2012 Rules Interpretations /
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NOTE: The recent change in the 3rd to 1st MLB balk rule from the rubber does NOT apply to the NFHS.
Warning about the Inherent Dangers of Baseball
Student athletes and parents should be aware that Baseball, like all sports, will always have inherent dangers. Death or catastrophic injury can result from participation in this sport, and care should be taken by all concerned to minimize such dangers through the use of appropriate equipment, proper training methods and common sense. Although rare, death or catastrophic injury resulting in paralysisis is possible from participation in this sport. In the event of an incident of this magnitude and after a conference call between NFHS officials and effected and interested parties there may be grounds for rule changes put in place for the purpose of the safety of the student atheletes invoved in the game. Care should be taken by all concerned.........The NFHS encourages student athletes in all sports, and their parents, to discuss risks and risk minimization with coaches, school administrators and state high school association officials.
Baseball is the fourth-most popular sport for boys at the high school level, according to the 2010-11 NFHS Athletics Participation Survey, with 471,025 participants nationwide. The sport ranks third in school sponsorship with 15,863 schools sponsoring the sport.
1-3-2 NOTE: Clarifies and places additional emphasis on the importance and legal repercussions of altering non-wood baseball bats.
3-3-1f: Restricts the use of any video monitoring or replay equipment for coaching purposes during the course of the game.
3-3-1i: Restricts the use of any electronic devices in the coach's box.
6-2-2c Exception: Clarifies that an incoming pitcher be treated equally. If a pitcher is ejected, an incoming pitcher should be afforded the same warm-up criteria as if he were replacing an injured player.
POINTS OF EMPHASIS
1. Pace of Play
2. Compliant Bats
3. Pitcher's Stance
4. Risk Minimization
5. Good Sporting Behavior
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 19, 2012) — New language has been
added to the high school baseball rules to re-emphasize that non-wood bats
cannot be altered.
This additional note in Rule 1-3-2 was one of four rules changes approved by the
National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules
Committee at its June 3-5 meeting in Indianapolis. All rules changes were
subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
The new note in Rule 1-3-2 is as follows: “The NFHS has been advised that
certain manufacturers consider alteration, modification and ‘doctoring’ of their
bats to be unlawful and subject to civil and, under certain circumstances,
criminal action.” “Not only is it a violation of NFHS baseball rules to alter a
non-wood bat, this new language emphasizes that an individual could be subjected
to a civil or criminal lawsuit for tampering with a bat,” said Elliot Hopkins,
NFHS director of sports and educational services and staff liaison to the NFHS
Baseball Rules Committee.
Two other changes deal with the use of new technology. Rule 3-3-1f prohibits the
use of video monitoring equipment for coaching purposes during the game, and
Rule 3-3-1i prohibits the use of any electronic devices in the coach’s box.
“Technology has improved to the level that mobile devices can accurately video
different aspects of the game, which provides an unfair advantage to a coach by
replaying the footage in the dugout during the contest,” Hopkins said. “The
committee also agreed that there was no reason to have any electronic devices in
the coach's box.”
The final change approved by the Baseball Rules Committee deals with the warm-up
criteria for a pitcher who replaces an ejected player during an inning. If a
pitcher is ejected, an incoming pitcher will be afforded the same warm-up
criteria as a replacement for an injured player.
Under normal circumstances, a relief pitcher is allowed eight warm-up throws;
however, the umpire may allow additional pitches because of an injury, ejection
or inclement weather.
8/12/12 - Please be advised that the BBCOR decertification
process has been implemented for the Reebok Vector TLS 32-inch model.
Effective immediately and until further notice, this bat (Reebok Vector TLS
32 length) should be considered a non-compliant bat and subject to NFHS
Baseball Rules 4-1-3b and 7-4-1a.
NFHS 2011 Composite Bat Lists are
no longer needed. All bats must be BBCOR certified and stamped.
The two exceptions which are stamped are the Reebok Vector-TLS bat, 33
inch only and the Marucci CAT5 33-inch model, which have both been decertified.
See
photos of the
Vector-TLS
and the Marrucci CAT5.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 6, 2011) — Rules changes approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee will place more responsibility on coaches for rules-compliant player equipment, effective with the 2012 high school baseball season.
At its June 5-7 meeting in Indianapolis, the committee also took steps to define a new tamper-evident protocol for non-wood bats. All changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Prior to the start of each game, each head coach must now verify to the umpire in-chief that all participants are legally equipped and equipment is in accordance with NFHS rules. Such rules include “compliant bats that are unaltered from the manufacturer’s original design and production and helmets that are free of cracks and damage.”
Another rule was added to address unsportsmanlike conduct toward umpires after a game has ended and after the umpires have departed the game site. It calls for state associations to determine appropriate action when dealing with these situations.
In addition, umpires no longer will be required to perform pregame equipment checks, as that responsibility will fall to coaches beginning next year. Coaches can still ask umpires at the pregame conference to confirm that equipment is compliant.
“The committee is placing a great importance on increased coach responsibility,” said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS assistant director and liaison to the Baseball Rules Committee. “It is one of our top priorities.”
Prior to the June 2012 meeting of the Baseball Rules Committee, the NFHS will work with appropriate parties to research and develop a baseball bat tamper-evident protocol for non-wood bats and present the recommendations to the committee for its consideration. The goal for implementation is for non-wood bats manufactured after January 1, 2015.
“Bat tampering is illegal and a major problem in high schools,” Hopkins said. “Everyone is looking for a competitive edge. With this note, we want to make sure that the state associations, coaches, teams and the public are aware that we are committed to minimizing any risk for players with bat tampering.”
In addition, a minor change to Rule 1-3-5 states that “No artificial or intentional means shall be used to control the temperature of the bat,” based on scientific research that altering the bat damages the bat and poses an unnecessary risk of injury.
Changes to Rules 1-5-8 and 3-1-6 deal with players’ equipment on the field. State associations may now authorize exceptions to NFHS rules to provide “reasonable accommodations to individual participants with disabilities and/or special needs and unique and extenuating circumstances,” so long as they do not fundamentally interfere with the sport. Players and coaches must also clean or remove “any” (formerly “excessive”) amount of blood from a uniform or piece of equipment before being allowed back into the game.
Other rules changes approved by the committee include:
SITUATION 1: B1 walks to the batter’s box with a bat that has (a) a BBCOR certification mark on the barrel; (b) both a BBCOR and a BESR certification mark on the barrel; or (c) only a BESR certification mark on the barrel. RULING: In both (a) and (b), the bat is legal and may be used. In (c), a bat without a BBCOR certification is an illegal bat. Had B1 entered the batter’s box with this bat, he would be declared out. (1-3-2d, 7-4-1a)
SITUATION 2: B1 enters the batter’s box with a bat that has a BBCOR certification mark that measures 1¼ inch by ½ inch. The catcher sees that the certification mark does not meet the rule book requirement and wants the bat declared illegal. RULING: The bat is legal. While the certification mark is not 1 inch-by-1 inch, the key point is that the bat is a legal BBCOR bat and does have a certification mark. B1 may use the bat. (1-3-2d)
SITUATION 3: It is a cold, blustery day and the plate umpire looks into the home team’s dugout and observes two players warming their bats over a space heater. RULING: The plate umpire shall inform the head coach that the two bats in question are now illegal because of the use of the space heater and cannot be used for the remainder of the game. (1-3-5)
SITUATION 4: The home team’s third baseman takes his position on the infield. The visiting team’s head coach notices his glove and protests to the plate umpire that the glove is illegal. The home team’s head coach comes out and voices his belief that the glove is legal for play. RULING: The umpire-in-chief shall rule on the legality of the glove. Any questions regarding the legal use of a player’s equipment shall be resolved by the umpire-in-chief. (1-5-10)
SITUATION 5: As the catcher is receiving warm-up throws from the pitcher, the plate umpire notices that he has some blood on his jersey. The catcher’s coach argues that the amount of blood is insignificant. RULING: If there is any amount of blood on the uniform, it shall be changed or cleaned before that individual participates again. (3-1-6)
SITUATION 6: The second baseman has a cut on his arm and some blood has soaked into his jersey. The team does not have a means to clean the uniform and the player does not have a backup jersey with him. RULING: The player must change the jersey before he can participate again. He may borrow another player’s jersey (and inform the opposing team of the number change), use a jersey from a player on the junior varsity or freshman team, or even obtain a T-shirt and place his jersey number on it. While the player must change to another jersey, he does not have to wear the identical style uniform he had to start the game. (3-1-6)
SITUATION 7: S1 has been in the game for several innings, playing for the shortstop. On a play at second, he scrapes his knee and there is some blood on his uniform pants. The team does not have another pair of pants that he may use and has no means to clean them. RULING: S1 must change or clean the pants before he may participate again in the game. Since he must leave the game, and the re-entry rule applies, S1 cannot return. (3-1-6, 3-1-3)
SITUATION 8: U1 and U2 have just cleared the confines of the field with the game having ended, and look back to the field to see several players and coaches engaged in a shoving confrontation. RULING: While their jurisdiction over the contest ended when they left the playing field at the conclusion of the game, both officials retain authority to provide a report on what they observed to their state association. (10-1-2)
SITUATION 9: It was a close, tumultuous, emotion-filled rivalry game between two competitively close teams. The game ended on a controversial play at the plate with the home team losing by one run. As the umpires leave the field and are walking to their cars in the parking lot, an assistant coach and some parents follow them wanting to discuss the play and offer their opinions on the umpires’ ability to officiate. RULING: Game personnel shall not confront or direct unsportsmanlike conduct to game officials after the game has concluded. Since the umpires have left the playing field, they cannot eject the coach, but do retain the authority to provide a report to their state association. The state association shall determine appropriate action. (3-1-7 Penalty, 10-1-2)
SITUATION 10: With a hard slide at second base, R1 and F6 exchange words that leads to a fight. Several players leave the dugout and advance to near the foul line, where they stop. They do not engage in any confrontational activity. RULING: The players are ejected. Players who leave their positions on the field or the bench during a fight or physical confrontation are to be ejected. (3-3-1q)
SITUATION #11: At the pre-game conference, the head coaches of both teams verify that their respective teams are properly equipped and are using legal equipment. In the third inning, B1 hits a single and the plate umpire notices before the next pitch that the bat has only a BESR certification mark. RULING: The bat is illegal and B1 is declared out. The head coach is restricted to the dugout for the balance of the game. (4-1-3b Penalty, 7-4-1a)
SITUATION #12: At the pre-game conference the visiting head coach verified that his team was properly equipped and was using legal equipment. In the third inning, his lead-off batter entered the batter’s box with a bat that was determined to have been altered. The batter was declared out and the head coach was restricted to the bench. In the sixth inning, B2 enters the batter’s box with a bat that he had artificially kept warm. The opposing team brings that action to the attention of the plate umpire.RULING: Any bat that has been altered from the manufacturer's original design or has used artificial or intentional means to control its temperature is an illegal bat. The lead-off batter and B2 are both declared out, and the head coach is ejected from the game because this is his second offense in the game. (1-3-5, 4-1-3b Penalty, 7-4-1a)
SITUATION 13: At the pregame conference, the home team’s head coach verifies that his team is properly equipped and is using legal equipment. In the second inning, with two outs, B4 takes his position in the batter’s box with a batting helmet that is cracked on the side of the helmet. RULING: The helmet shall be immediately removed from play and B4 shall obtain a legal helmet. (4-1-3b Penalty)
SITUATION 14: How many pitches and with how much time do pitchers have to complete their warm-up throws? RULING: The starting pitcher and any relief pitcher may warm up by using not more than eight throws completed in one minute timed from the first throw. A pitcher who was the pitcher in the prior inning may warm up by using not more than five throws completed in one minute timed from the third out of the previous half-inning. (6-2-2c Exception)
SITUATION 15: Runch, who was the starting pitcher, takes the mound in the fifth inning and takes his five warm-up throws. After getting B1 out, he changes positions with the first baseman, Lewis, who takes his eight warm-up throws. Lewis gets B2 to pop out and Runch now returns to pitch. How many warm-up throws is Runch allowed? RULING: When Runch became a first baseman, he obviously no longer was the pitcher in the game. When he legally returns to pitch later in the same inning, he is considered to be a relief pitcher. Accordingly, Runch is allowed up to eight warm-up throws to be completed in one minute timed from the first throw. (6-2-2c)
SITUATION 16: As the umpires enter the field prior to the game, the home team’s head coach tells them that his bats are ready for inspection. RULING: The umpire-in-chief’s duties are to inspect the condition of the field, receive the batting order of both teams, announce any special ground rules, designate the official scorer and see that each player properly takes care of his glove and loose equipment. It is no longer mandatory for the umpires to inspect the bats and helmets of each team. Prior to the start of the game, both head coaches are to verify to the umpire-in-chief that their players are properly equipped and are using only legal equipment. (4-1-3b, 10-2-3a)
SITUATION 17: With one out and R1 on third base, the head coach puts on a squeeze play. B3, a left-handed batter, steps with his left foot on home plate and pops up to the pitcher, who catches the ball and throws to third base for an apparent inning-ending double play. RULING: B3 has illegally batted the ball and the ball becomes immediately dead. R1 is returned to third base and B3 is declared out for the second out of the inning. (5-1-1b, 7-3-2 Penalty)
SITUATION 18: In the bottom of the eighth inning, the score is tied, with the bases loaded and two outs. B6 draws a walk and runs and touches first base. B1 trots in from third and touches home plate. B2, however, begins celebrating and never touches third base. RULING: All runners must legally touch the next base in advancing. If the defense legally appeals while at least one umpire is still on the field of play, B2 is declared out for the third out. Since this out would be a “force” out, no runs would score and the game would continue into the ninth inning. (8-2-1, 8-2-6j, 9-1-1a and d)
SITUATION 19: Having already had an offensive conference, the head coach asks for time to talk with the new batter. U1 informs the coach that he is allowed only one charged conference per inning while on offense. The head coach ignores U1 and attempts to talk with the batter. RULING: U1 should do his best to professionally prevent the offensive conference from taking place. If the conference is taking place before the plate umpire realizes the infraction, he should stop the conference and warn the coach. If the head coach ignores the umpire and holds his conference to completion, he shall be restricted to the bench. Depending upon his subsequent behavior, the coach may be subject to ejection. Upon being notified by the plate umpire that the conference is not allowed, the head coach should stop his conference and he and his player return to their positions. (3-4-2, 10-1-1)
SITUATION 20:
With runners on first and second and no outs, B3 has a 1-2 count. The next pitch
is swung at and missed. The ball skips underneath the catcher’s glove, bounces
up and lodges in the plate umpire’s clothing. While everyone is looking
for the ball, R1 scores, R2 advances to third base and B3 obtains first base.
RULING: Once the ball is found in the umpire’s clothing, the
ball is declared to be dead immediately. R1 will be awarded third base and R2
will be awarded second base. B3 is declared out. (5-1-1g4, 7-4-1b,
8-3-3d)
1-1-2
Addition: The umpire shall not accept the lineup card until all substitutes are
listed. There is no penalty assessed.
Rationale: Having all known substitutes listed will speed up substitution and
player changes. A coach will still be able to add a substitute to the game with
no penalty.
1-3-2 through 5
Effective beginning the 2010-11 school year, composite bats shall be
illegal until meeting the standards of 1-3-2(e). ART. 2 . . . The bat shall have
the following characteristics and components.
a. Each legal wood, aluminum or composite bat shall:
1. Be one piece, multi-pieces and permanently assembled, or two pieces
with interchangeable barrel construction.
2. Not have exposed rivets, pins, rough or sharp edges or any form of exterior
fastener that would present a hazard.
3. Be free of rattles, dents, burrs, cracks and sharp edges. Bats that are
broken, altered or that deface the ball are illegal. Materials inside the bat or
treatments/devices used to alter the bat specifications and/or enhance
performance are prohibited and render the bat illegal.
b. Each legal wood, aluminum or composite bat shall
have the following components:
1. Knob. The bat knob shall protrude from the handle. The knob may be
molded, lathed, welded or permanently fastened. Devices, attachments or
wrappings are permitted except those that cause the knob to become flush with
the handle. A one-piece rubber knob and bat grip combination is illegal.
2. Handle. The bat handle is the area of the bat that begins at, but does not
include, the knob and ends where the taper begins.
3. Barrel. The barrel is the area intended for contact with the pitch. The
barrel shall be round, cylindrically symmetric and smooth. The barrel may be
aluminum, wood or composite (made of two or more materials). The type of bat
(wood, aluminum or composite) shall be determined by the composition of the
barrel.
4. Taper. The taper is an optional transition area which connects the narrower
handle to the wider barrel portion of the bat. Its length and material may vary
but may not extend more than 18 inches from the base of the knob.
5. End Cap. The end cap is made of rubber, vinyl, plastic or other approved
material. It shall be firmly secured and permanently affixed to the end of the
bat so that it cannot be removed by anyone other than the manufacturer, without
damaging or destroying it. By definition, a one-piece construction bat does not
have an end cap.
c. Each bat not made of a single piece of wood shall:
1. Have a safety grip made of cork, tape (no smooth, plastic tape) or
commercially manufactured composition material. The grip must extend a minimum
of 10 inches, but not more than 18 inches, from the base of the knob. Slippery
tape or similar material shall be prohibited. Resin, pine tar or any drying
agent to enhance the hold are permitted only on the grip. Molded grips are
illegal.
2. Be 2 5/8” or less in diameter at thickest part and 36 inches or less in
length.
3. Not weigh, numerically, more than three ounces less than the length of the
bat (e.g., a 33-inch-long bat cannot be less than 30 ounces).
d. Through December 31, 2011, each aluminum bat shall meet the Ball Exit-Speed
Ratio (BESR) performance standard, and such bats shall be labeled with a
silkscreen or other permanent certification mark. No BESR label, sticker or
decal will be accepted on any non-wood bat.
e. Beginning January 1, 2012, all bats not made of a single piece of wood shall
meet the Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) performance standard,
and such bats shall be labeled with a silkscreen or other permanent
certification mark. The certification mark shall be rectangular, a minimum of a
half-inch on each side and located on the barrel of the bat in any contrasting
color. Aluminum and composite bats shall be labeled as approved tamper evident,
and be marked as to being aluminum or composite. This marking shall be
silkscreen or other permanent certification mark, a minimum of one-half-inch on
each side and located on the barrel of the bat in any contrasting color.
f. An aluminum bat meeting the standards of
1-3-2(e) is legal immediately.
g. A composite bat shall be illegal until
meeting the standards of 1-3-2(e).
ART. 3 . . . A bat made of a single piece of wood may be roughened or wound with
tape not more than 18 inches from the handle end of the bat. No foreign
substance may be added to the surface of the bat beyond 18 inches from the end
of the handle. Each bat made of a single piece of wood shall be:
a. 2¾ inches or less in diameter at the thickest part
b. 36 inches or less in length
ART. 4 . . . Only bats may be used in warming up (including weighted bats used
for this purpose) at any location. Only bats and items designed to remain part
of the bat, such as weighted bats, batting donuts, and wind-resistant devices
are legal at any location.
ART. 5 . . . Bats that are altered from the manufacturer’s original design and
production, or that do not meet the rule specifications, are illegal (See
7-4-1a). No foreign substance may be inserted into the bat. Bats that are
broken, cracked or dented or that deface the ball, i.e., tear the ball, shall be
removed without penalty. A bat that continually discolors the ball may be
removed from the game with no penalty at the discretion of the umpire.
Rationale: Recent bat products have circumvented the intent and spirit of the
current rule. Improvements in science and technology now allow this change that
will require bats to be within performance limits during the life of the bat. In
addition, this change will minimize the ability for the bat to be tampered with
or altered.
1-5-8
Change: Hard and unyielding items (guards, casts, braces, splints, etc.)
must be padded with a closed-cell, slow-recovery foam padding no less than 1/2"
thick. Knee and ankle braces which are unaltered from the manufacturer's
original design/production do not require any additional padding.
Rationale: Risk minimization and clarification from the NFHS Sports Medicine
Advisory Committee.
2-16-2
Change: A foul tip is a batted ball that goes directly to the catcher's
hands and
is legally caught by the catcher. It is a strike and the ball is in play.
Rationale: Clarification and ease of application for the umpires and coaches.
3-1-5
New: Any player who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with
a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or
balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the game and shall not
return to play until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. (See
NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussions)
Rationale: Clarification from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee
8-2-6l
New: Last Time By. If a runner correctly touches a base that was missed
(either in advancing or returning), the last time he was by the base, that last
touch corrects any previous base running-infraction.
Composite bats that meet the Ball Exit Speed Ratio (BESR) and the Accelerated Break In (ABI) Procedure and approved for the 2010-11 academic year:
NFHS Approved BESR-ABI Composite Baseball Bats
Composite bat BBCOR standard requires compliance with Accelerated Break In (ABI) testing; i.e., the bat remains within the performance limits throughout its life. Current composite bats exceed the top performance limit with use.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 16, 2010) — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), in a ruling by its Board of Directors, announced today that waivers or modifications of the recent ban on composite bats in high school baseball may be considered in certain circumstances.
Earlier this month, the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee approved a new rule that bans composite bats, effective with the 2010-11 school year, until they can meet the Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) performance standard.
The NFHS enacted the ban on composite bats because of a concern about the increased performance of the bats after the initial “break-in” that would lead the bats to exceed the current Ball Exit Speed Ratio (BESR) standard or the BBCOR standard take takes effect in the 2011-12 school year.
After reviewing information from Dr. James Sherwood, director of the Baseball Research Center at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell; Dr. Alan Nathan, University of Illinois; and the NCAA, as well as consulting with manufacturers, the NFHS Board of Directors has agreed that if certain types or models of composite bats can produce consistent results through the life of the bat and remain within the applicable test standard, a waiver or modification of the rule may be considered.
The NFHS is the recognized national playing-rules maker for high school sports and publishes playing rules in 17 sports for the more than 7.5 million young people involved in interscholastic athletic programs.
“The NFHS is concerned about minimizing the inherent participation risks faced by student-athletes in high school sports, which is why standards have been placed on baseball bats,” said Bob Gardner, NFHS executive director. “At the same time, our Board is open to discussion with bat manufacturers regarding a waiver for composite bats that can meet the current BESR standard or the new BBCOR standard. We have advised the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association in this regard.”
In addition to manufacturers, the NFHS welcomes input from other interested parties.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 7, 2010) — One of six new rules changes by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee forbids the use of composite bats until they can meet the Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) performance standard. The changes, which were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors, will take effect with the 2010-11 school year.
After thorough testing by the Baseball Research Center at the University of Massachusetts–Lowell, the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee voted to outlaw composite bats until they can produce consistent results through the life of the bat, be made tamper-evident and be labeled as a composite product.
Elliot Hopkins, NFHS liaison to the Baseball Rules Committee, visited with James Sherwood, director of the Baseball Research Center, and spent several hours witnessing composite bat testing. “Rolling the bat gives it a higher performance,” Hopkins said. “It can significantly increase the performance and that’s huge in our game.”
Rolling the bat isn’t the only problem. Rolling only speeds up the performance enhancement that would occur over time after normal use. Even composite bats that were not altered will eventually see this increase in performance, and the rules committee views that as a major concern.
Rule 1-3-2 through 5 was completely rewritten with the intention of creating a rule that preserves the intent and spirit of the old rule, but is better suited to products resulting from new technology.
Under the new rule, bats with composite handles and tapers would still be legal. The stricter language applies primarily to the barrel of the bat.
“While the handles and taper are important components of the bat,” Hopkins said, “the area that we recognized as more susceptible to abuse is the barrel.”
Other rules changes this year aim at increasing convenience for coaches and umpires by simplifying the substitution policy and clarifying several rules.
Rule 1-1-2 now requires coaches to list all known substitutes on the lineup card before the umpire accepts it. Coaches will still be able to add a substitute without a penalty, but this should speed up substitutions and player changes during the game.
A change to Rule 2-16-2 was also made to clarify an existing rule and ease its application for coaches and players. The rule now reads: “A foul tip is a batted ball that goes directly to the catcher’s hands and is legally caught by the catcher. It is a strike and the ball is in play.”
Similarly, a “last-time-by” rule has been instituted. The new rule states that if a runner correctly touches a base that was missed the last time he was by the base, that last touch corrects any previous base-running infraction. This last-time-by practice is commonly accepted, but is now legally Rule 8-2-6l.
The last two rules changes were approved on recommendation from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. First, in a change to Rule 1-5-8, all hard and unyielding items such as braces, casts, etc., must be padded with a closed-cell, slow-recovery foam padding no less than one-half-inch thick. Knee and ankle braces that are unaltered from the manufacturer’s original design/production do not require additional padding.
Second is an update to concussion language that has been added to the rules for all high school sports. The new rule, 3-1-5, puts strict constraints on players who may have suffered a concussion. The rule states that any player who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion, including but not limited to loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion of balance problems, must be removed from the contest immediately and shall not return to play before being cleared by an appropriate health-care professional.
A complete listing of all rules changes approved by the committee is available on the NFHS Web site at www.nfhs.org. Click on “Athletics & Fine Arts Activities” on the home page, and select “Baseball.”
Baseball is the fourth-most popular sport for boys at the high school level, according to the 2008-09 NFHS Athletics Participation Survey, with 473,184 participants nationwide. The sport ranks third in school sponsorship with 15,699 schools sponsoring the sport.
SITUATION 1: With R1 on first base and no outs, the scoreboard shows one out. B2 hits a ground ball that the shortstop turns into a 6-4-3 double play. The first baseman rolls the ball to the mound and all the defensive players go to their dugout. The team that was on offense comes on the field, taking their defensive positions. The umpires go to their respective positions between innings. RULING: The official scorer should inform the officials of the error. Both teams will retake their respective positions with the bases empty and two outs. (9-2-2)
SITUATION 2: In the bottom of the fourth inning, Jones comes to the plate to pinch-hit for Smith. The plate umpire checks the lineup card and finds that Jones was not listed as a possible substitute. The opposing coach argues that since Jones was not listed as a substitute at the start of the game, he cannot pinch-hit. RULING: The plate umpire shall accept the substitution, make the appropriate change on the lineup card and notify the opposing team and official scorer. Jones may pinch-hit for Smith. There is no penalty. (1-1-2)
SITUATION 3: The plate umpire is reviewing the submitted lineup cards at the pre-game conference. He asks both head coaches if they have listed all known substitutes on their respective lineup card. Team A’s head coach states he will not list any substitutes on his lineup. RULING: The umpire shall not accept the lineup card until all substitutes are listed. The game cannot begin until the umpire has received lineup cards from both teams. (1-1-2, 4-1-3)
SITUATION 4: With R2 on first base and one out, B3 swings and misses on a 1-2 fastball for strike three. R2 was stealing on the pitch and B3’s follow-through interferes with the catcher’s ability to throw to second base. At the time of the interference, R2 was just over half way to second from first. RULING: In the umpire’s judgment, B3’s interference prevented the catcher from possibly throwing out R2 at second base. B3 is out for strike three and R2 is declared out because of B3’s interference. The half-inning is over. (7-3-5c Penalty)
SITUATION 5: With one out, R2 gets a great jump at first base and is just a couple of feet from second base when B3 strikes out. B3’s follow-through interferes with the catcher, who drops the ball and cannot throw to second base. RULING: The ball is declared dead when play is no longer possible. B3 is out on strikes for out No. 2. Since the catcher had no possible play on R2 (being so close to second base at the time of the interference), R2 is returned to first base. (7-3-5c Penalty)
SITUATION 6: Smith enters the batter’s box with a BESR aluminum bat. The opposing coach protests that since the handle of the bat is not round and that the taper is not smooth, it is an illegal bat. RULING: There are no restrictions on the shape of the handle, and the taper of the bat is not required to be smooth or round. Only the barrel of the bat shall be round, cylindrically symmetric and smooth. The bat is legal for play. (1-3-2b)
SITUATION 7: The batter enters the batter’s box with a BBCOR composite bat. The opposing coach wants him declared out for having an illegal bat. RULING: All BBCOR bats, aluminum or composite, are legal for play in 2011. The batter will be allowed to use the bat. (1-3-2e, f)
SITUATION 8: B3 enters the batter’s box with a bamboo bat and hits a bases-clearing triple. The opposing coach protests stating that a bamboo bat is not legal for play. RULING: The plate umpire will inspect the bat. If it has a BESR or BBCOR certification mark, it is legal for play in 2011. In the 2012 high school season, only non-wood bats that meet the BBCOR performance standard are legal for use. (1-3-2d, e, f)
SITUATION 9: During the pre-game inspection of the team’s bats, the umpires notice a hollow, composite BESR bat in the bat rack. RULING: If the hollow composite BESR bat has been granted a waiver and is listed on the “Approved Bats List,” it is legal for play. If the bat has not been granted a waiver, the umpires shall inform the coach that the bat is illegal and must be removed. (1-3-2g)
SITUATION 10: With the bases loaded and no outs, B4 hits a ground ball to the shortstop. The defense is able to get the out at third base on R2 and at second base on R3, but R1 scores and B4 is safe at first. The plate umpire picks up the bat used by B4 and notices that it is a hollow composite bat that is not on the approved waiver list. RULING: B4 is guilty of using an illegal bat. The defense has the option of taking the play or the penalty for using an illegal bat. The play will result in two outs, a runner at first and one run scored. The penalty will have B4 declared out and all runners will be returned to their respective bases at the time of the pitch – bases loaded, one out, no run scored. (7-4-1a)
SITUATION 11: The pitcher has a hard cast on his non-pitching forearm. The coach asks what must be done for him to pitch in the game. RULING: The cast must be padded with a closed-cell, slow-recovery foam pad-ding no less than ½-inch thick. Since the player is to pitch, the padding cannot be white, gray or deemed to be a color distracting to the batter by the plate umpire. (1-4-2, 1-5-8)
SITUATION 12: The short stop is wearing an unpadded ankle brace and his coach asks if it is legal for play. RULING: If the ankle brace is unaltered from the manufacturer’s original design and production, it does not require any additional padding. (1-5-8)
SITUATION 13: With a runner on first stealing on the pitch, B2 hits a ball directly to the catcher’s hands which rebounds high in the air and is caught by the pitcher. The pitcher turns and throws the runner out at second base. RULING: The ball is dead and treated as a foul ball since it was not caught by the catcher. Had the catcher caught the batted ball, it would be a foul tip and would have remained in play. (2-16-2)
SITUATION 14: Jones, the center fielder, and Brown, the right fielder, collide going after a fly ball. Brown never loses consciousness and tells his coach he is OK. Brown finishes the half-inning. As Brown heads for the dugout, he has some balance problems and stops running, complaining of dizziness. RULING: Brown shall be immediately removed from the game and shall not return to play until he is cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. (3-1-5)
SITUATION 15: R1 misses second base as he
advances to third, but touches it as he safely returns to first base. The
defense appeals his missing second as he advanced. RULING:
The appeal is denied. The last time R1 went by second base, he properly
touched the base and thus corrected the previous base running error. (8-2-6l)
SITUATION 16: As R1 attempts to score from second base, he
misses third base by cutting well inside the infield. With the fly ball
being caught, Brown attempts to return, touching third as he goes back to
second base. RULING: Brown will be declared out on the
appeal because a runner who misses a base in a manner to gain an unfair
advantage is still vulnerable to appeal. (8-2-6l)
SITUATION 17: R1 is moving on the pitch as the batter hits a fly ball to left center field. R1 touches second base and heads for third when the ball is caught. R1 stops and returns to first base, missing second base. The ball is thrown into the dugout and R1 is awarded third. He touched first, second and third base on the award. The defense appeals his miss of second base as he attempted to return to first. RULING: R1’s actions are legal and the defensive appeal will be denied. R1 satisfied his base running obligations when he touched second on his last time by the base. (8-2-6l)
SITUATION 18: R1 leaves first base too soon on a caught fly ball. He touches second and nears third when his coach instructs him to return. R1 does so by running directly across the diamond toward first base. The ball gets by the first baseman, and R1 retouches first and makes it safely to second base. RULING: R1 would be declared out upon proper appeal by the defense as the principle of “Last Time By” would not apply. (8-2-6l)
SITUATION 19: Bases loaded with one out. B5 hits a fly ball into the gap between center field and right field. He is thrown out trying for second base. R2, advancing from second base, misses third base and scores. The defense properly appeals R2’s miss of third. RULING: R2’s out is the third out and the half-inning is over. No runs score since R2 was forced when he missed third base. (9-1-1b)
SITUATION 20: With R1 on third base, the pitcher is in the windup position. At the top of his motion, he pauses for two or three seconds and then delivers. RULING: The umpire shall declare a balk and score R1 from third base. After a pitcher starts his motion to pitch, he must continue the motion without interruption or alteration. (6-1-2)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 6, 2009) - The clarification of baseball bat specifications was among four rules adjusted by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee at its annual meeting June 7-9 in Indianapolis. The rules changes subsequently were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
A change to Rule 1-3-2 regarding bat specifications was made in the hope it will clarify bat compliance. The rule, which will be effective January 1, 2012, specifies that the bat should be a "smooth cylinder implement from the top of the cap to the top of the knob."
"The committee was looking to clarify the rule and make the purchase of bats an easier process," said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS director of educational services and liaison to the Baseball Rules Committee. "We want to make sure that kids and parents know what is permissible."
The change will also require that all non-wood bats meet the Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR) performance standard, which is the standard used by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Formerly, non-wood bats had to meet the Ball Exit Speed Ratio (BESR) standard.
The new rule also states that non-wood bats must be labeled with a rectangular certification mark "a minimum of a half-inch on each side and located on the barrel of the bat in any contrasting color." The new standard ensures that performances by non-wood bats are more comparable to those of wood bats. It's also expected to minimize risk, improve play and increase teaching opportunities.
"After working with the NCAA and having access to its research, we've concluded it's in our best interest to make this change," Hopkins said. "BBCOR includes the BESR standard, so we're actually expanding upon our current standard, which will be more appropriate for our age and skill level."
Another major rule addition applies to assistant coaches and their behavior during the game. Rule 3-3-1g6 prohibits any member of the coaching staff who is not the head coach from leaving "the vicinity of the dugout or coaching box to dispute a judgment call by an umpire." The penalty for this infraction is that both the head coach and the offending coach will be restricted to the dugout for the remainder of the game. If severe enough, the umpire also has the authority to eject the offending coach and/or the head coach.
The intention of this change is to cut down on the disruptive and counterproductive behavior of assistant coaches. It also reinforces to head coaches that they are responsible for their staff and players.
"The committee found that assistant coaches were taking license with their roles and becoming disruptive," Hopkins said. "By doing that, they're sending the wrong message to their players. It's one thing to ask the official for a clarification, but it's another to challenge and charge an umpire. We cannot and will not allow that."
A clarification was made to Rule 1-2-4 concerning the temporary extension of dugouts. The modified rule explains that when the dugout is to be temporarily extended, it shall be extended toward the outfield and not toward home plate.
The final adjustment was made to Rule 7-4-1f, concerning the instances when a batter will be declared out. The change reads that the batter is out if "any member of the offensive team or coach other than the runnerinterferes with a fielder who is attempting to field a foul fly ball." The addition of the phrase "other than the runner" clarifies the responsibility of the runner and that the runner - not the batter - will be declared out for the runner's interference.
"Previously, it just wasn't fair to the batter," Hopkins explained. "If the runner interferes with the defense, it's not the batter's fault. It was the runner who created the infraction, so the runner will be called out.
If the runner interferes with a foul fly ball, the RUNNER will now be out, rather than the batter, as had been the rule in the past. This brings it in line with the pro and college rules on the play. The final adjustment was made to Rule 7-4-1f, concerning the instances when a batter will be declared out. The change reads that the batter is out if “any member of the offensive team or coach other than the runner interferes with a fielder who is attempting to field a foul fly ball.” The addition of the phrase “other than the runner” clarifies the responsibility of the runner and that the runner — not the batter — will be declared out for the runner’s interference. “Previously, it just wasn’t fair to the batter,” Hopkins explained. “If the runner interferes with the defense, it’s not the batter’s fault. It was the runner who created the infraction, so the runner will be called out.”
Publisher’s Note: The National Federation of State High School Associations is the only source of official high school interpretations. They do not set aside nor modify any rule. They are made and published by the NFHS in response to situations presented. Robert F. Kanaby, Publisher, NFHS Publications © 2010
SITUATION 1: While in the set position, F1 has his pitching hand hanging straight down in front of his body, stationary, as he gets the sign from the catcher. RULING: The use of the “gorilla” stance in the set position is legal provided the arm is not moving. The batter, runner(s) on base, and coaches are able to view the pitcher and the ball and are not placed at a disadvantage. (6-1-3)SITUATION 19: Bases are loaded with two outs and a 1-1
count on B6. The scoreboard has a 0-2 count. The plate umpire gives the
correct count and verbally states “1-1.” B6 swings and misses the next pitch
to make the count 1-2, but F2, thinking it is strike three, tosses the ball
toward the mound as the infield players begin to leave the diamond. The
third-base coach has his runners running and all of them cross home plate.
The visiting defensive head coach protests that
the runs should not
score since the scoreboard was in error and it put them at a disadvantage.
RULING: The umpires did not err on the play and both teams
are responsible to know the count and the number of outs. The play stands
and all three runs count. (10-2-3g)
1-2-2:
Change:
All non-permanent lines on the
playing field shall be marked white with a material not injurious
to the eyes or skin. Lime
or caustic material of any kind is prohibited.
Rationale:
Clarification for proper lining instructions for grass and turf
fields.
6-2-3:
Change:
Intentionally
pitch
close to a batter.
Rationale:
To reinforce the responsibility of the pitcher while he has engaged
the pitcher's plate.
7-3-4
Penalty:
Change:
Penalty: The batter remains at bat (pitch is a ball or strike)
unless the pitch was a third strike
or
ball four.
Rationale:
Clarification.
10-1-9
& Umpires' Manual:
Delete:
...
word "heather"
gray
Rationale:
Heather gray slacks are slowing becoming difficult to acquire.
Equipment dealers are transitioning into charcoal gray slacks.
This rule change will provide umpires the opportunity to
purchase any shade of dark shade and be in compliance.
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 30, 2008) - The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee adjusted four rules at its annual meeting June 8-10 in Indianapolis. The rules changes subsequently were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
A revision was made to Rule 6-2-3 regarding infractions by a pitcher. The rule states it is illegal for a pitcher to intentionally pitch close to a batter, replacing the prior phrasing of to "throw" close to a batter. The change was necessary for clarification and in order to be consistent with other pitching rules.
"This rule is violated while the pitcher is pitching, and not just throwing the ball," said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS director of educational services and liaison to the Baseball Rules Committee.
Infractions by a batter were also addressed. The committee is concerned that batters are still attempting to be hit by pitches and earn an undeserved awarded base by "taking one for the team." Rule 7-3-4 clearly prohibits a batter allowing himself to be hit by a pitch.
In such a situation, the pitched ball is deemed either a strike or a ball and the player who permitted the ball to touch him remains at bat unless the pitch results in a third strike or ball four. The phrase "or ball four" was added to the rule to clarify the pitch needed to be called a strike or ball.
Revisions were also made to Rule 1-2-2 regarding painted field lines. All non-permanent lines on the playing field shall be marked white with a material not injurious to the eyes or skin.
Non-permanent refers to all lines that must be painted on the field. Only permanent lines, such as on artificial turf, may be a color other than white.
Lastly, umpires will be given more flexibility with their uniforms beginning in 2009. An adjustment to Rule 10-1-9 eliminated the need for umpires to specifically wear heather gray pants.
"Equipment dealers are transitioning to charcoal gray slacks," Hopkins said. "This rule change will provide umpires the opportunity to purchase any shade of dark gray and be in compliance."
In addition to the four rules changes, the committee identified four points of emphasis: 1) simplifying illegal pitch penalty administration, 2) re-emphasizing that team personnel remain in dugouts, 3) keeping the pace of play steady and 4) having all coaching staff members display professional behavior.
Baseball is the fourth-most popular sport among boys at the high school level with 477,430 participants during the 2006-07 season, according to the High School Athletics Participation Survey conducted by the NFHS. It also ranks third in school sponsorship across the nation with 15,458 participating schools.
SITUATION 1: The visiting team is wearing a vest-style jersey top over a white shirt with sleeves that end at the elbow. The coach of the home team complains that the pitcher's uniform is illegal since the shirt under the vest is white. RULING: The pitcher's uniform is legal. The shirt under the vest is considered to be part of the uniform and not an undergarment. If the shirt worn with the vest top is white, it is legal provided the sleeves do not extend below the elbow. (1-4-2)
SITUATION 2: The pitcher is wearing a vest top over (a) a long-sleeve black shirt or, (b) a long-sleeve white shirt. RULING: The pitcher's uniform in (a) is legal. In (b), the long-sleeve white shirt is not legal and must be replaced with either a long-sleeve shirt that is not white or gray, or a short-sleeve shirt, white or any non-distracting color, before the next pitch. (1-4-2)SITUATION 3: The home team is
wearing a vest-style top over a long-sleeve white shirt. The visiting
coach complains that this is not legal for the pitcher, but the home
team's coach says the pitcher is simply dressed like the rest of his
team. RULING: The pitcher may not wear a long-sleeve shirt with the
vest top that is white or gray. He may wear a short-sleeve white shirt
or a long-sleeve shirt that is not white, gray or distracting. It is
permissible, if his team is wearing a long-sleeve white shirt with the
vest, for the pitcher to wear a short-sleeve white shirt or a
long-sleeve shirt that is a different color from the rest of the team.
(1-4-2)
SITUATION 4: The pitcher is
wearing a white compression type-sleeve on his pitching arm. The
opposing coach states that he cannot wear it and, therefore, must
remove it. RULING: A compression or medical-type sleeve may be worn by
any player, including the pitcher. If it is white and worn on the
pitching arm, it cannot extend below the elbow. (1-4-2)
Publisher's Note: The National Federation of State High School Associations is the only source of official high school interpretations. They do not set aside nor modify any rule. They are made and published by the NFHS in response to situations presented.
SITUATION 3: A fly ball hit deep to right field along the foul line hits the right fielder on the head. The ball then bounces off his head and, in flight, goes over the outfield fence, but does so on the foul side of the foul pole. Is this a home run? RULING: No, this is a ground-rule double. A home run is a fair ball that goes over a fence in flight in fair territory. (8-3-4a)
SITUATION 4: With the bases loaded and two outs and a 3-2 count, the runners are off with the pitch. The pitch is ball four, but the runner from first slides into second and his momentum carries him over and past the base. The catcher makes a quick throw to second base and the tag is applied for the third out before the runner from third trots home and touches the plate. Does the run count? RULING: Yes, the run does count. Each runner may, without liability to be put out, advance one base when he is forced to vacate his position on the bases due to the batter being awarded a base-on-balls. The runners advance past the bases to which they are entitled at their own risk. All runners are awarded one base, and as long as all the bases are touched appropriately, the run would count. (8-1-2a, 8-1-1c, Awards Table)SITUATION 5: With runners on second and third, the
batter receives ball four on a pitch that bounces in the dirt. The ball
caroms off the catcher's shin guards and goes into the visiting team's
dugout. What bases are to be awarded? RULING: The
batter is awarded first base due to the base-on-balls, and the runners
are awarded one base due to the pitch entering a dead-ball area. At the
end of the awards, the batter-runner will be on first base, the runner
from second will be on third, and the runner from third will have
scored. (8-1-2a, 8-1-1c, 8-3-3d)
SITUATION 6: While on the pitcher's plate in the windup
position, the pitcher has both hands at his side or both hands together
in front of his body. He brings his pitching hand to his mouth and then
distinctly wipes it off. RULING:
This is an illegal
pitch. Each runner on base would be awarded one base. If the bases were
empty, a ball would be awarded to the batter. (6-1-2 Penalty)
SITUATION 7: While on the pitching plate in the stretch position, the pitcher has the ball in his glove hand and his pitching hand is at his side or has hands together in front of his body. He brings his pitching hand to his mouth, distinctly wipes it off and returns it to his side. RULING: This is an illegal pitch by the pitcher. A balk will be called if there are runners on base. If the bases are empty, a ball will be awarded to the batter. (6-1-3 Penalty)
SITUATION 8: While off the pitcher's plate, the pitcher goes to his mouth with his pitching hand, distinctly wipes it off and then legally engages the pitcher's plate. RULING: This is legal. (6-1, 6-2-1e)
SITUATION 9: With (a) the bases empty, or (b) runners on first base and second base, the pitcher goes to his mouth with his pitching hand while off the pitcher's plate, but does not wipe it off. He next places his pitching hand on the ball. RULING: In both (a) and (b), while off the pitching plate, the pitcher may request to have a new ball from the plate umpire with no penalty. If the pitcher, without having received a new ball from the plate umpire subsequently engages the pitcher's plate, a ball would be awarded to the batter. (6-2-1e Penalty)
SITUATION 10: The lineup submitted by the visiting team does not have any substitutes listed. In the second inning, the visiting team coach attempts to substitute for the center fielder. The coach of the home team complains that there were no substitutes listed, this is illegal. RULING: This is legal. While it is encouraged and a benefit to both teams to have all substitutes listed on the line-up card, it is not mandatory. There is no penalty. The umpire-in-chief will allow the substitution and notify the opposing team and the official scorekeeper. (1-1-2, 10-2-3d, j) SITUATION 11: Baker, who is not listed on the lineup card as a starter or as a substitute, comes in to play left field but does not report. When he comes to bat in the next half-inning, the opposing team argues that since he was not listed on the lineup and that since he did not report, he is an illegal substitute and cannot participate. RULING: There is no penalty for not listing the substitutes and Baker may participate. As an unreported substitute, the umpire-in-chief will enter him on his lineup card and notify both teams and the official scorer. (1-1-2, 2-36-2, 3-1-1)SITUATION 12: As the pitcher moves to attempt a pickoff at first base, the first baseman drops his knee and entirely blocks the runner from getting back to first base. RULING: This is obstruction. A fielder who is not in possession of the ball must provide the runner access to the base he is attempting to reach. The runner will be awarded second base for the obstruction. (2-22-3, 8-3-2)
SITUATION 13:
Without the ball in possession, the
catcher sets up in the base path, but does allow access to part of home
plate. As the ball and the runner converge at home simultaneously, the
runner contacts the catcher. RULING: As long as the
umpire judges that the catcher provided access to the plate for the
runner, this is not obstruction. With the play in motion and the timing
such that it is about to occur, a fielder may be in the base path
without the ball, provided he allows the runner access to the base or
home plate. (2-22-3)
SITUATION 14: With a lazy, one-hop single to the right
fielder, the batter rounds first base with no intention or action of
advancing to second base. As he takes a few easy strides past first
base, he contacts the first baseman who is partially in his path.
RULING:
Since the batter was making no attempt to advance to second base, the
first baseman did not hinder him or change the pattern of the play. As a
result, obstruction would not be called. Any benefit of the doubt would
be given to the batter-runner if there was a question in the covering
umpire's mind. (3-22-1)
SITUATION 15: With the pregame conference ready to begin, the home team head coach is in the bullpen and refuses to attend. He sends his assistant coach and a captain to be present. The assistant coach provides his team's lineup and verifies to the umpire-in-chief that his team is properly equipped. RULING: The umpire-in-chief will accept the assistant coach's verification and conclude all needed activity at the pregame conference. The head coach will be restricted to the dugout for the remainder of the game. (3-2-4 Penalty, 4-1-3a)
SITUATION 16: With the game time at hand, the head coach of the visiting team is caught in traffic and is not present at the field. The assistant coach represents the team at the pregame conference. RULING: This is permissible. When the head coach arrives at the game, he may resume normal coaching activity. (3-2-4)
SITUATION 17: In the third inning, a substitute pitcher comes to relieve the starting pitcher. After a couple of pitches have been delivered, the umpire-in-chief notices that the reliever's glove has white on it. RULING: The umpire shall have the pitcher remove the glove and obtain a legal one before he continues to pitch. (1-3-6)SITUATION 18: With runners on second and third, the pitcher makes a great catch of a line drive hit back up the middle. The opposing coach notices that his glove has a large manufacturer's logo that is white. He complains to the umpire-in-chief. RULING: Upon discovery, the glove used by the pitcher that includes the colors white and/or gray shall be removed. The out stands and there are no subsequent base awards. (1-3-6)
SITUATION 19: The umpire-in-chief notices that the head coach coaching at third base is not in the coach's box. The coach is not gaining an advantage or causing any problems. RULING: There is no violation. If the umpire believes that the coach was gaining an advantage for his team, he would require the coach to be within the confines of the coach's box. (3-2-1) SITUATION 20: With the bases empty, the visiting team is at bat and the assistant coach in the first base coach's box is wearing a dual flap helmet while the head coach in the third base coach's box is wearing a hard liner under his team cap. The home team coach complains to the umpire-in-chief that both coaches must wear the same type of protective helmet in accordance with MLB rules. RULING: The NFHS has not mandated that adult coaches shall wear protective head gear while occupying a coach's box. It is the prerogative of the respective coach to wear such protective equipment. The NFHS is conducting research to determine if protective head gear should be required and, if so, which type (hard liner, flapless, one-flap, dual flap) would be most effective. However, it is mandatory that when occupying a coach's box, a coach shall wear the team cap and that players/students wear a batting helmet that meets the NOCSAE standard and has dual ear flaps. (3-2-1, 1-5-1, 1-4-1)Robert F. Kanaby, Publisher, NFHS Publications © 2008
INDIANAPOLIS (July 18, 2006) — Effective
with the 2007 high school baseball season, a team playing with fewer
than nine players may return to nine players. In addition to this
change, 12 other rules revisions were approved by the National
Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules
Committee at its June 16-17 meeting in Indianapolis. These rules changes
subsequently were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Rule 4-4-1f allows a team that had to drop down to eight players to
return to nine later during the game,” said Greg Brewer, assistant
director of the Alabama High School Athletic Association and chairperson
of the NFHS Baseball Rules Committee. “This will also help promote
participation.”
Rule 3-3-1n addresses revised penalties for initiating malicious contact
on offense or defense. Transgressions will now result in the ball being
immediately dead, and if on offense, the player is ejected and declared
out, unless he has already scored. If the defense commits the malicious
contact, the player is ejected; the umpire shall rule either safe or out
on the play and award the runner(s) the appropriate base(s) he felt they
would have obtained if the malicious contact had not occurred.
Other rules pertaining to malicious contact were also revised, as were
their corresponding entries in the base-running table and dead-ball
table.
“With these changes, we hope to be more definitive on offensive and
defensive malicious contact,” said Elliot Hopkins, NFHS assistant
director and liaison to the Baseball Rules Committee.
In another change, Rule 6-2-1 now states that a ball will be called each
time a pitcher brings his pitching hand in contact with his mouth,
either without distinctly wiping off the pitching hand before it touches
the ball or while in contact with the pitcher’s plate.
Rule 3-2-1 was revised to state that one player or coach may occupy each
coach’s box while his team is at bat. A coach or player occupying the
coach’s box shall remain in the box from the time the batter enters
the batter’s box until the release of the ball by the pitcher. If the
coach or player steps out of the box during this time, regardless of who
violates the rule, the head coach will be restricted to the
bench/dugout.
“A player or coach standing outside the box gains an unfair advantage
as to where the opposing pitcher intends to pitch the ball,” Hopkins
said. “The box-bound player or coach does not have the same angle or
disadvantage. This rule seeks to correct these unfair advantages and
prevent distractions the pitcher may experience during his delivery.”
Another rule change (Rule 3-3-4) stipulates that whenever team members
are loosening up in an area that is not protected by a fence or other
structure, another member of the team with a glove must be positioned
between them and the batter to protect them from a batted or thrown
ball.
“This is a risk minimization initiative to protect individuals who are
not watching the activity in the field,” Hopkins said.
In another effort to minimize risk, Rule 10-2-1 was revised to specify
that when behind the plate, the umpire-in-chief shall wear proper safety
equipment including, but not limited to chest protector, face mask,
throat guard, plate shoes, shin guards and protective cup (if male).
A new signal was adopted that uses the point motion for the start of the
game. This will align NFHS officials with other rules codes to begin a
contest and put a ball back in play.
In an effort to make baseball compatible with other NFHS sport rules,
Rule 1-4-4 now states that a commemorative or memorial patch, not to
exceed 4 square inches, may be worn on jerseys without compromising the
integrity of the uniform.
In addition to the rules changes, the committee identified Points of
Emphasis for the 2007 season. Among those are malicious contact,
concussions, good sporting behavior, face protection, umpire’s
professionalism, non-adult bat/ball shaggers and game management.
Publisher's Note: The National Federation
of State High School Associations is the only source of official high
school interpretations. They do not set aside nor modify any rule. They
are made and published by the NFHS in response to situations presented.
Robert F. Kanaby, Publisher, NFHS Publications © 2007-2011
All rules © copyright NFHS