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WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE UMPIRE MANUAL

1. The runner is touched by a batted ball before it has been touched by all infielders who have a play on the ball Note a runner is not out if he unintentionally touches a ball after it passes through or is touched by an infielder immediately in front of the runner provided no other infielder had a play on the ball Page 15 of 27 10 11 12 The runner passes a preceding runner before the preceding runner is out For example with a runner on first the batter runner hits a fly to the outfield The runner on first holds up and the batter runner runs past The batter runner is out whether or not the ball is caught LL Rule 7 08 h If a trailing runner passes a preceding runner after a home run is hit the out occurs as soon as a runner passes a preceding runner If there are two out this creates a time play situation For example if there are runners on first and third with two outs and the batter hits a home run no runs score if the batter runner passes R1 before the R3 touches home plate See the discussion Scoring Runs later in this section The runner misses home plate and does not immediately try to touch the plate and the catcher holds the ball while standing on the plate and appeals to the umpire for a decision If the runner attempts to touch home plate the runner is only out if tagged before the runner touches the plate LL Rule 7 08 k As in any appeal play if the defense does not appeal to the umpire the umpire say
2. close plays with confident verbal and hand signals Don t show off though you are not the show Don t argue Listen to reason but be firm If you are sure you made the right call say so and move on with the game If you are not sure listen use your best judgment make the call and move on e If a manager asks you to check with your partner do it but it s still your call e Be a team out there support your partner Don t change his calls If you think your partner missed something when the play is over call time and go to your partner first away from the players and coaches Talk it over Get it right Then whoever made the initial call announce clearly what the call is now If a manager insists they want to protest let them Note it in the book and move on Covered more in later section e Even professionals make mistakes treat each call as a new one Don t try to even things up if you blow a call Page 6 of 27 Let s Go To Work OK so now it s time for your first game How s this whole thing work How does a game unfold What do do first What do expect the managers and players to do What do do after the game Before the Game 1 2 Get to the game on time Show up early at least 30 minutes Confer with your partner if you have one Get together on signs and signals Make sure you know who has the plate If you are supposed to have the bases but it is 10 minutes before the game and
3. Remember that there are two types of obstruction Type A where the defense is making a play on the obstructed runner immediate dead ball runners advance to the base they would have reached in the umpires judgment and Type B where the runner is obstructed while play is going on elsewhere play goes to completion then umpire calls time and imposes a penalty to nullify the effect of the obstruction Appeals LL 7 10 If a runner misses a base or fails to tag up the defensive team may appeal the play An appeal must be made while the ball is in play The appeal may occur at the end of a play before Time is called or it may be the first action after the ball is put in play after a call of Time The defensive team must either orally appeal to the umpire or unmistakably show through their actions that an appeal is being made If Time has not been called the defensive team has three options if they think the runner missed a base The defensive team may 1 touch the ball to the runner who they believe committed the infraction or 2 touch the ball to the base they think the runner missed If the runner left early they may also touch the ball to the base they believe the runner left In any of these cases the team should appeal to you for a call If Time was called the pitcher must hold the ball on the pitching rubber and the plate umpire must put the ball in play The pitcher then must step off the rubber and make the appeal
4. Positions Position A No runners 10 to 12 feet behind F3 1st Baseman in foul territory If F3 plays deep keep him in front of you but shorten up from the 10 to 12 feet Position B Runner on 1 R1 Two thirds of the way towards 274 and behind F4 Position C R1 8 R2 R1 R2 amp R3 R1 4 R3 R2 amp R3 R2 R3 Between 2 amp 3 behind F6 Base Umpire BU Responsibilities All plays on the bases with the exception in a few cases of plays at third Ball hit to the outfield moves into the infield and pivot Chest squared to the ball base and runner Touches of bases and plays at 1st amp 2 by all runners and batter runner BR Tag ups at 1st amp 27d with less than 2 outs Assists PU by calling Time if a pitched or batted ball comes in contact with the batter Takes R1 to 3 unless PU declares that he has 3 Entire rundown play unless PU declares he can help Has primary responsibility for calling Infield Fly if the infielder moves back for the ball Echoes PU s call XHO MOOW YS Plate Umpire PU Responsibilities Responsible for all fly balls to the outfield i e Fair Foul Catch No Catch Out of play Ball hit to the outfield come into the infield at an angle to the ball not further than a line from 15t to 3 R1 4 R3 Touch at home amp R1 to 3 if there is a play Return home on overthrow at 3 R1 amp R2 Play at 37 if there is a tag up at 2 R1 R2 amp R3 2 out
5. batter runner point to the spot of Oe tag and aggressively signal this call No voice is used to indicate a fair ball Indicated by pointing _ onto the field of play Emphatically pump the signal on close calls The call is made from the standing set position Fair Ball 15 eenegen EE Raising both arms above the head and make the call The closer it is the more emphatic the voice and motion When a hit ball is caught on the fly by a fielder outside of fair territory do NOT say anything and complete the foul signal and catch signal Foul Tip This is a non verbal call used with a strike hand motion No Catch Calied loud and clear by the umpire that has the responsibility to make the call plete theta ELL NC Sed Stk at SiN Be ete emt California 4 Umpire Association Little League dumm League Senior esque Big League Challenger Division 2 27 06 Foot Positions for Pitchers Baseball amp Softball FRONT TOWARDS HOME PLATE a oa LE then Softball ILLEGAL Softball ILLEGAL Baseball LEGAL ca Baseball LEGAL uen SCH men Baseball LEGAL Baseball LEGAL Softball LEGAL BEE Softball ILLEGAL pai ia Baseball ILLEGAL FA mers A Softball ILLEGAL A y E euan Use Common Sense Fair Play and Spirit Of The Rule Dennis Eagan District 4 Umpire Training Coordinator California 4 Umpire Association Li
6. 2 00 Fair Ball amp Foul Ball 5 The batter cannot be called out for interference if he is in the batter s box 6 06 c 6 On a foul tip the umpire must announce Foul and the ball is dead 2 00 Foul Tip TA The batter may not switch batter s boxes after two strikes 6 06 b 8 The batter who batted out of order is the person declared out 6 07 b 9 The batter may not overrun first base when he gets a base on balls 7 08 c 10 A runner is always out if a batter ball hit him 7 08 f 11 Ifthe batter keeps his bat in the strike zone while bunting it s an automatic strike 2 00 Bunt 8 Strike 12 The batter is out if a bunted ball hits the ground bounces back up and hits the bat again 6 05 g 13 The batter is out if his foot touches the plate when he hits the ball 6 06 a 14 The batter runner is always out if he runs outside the running lane after a bunted ball 6 05 j 15 A runner is out if he high fives a coach or other players after he hits a homerun over the fence 7 09 1 16 Tie goes to the runner 6 05 i 7 08 e 17 The runner gets the base he s going to plus one base on a ball thrown out of play 7 05 g 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 In an Infield Fly situation the umpire must call it anytime the ball is popped up in the infield 2 00 Infield Fly Runners may never run the bases in revers
7. See the discussion on infield flies later in this section LL Rule 6 05 d An infielder intentionally drops a fair fly ball or line drive with first first and second first and third or first second and third bases occupied and less than two out The ball is dead and runners return Fielders intending to drop the ball usually look around the field before intentionally dropping the ball In this situation the batter runner is not out if the ball falls to the ground untouched unless an Infield Fly was called LL Rule 6 05 k First base is tagged or the batter runner is tagged before the batter runner reaches first base LL Rule 6 05 1 The batter hits a ball fair or foul while the batter s foot is entirely outside of the batter s box This may happen when the batter squares around to bunt If the batter s foot is outside the box and the batter swings and misses the ball itis a strike In order for this rule to apply the batter must hit the ball and the batter s foot must be completely over the line LL Rule 6 06 a The batter steps from one batter s box to the other while the pitcher is ready to pitch If the pitcher is not on the pitcher s rubber the batter is free to move from one side of the batter s box to the other LL Rule 6 06 b In a variety of situations the batter is called out for interference as discussed below in Offensive Interference A runner is called out when 1 The runner tries to avoid being tagged by r
8. be an infield fly the ball must be a Hit in the air in fair territory b Catchable by an infielder using ordinary effort An infield fly is not called on a line drive or if the batter bunts the ball When a possible infield fly is in effect signal your partner by placing your hand over your cap with index finger up Then if the ball is hit in the air watch the flight of the ball and judge where it is going to land If the ball can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort point to the sky with your right hand and call Infield fly Try to make the call when the ball is at its highest point in the sky When an infield fly is called the batter is automatically out whether or not the ball is caught and all force plays are removed The ball is live during an infield fly The runners can advance at their own risk once the ball is touched or hits the ground Once you call an infield fly you have to stick with the call so it s important to be right the first time If the ball is hit near the foul lines point to the sky and say Infield fly if fair If the ball is not caught and lands near the foul lines it may or may not be an infield fly depending on where it is when first touched by a fielder For example if a possible infield fly drops untouched in fair territory and then rolls foul before passing first or third base then it is ruled a foul ball If a possible infield fly drops in foul territory and rolls untouched into fair ter
9. becoming involved in post season regional national and even international events All Youth and Volunteer Umpires will be fully supported by WCLL to ensure their involvement is a positive experience Whether there is the need for rules discussion or interpretation feedback and evaluation reviewing game situations or dealing with coaches and parents umpires are supported in several ways Umpire in Chief who reports into the WCLL Board of Directors e WCLL Board of Directors e Coaches and Managers of the league who report to the league president In order to foster a feeling of mutual respect for each other and for the game WCLL has these expectations of umpires e Promptness for games Professionalism in appearance and manner e Rule knowledge e Consistency in game management Flexible relative to player level e g 9 10 year olds e Courteous and helpful to players e Aware of safety issues Page 2 of 27 INTRODUCTION This manual introduces many common situations that you will experience as an umpire Some will occur each game others will happen just once or twice a season The key to success is to know what the likely plays are for each game situation and anticipate how to react This manual will help you position yourself on the field know in advance what each umpire s responsibilities are and allow you to develop a sense of self confidence that is a primary requirement of an effective umpire Umpires are required i
10. exit this module click Main Menu which is located at the bottom of the screen THE UMPIRE MENU Posting Game Comments Another feature available on the View or Delete My Game Assignments screen is the ability for either or both of the assigned umpires to post a comment form that will be stored in the database for review by the Head Umpire To fill in a comment form the umpire should click on the Game ID number of the game that the umpire wants to post comments In the example screen above to comment on the first game on the list the umpire would click on the 29A Doing so will produce this form Cubs Enter Your Comments Below Post Comments Reset Values The form is pre loaded with game information Note that the umpire who s name is follwed by an asterisk is the umpire who posted the comment The umpire should fill in the comment field with as much information as possible When ready press the Post Comments button to store your comments The system will automatically e mail the Head Umpire with a notification that your comments were posted Only system administrators like the Head Umpire will be able to view your comments THE UMPIRE MENU Update My Profile Selecting Update My Profile will take you to this screen Log In Name bandrews First Name Bob Last Name Andrews Street Address 3695 Oak Creek Court City Walnut Creek State CA Zip Code 94598 Phone Number 925 945 19
11. for Your Use e Masks shin guards and chest protectors for the umpires are located at every field e Keep them clean e Put away in equipment box after each game Don t just throw in the dirt e Notify the Umpire in Chief if damaged wrong size or missing especially at the end of the season D Prepare for the weather e Bring long sleeves coat or sweatshirt for evenings and cool days dark jacket is preferred e Have plenty of water for hot days e Bring a snack for between games if doing a double header E Don t Bring or Wear the Following Prohibited Items Shorts Sunglasses Sandals or open toe shoes White or gray clothing or hats Don t wear a watch or use your cell phone during a game Don t have loose change or keys in your pocket Optional Uniforms for Major BB SB and older Divisions For those experienced umpires who umpire in the Majors and above we suggest you consider acquiring your own personal uniform and equipment similar to that used by high school and professional umpires These items may be made available to you on loan or for purchase at the League s cost Navy blue short sleeved polo shirt with red and white piping Heather gray pants with wide black belt Black socks Black field or plate shoes no metal cleats Black ball bag worn on belt Navy umpire hat with WCLL logo Navy blue pullover windbreaker optional Personal chest protector mask shin guards WCLL Umpires Manual 2010 Revision 1 WCLL 2010 UMPIR
12. his name to a game or drops his name from a game previously scheduled the umpire and the coaches of the game in question will receive a courtesy notification e mail We hope that this form of automatic notification will make it easier for all concerned to know the status of their games Of course everyone can go to the web site and look up game schedule with umpire assignments at any time After you are successfully logged in the Main Menu screen will be displayed THE UMPIRE MENU Cl t The Umpire Menu This section of the manual describes all the functions available in the Umpire Menu If you do not have umpire rights you will not see these menu options Sign Up For A Game Selecting Sign Up For A Game on the menu you will take you to this screen WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE Umpire Scheduling Web Site Select a Game to Umpire To sign up for a game you must choose the leagues and date range you want to search First pick one or more leagues by clicking the checkboxes on the left Only leagues you are approved to umpire will be listed Next select the start and end date for your search If you leave the end date blank then only games scheduled for the start date will be shown Also please note that any games already played will not be listed regardless of the dates entered Choose One or More Leagues Choose A Date Range OA Minors OAA Minors AAA Minors O Majors Juniors mm dd yyyy mm dd
13. umpire games without being paired with an adult umpire Therefore the website will not permit youth umpires to sign up for games in which another youth umpire has already signed up You will get a confirming e mail with e mail with your assignment information and the managers of the two teams will also get an e mail informing them you are one of their umpires for that game Changing Game Assignments After you have been assigned to a game and you find out you are not available you must go back into the website and delete yourself from that game If is less than 72 hours before the game you should call the Division Umpire Coordinator and let them know so they can find another umpire The website will not let you delete an assignment within 48 hours so you must call the Coordinator for those changes Feedback on a Game The Umpire Website also has tools to let you give Game Feedback of other comments directly to the Chief Umpire You will find this on the Menu page After each game please complete your comments so that we are aware of any conduct protest field or equipment conditions or other issues The Umpire Website has a complete User s Manual that is available on line WCLL Umpires Manual 2010 Revision 1 10 California 4 Umpire Association Lille League gt Jumer League Senior Lesgue Big League Challenger Livsior 2 27 06 Ten Principles of Umpiring SURPRISE IS THE UMPIRE S WORST ENEMY Mentally prepare you
14. with the batter A batted ball hits a runner or umpire in fair territory before the ball has passed infielders who have a play on the ball LL Rule 7 04 b aoo0M Award Each Runner Two Bases 1 When a fair ball bounces or is deflected out of play or rolls under or through a field fence or sticks in the fence This is usually called a ground rule double LL Rule 7 05 f 2 When a thrown ball goes out of play If the throw is the first play by an infielder and all runners have not advanced at least one base at the time of the throw then the award of bases is from where the runners were standing at the time of the pitch In all other cases the award of bases depends on where the runners are Page 19 of 27 standing when the ball is thrown f the first throw is by an outfielder or the throw occurs after the first play in the infield the award of bases is from the runner s position at the time of the throw LL Rule 7 05 g For example runner on first The batter hits a ball that bounces off of home plate and goes high in the air to the third baseman The third baseman tries to throw the ball to first base but the throw is high and the ball goes out of play If BR has not crossed first base at the time of the throw and R1 has not advanced past second base then the runners are given two bases from their positions at the time of the pitch R1 is awarded third base and the batter is placed on second base However if the ball is throw
15. yyyy List Games Reset Main Menu Note When yon confirm your assignment to a game you will receive an e mail with the game dates and times The coaches assigned to both teams will also receive a confirming e mail Note If you already scheduled to umpire the Plate for a game the system will not allow you to schedule yourself for the bases and vice versa THE UMPIRE MENU To sign up for a game you first set up search criteria These search criteria will allow the system to pull up a set of games that you can choose from The first thing to do is pick one or more leagues by clicking the checkboxes on the left Only leagues you are approved to umpire will be listed In the example above the umpire is qualified to umpire all the baseball leagues but the checkbox for softball is not shown because this umpire was not certified to umpire softball If you don t see a league listed that you believe you are qualified to umpire contact the league coordinator or the head umpite After selecting the league select the start and end date for your search If you leave the end date blank then only games scheduled for the start date will be shown Also please note that any games already played will not be listed regardless of the dates entered If you are satisfied with your selection criteria click on List Games The Reset button will clear out all the data entry fields and allow you to fill
16. 26 Phone Number 2 925 457 0636 Age 42 E Mail bob bobandruth org The following table lists the leagues you are authorized to umpire An umpire can only change his or her own profile In addition the Log In Name First Name and Last Name can not be edited by the umpire These data elements are set up in the user s master record and are controlled by the system administrator Umpires may edit the address phone age and e mail boxes To submit changes to the system click on Submit Changes If you have entered information and want to clear it returning to the original information and then start making changes again click on the Reset Values button Clicking on Main Menu will exit this module without submitting changes This screen shows which leagues an umpire is authorized to umpire The umpire can not change these assignments they ate display only Only the head umpire and his her delegates are able to change an umpire s authorization level 10
17. 31 base 6 Runners 1 amp 2 Fly Ball To Outfield I ve got 3 if he tags Ball not caught not your play at 3 Going home As soon as ball drops in play 7 Time Plays Run scores run scores score that run or Score two runs PU while pointing at home plate to let scorekeeper know No run no run Wave off not a safe signal let scorekeeper know 8 Close Plays On Fly Balls No catch no catch On close play give safe signal That s a catch On a close play really sell it give out signal 9 Obstruction interference That s obstruction Time that s obstruction That s interference Batter catcher umpire Time that s interference Base runner 10 Miscellaneous That s a balk BU stand point at pitcher back to hands on knees set PU hold position do not stand up On the tag he s out Swipe tag at first Not necessary in rundown unless it is a swipe tag Safe you re off the bag safe Call explain reinforce by selling the call Safe no tag safe Call explain reinforce by selling the call Foul Hands forward slightly above shoulder and palms forward Play PU right hand point to pitcher Time Any time the ball is out of play or time is requested The call is not dead ball or out of play Breakdowns at first On the tag He s out or Safe you dropped th
18. E GAME ASSIGNMENT PROCESS Once again for the 2010 Season WCLL will be using an on line Internet based Umpire Game Assignment system The following procedures should be followed for you to obtain an umpire game assignment Basic information on the WCLL Umpire Website Address www wcllumpires org Once you have completed your training your personal information will be entered to the Umpire Website database This information is maintained in a secure manner with a limited number of individuals having access to your name address and contact information Each of these individuals has been authorized by the WCLL Board to access this information and have authorized the league to obtain a Background Check on them related to records of crimes against children Once setup in the system you will receive an e mail from the Administrator telling you your User Name and Password You must have an e mail address to use the system Finding a Game to Work Once you access the website with your user name and password you will see menu that will allow you to search for games that you are qualified to umpire You will only be able to schedule yourself for those Divisions that the Chief Umpire has determined you are qualified to umpire You can search for available games by date or division Once you find a game with an open slot you then select the assignment plate or field and the system will fill in your name NOTE Youth umpires are not permitted to
19. WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE UMPIRE MANUAL WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE Chie fale e Ge ei n N Chase Ph 925 3 E mail Se com Walnut Creek Little League Umpires Umpires are a vital part of the Little League experience Accordingly in 2010 we will continue our tradition of offering our umpire program to train you in the art of umpiring The Walnut Creek Little League will provide an opportunity for adults and youth of our community to be involved as Volunteer or Youth Umpires The goal of the Umpire Program is to build a core group of trained adult and youth 12 17 umpires The benefits of our umpire program are many e Enhances the Little League experience by providing trained umpires for all games e The Youth Umpire program keeps older kids involved in baseball e Youth Umpires tend to stay involved later on as adults Introduces children and adults to a skill they can enjoy developing over time e Provides a platform for adults to volunteer and become involved in their children s Little League experience Umpiring is time consuming not only games but also to complete the training needed to meet our league s standards However beyond the minimal requirements the time commitment you make is controlled by your goals which can range from a short term involvement solely to satisfy the league s volunteer requirement to a long term and in depth commitment for those interested in developing advanced umpire skills and
20. a returning one On the second last pitch 6 or 4 tell the catcher One and down That means one more warmup then the catcher should call out balls in coming down not the umpire and then the next warmup pitch goes to 2b Remember only 1 minutes allotted for infield change over Balls in coming down is a privilege not a right If the catcher misses it or the 2b or SS doesn t cover tell him to toss it back to the pitcher and get his team ready Let the catcher position himself first and then you set up If they set up way back ask you sure you want to be here If they move fine If not fine They ll lose strikes for their pitcher if they set up too far away but you are not the coach Do talk to the coach if it s a real problem but that s something the coach is supposed to notice and fix not you Don t let the catcher set up where he will surely get hit Take care of your catchers The catcher is your new best friend take care of him If you see loose catcher s gear stop the game and get it fixed If the catcher gets whacked stall until he can compose himself Cleaning the plate is always a good time waster After all that catcher is the only thing between you and the pitcher whacking you in the shins or worse all game long Page 8 of 27 12 Keep equipment off the field This means bats balls buckets catcher s gear etc If you see it on the field during play wait until the play finishes Call t
21. able to all users under the heading of Other Functions When you are done using the web site you can exit by simply closing the browser or by selecting Log Out from the main menu Please note that if you close the browser without logging out it is possible that another person could connect to the system and your access privileges would still be active This could only happen if the next user logged in on the same computer that you wete just using and it would only happen for about 30 minutes at which time the system would no longer remember your login information Because the chance that two people using the system from the same computer is very low it s not critical that you actually log out of the system when you are done However the Log Out function is handy if a parent and child both work as umpires and want to log in separately one after the other to set their games Note About E Mail On occasion the system will send you an e mail The e mail address will be from Umpire Scheduling administrator wcllumpires org If you get an e mail from this system it will be clearly marked indicating that it is an automated message from the Umpire Scheduling system This system will never send you an e mail asking for you to reply with any personal information E mail messages are sent to coaches each week automatically providing them a seven day look ahead of their game schedule and all current umpire assignments In addition any time an umpire adds
22. al Little League safety rule and is discussed in later The runner is called out for interference See the Offensive Interference discussion later in this section The runner is tagged with a live ball while off the base If the base is dislodged the runner is safe if in your judgment the runner is either touching the dislodged base or the spot where the base was originally anchored LL Rule 7 08 c LL Rule 7 08 c and j are the rules that protect the batter runner when overrunning first base The overrun can occur on a hit a base on balls or a hit batsman No out is called if the runner returns immediately to first base However if the runner attempts to go towards second then the protection ends Sometimes the defensive team will throw the ball to the first baseman who tries to tag the runner when returning to first base If the runner has not made an earlier move toward second but tries to evade the tag call the runner safe unless the runner takes off for second base After a fair or foul fly ball is caught the runner fails to retouch the base before the base or the runner is tagged with the ball Runners can advance after tagging up if a foul ball is legally caught If the ball is bobbled but ultimately caught runners can leave as soon as the ball is touched for the first time LL Rule 7 08 d The runner fails to reach the next base on a force play before the base or the runner is tagged with the ball LL Rule 7 08 e
23. all that bounces off of the home plate umpire is a foul ball There are no guidelines for judging a foul tip other than the ball goes sharp and direct into the catcher s mitt If the ball pops into the air and is caught before it hits the ground the batter is out Remember never say Foul tip Page 12 of 27 Catch No Catch A legal catch is a ball that is caught on the fly in the hand or glove and held by the fielder until released voluntarily It s also a legal catch if the ball bounces off of one defensive player and is caught by another without touching the ground or any object offensive player or umpire A fielder may not use a cap or uniform pocket to make a legal catch although a ball trapped under an arm becomes a catch if the fielder is able to hold the ball in hand or glove before it falls to the ground A fielder must maintain control of the ball until the momentum of the catch is completed If a player gloves a fly ball hits the ground and does two somersaults but the ball falls out of the glove involuntarily it is not a catch If a caught ball is dropped when the fielder is in the act of throwing it the catch stands Judgment is required you need to determine if the fielder meant to release the ball and if so a catch was made LL Rule 2 00 If a fielder tries to catch a fair ball and it bounces off the fielder and over the outfield fence in fair territory it is a home run LL Rule 6 09 g If the fielder tries to ma
24. around a fielder who is trying to field a ball there is no violation No jewelry LL Rule 1 11 j No player may wear watches rings pins jewelry earrings or other metallic items The only exception is Medical Alert items Third strike is always an out LL Rule 6 05 c In Little League a third strike is always an out whether or not the catcher catches the ball The batter runner may not try to reach first base on a dropped third strike However in Juniors a batter runner may attempt to advance to first base if the ball is not caught by the catcher and first base is unoccupied Page 27 of 27 WCLL 2010 UMPIRE UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT As a WCLL umpire you are expected to come to your games prepared Part of your preparation is to wear the proper uniform and to use the proper equipment A Basic Uniform Standards for all Umpires e ALWAYS WEAR YOUR UMPIRE SHIRT AND HAT with Little League Umpire patch attached to shirt e Wear dark pants preferably navy blue black or gray with your shirt e DRESS TO LOOK LIKE AN UMPIRE you ll get more respect Tuck in your shirt and wear your hat forward e Guys behind the plate MUST wear a cup B Other Personal Equipment You Need at Each Game Rule Book for the Division your are assigned WCLL Standing Rules Indicator and Plate brush have your own for both plate and field assignments Protective cup athletic supporter or compression shorts worn under pants e Pencil and notepad C Field Equipment
25. as been an ejection a protest or other controversy during the game report it immediately by sending an e mail tot he Chief Umpire This is required to be done within 24 hours of the incident so don t delay When you get home or on the drive home think about the game and where you might improve You may be surprised at how well you did Remember it s what you learn after you think you know it all that really counts If you stop learning you ll stop being a good umpire Page 9 of 27 ll RULES AND INTERPRETATIONS Umpires need to know the rules You can know all the rules and still not be a good umpire but you can t be a good umpire if you don t know the rules All umpires will attend a basic rules clinic Don t worry if you don t remember them all right away Professional umpires spend years studying the rules and they still make mistakes Do your best out there and use your common sense and judgment What Do Do When Don t Know the Rule You will find yourself in a situation where you can t remember the right rule The first thing to remember is to calm down and think It helps to think in terms of advantage and disadvantage In other words if the rule really is the way think it is how could the defense or the offense take unfair advantage of it or be unfairly disadvantaged For example some people think it s a hit batsman and not a strike if the pitch hits a batter in the strike zone Think for a second what if this w
26. as true Imagine its bases loaded 2 outs 0 2 count tie score bottom of the last inning Why wouldn t a batter just lean into the strike zone and get hit If it was a hit batsman that s what they would do and that s not baseball It s not right So the rules makers said A pitch that hits the batter in the strike zone is a strike and the ball is dead It s right there in Rule 2 00 STRIKE f Why is the ball dead Think for a second what if the count above was 0 0 if the ball wasn t dead a batter could deflect a pitch away from the defense and the runner on 3rd would score the winning run That s not fair it s not right and it s not baseball so the ball is dead It is also appropriate to call time out and confer with your partner about a rule Carry your Rule Book It is better to consult the Rules and hold up the game long enough to decide a knotty problem than to have a game protested and possibly replayed But reference to your Rule Book should be a last resort In the final analysis Make your best determination of the rule in an expedient fashion and let play continue Changing versus Correcting a Call Calls can t be changed except in five instances But an umpire can always CORRECT a call if he does it immediately after the play It looks bad but it s better than sticking with the wrong call Page 10 of 27 Changing a call implies the umpire after a discussion with a manager or other umpire has alter
27. authority Save your authority for prevention of direct mean spirited or repeatedly disruptive personal attacks Read the Rule Book regularly Rereading it will cause you to see things you missed the first time Anything that doesn t sound right probably means you don t have the right understanding of the rule Ask someone with experience Never hover around a particular dugout or mingle too closely with players and spectators as this will cause problems You don t want it to look like you favor one team or the other ALWAYS back up your partner and NEVER make him look like a fool If you really disagree with a rules call not a judgment call take him aside if time permits and let him know what you think Let HIM decide if he wants to make your comment or opinion public knowledge and reverse his call Let coaches know how you feel about certain types of behavior before the game begins but don t be an anal retentive jerk Treat them with courtesy and they will usually hopefully treat you the same way NEVER get into a shouting match with a spectator v Go to the offender s team manager and politely ask him to control his parent s or HE the manager will be removed from the game You have no authority over spectators Always make calls with clear firm decisiveness and confidence Never point to first base when saying Take your base after a walk The first base umpire may mistake your gesture as a call for assistance on a ch
28. d runners can advance beyond three bases at their own risk LL Rule 7 05 b amp 7 05 c Award Each Runner Home Plate 1 When in your judgment a ball that would have been an over the fence home run is deflected by a fielder who throws a glove cap or any other part of the uniform LL Rule 7 05 a Page 20 of 27 2 When in your judgment a ball that would not have been an over the fence home run is deflected by a fielder over the fence at a distance no less than 165ft will be granted a home run LL Rule 6 09 h Scoring Runs LL 4 09 By definition a run scores when a batter becomes a runner and legally touches all bases in sequence before being put out With less than two outs there generally isn t much of a question about whether or not a run scores if first second and third were properly touched About the only case occurs when the runner misses home plate and does not immediately try to touch it In this case the runner can be called out on appeal When there are two outs things get more interesting No run scores if the third out is made by any runner prior to reaching the base to which that runner was forced Examples of force out situations occur when 1 A batter or runner is called out for interference prior to reaching the base to which the batter or runner is forced 2 A runner is forced to a base but misses it on the way to the next base and an appeal is made 3 In a dead ball situation a runner is ca
29. d stops at the last second stops in front of the fielder and jumps over the ball etc AND the umpire judges that this act caused the fielder to miss the batted ball it s interference A base coach or someone from the bench gets in the way or yells DROP IT The rule says any member of the team at bat not just the batter or runner can cause interference If the umpire declares the batter batter runner or a runner out for interference all other runners shall ordinarily return to the last base that was in the judgment of the umpire legally touched at the time of the interference However if the interference occurred with the intent to break up a double play the umpire shall call both the runner and batter runner out Batter s Interference Rule 6 06 c There are things a batter does or fails to do that are interference and other things he does or fails to do that do are not Note The batter s box is NOT a safety zone for the batter However If he s in the box he s usually OK in these situations 1 The ball gets by the catcher and the catcher knocks over the batter trying to get to the ball no penalty live ball The catcher throws the ball back to the pitcher or to a base to retire a base stealer and the ball hits the batter or his bat no penalty live ball UNLESS the batter PURPOSELY moves into the catcher or the path of the ball The batter swings so hard that he hits the catcher s glove on the follow through k
30. e ball 11 Special Terminologies Back swing hit the catcher No trip That s a ball You went to your mouth Pitcher went to his mouth California 4 Umpire Association Lite eene dumorLeaqus Senior Leaque Big League Chalenger Division Top 10 Baseball Rule Myths The hands are considered part of the bat The hands are part of a person s body If a pitch hits the batter s hands the ball is dead if he swung at the pitch or the pitch was in the strike zone a strike is called NOT a foul If he was avoiding the pitch he is awarded first base Rules 2 00 PERSON TOUCH STRIKE e f and 6 05 e The batter runner must turn to his right after overrunning first base The batter runner may turn left or right provided that whichever way he turns he does not make an attempt to advance An attempt is a judgment made by the umpire The runner must immediately return to first base after overrunning or over sliding Rule 7 08 c and j If a batted ball hits home plate first it is a foul ball The plate is in fair territory There is nothing special about it If a batted ball hits home plate it is treated like any other batted ball The batter who batted out of order is the player declared out The PROPER batter is the one called out Any hit or advance made by the improper batter or runners due to the hit walk error or other reason is nullified The next batter is the one who follows the prope
31. e order 7 02 The runner must always slide when the play is close 7 08 a 3 The runner is always safe when hit by a batted ball while touching a base 7 08 f A runner must physically make contact with a fielder making a play to be called out for interference 7 09 It is a force out and no runs can score when a runner is called out for not tagging up on a fly ball 7 10 a An appeal on a runner who missed a base cannot be a force out 7 10 b A runner is out if he runs out of the baseline to avoid a fielder who is fielding a batted ball 7 08 a 1 Runners may not advance when an infield fly is called 2 00 Infield Fly An umpire interferes if he gets in the way when the catcher goes after a wild pitch passed ball 2 00 Interference 5 09 b A pitch that bounces to the plate cannot be hit 2 00 Ball amp Strike The batter does not get first base if hit by a pitch after it bounces 2 00 Ball If a fielder holds a fly ball for 2 seconds it s a catch 2 00 Catch You must tag the base with your foot on a force out or appeal 6 05 1 The ball is immediately dead on an illegal pitch 7 08 c If a player s feet are in fair territory when the ball is touched it is always a fair ball 2 00 Fair Ball amp Foul Ball The ball must always be returned to the pitcher before an appeal can be made 2 00 Appeal A batter is automatically out if he throws the bat 6 05 A fielder must make physica
32. e over home plate which is between the batter s armpits and the top of the knees when the batter assumes a natural stance The umpire shall determine the strike zone according to the batter s usual stance when that batter swings at a pitch The strike zone on TV or at a big league game pictured on the Left is not the Little League one The Little League strike zone is higher than the one in the Major Leagues and it s the pictured on the Right The Strike Zone The Strike Zone The sirike zone is an area over home plate tts A i upper limit is a horizontal line at the midpoint between The Strike Zone lo over home plate the top of the shoulder and the top of the uniform pants between the batter s armpits and the lis lower level is a ine al the hollow beneath the knee top of the knee when the batter cap The sirike zone ls determined trom the batter s z stance as he prepares to swing al a pitch assumes his natural stance the stance used to swing at a pitch 1 1 Top of shoulders Hollow beneath Page 22 of 27 Infield Fly Rule LL 2 00 The infield fly rule is in effect when there are runners on first and second or on first second and third with less than two outs The infield fly rule prevents the defense from taking advantage of a runner s need to tag up after a fly ball Without the infield fly rule the defensive team could let an infield fly drop to the ground and then turn a double play at second and third bases To
33. e system simply point your web browser to http www wcllumpires org If you are successful you will see a screen like this WALNUT CREEK WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE Umpire Scheduling Web Site LITTLE LEAGUE Walnut Creek Little League in Walnut Creek CA uses this web site to schedule umpires for baseball and softball Before you access the this system you must log in Different menus will be available based upon your role umpire coach umpire coordinator or administrator All umpires who went through training as well as coaches of record at that time have already been entered into the system If this is your first time into the system look at the user s guide you were provided to find out how to change your initial password You must change your password the first time you log in If you have forgotten your user ID or password please contact the system administrator If you are anew umpire you will be added to this system as soon as the umpire coordinator approves you to take games If you are authorized to use this system please click here to go to the login screen You must have a user ID and password to proceed Programmed by Bob Andrews The screen gives you a basic introduction to the site and asks you to click the please click here link to log in Every screen in this system will have a similar look to this screen The heading will be the same but inside the heading box the name of the screen will also be show
34. e the call Do not lose your temper Be quick to think slow to anger A decision made in anger is never sound Be courteous impartial and firm Let players or managers speak but don t allow yourself to be pushed around Do not even up If you miss a call continue trying to do your best Do not make a call in favor of the other team to make up for the one you missed Get help if necessary Get the call right if you are unsure ask your partner for help Hustle into position Don t race the players but get an angle on the play Look sharp Work as a team Cooperate communicate with and never criticize your partner Dress the part Dress appropriately look sharp have the right equipment Be confident in yourself Remember that confidence comes from knowing the rules and being in correct position for each play Learn something every game Read the Rule Book after the game to be clear about any unusual play that may have occurred Page 4 of 27 10 TOP 10 ADVICE LIST FOR NEW BLUES Always watch the BALL and you will likely not miss an important play Never SEARCH for rules violations as they will usually become obvious and don t attempt to call an obscure violation unless you completely understand the rule Don t let players coaches or fans comments bother you Parents and coaches will usually say things like that looked close and the like but they are not meant to undermine your
35. eck swing If he signals strike you re in trouble Page 5 of 27 L THE BASICS Y our role as authority figure starts the moment you arrive at the field Therefore when you arrive look and act professional An umpire who takes pride in his appearance also takes pride in his game Respect is all about perception If you look sloppy on the field and look like you don t care you become a target And you deserve it Wear your uniform with pride You have earned it Looking Professional e Uniform shirt clean and neat e Hat never worn backwards e Heather Grey or dark pants clean and pressed no shorts sweats etc Black shoes or sneakers e Black socks and belt Acting Professional Know the rules If you make a mistake go over the rule after the game e Show up on time and be ready to go e Take charge your authority is assumed act that way Just because the manager is 40 and you re 14 means nothing You are the umpire You are in charge Don t be a jerk about it just act like it s assumed you are Be pleasant Be polite But be firm You are well trained You know the rules Be confident out there e Take your time on calls Pause read react There is nothing to be gained by rushing except trouble Your calls Make em loud and make em proud everyone wants to hear Don t hesitate The best way to avoid confrontations is to be in the correct position to make the right call and to sell
36. ed his decision Correcting a call means he s calls Out and then immediately Safe when he sees the ball pop out of the glove For example the umpire quickly signals a catch on a fly ball and then the outfielder drops it The instant the ball fell from the glove he should have yelled No Catch No catch and signaled safe vigorously Of course this dilemma is avoidable by taking a moment to pause before making the call in the first place There is no rush And a pause is better than a sheepish correction The five instances when a call can be changed two umpires make different calls on the same play a rule is misinterpreted a home run is changed to a double and vice versa a half swing called a ball becomes a strike and the ball pops free on a tag and another umpire sees it TAS Specific Rules This section elaborates rules of Little League League Baseball and is organized by Rule and type of situation References to the Little League Rule Book are given so you will be able to check exact rule book language 2 00 Terms and Definitions Fair Foul When the ball is hit calling it fair or foul is the first priority When using two person umpire teams the initial call always belongs to the home plate umpire When a ball is foul throw both of your hands up and out and call Foul ball Then point to foul territory Use your right hand to point foul if the ball was foul off the first base line and use y
37. en foot circle surrounding the pitching rubber If this occurs immediately call a ball and warn the pitcher that repeated violation can cause removal from the game However if a pitch is made and the batter reaches first base on a hit error or hit batsman and every runner safely advances at least one base then the play stands LL Rule 8 02 a 1 The pitcher also cannot apply any foreign substance to the ball spit on the ball or hand or glove or otherwise deface the ball Note A rosin bag may be used and rosin applied to the hand only not the glove or the ball LL Rule 8 02 a 1 Other Illegal Acts The pitcher may not intentionally pitch at the batter If this occurs you can either expel the pitcher from the game or warn the pitcher and managers of both sides that another such pitch will cause the pitcher to be ejected from the game LL Rule 8 02 c With the bases empty if the pitcher delays a pitch by more than 20 seconds after receiving the ball a ball may be called The purpose of this rule is to avoid unnecessary delays LL Rule 8 04 Manager s Visits to the Pitcher The manager or coach can only make three visits to any single pitcher during the same inning and only four visits to the same pitcher during the entire game Only two visits can be made while the same player is at bat On the third visit in an inning or the fourth visit during the game the pitcher must be replaced When a new pitcher comes in the visit count
38. es that exist in the system and the actions available to those roles Has access to the system for the purpose of viewing game schedules and umpire assignments Does not have the ability to view any personal information or change any game assignments Has access to the system Can view all game schedules Can change personal contact information Can choose home or bases game assignments for open games Can drop a game please don t do this too close to game time Can view team s game assignments Is notified each week of upcoming week s umpire assignments Can post a game protest Can post an umpire evaluation Can assign umpires to games Can view history of games umpited Responsible for user IDs and passwords and can assign coaches to teams Controls the master umpire list Assigns umpires to the leagues they are qualified to work Has access to some management reports not available to other users for personal privacy reasons Note If you are an umpire but not a computer user you can schedule your games by speaking directly with the umpire coordinators who can load your games into the system INTRODUCTION Finding The Web Site The entire umpire scheduling system operates from a standard WWW browser You can run this system from any type of computer than is capable of running a browser and that is connected to the Internet We hope this makes it accessible to everyone To access th
39. he isn t here put on the plate gear He s late He gets the bases Make sure the field is prepared on time Home Team should line the field Make sure there are no safety issues walk around the field Look for broken fences broken glass trash on the field broken gates holes in the ground standing water and anything else that s unsafe and anything that could trap a ball Have the managers fix it before you start the game You want to impress them with your dedication Help them do the job Monitor the pre game warm ups Five minutes for the plate conference So have your plate conference at 5 25 for a 5 30 game Move things along Start on time The plate conference Introduce yourself to the managers and learn their names It is easier to have a discussion later if you refer to each other by name The home plate umpire stands behind the plate and the base umpire out in front The managers are on either side The managers should give you their lineups home team first so ask for them Once the home team hands you its lineup you are in charge of the field and game Make sure the home team provides a scorekeeper Give the lineups to the scorekeeper after the plate conference Go over the ground rules at the plate conference things like where dead ball territory is keep gates closed if there are holes in the fence what will happen if the ball goes in there etc Make sure the players are properly equipped and ready to play Cups s
40. hoes masks other gear and two game balls for the umpire Ask this question at the plate conference Are all your players legally equipped That covers everything male catchers without cups cracked helmets dented bats etc Page 7 of 27 Male players must wear a cup no exceptions It is not necessary to ask them for a cup check knock knock Make sure catcher s masks have dangling throat protectors There s good reason for this If the catcher looks up the protector still covers this throat Make sure catcher s gear fits properly Don t start the game until it does Make sure equipment is in good condition and properly worn If a helmet is cracked throw it out of the game Teams can borrow from each other if needed Dented damaged bats should be removed Ensure the bats are of legal size and type and have the BPF Bat Performance Factor rating of 1 15 During the Game L Help keep the game moving Hustle the players into position and back to the dugout including warming up pitchers Make sure to ask the manager to get his catcher ready as soon as you can if that looks like it s an issue 1 minute s for field change and pitcher warm ups Stay near the plate during warm ups but out of the way near the backstop If the catcher misses a warm up pitch hand him the other ball and go get the one at the backstop This will speed up warm up pitches tremendously Keep warm up pitches to no more than 8 for a new pitcher 5 for
41. ime and have the equipment removed Keep the players in the dugouts when they aren t on the field and keep the managers in the dugouts The dugouts are for players managers and coaches only not spectators There is NO on deck hitter in Little League at any time The first batter of the inning can come out to take practice swings at the start of the inning under your supervision but that s it Keep the batter far away from the plate while the pitcher is warming up There is NO batting donut allowed in Little League If you see one ask the manager to put it away If you see it again ask one more time and remind him you ve already told him to put that thing away If you see it a third time you should consider removing the manager he asked for it Make sure you and the coaches stay positive role models Don t allow poor sportsmanship Don t let them yell out questionable instructions such as Run over the catcher the next time he gets in the way Understand that umpires will make mistakes Don t try to make up for a bad call Let it go Call what you see on the next one After the Game 1 As soon as the game is over exit the field nearest the winning team s dugout Don t hang around and look for trouble Protests can be taken up to the point when all umpires leave the field And always leave as a crew Put the equipment back clean Report any broken or missing equipment to the Chief Umpire immediately If there h
42. ir as is any fly ball past first or third base that initially lands in fair territory A ball that hits first second or third base and then deflects into foul territory is a fair ball Home plate is in fair territory A ball that bounces off of home plate is no different than a ball that bounces off of the ground around home plate If a ball is bunted and comes to rest on home plate it is a fair ball The pitcher s rubber has no special status if a ball hits off of the rubber and bounces into foul territory before passing a base or being touched by a fielder it is a foul ball Foul Tips In the event of a foul tip the ball hits off the bat and goes sharp and direct into the catcher s mitt the ball is live and it is always a strike Signal foul tip by running your right hand over the back of your left and then signal the strike Don t say anything other than Strike The moment you say Foul anything the play is killed If the ball hits off the bat and the catcher misses it it is a foul not a foul tip Throw up your hands and say Foul ball A foul tip must hit the catcher s mitt first and be caught before touching the ground If the ball hits any other part of the catcher s equipment first it is a foul ball even if caught If the ball hits off of the catcher s mitt bounces off the catcher and is caught before it hits the ground it is a foul tip If it falls inside the catcher s chest protector it is a foul ball Any batted b
43. ke a catch near an out of play area marked by line rope or fence the catch must be completed and the ball in the fielder s control before the fielder steps out of play A juggled ball is not a catch until the fielder holds the ball After the catch is made momentum may subsequently carry the fielder out of play but the ball is live unless the fielder falls down If the fielder falls in out of play territory the ball is dead and runners advance one base LL Rule 5 10 f If the ball is bobbled in the act of catching it base runners only need to tag up at the time the ball is touched for the first time LL Rule 7 08 d Out Safe The batter is called out when 1 A third strike is caught or not caught by the catcher In Little League the batter may not try to run to first base on a dropped third strike LL Rule 6 05 b 2 The ball is bunted foul on the third strike LL Rule 6 05 c 3 The batter is touched by the ball on a third strike This occurs if the ball hits the batter in the strike zone or the batter is hit by the ball while swinging at it The hands are not part of the bat If the batter swings at a pitch and the ball hits the batter s hands the ball is dead and the pitch is ruled a strike See the discussion on Calling Balls and Strikes in Section V LL Rule 6 05 e Page 13 of 27 A fair or foul fly ball is legally caught See the preceding discussion Catch No Catch LL Rule 6 05 a The Infield Fly rule is called
44. l contact with a base runner for obstruction to occur 2 00 Obstruction 7 06 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 The pitcher cannot take signs from his manager or coach 8 01 8 02 If a fielder catches a fly ball and then falls over the fence it is a homerun 2 00 Catch 6 09 h 7 05 a The ball is dead anytime that an umpire is hit by the ball 5 09 f The manager must appeal a bad call to the plate umpire 9 02 b The manager can visit his pitcher once every inning 8 06 a The pitcher cannot wear a white T shirt under his uniform 1 11 a 3 A fielder cannot fake a catch to decoy a runner into slowing down 2 00 Interference amp Obstruction A runner is out if he collides with the fielder who is attempting to catch a throw from the outfield 7 08 b If a runner leaves a base early he cannot score 7 13 If a runner misses home plate he can always go back and touch it for the run to count 7 10 b Approved Ruling 2 A starter must play six consecutive outs and bat once before a sub can replace him 3 03 Players on the bench may yell to distract a fielder from catching a pop fly 2 00 Interference A fielder can t trick a runner into returning to a previous base by telling him a pitch was fouled off 2 00 Interference amp Obstruction The official scorekeeper must inform the umpire when a team is batting out of order 6 07 No
45. lled out on appeal for missing the base to which the runner was forced See the discussion on the next page If the third out occurs at first second or third and is not a force play a run scores so long as the runner crosses home plate before the third out is made This type of call is a time play A time play requires that you be aware of which event occurs first If a time play occurs and the out is made on the bases before home plate is touched the run does not count As the home plate umpire try to line yourself up so you can see both plays in a straight line Remember that time plays never occur in a force out situation If a successful appeal is made on a runner at a base where no force play exists runners ahead of the appealed runner score but the appealed runner and any following runners do not score Page 21 of 27 Dead ball situations occur on a ground rule double a home run or when a fielder throws the ball out of play Because the ball is dead the defensive team can t do anything about base running infractions until a new ball is put in play If the defensive team properly appeals at a base to which the runner was forced for example if they appeal that the batter missed first base then the appeal is a force out and no runs score If the appeal is made at any other base then preceding runners score and the trailing runners do not LL Rule 7 10 b The Little League Strike Zone 2 00 The STRIKE ZONE is that spac
46. n e g Schedule a Game Main Menu etc This will make it easy for you to figure out where you ate at any time At the bottom of the screen are some links to the various hosting sites or technologies that I used to build this website INTRODUCTION Logging In When you click the link to log in the system will first check to see if you are already logged in If you are then you will go directly to the main menu If you are not then you will have to enter your user name and password into the system Each user is assigned a login uset name by the administrator You should already know your user name When the administrator creates your account your password will be set to the word password When you log in for the first time the system will require you to change your password The password must be at least six characters long There are no other restrictions on the password you can choose After you change your password you will have to log in again this time using the new password and you will then be sent to the main menu If you lose your password or login name contact the system administrator who can reset it for you Please try to keep this information private because if someone has access to your ID and password they can act as you on the system This includes changing your schedule and viewing your personal information Please note that for security reasons whenever you type a password in this system you will see
47. n after the batter passed first base and the R1 passed second base then R1 is awarded home plate and BR is awarded third base In the same situation if the ball was hit to the outfield then the award of bases is from the runners positions at the time of the throw In some cases the positioning of one runner will prevent you from awarding the other runners two bases For example a high fly hit into the outfield with a runner on first base R1 goes half way to second base and before the throw is made the batter runner rounds first and pulls up behind R1 The outfielder misses the catch and hurries the throw back into the infield In doing so the throw is wild and goes out of play If R1 had not passed second base at the time of the throw R1 is awarded third base and BR is placed on second 3 When a fielder deliberately touches a thrown ball with a cap mask or any part of the uniform detached from its proper place on the fielder or deliberately throws a glove at and touches a thrown ball Runners get two bases from their position at the time of release of the throw The ball is still live and runners can advance beyond two bases at their own risk LL Rule 7 05 d amp 7 05 e Award Each Runner Three Bases 1 When a fielder deliberately touches a batted ball with a cap mask or any part of the uniform detached from its proper place on the fielder or deliberately throws a glove at and touches a batted ball The ball is still live an
48. n baseball it s not a game without us In fact the very first Little League Rule Rule 1 01 states Little League Baseball is a game between two teams of nine players each under the direction of a manager and not more than two coaches played on a regulation Little League field in accordance with these rules under the jurisdiction of one or more umpires emphasis added So be proud take it seriously have fun and enjoy the best view in the ball park The first three sections of the manual interpret and provide examples of Little League Rules It will address common situations and how the rules apply Of course nothing substitutes for reading and knowing the Rule Book The fourth section deals with communication and signals both to the players and fans and to your partner When you re part of a two person umpiring team there s a lot of ground to cover Both umpires the home plate umpire and the base umpire have different roles and responsibilities By working as a team you can watch all the plays on the field and not miss a play How you move position yourself and make calls is called mechanics Sections V and VI discuss mechanics which addresses positioning at the start of the play and how to adjust to situations that may occur when the ball is put in play Page 3 of 27 TEN COMMANDMENTS OF UMPIRING Do not call plays too quickly Read Pause React Read the play Pause to judge the action then react and mak
49. nly advance to the bases they would have achieved based on the plate umpire s judgment of the base value of the hit regardless of any subsequent errors For example a batter hits a sharp grounder to centerfield with the bases loaded and the ball goes under the centerfielder s legs all the way to the fence The umpire may judge the value of the hit was a single If so he puts the batter on first and the other runners on second and third only 1 run scores 3 If with the bases loaded the ball doesn t leave the infield no runs score even if the batter runner reaches first base safely In this event the runners each advance one base except that the runner on third base is removed from the field without an out being imposed This is explained in Example 15 in the Rule Book 4 If a runner leaves early he cannot correct his mistake by returning to touch the base For example a runner on second leaves early then sees the ball is flied to right He tags up and tries for third and ends up scoring on a wild throw He must return to second because he left early regardless of the fact he subsequently tagged it There is no fixing a 7 13 violation Page 26 of 27 Head first slide LL Rule 7 08 a 4 A runner is automatically out for a head first slide while advancing This is not a force play which can create a time play situation if another runner is trying to score That is no run can score after the head first slide occurs which resul
50. nocking the ball away from the catcher dead ball runners return However if the batter had time to get out of the box but stays in and gets in the way then he s guilty of interference This usually happens in lower levels when the ball gets by the catcher a runner tries to score and the batter stays in the box and affects the play at the plate If the batter gets in the way of a play while OUT OF THE BOX he will almost certainly be guilty of interference even if it s unintentional Page 17 of 27 Obstruction Rule 2 00 and 7 06 Like interference this is a tough call when there is no contact If a runner has to slow down or stop because of a fielder s action OTHER THAN fielding a batted ball you have obstruction Example of obstructions that is not so obvious 1 A fielder boots the initial play and then gets in the runner s way as he goes after the ball No interference here on the runner because the fielder booted the ball The fielder is only protected on the initial play not a subsequent play after his error 2 A batter runner has to slow down on his way to first because the first baseman is standing on the base This happens a lot in the lower divisions 3 A fielder stands in the baseline or puts his leg down and blocks the base or plate well before he has the ball A fielder cannot block the base while he is waiting for the throw to come in 4 A fielder fakes a tag on a runner when the fielder does not have the ball
51. not want to say anything e If the defense fails to appeal an improper batter before the next pitch or play the improper batter is now legalized and next up is the person following the legalized batter in the order The scorekeeper is NOT ALLOWED to bring this situation to the umpire s attention It is the manager s responsibility to catch a batting out of order situation and to inform the umpire The umpire is not allowed to bring this situation to anyone s attention either That s the manager s job lllegal Pitches amp Illegal Acts LL 2 00 8 05 Illegal Pitches There are two kinds of illegal pitches defined in LL Rule 2 00 1 The pitcher pitches the ball when the pivot foot is not in contact with the rubber 2 A quick return pitch in which the ball is pitched before the batter has sufficient time to get ready for the pitch The penalty for an illegal pitch is a ball If the batter puts the ball in play and if the batter advances to first base and all base runners advance at least one base without being put Page 24 of 27 out then the play must stand The manager does not have an option to accept the penalty or the play If an illegal pitch hits the batter the batter is awarded first base LL Rule 8 01 d Illegal Pitches as defined in LL Rule 8 05 only apply with runner s on base s Illegal Acts on the Ball The pitcher cannot bring the pitching hand in contact with lips or mouth while standing inside the t
52. only asterisk characters on the screen After you are successfully logged in the Main Menu screen will be displayed THE MAIN MENU Cl t The Main Menu All parts of the system are accessed directly from the Main Menu The main menu with all options enabled looks like this You have been successfully logged in as user Bob Andrews You have the following access rights VIEW UMPIRE COACH COORDINATOR ADMINISTRATOR Umpire Menu Coach Menu Sign Up For A Game View or Delete My Game Assignments Update My Profile Update My Profile View Assignments Rate Umps and Protest Administrators Menu Add or Change User Login and Rights Add Edit and Delete Umpires Quick Change Umpire Quali fication Add Edit and Delete Coaches i D seenen Add Edit and Delete Coordinators View Umpire Usage Report 5 5 A soge mepo Export Umpire List CSV View Umpire Rating Reports View Game Protest Reports View Umpire Game Comments Coordinator Menu Other Functions Menu View Team Schedule and Umpires Log Out THE MAIN MENU The top of the main menu identifies the name of the logged in user Below that is a list of user rights that are assigned to this user A user can have multiple rights en a coach that is also an umpire Below this are a series of menu headings The links below each heading are active if you have security rights for that heading On the bottom of the screen are menu transactions that ate avail
53. oudinbs E Saa T aun sodoag P way Buet yaaudinba Renka p an zadoni E up POG pog mbs jo motu y 7 y y a See JO RPA I UP Apoq premio Kq parfonuoo gt uopysod pray don JOO PIEMIO ay JO aay au UY YOR Jayun aq JOU p noys 300 WEI 3y JO 80 ay ag EU jo UO EI0 ay pue 300 Jo s 100 PIEMIO OU jo 80 ay uaemeq diysuopejas ay sjoyuoo sjesy s Jayojes ey JO yORq ay peay SJayo ed ayy jo do y uey JAMO ou ulyo ay pue Jayoje9 ay JO ops Jayeq ay JO apis ey 0 en peau noA Buey si adue g JOS ay uonisod pesy 1981109 Bululejureul JM SUOZ ou ay jo mala ajgissod 1seq ay auidunf eJejd ay SAI 0 SI UON SOd JOS ay jo esodind ay J0IS oul 100 isbusyey7 angee 619 ones joues andea unt apfea om UOBHEIDOSSYf nd nv EJUJO E 4 California 4 Umpire Association Little cesgue duma League Senior League Big Leacua Challenger Divieior 2 27 06 Clearing The Catcher PLATE UMPIRE On passed balls wild pitches and pop ups it will be necessary for you to Clear the Catcher so that you do not impede his ability to field the ball The basic steps involve pivoting away from the direction of the catcher s pursuit of the ball Keep the ball of one foot on the ground as you pivot on it by swinging the other foot backwards behind you You in effect are Opening the Gate of the catcher s box and letting the catcher move out freely to find the ball If the catchers movement is
54. our left hand to point foul if the ball went foul off the third base line If the ball is fair say nothing because anything you say may be mis interpreted by a player Point to fair territory and extend your left arm hand towards the pitchers mound Fair and foul is judged by the position of the ball not the player If a player stands in fair territory and touches a ball in foul territory the ball is foul Page 11 of 27 The best place for the plate umpire to make the call is straddling the first or third base line If the ball is hit in the infield the plate umpire can position on the first or third base line extended This is the imaginary line that extends the base line through home plate and into foul territory So when you stand on the extended base line you re standing behind home plate The first and third base foul lines are in fair territory If a ball hits on a foul line the ball is fair Don t rush the call if the ball is rolling in foul territory but hasn t yet passed first or third base and hasn t been touched by a fielder Baseball fields are often uneven If an untouched ball in foul territory hits a bump in the ground and rolls into fair territory between home plate and first or third base it s a fair ball Similarly if the ball starts in fair territory and rolls untouched into foul territory before passing first or third base it s a foul ball Any ball that bounces past or over first or third base in fair territory is fa
55. r An Umpire To Lose Concentration First inning both you amp the pitcher may struggle Make sure you can see the pitches amp establish your strike zone Use basic mechanics Two outs in an inning you may feel that you are cruising along This is not the time to relax After a close play your mind wants to push the replay button over and over Refocus on the present and the future After an argument ejection your mind still wants to win the argument Let it go and get back to the game After a pitching change a break in the action takes you out of your rhythm Restart with the same intensity you had before the break After a big inning you may lose intensity amp concentration Anything can still happen Be ready for the comeback After a great or bad call thinking about that last call The game continues you must foo During threatening weather a distraction you cannot control Focus on the things you can control After a rain delay or long delays another rhythm buster Restart with intensity NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR LAST CALL OR THE POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANCE OF YOUR NEXT CALL BE MENTALLY PREPARED it s nothing till call it Bill Klem MLB Hall Of Fame Umpire TOnmoom gt California 4 Umpire Association ile cezgue Jumor League Senor League DG League Chalienger Division 2 27 06 Basic Umpire Responsibilities 60 Base Umpire BU
56. r batter who was called out Rule 6 07 b 1 Tie goes to the runner There is no such thing as a tie in the world of umpiring the runner is either out or safe An umpire therefore cannot rule a play a tie No player is given preference in a close play On a ball thrown out of play the runner gets the base he s going to plus one When a fielder other than the pitcher or the pitcher when not in contact with the rubber throws the ball into a dead ball area the award is 2 bases The award is from where the runners were at the time of the pitch if it is the first play by an infielder before all runners have advanced one base or from where each runner was physically positioned at the time the ball left the thrower s hand on all other plays Rule 7 05 g The runner must always slide when the play is close There is no must slide rule When the fielder has the ball in his possession the runner has two choices slide OR attempt to get around the fielder He may NOT deliberately or maliciously contact the fielder but he is NOT required to slide If the fielder does not have possession but is in the act of fielding a thrown ball when contact is made it is a no call unless the contact was intentional and malicious Rule 7 08 a 3 A pitch that bounces to the plate cannot be hit A pitch is a ball delivered to the batter by the pitcher It doesn t matter how it gets to the batter The batter may hi
57. resets Any visit with any defensive player counts as a visit with the pitcher LL Rule 8 06 Page 25 of 27 lll SPECIAL LITTLE LEAGUE RULES There are a few rules that are unique to Little League and do not exist at more advanced levels Some of those you are likely to encounter are discussed below Leaving the base early LL Rule 7 13 A runner may not leave the base until the ball reaches the batter If a runner leaves early signal the violation and let the play go on The penalty for leaving early is assessed after the play ends This rule takes effect when the pitcher is on the rubber with the ball and the catcher is in the catcher s box ready to receive the ball This rule is unique to LL and may cause umpires a lot of headaches The bottom line if any base runner leaves a base before the pitch reaches a batter all runners are guilty Depending on the subsequent action runners must return to any unoccupied bases The Rule Book has a number of examples that are pretty straightforward Some that are less understood 1 If the batter is subsequently thrown out on a play all runners return For example a batter hits a double with the bases loaded but gets gunned down trying for a triple Since his out left all the bases open no runs score and all runners must return If his out was the third out of the inning no runs score and the inning is over Expect the offensive manager to be very peeved by this 2 The runners can o
58. ritory before passing first or third then the batter is out You will need to use judgment to rule on an infield fly if the ball is hit into the short outfield For example if a potential infield fly is hit into short left field and the shortstop drifts out and could easily catch the ball call infield fly even if the left fielder comes in and calls the shortstop off the ball The shortstop s position in the outfield does not matter A runner is not out if standing on a base when hit by an infield fly if the runner is off the base and is hit then both the runner and batter are out LL Rule 7 08 f Page 23 of 27 Batting Out of Order LL 6 07 This one is ALWAYS fun to try and straighten out To simplify the rule you must understand one basic premise the PROPER batter the one who should have batted is the one who is called out Here s more to try to clear this up e The ONLY time the proper batter is called out is when the defense appeals after the improper batter completes his time at bat getting on base or making an out If the defense appeals while the improper batter is batting the proper batter simply replaces the improper batter and the proper batter assumes the count e Any base running advances or put outs while the improper batter is up are upheld e Any base running advances or put outs when the improper batter puts the ball in play are nullified so if an improper batter hits into a double play the defense may
59. rself for anything to happen at any moment in the game AND know what you will do in reaction to that event PAUSE READ AND REACT Pause to confirm your observation and to mentally process the information Read the situation unfolding on the field React by moving toward the best angle and or making the right call PIVOT Practice know and use this move to your advantage WATCH THE BALL GLANCE AT THE RUNNERS You must know when to take your eye off of the ball CHEST TO THE BALL Except on the pivot always face the ball Never tum your back to the ball ANGLE DISTANCE Angle First then get the distance you want as the play will allow SET YOURSELF FOR THE CALL HANDS ON KNEES OR STANDING You must be stopped to see the play and make the call Making the call is a mental process which occurs before any signal is given Signaling indicating the call is a physical act and it is okay to be moving while giving your signal ADJUST Constantly Alter your position to respond to new and developing situations OPEN THE GATE Know how to get out of a player s way COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PARTNER Know your responsibilities Knowing communicating and meeting your responsibilities will lead to less confusion on the field Anticipate the play not the call California 4 Umpire Association Lite League dumo League Senior League Big League Challenger iv gies 2 27 06 Concentration Vulnerable Spots Fo
60. s Stay home for possible time play R3 Tag up on R3 Rundown Assist BU if single runner Has primary responsibility for calling Infield Fly if the infielder moves in for the ball Echoes BU s call A time play is where run s may count depending upon whether the third out was recorded before or after a runner crossed the plate Important Notes Proper position is getting a good Angle on the play Angle first Distance second Timing is the amount of time required to gather all necessary information before making a decision call This is a Mechanics Clinic Judgment Clinic is next week Carlos Camacho District 4 Chief Umpire Field Positions Position of Base Umpire when Batter is up Major and minor leagues only Bases empty Runner on 1 base Runner on 2 base Runner on 3 base Runners on 1 and 2 Runners on 2 and 3 Runners on 1 and 3 Runners on all bases ANANAA D gt Position of Umpire when ball is hit to the outfield Major and minor leagues only Base umpire moves into the infield and watches the runners tag bases and pivots to stay ahead of the runner not behind Plate umpire moves into the infield in the direction of the ball only if the base umpire goes out AUBISH PeaH ues Jenbs UPIM MalA do MSIA 9PIS En sowana poop E MOLA U014 SOL THH HOL THHH Sen IPH PON Java 20 Rpa Jopjnoys q moy 8 y
61. s nothing to indicate that the runner missed the plate A runner may also be called out for interfering with the defensive team s ability to complete a play See the next section Offensive Interference Remember The offense interferes the defense obstructs Interference Rule 2 00 and 7 09 The umpire must judge that someone on the offense interferes with obstructs impedes hinders or confuses a defensive player who is trying to make a play on the ball Some interference calls are easy such as a runner being struck by a batted ball or a runner colliding with a fielder trying to field a batted ball The troublesome ones are when the umpire must judge the intent of the runner such as 1 2 A runner intentionally makes contact with a thrown ball A runner fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted ball Intent is not required LL Rule 7 08 b A runner makes contact with or gets in the way of a fielder trying to field a thrown ball INTENT is required here If a runner just runs into a fielder while that fielder is waiting for a throw it s not interference unless the umpire judges the runner intentionally ran into him Page 16 of 27 Note A runner doesn t contact a fielder fielding a batted ball but causes him to miss it by some other action Contact is not needed for interference So if a runner yells at a fielder as he runs behind him waves his arms at the fielder runs at the fielder an
62. t any pitch that is thrown A pitch that bounces before reaching the plate may never be a called strike or a legally caught third strike Rule 2 00 PITCH If the ball does not cross the foul line it is not a pitch The ball must always be returned to the pitcher before an appeal can be made An appeal may be made anytime the ball is alive The only time the ball must go to the pitcher is when time is out The ball cannot be made live until the pitcher has the ball while on the rubber and the umpire puts the ball back into play If time is not out the appeal can be made immediately Rule 2 00 APPEAL 5 11 7 10 The home piate umpire can overrule the other umpires at any time The umpire who made a call or ruling may ask for help if he or she wishes No umpire may overrule another umpire s call The rulebook provides that No umpire shall criticize seek to reverse or interfere with another umpire s decision unless asked to do so by the umpire making it Rules 9 02 b amp c 50 RULE MYTHS OF LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL Each myth is followed by the rules that apply either to disprove it or show there s nothing in the rule to support it T The hands are considered part of the bat 1 10 6 05 f 6 08 b 2 The batter runner must turn to his right after overrunning first base 7 08 c amp j 3 If the batter breaks his wrist when swinging it s a strike 2 00 Strike 4 If a batted ball hits the plate first it s a foul ball
63. te Version WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE Umpire Scheduling Web Site WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE User s Guide WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE Umpire Scheduling Web Site User s Guide Robert S Andrews 3695 Oak Creek Court Walnut Creek CA 94598 Phone 925 945 1926 bob bobandtuth org INTRODUCTION Ci t Introduction Walnut Creek Little League Umpire Scheduling System elcome to the Walnut Creek Little League Umpire Scheduling Web Site The purpose of this web site is to assist umpires coaches coordinators and administrators in maintaining a complete schedule up umpires for all baseball and softball games We tried to make this system as easy to use as possible to so that umpires can quickly manage their own work schedules We have built in features to keep the coaches informed of their upcoming schedule and the umpire assignments Coordinators will use the system to identify gaps in the schedule and work to fill those gaps with yet unscheduled umpires Our goal is to maintain full two umpire coverage for every game We hope that this system makes it easier for all umpires coaches and coordinators to achieve that goal Roles Your role determines what you can do in this system Roles are assigned by and can only be changed by a system administrator If you find that you are responsible for a role that you don t have access to contact the system administrator and your role can be updated The table below shows the rol
64. them in again Clicking Main Menu takes you out of this module and returns you to the main menu In this example if you selected the check box for AA Minors and asked for games between May 1 2005 and May 4 2005 and then clicked on List Games you would see a result screen like this There are 7 games scheduled to be played for the leagues and dates you selected ogee fojia Bate Tine pone Visitor ba ke Ae A eee Yankees Diamondbacks Add Me Add Me Minors SB AM ee METERS AA Indian Valley 05 01 2005 11 00 d Bob Ga 7a MN DT 180 arian La ae Northgate V 05 01 2005 02 00 Ele lanas al ake Addie Minors SB PM ae Kees AA Indian Valley 05 01 2005 02 00 AA Indian Valley 05 01 2005 05 00 e Ge Bob Minors AA PM Andrews AA Northgate V 05 03 2005 05 30 AA Indian Valley 05 04 2005 05 30 3 New Search Main Menu The screen shows all games that meet your search criteria Any games that already have umpires will show the names of the umpires currently assigned Any free spots will say Add Me To assign yourself to umpire a game click on the Add Me button for the game you want Be sure to click the proper column plate or bases Once you THE UMPIRE MENU click Add Me a confirmation box will pop up Click on OK to confirm your selection or Cancel to return to the list If you clicked OK a confirmation screen will be displayed showing that you were added to the game You then have
65. three buttons to choose from You have been successfully added as an umpire to the requested game A confirming e mail message was sent to you and to the coaches If you click on New Search you will return to the first screen in this sequence and you can select a new set of leagues and game dates If you click on Same Search then the list you were previously viewing will be re displayed In either case you simply click Add Me on additional games to add to your assignments If you clicked on Main Menu you would leave this module and return to the main menu View or Delete My Game Assignments Selecting View or Delete My Game Assignments will take you to this screen Date Time AlCastle Rock 06 01 2004 ale SCH Bob eg IA 0 08 00 AM Andrews Castle Rock 06 05 2004 Yankee Bob Ge 1 02 30 PM Andrews Northgate JV 03 20 2005 HE 00 PM pa Bob ee Be All games are assigned to umpire will be listed Games are in chronological order Games that have already completed are in the green color background Games scheduled for dates in the future are in the blue colored background If you need to drop yourself from a game click your name on the game you need to drop You will be asked to confirm your selection An e mail confirmation will be sent to you and the coaches involved if you drop a game Once you drop a game the same list will reappear this time with one less game listed When you are ready to
66. ti d Lapointe Sine optimum tait Hands on Knees Set Position 13 Play Called by the plate umpire onty Starts the game or resumes the game when time is out freet Ball Called while down with no arm signal Called with the number Ball 1 2 3 4 Not as loud as strikes There should be no vertical or lateral body movement to indicate location Strike Called after rising up from the squat position Strikes are called loud enough to be heard in the stands a A AA A cad was RTE SE NE an ij Zenn ci ease g Base Umpire i Piate Umpire EE Time Called by plate or base umpirc Called loud and clear Safe Safe calls originate from the hands on knees set position and end with a return to a hands on knees set position after the safe cali KS After making this call remain set with eyes on ball in case there is an immediate play following the safe call Safe off the bag Called on a play that pulls Accompanied by a sweeping motion to indicate the call After making this call remain set with eyes on bail in case there is an immediate play following the safe call SS ES rn He s Out Out calls originate from the hands on knees set position Make the call in a standing position E On the tag He s out On close plays when the first baseman tags the
67. to the right you pivot on your left foot by swinging the right foot backward and vice versa If possible remove your mask and stay in visual contact with the catcher rather than the ball Let the catcher take you to the ball Your movements should be parallel to the catcher while opening your angle so you will have the best view of the catcher and any play on the ball Should a pop up take you to the backstop or fence you must make sure the catch is legal and not caught off the fence or overhead netting It may be necessary to Lean and Look around the catcher to be certain of the catch and apply good timing With passed balls on the ground especially a ball that may be deflected you must resist looking for the ball so you can focus on Clearing the Catcher It is more important that you do not impede the catcher s movements to the ball than it is for you to know the location of the passed ball BASE UMPIRE With pop ups behind the plate you are responsible for all tag ups and any attempted stolen bases Be prepared to help your partner if a pop up hits the netting or overhang which he she may not hear With passed balls check runners to anticipate any steal attempts Stay in visual contact with the catcher and let the catcher s throw take you to the play Know your responsibilities and move with purpose on the field Larry Anderson District 4 Chief Umpire Set Positions re a nm mr re ao gene man gai maine
68. ts League duno League Senior League Big League Challenger Divsior 2 28 06 Communication Terms 1 Batter Ball No he didn t go PU check swing not a strike give count Yes he went PU check swing strike call while pointing with hand closest to batter give count Did he go PU step out point with left hand to partner Yes he did or No he didn t BU and also use appropriate hand signal 2 Ball Down The Right Field Line Fm going out BU 1 trouble ball 2 fair foul 3 catch no catch Pve got the plate or fm at home BU has gone out and comes back to cover home 3 Infield Fly Infield fly the batter is out Either plate or base umpire Infield fly if fair Make sure runners hear you point straight up and give out signal if ball is fair 4 Rundowns Pve got it all PU rundown between 3 and home with multiple runners Pve got this half PU in cut out at 15 with rundown between 1 and 2 or in cut out at 3d with rundown between 2 and 34 5 Runner 1 to 3 I ve got third if he comes PU watch R1 as he turns second stay in foul territory library Pve got third PU be in the cut out as the play develops at 3 Fm going home No play develops at third I ve got the ball PU going down 3 base line on fly ball Fm on the line PU going down 1 base line on fly ball and he will not be at
69. ts in the third out If the runner is retreating to a base then a head first slide is allowed Thus a runner who rounds a base may legally dive back into the base he rounded Must slide or avoid contact LL Rule 7 08 a 3 There is no must slide rule in Little League The runner has three options when the Fielder has the ball and is waiting to make the tag slide attempt to get around the fielder or go back to the previous base If the runner does neither and goes in standing up into the fielder he s out But if he attempts to get around and successfully avoids the tag without going out of the baseline he s safe Remember the fielder must have the ball and be waiting to make the tag If the ball is on its way to a base or the ball and runner get there simultaneously and there s contact because the runner didn t slide or attempt to get around this is just a collision Out of the baseline 7 08a1 The confusion with this rule is the definition of baseline The runner establishes the baseline It is not necessarily the direct line between the two bases For example if the runner takes a wide turn at first into the grass in short right field and the throw comes back to first the baseline goes from the runner to first base If the first baseman tries to tag him the runner cannot deviate more than three feet to either side of this line The runner is not out for being out of the baseline unless he s avoiding a tag If he s running
70. unning more than three feet outside of a line between the runner s position and the base The line is between the runner s position and the base where the tag play would occur You can estimate three feet with the fielder s outstretched arms This rule only applies when the runner is trying to avoid being tagged if no play is being made on the runner the runner may choose any path to the base LL Rule 7 08 a 1 Example On a hit to the outfield the batter runner rounds first base widely and ends up near the outfield grass between first and second Before the batter runner reaches second base the ball is thrown to the second baseman If the batter runner continues to try to reach second base the three foot rule is in effect because the second baseman has the ball and is trying for a tag play The straight line is from the batter runner s current position and the base where the tag play will be made On the other hand if the batter runner retreats to first base Page 14 of 27 the three foot rule is not in effect because there is no tag play in effect at first the ball is still at second base The batter runner s initial position on the outfield side of the straight line between first and second does not matter The runner does not slide or try to get around a fielder who has the ball and is waiting to make a tag This is sometimes erroneously interpreted as a must slide rule The runner slides head first while advancing This is also a speci
71. with the ball If the team tries to appeal while Time is called tell them to put the ball in play and appeal again Page 18 of 27 The defense loses its right to an appeal if any other play occurs after Play has been called For example if on an appeal the ball is thrown out of play the opportunity to appeal is lost If an appeal is being made at one base a runner on another base may attempt to advance because the ball is in play If a runner misses home plate is not tagged by the catcher and does not immediately try to touch home plate the catcher may appeal to the ump for a decision To do this the catcher needs to stand on home plate with the ball while making the appeal Award of Bases LL 7 05 Award Each Runner One Base 1 When a pitched ball goes out of play or goes over or through a field fence or backstop The ball is dead LL Rule 7 05 h 2 When a pitched ball lodges in the catcher s or umpire s equipment If this occurs on ball four the batter runner gets first base and all other runners advance one base whether or not they are forced LL Rules 5 09 g 7 05 1 3 When a fielder catches a fair or foul fly ball and then falls down out of play LL Rule 7 04 c 4 In some cases runners move up one base when they are forced to because the batter is awarded first base This occurs when The batter receives a base on balls The batter is hit by a pitch that is not a strike The catcher or a fielder interferes

WALNUT CREEK LITTLE LEAGUE UMPIRE MANUAL

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