Category Archives: Interpretations
Three hits on one swing
The human eye will probably never see the multiple “hits” by the batter, but it is interesting to watch. But, if you DID see it…then what do you do? BTW — the batter gets a double and three runs score!!
Runner Interference with fly ball….would you call it?
This is one of those “seldom seen” plays. You know — the ones we hear or talk about, but never actually see. Do you know the rule concerning a runner’s “right” to occupy the base? Are you sure? Does the runner have an “absolute right” to the base? On this play, who is the “protected” [...]
Infield Fly — Deep in the Outfield
You will see this play several times, with commentary by multiple sportscasters. Their comments are, themselves, interesting. What is the rule on Infield Fly (NHFS, NCAA, OBR)? Would you consider this “ordinary effort” by the shortstop? Would you call this an Infield Fly? If you would call it………WHEN you signal/declare the Infield Fly? If [...]
Ball, Balk, Huh?
Have you ever seen this before? How does this play develop if: 1. He had let go of the ball and thrown it right into his glove? 2. He dropped it at the end of all of this (instead of holding on to it?) 3. Is the ruling on this particular play different [...]
When does a Questionable Slide become Illegal?
I’ve watched this slide quite a few times before deciding to ask for your opinions. Things I saw: 1. He slid “away” from the fielder 2. He didn’t throw his hands up in the air (they look like they’re in front of his face) 3. It doesn’t look egregious to me… Would you have let [...]
Why Voluntary Release Matters
From the Yankees-Indians game on June 26, 2012, our 3rd Base Umpire comes hustling up the line to see what happens and then…calls the Batter Out! Some questions: 1. Do you see the baseball in Wise’s glove when he stands up? 2. Do you have voluntary release? 3. For those guys who work at levels [...]
Do You Have Rabbit Ears?
Have you ever gotten an ejection that made your partners scratch their heads? I got one earlier this year for a coach yelling, “Wow!” from the dugout. The ejection was warranted but not from the coach shouting one word. What about you? Are you brave enough to share your experience?
When Has a Runner “Obtained” a Base?
This is a user-submitted question from Brad in Texas. If you have an umpiring question you’d like answered, simply email ask@UmpHub.com. I’m really enjoying the information UmpHub is providing!!! I go to the site just about everyday to see what is new. I have a situation I’d like to throw out there about something [...]
The Definition of Obstruction
If you were teaching a new Umpire the definition of obstruction, what would you say? If they showed you a video like this, would your definition of obstruction change? NFHS Rule 2-22 ART. 1 . . . Obstruction is an act (intentional or unintentional, as well as physical or verbal) by a fielder, any member of [...]
To Signal or Not to Signal, That is the Question
I’m as big a fan of girls’ softball as I am of my annual prostate exam but there is a lot to be discussed in this particular play. 1. Why in the world did this umpire signal safe? 2. Is this a situation that even counts as an “appeal”? 3. Doesn’t the runner have to [...]
