minutes) Darkness Field conditions Protest $100 Don’t stop game unless coach gives HP umpire protest fee Umpire’s responsibility to know and apply the rules, make a decision Coach’s responsibility to know the rules

27. Respect it!

28. Ending of Games Round Robin (Saturday) – Team leading after 7 innings – Time limit 1 hr. 30 min. Finish inning – Tie after 8 innings within time limit International rule starting 8 th inning – Mercy Rule 12-10-8 – Forfeit (not enough players to continue)

29. Elimination Round (Sunday) – Team leading after 7 innings – Time limit 1 hr. 30 min. Finish inning – Mercy Rule 12-10-8 – Need winner International rule starting 8 th inning or start of inning after time limit whichever comes first – Forfeit (not enough players to continue) Ending of Games

30. Line up Cards Must Keep Line up Cards All substitutes go through Home Plate Umpire

31. About the Lineup Card Lineup - defensive positions CAN be juggled/switched/ changed A player can play any defensive position any time { { Note: DP is NOT a defense position P OS NAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell6 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks21 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Smith (flex)19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5

32. POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell6 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks21 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5 Subbing & Reentering # 8, Zink will enter for # 6, Ezell 8

33. Subbing & Reentering # 9, Watson for # 21, Hicks 9 POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks21 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5

34. Subbing & Reentering # 2, Udall for # 8, Zink Cannot have two players ACTIVE (not circled) in the same slot Circle # 8 - she has left the game 2 POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5

35. POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 2 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5 Subbing & Reentering Re-enter # 6, Ezell Circle # 6 - starter reenters Sub & starter cannot be in game at same time Circle # 2

36. Subbing & Reentering # 21, Hicks re-enters for # 7, Begay Find # 21 She is a starter who is not circled so she can come back in But wait! (continued…) POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 2 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5

37. …Continued # 9, not # 7, was in for # 21, POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 2 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5 # 21 must re- enter the game in the same slot she was in before #7 is another starter Not legal - do not allow

38. POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 2 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5 Subbing & Reentering Okay! Okay! Let’s put # 21, Hicks in for # 9, Watson Circle # 21, Hicks - starter re-enters Circle # 9 - sub & starter can’t be in game at same time

39. POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 2 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5 Subbing & Reentering # 5, Tewa will go in for # 6, Ezell Get # 5 and put her in for #6 Someone goes in - someone has to go out A sub & starter can’t be in the game at the same time # 6 had used her re- entry so she is History - slash her 5

40. POSNAME#CHANGES 11Abby Adams4 25Betty Begay7 32Carla Chung18 4DPDolly Perez10 57Edna Ezell68 2 5 68Fran Frank15 73Gigi Gaglio14 89Hilda Hicks219 96Ida Ivanoff3 104Dee Flex19 Substitutes Zelda Zink8Vergie Vega20 Yolanda Yee23Ummi Udall2 Wilma Watson9Tammy Tewa5 Subbing & Reentering Reenter # 9, Watson Find # 9 - she must be a circled sub or an uncircled starter She is a sub who had entered once so this is her last entry 9 Put # 9 in make sure there is a circled # 9 in the slot already so you know it is the same slot she entered on her first entry If # 9 goes in, Hicks, # 21 must leave the slot - Hicks is History Slash # 9

41. Line-up Question and Answer Samples and Techniques

42. Line ups Can have as many as 12 players in line up – 8 position players, 1 DP, 1 Flex, and 2 AP – 11 players in batting order Can start game with 8 players – Out when open spot comes to bat – Cannot continue with less than 8 players If all players in line up – Can drop to 1 less than started in batting order

43. Line ups If all players in line up – Injury Can drop to 1 less than started in batting order Additional injuries result in forfeit – Disqualification Player must be replaced in line up – Must be legal substitution If no substitutes are available – A forfeit results

44. TRUE or FALSE? A team may have as many as twelve players in the starting line-up

45. TRUE or FALSE? For the DP/Flex to be in the game, they must be in the starting line-up approved by the umpire

46. TRUE or FALSE? A team may begin the game with 8 players

47. TRUE or FALSE? A player shows up late and is not listed as a starter or substitute on the line-up card. She is ineligible to play in the game Eligible roster members may be added as substitutes at any time

48. TRUE or FALSE? Pam comes to bat in the top of the 1 st inning in the 3 rd position in the batting order and is wearing #8. The official line-up has Pam batting in the 3 rd position #17. Numbers can be corrected with no warning or penalty

49. TRUE or FALSE? An additional player can be listed anywhere in the starting line-up

50. TRUE or FALSE? An Additional player can play any defensive position but must keep the same position in the batting order.

51. Rule Changes Rule 2.9.B Glove lacing may be any color other than that of the ball. The manufacturer’s logos are not considered a glove color. Rule 2.10 Change the amount of bat safety grip down to a minimum of 8” from 10”. Rule 8.5. E. Sec 5. A batter-runner is awarded first base if: Added E. hit by a thrown ball while legally advancing which incapacitated the batter-runner prior to reaching 1 st base.

52. Courtesy Runner Rule A courtesy runner may only be used for the pitcher or the catcher So who is the pitcher & catcher? – The player who last physically played the position – In the top of the 1st - the players listed as the pitcher & catcher

53. Courtesy Runner Rule Must be a player who has not been in the game The same player cannot run for both the pitcher & the catcher in the same inning -Locked to the position, not the player May be used anytime - even after a pitch to another batter

54. Courtesy Runner Rule *Cannot be replaced by the pitcher or catcher she is running for *Cannot enter the game as a substitute during the half inning she ran as a courtesy runner

55. Courtesy Runner Rule *Exception – Injury & no subs – DQ - & no subs The courtesy runner must enter the game The pitcher or catcher can come back in and run for themselves

56. Courtesy Runner Rule A courtesy runner cannot be used for the DP or FLEX unless the DP or FLEX IS the pitcher or catcher A courtesy runner must run for the batter who hit the ball - not a sub for that batter

57. Courtesy Runner Rule The pitcher & catcher are NOT considered to have left the game if a courtesy runner runs for them Use of a courtesy runner must be reported to the umpire Penalty for violation of rule – Unreported sub -1 st Offense – Team Warning -2 nd Offense – Coach Ejection – Illegal Substitute - Ejection of player and coach

58. Batting out of order

59. Incorrect Batter Not Appealed Continue until Appealed Or Legalized Appealed Batter still In box Proper Batter Assumes Count Batter out Or On Base Pitch to next batter Or attempted play Yes Improper batter is now legal No Proper batter is now out Next due up is the batter following the proper batter Batting out of Order

60. DP / Flex

61. DP/FLEX RULE ADOPTED (3-3-6)  Designated Player (DP)/FLEX Rule replaces DH Rule.  DP/FLEX Rule allows for more participation and flexibility in the game.  Gives coaches more options:  not to use the DP/FLEX at all,  use it to the same extent as the DH was used, or  use the DP/FLEX option to its fullest extent.

62. DP/FLEX RULE ADOPTED (3-3-6)  A DP does not have to be used.  If used it must be noted on the starting lineup.  A team using the DP starts the game with 10, but could end with nine or 10.  Practical application and sample exercises to follow.

63. THE LINEUP CARD  The DP is the offensive player and must remain in same batting position for entire game.  The name of player for whom the DP is batting (FLEX) will be placed in the No.10 position in lineup.

64. THE LINEUP CARD  If replaced by a substitute, the DP position remains in the lineup.  A starting or substitute DP may re-enter one time, as long as the DP returns to the original position in the batting order.

65. ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION  The FLEX may not go into one of the first nine positions for someone other than the DP.  An illegal substitution results.

66. KEY POINTS  The role of the DP/FLEX is never terminated.  A team may go from 10 to nine players and back to 10 any number of times during the game.  The game may end with 10 or nine players.

67. EASY REMINDERS  The DP can never be on defense only.  The FLEX can never be on offense only.  The DP and the FLEX can never be on offense at the same time.  The DP and the FLEX can play defense at the same time.

68. Look Back Rule

69. 1.Is in effect when the ball is live, the batter/runner has reached 1 st base or has been called out, and the pitcher has the ball in the circle 2.Any runner in motion may continue without stopping or stop and immediately move directly back to the base last touched or attempt to advance 3.Once a runner stops on a base, she may not move off of that base

70. Look Back Rule A runner who overruns 1 st base and does not advance without delay to 2 nd base, is committed to first and stop The runner, off base, may not stand motionless Failure of the runner to respond as indicated shall cause the umpire to signal out The rule does not apply if: – The pitcher no longer has the ball in the circle – The pitcher makes a play on a runner – The pitcher fakes a throw

71. TRUE or FALSE? To be considered within the pitcher’s circle, the pitcher must have feet totally inside the pitcher’s circle Both feet must be within or partially within

72. TRUE or FALSE? If the pitcher places the ball in her glove and the glove and ball between her legs to adjust her hair, she is not considered to have possession of the ball The pitcher has possession of the ball (eg., has the ball in her hand, glove, under arm, or chin, between legs)

73. TRUE or FALSE? With a runner on third base and a walk to the batter, the look- back rule does not go into effect until the batter-runner reaches 1 st base

74. TRUE or FALSE? The pitcher must have possession of the ball in the pitcher’s circle and be looking at the runner for the runner to be called out on the Look Back Rule There does not need to be any recognition by the pitcher

75. TRUE or FALSE? A batter-runner who overruns 1 st base and delays in her attempt to advance to 2 nd base is required to return to 1 st base and stop

76. Obstruction and Interference

77. Definition obstruction Obstruction is the act of A defensive player or team member that hinders or prevents a batter from striking or hitting a pitched ball. A fielder, while – not in possession of the ball, or – which impedes the progress of a runner or batter-runner that is legally running bases

78. Obstruction

79. Definition interference Interference is the act of an offensive player or team member that impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player attempting to execute a play. Interference is interference when it interferes!!!

80. Obstruction on the batter → delayed dead ball, after play is finished: (1)option coach – penalty on catchers obstruction or taking the result of the play (2)batter has received first base safely and all runners have at least advanced one base → result stands, no option to the coach (3) when coach does not take option ‘catchers obstruction’ is ruled : batter to first base, runners return to their base unless forced to next base

81. Obstruction on the batter-runner or runner Catcher/fielder needs to have the ball before standing in front of the plate/base/runner → delayed dead ball, after play is finished: (1) runner reaches the base he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred → result stands (2) runner does not reach the base he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred → dead ball, umpire awards the base to the runner that he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred. exception: when an early leave, missed base or interference occurred a proper appeal is possible. (3) runner overruns the base he/she would have reached when no obstruction would have occurred → result stands

82. Interference by Umpire interferes with catcher → delayed dead ball 1) if runner is out → out stands 2) if runner is not out → dead ball and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw

83. Interference by On deck batter interferes with a defensive player 1) who is attempting to retire a runner → ball is dead, runner closest to home plate is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of interference. 2) who is attempting to catch a fly ball → ball is dead, batter-runner is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of interference.

84. Interference by batter - interferences with the catcher, while out of the batters box → ball is dead, batter is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw. - interferes intentionally with the catcher, while in the batters box → dead ball, batter is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw. - interferes with a play at home plate → dead ball, batter is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw.

85. Interference by batter-runner - interferes with the catcher or fielder throw to first base while running outside the 3 foot lane → dead ball, batter-runner is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the throw - interferes with a fielder fielding or throwing the ball or with a fair batted ball → dead ball, batter-runner is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of the interference - interferes intentionally with a play at home plate → dead ball, batter- runner and the runner closest to home plate are out, and other runners return

86. Interference by Runner - interferes with a fair-batted ball, before passing an infielder (excluding the pitcher) → dead ball, runner is out, and other runners return to their base at the time of the interference (if the interference is preventing from a double play, the umpire will also give the second out). - interferes with a fair-batted ball, intentionally → dead ball, runner is out, and other runners return to their base at the time of the interference (if the interference is preventing from a double play, the umpire will also give the second out). - interferes while he/she already has scored or is already out, → dead ball, the runner closest to home plate is out, and other runners return to their base at the time of the interference

87. Interference by Coach/batboy/dugout players -interferes with attempt to retire a runner → ball is dead, runner closest to home plate is out, and all runners return to their base at the time of interference unless forced by batter -interferes with a fly ball → ball is dead, batter-runner is out, and all other runners return to their base at the time of interference.

88. Any person other then team members Ball dead, umpire rewards bases they would have reached in the umpire opinion!!!!

89. Obstruction

90. Obstruction at 1 st Base

91. TRUE or FALSE? A fake tag is obstruction

92. TRUE or FALSE? When a fielder obstructs a runner, the play is a delayed dead ball

93. TRUE or FALSE? It is obstruction if a fielder hinders a runner moving into her path to get ready to catch a fly ball The runner is out if she hinders the fielder’s initial play on the ball

94. TRUE or FALSE? It is obstruction if a fielder hinders a runner by moving into her path to get ready to catch a thrown ball.

95. TRUE or FALSE? A dead ball occurs when an umpire interferes with a catcher attempting to throw out a runner stealing It is a delayed dead ball

96. Interference Question and Answer Samples and Techniques

97. TRUE or FALSE? Interference can be a physical or verbal act by the offense

98. TRUE or FALSE? When a coach physically assists a runner during playing action, interference occurs and a dead ball occurs It is a delayed dead ball

99. TRUE or FALSE? If in the judgment of the umpire, a runner interferes in any way and prevents a double play anywhere, the runner who interferes and the runner closest to home both will be called out

100. TRUE or FALSE? A runner on 1 st base. A ground ball passes the 2 nd baseman untouched. No other infielder can make a play on the ball. The batted ball hits the runner going to second. The runner is out. Any runner is out when a fair-batted ball contacts him before it passes an infielder

101. TRUE or FALSE? If a runner is thrown out when a batter committed interference with the catcher making a throw, the interference is ignored Batter interference is a Dead Ball

102. Catcher’s Obstruction With a runner on 3 rd base only, the batter swings and hits the catcher’s mitt. The batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop.

103. TRUE or FALSE? Catcher’s obstruction is a delay dead ball

104. TRUE or FALSE? The coach or captain of the offensive team may take the result of the play or the penalty for the obstruction unless the batter reaches 1 st base and the runner advances one base safely.

105. TRUE or FALSE? The runner who is standing on 3 rd base is awarded home if the obstruction penalty is enforced. Penalty. Awarding batter 1 st base and advancing all runners, only if forced.

106. TRUE or FALSE? The runner is stealing and is thrown out at home. The offense is given the opportunity to take the result of the play or the catcher’s obstruction penalty which would score the runner. Any runner attempting to advance (steal or squeeze) on a catcher’s or infielder’s obstruction would be awarded the base that they were attempting

107. TRUE or FALSE? The runner advances and scores. The batter is thrown out attempting to advance to 2 nd base. The offense is given the opportunity to take the result of the play or the penalty for catcher’s obstruction Obstruction on batter is ignored if the batter reaches 1 st base and all other runners advance at least 1 base

108. Pitching

112. Double Touch

113. Crow Hop

114. Leap

115. 24 Inch Width

116. Break

117. Umpire Positioning and Field Coverage

118. Your Feedback As the UIC, maybe the top five most misinterpreted rules that we must be known because of the frequency that they occur. Please go over Dp/Flex.. all of the above would be good to review B and C position review. Mechanics of working together and "getting it right." Coaches interference with runner rounding 3rd base. Illegal Pitching- Crow Hop, Leap and Re-planting( we as umpires are not calling these pitches) Illegal Bats- What we as Umpires should be looking for Positioning of field ump w/runners on base. Going out to cover fly balls to the outfield. Communicating w/fellow umpires.

119. Cover pitching rules---illegal pitches--footwork etc. with demonstration. Illegal substitutions and when coaches get options pitching regulations. what constitutes an illegal pitch? coverage of 3B Not having the UIC bailing you out of a bad call.work it out on the feild with your partner that is doing the game with you.It makes all look bad. Not saying strike three,you are out.Wrong mechanics Emphasis on rules is constantly discussed, however I hear the same old stories; ie, The umpires in the last game or two did not enforce that rule, why are you! All umpires need to be enforcing the rules alike. It makes it tougher on the next guy if you don't do your job. I realize I have no control over how well coaches understand rules, but when you pay so much to play in the tournaments it's the least you could do.

120. I am very interested in general coverage/mechanics with the two man system. We have some umpires that do not move enough especially from behind home plate. Early arrival of Umpires to Tournament Site(s). Some umpires arrive late and the partner is unsure to take Plate or Bases. Parking in different areas away from field is a problem. Be a responsible umpire. Supplying an Umpire Roster with phone numbers, home and cell to contact the night before would be greatly appreciated. METAL SPIKES WE HAVE TO DO A BETTER JOB CHECKING THEM ON THE LOWER LEVEL'S, AND DRESS CODE. 1. obstruction - when to award/or not award a base to a runner, after being knocked down, returns to the base they started from because after the obstruction they believe they can't make the base they wanted to advance to. 2. proper ways for a pitcher to step off the rubber once their hands come together. 3. crow hops - if the back foot hits first - after leaving the rubber - is it always a crow hop?

121. Questions For Thought

123. TRUE or FALSE? The ball is immediately dead when obstruction occurs. When obstruction occurs, the umpire gives the delay dead ball signal and announces “obstruction”

124. TRUE or FALSE? The umpire would make signal and call out obstruction immediately, without waiting for the play to be completed.

125. TRUE or FALSE? R3 is awarded 3 rd base

126. TRUE or FALSE? The umpire is required to issue a warning to the 3 rd baseman and notify the coach No warning required

127. TRUE or FALSE? An obstructed runner is awarded protection even if she is responsible for malicious contact or interference when obstruction has been called An obstructed runner may not be called out between the base where the obstruction occurred except if the runner commits and act of interference or malicious contact

129. TRUE or FALSE? A batted ball bounds off the pitcher’s glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline trying to field the deflected ball, and hinders the runner going from 2 nd to 3 rd. Obstruction has occurred. A fielder is considered to be making an initial play on a fair batted ball when she has a reasonable chance to gain control of a ground ball that no other fielder (except the pitcher) has touched.

130. TRUE or FALSE? A batted ball bounds off the 3 rd baseman’s glove and goes to the shortstop, standing in the baseline attempting to field the deflection and hinders the runner going from 2 nd to 3 rd. Obstruction has occurred.

131. TRUE or FALSE? A batted ball goes to the shortstop, she fumbles the ball and the ball goes behind her. She takes a step and starts to pick up the ball when she hinders the runner going from 2 nd to 3 rd. Obstruction has occurred The fielder is considered to be making an initial play if she fails to gain control of the batted ground ball and is within a step and a reach

132. TRUE or FALSE? The 3 rd baseman turns to watch the ball in left field and obstructs R2 before she gets to 3 rd base. Obstruction is called and R2 is thrown out at home plate. The umpire states that the runner could not have made home plate regardless of the obstruction. R2 is returned to 3 rd base without an out being recorded If the obstructed runner advances beyond the base the runner would have reached, in the Umpire’s judgment, the runner advances with liability to be put out

133. TRUE or FALSE? The 3 rd baseman obstructs R2 after she touches 3 rd base and the umpire who called obstruction does not think R2 would have scored regardless of the obstruction. R2 is thrown out at home plate. R2 is returned to 3 rd base without an out being recorded.

135. TRUE or FALSE? The pitching distance for Girls 14U is 40’? 13U and up is 43’

136. TRUE or FALSE? The coach’s box is the area to which the two base coaches (one per box) are restricted prior to the release of the pitch.

137. TRUE or FALSE? A crow hop is the replanting of the pivot foot prior to the delivery of the pitch.

138. TRUE or FALSE? A leap is when both feet are airborne

139. TRUE or FALSE? Fair territory is that part of the playing field within, and not including, the foul lines from home plate to the bottom of the playing field fence and perpendicularly upward Fair territory includes the foul lines.

141. TRUE or FALSE? The primary role of the DP is to play offense (bats/runs) for the Flex. The DP may play defense at any position.

142. TRUE or FALSE? The primary role of the Flex is to play defense only which can be at any defensive position. The Flex may remain in the last position (non- batting) in the lineup for the entire game, or may assume the DP’s position in the batting order and play offense (bat/run).

143. TRUE or FALSE? The DP’s name can be listed anywhere as one of the batters in the batting order

144. TRUE or FALSE? Both the DP and Flex can leave their positions in the lineup and re-enter one time

145. TRUE or FALSE? The DP can be on defense only If the DP is replaced on offense, the DP will leave the game

146. TRUE or FALSE? The Flex can remain in the last lineup position and be on offense only The DP or an AP may play defense for the Flex, the Flex will leave the game.

147. TRUE or FALSE? The DP can play defense for any of the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the Flex can be on defense at the same time.

148. TRUE or FALSE? The Flex can play offense for any of the other players in the lineup. So both the DP and the Flex can be on offense at the same time Placing the Flex in the lineup for someone other than the DP is considered Illegal

150. TRUE or FALSE? The team at bat may use a courtesy runner for the pitcher and/or catcher any time after they reach base other than by substitution. The same runner may be used for both positions in the same inning. Neither the pitcher nor the catcher will be required to leave under such circumstances The same runner can not be used for both the pitcher and catcher in the same inning

151. TRUE or FALSE? Pam pinch hits for the shortstop and gets a base hit. Karen subs for Pam as a pinch runner. Later in the inning the pitcher gets on base. Pam now can be a courtesy runner for the pitcher Players that have participated in the game in any other capacity are not eligible to be used as a courtesy runner

152. TRUE or FALSE? Pam is one of 5 substitutes who have not participated at all in the game. Pam courtesy runs for the pitcher in the 6 th inning and scores. In the same inning, Pam is allowed to pinch run for the shortstop but can no longer be used as a courtesy runner for the remainder of the game. A player can not be used as a courtesy runner and then be used as a substitute in that half inning

153. TRUE or FALSE? Pam is the only substitute. Pam is used as a courtesy runner. Karen bats Pam home but is injured sliding safely into 2 nd base and cannot continue. Pam must enter as a substitute immediately for Karen

154. TRUE or FALSE? The leadoff hitter, Amy strikes out. The next batter, Betty, is knocked unconscious by a wild pitch. Since the team has no eligible substitutes, Amy can replace Karen as the runner at 1 st base. Rule 5.2.A – If injured player is the result of a rules violation by defense, the injured player can be replaced by the player, not on base, who last completed their time at bat. Does not apply to any future at bats.

156. TRUE or FALSE? If a fair-batted ball becomes dead because of bouncing over or, when passing through a fence becomes blocked

157. TRUE or FALSE? If a live thrown ball, including a pitch, is touched by an illegal glove/mitt, or detached player equipment which is thrown, held, tossed or kicked by a fielder

158. TRUE or FALSE? If a live thrown ball (not by a pitcher from the pitcher’s plate) goes into the stand of spectators, a player’s bench, or over/through/lodged in fence.

159. TRUE or FALSE? With no outs, Fran is stealing 2 nd when the batter lines out to the shortstop. Fran is returning to 1 st as the shortstop throws to the 1 st baseman. The throw goes out of play. Fran is awarded 2 nd base Fran is awarded 3 rd base. 2 bases from time of throw, runners direction does not matter

160. TRUE or FALSE? With Fran on 1 st base, Beth hits a ground ball to the outfield. Fran has not reached 2 nd and Beth has past 1 st when the right fielder throws the ball. The throw goes out of play. Beth is awarded 3 rd base, moving Fran home. If 2 runners are between the same bases, the reward is based on the position of the lead runner

162. TRUE or FALSE? If a play is being made on the batter- runner at 1 st base and the batter- runner touches only the white portion of the base, the runner is out Treated as missed base, runner out only if defense appeals before runner returns to first base

163. TRUE or FALSE? A ground ball bounds off the 1 st baseman’s glove into foul territory. The 1 st baseman picks up the ball, dives and touches the orange base with the ball, beating the runner. The runner is out

164. TRUE or FALSE? An uncaught 3 rd strike goes to the 1 st base side of the fence. The 1 st baseman catches the throw from the catcher touching only the orange base, before the runner reaches 1 st base. The batter-runner is out

165. TRUE or FALSE? The shortstop fields a ground ball and throws directly to 1 st base. The 1 st baseman catches the throw, touching only the orange base before the batter-runner reaches 1 st. The batter-runner is out The 1 st baseman is considered off the base, the batter-runner is safe

166. TRUE or FALSE? The runner on 1 st base is stealing 2 nd. After catching a line drive, the shortstop throws directly to 1 st base. The 1 st baseman catches the throw, touching only the orange only the orange base before the runner returns to 1 st. The runner is out. 8.19.E – After the batter-runner reaches 1 st base, either the white or orange can be used by either the runner or the fielder

168. TRUE or FALSE? A pitcher may use tape for protection of an injury on the fingers, hands, wrist, forearm, or elbow provided such tape is neutral in color

169. TRUE or FALSE? A pitcher may wear a 1 st baseman’s mitt when pitching

170. TRUE or FALSE? The pitcher must start with both feet on the pitcher’s plate

171. TRUE or FALSE? A step backward in the pitching motion is legal if it begins before the hands come together No step backward is allowed

172. TRUE or FALSE? Preliminary to pitching, the pitcher must take a position with the ball in the glove or pitching hand, and the hands separated.

174. TRUE or FALSE? If a pitcher does not release the pitch within 20 seconds from the time of receiving the ball, an illegal pitch is called Dead ball, a ball on the batter

175. TRUE or FALSE? An illegal pitch is a dead ball and the penalty invoked An illegal pitch is a delayed dead ball

176. TRUE or FALSE? If all runners advance one base, and the batter-runner reaches 1 st base, the illegal pitch is canceled

177. TRUE or FALSE? All base runners are awarded 1 base The penalty for an illegal pitch is a ball on the batter and the runners advance only when forced by a trailing runner

178. TRUE or FALSE? The umpire who called the illegal pitch shall explain the violation to the pitcher The umpire shall explain to the coach, if requested

180. TRUE or FALSE? If a t-shirt is worn under the Umpire shirt, it shall be plain, short, or long sleeve

181. TRUE or FALSE? The t-shirt, when worn, shall be white, black, or matching the pullover shirt in color

182. TRUE or FALSE? Exposed sleeves of the t-shirt shall be white Must match shirt

183. TRUE or FALSE? The plate umpire is allowed to wear a black cap with no markings Must be a USSSA licensed cap

185. TRUE or FALSE? Base umpires should be 18-21 feet beyond first base and straddling the foul line. Should be in foul territory

186. TRUE or FALSE? The base umpire is responsible for taking the batter-runner to 2 nd and allowing the Home Plate umpire to make the call at 3rd The base umpire has the batter-runner to 3rd

187. TRUE or FALSE? On a routine fly ball, turn, watch the catch, signal out, and let the plate umpire watch the batter-runner touch 1 st base Button hook, watch the batter-runner touch 1 st base

189. TRUE or FALSE? The plate umpire has all runners at 3 rd base

190. TRUE or FALSE? The base umpire always has tag plays at 2nd PU has runner on 2 nd w/ runners on 1 st and 2nd

191. TRUE or FALSE? The base umpire has all tags at 1 st base

192. TRUE or FALSE? The plate umpire has all tags at 2 nd base PU only has runner on 2 nd w/ runners on 1 st and 2nd

194. TRUE or FALSE? The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when there is a runner on 2 nd base only

195. TRUE or FALSE? The Base Umpire should take a position down the 3 rd base line when there is a runner on 3 rd only “C” position

196. TRUE or FALSE? The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when there is a runners on 2 nd and 3rd

197. TRUE or FALSE? Behind and to the left of the shortstop The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when there is a runners on 2 nd and 3rd

198. TRUE or FALSE? Behind and to the right of the shortstop The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the 2 nd baseman when there is a runners on 1st and 2nd

199. TRUE or FALSE? The Base Umpire should be 2 or 3 steps behind and to the right of the shortstop when the bases are loaded

201. TRUE or FALSE? With no runners on base and a ground ball to the infield, come out to the left of the catcher and move toward the pitcher’s circle to help your partner Move in fair territory toward 1 st base

202. TRUE or FALSE? With a runner on 2 nd base only, the initial play is at first base, followed by a throw to 3 rd, the PU will make the call at 3rd

203. TRUE or FALSE? With runners on 1 st and 2 nd base. On a base hit, PU is responsible for the lead runner at 3 rd and HP. Move toward 3 rd base in foul territory. If the lead runner comes home and there is no play, drift toward 3 rd, watch the runner touch HP.

204. TRUE or FALSE? Move toward 3 rd base on a base hit with runners on 1 st and 3 rd. If the lead runner scores comes home without a play, drift toward 3 rd, but watch the runner touch HP. If there is a play at home, move back to a position in the rear and left side of right handed batter’s box

205. TRUE or FALSE? With the bases loaded and a play at 1 st base, watch the lead runner touch HP, then go toward third for a possible play on the second runner

206. TRUE or FALSE? Plate always gives a signal of 2 fist above head and a verbal “full count” when the count is 3 balls and 2 strikes Verbalize “3 balls, 2 strikes”. Signal balls with left hand, strikes with right hand

207. TRUE or FALSE? The plate umpire should always give the count at least every other pitch When requested, after a delay, whenever next pitch could result in a walk or strike out

208. TRUE or FALSE? A plate umpire should change balls whenever requested by the pitcher to keep her happy and not cause a confrontation At beginning of inning, when the ball goes out of play or becomes damaged

209. Questions

210. 2010 USSSA Eastern Pa Umpire of the Year

211. 2011 USSSA Eastern Pa Umpire of the Year

212. Wrap Up