If a batter reaches first on a dropped third strike does the batter receive a "hit" in the score books?  
Ken asked: If a batter reaches first on a dropped third strike does the batter receive a "hit" in the score books? Rick answered: Ken, thank …

Run scores before third out 
Gord asked: Runners on 1 and 3 with one out. Deep fly ball hit to center, runner at 3 waits, runner at 1 takes off. Ball is caught for out 2, …

By Judy 
Judy asked: Why did the runner on 3rd base get to advance to home when batter called time out? Rick answered: Judy, I will need additional information …

When the 1st baseman is awaiting a pickoff throw from the pitcher, with a runner on 1st, is the 1st baseman permitted to set up with his feet or a foot over the foul line ? 
Michael asked: When the 1st baseman is set up for a pick-off throw from the pitcher, obviously with a runner on 1st, where are his feet or one foot …

Why throw ball to another infielder after a popup is caught 
Anonymous asked: Popup ball caught in infield. Why throw ball around to another infielder? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

What happens to a hitter while during his plate appearance the third out is made in an errant attempt by a runner to steal a base. 
Todd asked: So a hitter is up at the plate with two outs. A runner at first attempts to steal second base and is thrown out thus making the third …

What logo is this? 
Frank asked: Hello, I'm in Australia and am only slightly familiar with the MLB and all its teams. I have this cap and I can't figure out whose …

Should a freshman be given a position over a junior that has been playing and playing well? 
Anita asked: We lost a lot of players on our varsity team due to Seniors graduating. The coach brought up a freshman and put him in RF over a Junior, …

Official scoring on on a routine Flyball that bounces off out fielder and goes over fence 
Dave asked: Official score on fly ball that bounces off out fielder and goes over fence. Rick answered: Dave, thank you for your question. …

Infield Fly Rule 
Randy asked: Infield fly rule says that a popup in the infield must be caught with a routine or normal effort. However with the shifts now made …

On a passed ball 3rd strike where the runner makes it safely to 1st, is the picher credited with a strikeout 
Anonymous asked: On a passed ball 3rd strike, where the battered makes it safely to 1st, is the pitcher credited with a strikeout ? Rick answered: …

In the movie "42" why does Jackie Robinson get to take home plate after the pitcher fumbles the ball? 
Chris asked: What rule of baseball is present here? Rick answered: Chris, thank you for your question. I don't recall that portion of the …

When is it Catcher interference? 
Brett asked: Runner on third gets in a pickle, runner heading home, catcher is in the base path without the ball, runner makes contact with the catchers …

My question is be patient or ask questions? 
Scott asked: My son is a freshman that made the sophomore baseball team but was told by the Varsity Coach to work hard and do what you do and I will …

why didnt great black pitchers follow Robinson into the league as did other position players? 
James asked: The number of black greats in the 1950's is amazing yet few of them were pitchers. Why was this? Rick answered: James, thank …

shallow fly ball that is called by a state's name 
Patricia asked: Crossword puzzle is all about things with the name of a state in it. Shallow fly ball that is called by a state's name. Rick …

should a catcher catch a third strike bunt fly ball in foul territoy? 
Jad asked: If a batter has 2 strikes and bunts into foul ground he is out,however, what if the bunt had the ball popped up in foul ground? He doesn't …

In executing a double play why does the throw to second not require the player to touch second base or the runner before throwing on to first base to complete the double play? 
Jack asked: The player catching the ball at second can be 4 feet from the bag and throw it on to first and if caught by first base player on the bag …

fair ball or foul 
Richard asked: In the Cleveland/ Toronto game today Perez of the Indians hit a ball down third base line. The ball hit in fair territory and went …

is it a double play or is the runner at first out? 
Jared asked: Runners on first and second base nobody out. The ball is hit up the middle on the ground. The SS tags the runner standing on 2nd, then …

What is it called? 
Bill asked: What is it called when a batter strikes out but the catcher drops the ball. The batter then runs to first. The catcher over throws the …

Baseballs during a game 
Matthew asked: What happens if the umpire completely runs out of new baseballs during a game? Rick answered: Matthew, thank you for your question. …

who is out or do you ignore it? 
Don asked: Pony baseball,local rules require every player at least 1 @ bat and 3 defensive outs. Bottom of 6th home team subs 7a,8a,& 9a into game …

Baseballs during a game 
Matthew asked: What happens if an umpire runs out of baseballs? Rick answered: Matthew, thank you for your question. New baseballs are kept …

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How many ways to reach first base without a hit. 
Gary asked: How many ways to reach first base without a hit? Just curious. Rick answered: Gary, thank you for your question. 1. Hit by …

Which is the most common type of out - strike out, fly out or ground out? 
Jake asked: Which is the most common type of out - strike out, fly out, or ground out? Rick answered: Jake, thank you for your question. …

what is a dirty inning in baseball 
Randy asked: What is a dirty inning in baseball? Rick answered: Randy, thank you for your question. I don't recall ever hearing that term …

How many bases are awarded when SS cuts off throw from the outfield and then throws the ball out of play? 
Anonymous asked: Runner on 1B. Batter hits a single to the left center field gap. R1 tries to go 1B to 3B. The SS takes the cut off throw …

who is the pitcher 
Don asked: Several times this year the question has arisen, that if any defensive player going to his position stops on the mound and picks up the ball, …

tagging without ball in glove 
James asked: A runner is caught in a rundown, the player with the ball in his throwing hand is chasing the runner. The runner then tries avoiding …

Do you think it is possible for a player to hit 50 HRs and Steal 100 Bases in the same season? 
Paul asked: Typically, a home run hitter who can hit 50 home runs in a season is someone really big and strong like Ryan Howard and someone who steals …

Official ruling question 
Anonymous asked: We've been having a discussion as to what the official ruling would be on a play and maybe we're thinking to far into it. The situation: …

When is a Fly ball a Sac Fly ? 
Mike asked: If a runner is advanced from 2nd to 3rd on a fly ball, is that considered a sac fly and does the batter get charged with an official at …

Plate appearance 
Jim asked: Why is a walk not counted as a plate appearance? Rick answered: Jim, thank you for your question. A walk is counted as a plate …

If a runner crosses home plate on a fly out without tagging up does the runner need to retouch home plate before heading back to third? 
William asked: Runner on third and 1 out. Batter hits a fly ball to left field and runner from third runs home. Left fielder catches the ball …

Free base or not 
Mark asked: Runner on 1st with less than 2 outs. Batter hits fly ball to shallow center field. Runner on 1st assumes it's going to be a hit …

Line drive hits pitchers plate and comes straight back behind home plate without  
F. Robinson asked: Line drive hits pitchers plate and comes straight back behind home plate without touching the ground. The catcher stands up and …

is a run scored on a balk an earned run? 
Jon asked: Runners 1st & 3rd, one out. Balk called, runners advance. Is the run an earned run? Rick answered: Jon, thank you for your …

Who gets the win…? 
Pete asked: If a pitcher leaves the game after the fourth inning with a 12-0 lead and each of the next five innings is pitched by 5 different pitchers …

Who is the losing pitcher? 
Tom asked: Score tied, bottom of 9th or bottom of extra innings. First batter reaches first by any means. Relief pitcher brought into game. …

can a batter be called out who was awarded base on balls? 
Lex asked: Batter gets a ball four call and awarded first base but; the ball gets past the catcher and is deflected into the field of play. Batter …

How should this be scored 
Vince asked: 1 out runner on first. Runner on first takes off, batter hits slow roller past pitcher. 2nd baseman was heading to second and …

What is meant by "where the catcher is setting up"? 
Jim asked: Recently a person asked what kind of wrong it was for a coach to tell his batter "where the catcher is setting up (in or out)." I do not …

As a Coach, telling your batter where the catcher is setting up (in or out) considered cheating in baseball ? 
Dan asked: As a coach, telling your batter where the catcher is setting up ( in or out) considered cheating in baseball. An ethical or good sportsmanship …

If bases are loaded, there is one out, and a foul fly ball is caught? Can any base runners advance? 
Ben asked: If bases are loaded, there is one out, and a foul fly ball is caught? Can any base runners advance/ tag up? Score? Or might a fielder …

Infield fly rule 
Joe asked: First and second, one out, pop up along third base line. Umpire calls infield fly rule, third baseman loses it in the sun, ball lands …

Third Base foul or fair? 
Athena asked: I'm the third basemen and I get a short hop, it bounces in fair territory and bounced to the side. I back hand it and catch it before …

IN high school ferderation. Only the defensive team may appeal batting out of order after the batterhas compleated his time at bat. Is this true or false? 
Gilbert asked: Only the defensive team may appeal the batting out of order after the batter has completed his time at bat. Is this true or false? …

interferance or no call 
Don asked: Right hand batter swings and hits ball down on plate and it then bounces high in air down 1st base line. Batter and catcher both break …

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can a fielder ware a batting glove on his throwing hand 
David asked: A defensive player is wearing a batting glove on his throwing hand. Rick answered: David, thank you for your question. I am …

Does the runner from third score when double play is recorded for runner on first leaving early? 
Mark asked: There is a runner on first and third with one out. The ball is hit to center field and both runners tag. The runner at first left …

Fielder's Choice? 
Tanner asked: Bases loaded, no outs.... Batter hits line drive basehit to left field. Runner at 3rd scores, but runner on 2B makes mistake and …

A fielder drops a fly ball with a runner on first base but another fielder picks it up a forces the runner out at second base. Is there an error on the play? 
Frank asked: A runner on first base. A shallow fly ball to center field. The center fielder drops it but the 2nd baseman picks it up and throws …

I throw R-handed but I bat as a L-handed, Am I weird? 
Dio asked: Since I started playing baseball here in Brazil, I chose to bat as a lefty. (That time, I didn't even know that the left batter box was …

If a runner is tagged late after sliding into 2nd and the previous runner has not been put out at third and is in a run down between bases is the runner who made it to 2nd safe or out? 
Donald asked: With runners on 2nd and 3rd batter bunts toward 1st. 1st baseman fields ball cleanly and runner from third stops and heads back to …

Players stats show more games appeared in than the team played. 
Ralph asked: Example: Stan Musial has multiple years in which his game appearances exceed the number of games played by his team that season in non …

Advancing runners 
John asked: Bases loaded one out. Batter flys to center. CF thinks he makes 3rd out and throws ball into stands after catch. How many bases …

When was the last time a team hit grand slams in two consecutive games and lost both games? 
Brett asked: When was the last time a team hit grand slams in two consecutive games and lost both games? ...from a very happy Mets fan. Rick …

Can a runner forced at home be tagged out while standing on a base? 
Lefty asked: Last night the As had the bases loaded vs the Angels. The batter hit a grounder to 3rd. The runner on 3rd (Billy Butler) started …

david wright of the mets was out due to what was diagnosed as spinan stenosis which usually ends a baseball career. what kind of treatment did he get 
Vance asked: Medical question. David Wright of the Mets was out due to what was diagnosed as spinan stenosis, which usually ends a baseball career. …

Why is centerfield always the deepest dimension in any ballpark? 
Anonymous asked: Why is centerfield always the deepest dimension in any ballpark? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Baseball …

When the Yankees are up to bat some people hold up a sign - It looks like this * what does that mean 
Lynn asked: At a Blue Jay game playing the Yankees last week in Toronto some people where holding up a sign with ARod was up to bat. What does that …

What is the call if a first base coach while in his box reaches to catch a line drive and only knocks the ball down? 
Harold asked: Playing in a 11 U travel championship game, the batter hits a pitch which lines to the right side, toward the first base coach who is …

Are players permitted to keep their uniforms,bats,etc.when they leave their teams ? 
Barbara asked: Player uniforms. Personal property or league property? Are players permitted to keep their uniforms, bats, etc., when they leave …

two outs,runner on third attempts to steal home succesfully,mthe batter swings, hits a ground ball and is thrown out at first (after the steal is completed) does the run count ? 
Marty asked: Does the run score if the run crossed the plate before the out at first ? Rick answered: Marty, thank you for your question. …

What happens to a fan if he or she interfers with a baseball game 
Anonymous asked: If a fan catches a fly ball that a player was going to catch, what happens if he or she interferes with a baseball game? Rick …

How Do Tag Outs/Outs Work? 
Anonymous asked: I've been watching some MLB games, and I've noticed that some plays include the baseman catching a ball from another fielder, and using …

Little League: How bad of a coaching blunder? 
Coach K asked: Playing in a 11-12 year old tournament, we were down 7-5 in the bottom of the 6th with the top of the order up. Lead off batter …

No play at first 
Jim asked: With a man on first and second, the batter hit a ground ball to the second baseman and the play was terminated, allowing the bases to be …

Who gets the RBI? 
Anonymous asked: Runner on 3rd. Pitcher throws a wild pitch or catcher gives up a passed ball. Runner on 3rd scores. Does the batter get …

Fielder's Choice or Error? 
Steve asked: In a Little League game there were runners on 2nd and 3rd. The batter hit a grounder back to the pitcher. The pitcher threw the …

a batted ball hits the pitchers plate and bounces and rolls to the area behind the home plate without a player touching it, is it a fair ball ? 
JJ asked: Line drive hits pitchers plate and comes straight back behind home plate without being touched.....is it fair or foul? Rick answered: …

When to run? 
Leo asked: There is a runner on third with two outs. The batter hits a ground ball to third. Should the runner run on contact or when the third …

Can a pitcher throw to a base from the windup position 
Bob asked: A runner is on third base, the pitcher starts his motion from the wind up position after coming to a stop, he throws to third base to pick …

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Who have hit 20 or more home runs while batting under .200 
John asked: Who have hit 20 or more home runs in a season while batting under.200? Rick answered: John, thank you for your question. My research …

If you have a player on first and second but your ninth hole pitcher is at bat. What do you do? 
Anonymous asked: If you have a runner on first and second, but your ninth hole pitcher is at bat, what do you do? Rick answered: Thank you for …

Why don't on deck batters "coach the plate"?  
James asked: The main goal in baseball is to touch home plate. Yet players (generally on deck batters) don't assist a teammate that is running with …

The batter swings and misses a pitch but hits it on his backswing and the ball goes into fair territory. What is the call. 
Jim asked: The batter swings and misses a pitch but hits is on his backswing and the ball goes into fair territory. What is the call? This actually …

Catcher drops third strike, batter can try for first base. 
Jim asked: I have never understood how on "three strikes yer out!" when the catcher drops the ball that the batter can try running to first and make …

Fair fly ball deflected over fence. 
Ralph asked: Rule 6.09(h) covers the case where a fair fly ball is deflected by the fielder's glove over the fence. What if the deflected fly ball …

Glove Removed From Hand With Ball Secure 
Randy asked: If in an attempt to catch a line drive a player's glove is ripped off and falls to the ground, with the ball still secure in the glove …

Balk and runner on first stealing second before pitch is delivered.  
Erik asked: I had an ump call a balk on my pitcher for not stepping off the pitchers plate, while the first base runner was running to second. I …

Hidden ball trick, where is the pitcher allowed to be and not to be. 
Brian Asked: We had a team try the ole hidden ball trick on us. The pitcher was on the mound and in the rubber when it was executed. The ump …

1st and 2nd no out and also 1 out. Best play available. 
Pete asked: I play second in a men's softball league and played catcher in hs, so it's been a while. With a man on 1st and 2nd, no out, ball hit …

Little League Rule Regarding Thrown Ball Out Of Play 
Lou asked: Here is the situation. No outs, runner on 2nd. Batter hits a ball to SS who bobbles the ball. By the time he throws, the batter …

What is the advantage to one hop a ball to home plate vs. a direct throw to the catcher?  
Bonnie Jean asked: I played third base, learned its better to become a target for the throw, not the runner. I preferred to get a line drive from …

Triple or Single with an Error 
Greg asked: Situation, runner at first, one out in a high school baseball game. Line drive hit to right fielder. Right fielder runs in towards …

Ground Ball to Right Fielder, Hit or Error? 
Greg asked: Situation in high school baseball game, nobody on, nobody out. Hard hit ball to right fielder who is playing very shallow. He …

Can a batter steal first after a foul tip strike 3? 
Chris asked: Last night in my daughter's high school softball game, a batter (for the other team) had a strike 3 foul-tip, which our catcher caught …

obstruction, interference or no call 
Brian asked: Based loaded, no outs. Batter hits ball to LF, base hit. As the runner on second is heading to third, he and the SS collide. The …

10 yr old son that has loved the game for 5 years says he still does, but is lethargic on the flield  
Ashlee asked: First of all - love your site! My question is about my 10 yr old son who is a natural athlete. Coaches have said he has a natural …

Is it an error in high school softball? 
Kim asked: Is it an error if the pitcher fielding the ball throws the girl out at first base (not the third out) but; the bases has one runner and that …

Collision an Error? 
Greg asked: Situation - Nobody on, nobody out in a high school game. Ground ball hit up the middle, but slightly toward the left side of the field. …

Really frustrated in st louis hs jv ball 
Anonymous asked: 10 games into spring season my son was good enough to make the team- plays on varsity teams summer and fall- benched every game only …

Does a pitcher's foot still have to be on the rubber when releasing the ball? If so, how can Carter Capps pitching be legal? 
Anonymous asked: Capps (Miami Marlins) is clearly off of the rubber when he releases the ball. Rick answered: Thank you for your question, an …

Hit, error, or fielder's choice? 
Greg asked: Scenario for a high school varsity baseball game: Runners at first and second, one out, and a routine groundball is fielded by third …

Is it an error or fielder's choice---or both? 
Greg asked: Runner at first. Batter hits ball to shortstop who fields the ball cleanly but overthrows 2nd Baseman. I scored the play as a …

Stepping on Home plate 
Mort asked: We all know that if a batter steps on home base as he is attempting to hit the ball, the batter is out. But a right handed batter is …

Can you walk on ball three to advance runners on first and second 
Steve asked: I played little league in the seventies and we had a trick play. The batter ran to first on ball three and advanced the runners. …

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Anxiety 
Lou asked: I played this great game into my 30's, not professionally. I have coached my boys for the last 10 years. For the life of me, I have …

Sac Bunt Scoring two runners. 
Michael asked: Runner on 2nd and 3rd one out. Batter pushes a bunt down 1st base line and runner on 3rd scores. Pitcher fields ball and throws …

if a pitcher leaves the game in the middle of an at bat with 2 balls on the batter, another pitcher comes in and throws to balls and walks him, who does walk go to? 
Anonymous asked: If two pitchers throw to the same batter, in the same at bat and the batter walks, who does walk get credited to? Rick answered: …

Batting out of order question 
Marshall asked: Batting order is B1, B2, B3, B4. B1 is the Runner on 1st with no outs. B3 comes to bat when the proper batter should be B2. …

Base runners responsibility or fielder's responsibility to avoid contact? 
Steve asked: Batted ball glances off pitchers glove, shortstop collides with runner while attempting to field ball. Oki Rick answered: Steve, …

Ball in the dirt, blocked by the catcher and the runner advances 
Kevin asked: I am going to call uncle with my reading of the mlb rules. I am curious how this would be scored? I don't think it would scored a …

runner on first and pitcher is standing just behind rubber. facing home. he lifts his arms as if to start windup and then steps back and picks off runner who started to second. is that a balk. 
Jerry asked: Runner on first and pitcher is standing just behind rubber,facing home. He lifts his arms as if to start windup and then steps back …

what constitutes a fielding error? 
Sam asked: Ball is hit within fielding range of the short stop but the ball passes under his outstretched glove. What constitutes an error? …

Batter swings and misses third strike ball bounces off catchers shin guard and rolls in dugout. How many if any extra bases does the batter receive? 
Anonymous asked: Batter swings and miss third strike. Ball bounces off catchers shin guard and rolls in dugout. Does the batter get and extra …

Has any player ever played in the College World Series & Major League World Series in the same year? 
Al asked: Brandon Finnegan of the Kansas City Royals played in the 2014 College World Series, just made an appearance in the 2014 Postseason Playoffs, …

Some MLB Player have very long hair. EXAMPLE: Dread Locks. Can a tag be applied to the hair?  
Thomas asked: BASEBALL RULES CONCERNING IF HAIR IS PART OF THE PLAYER PER SE. CAN A RUNNER BE TAGGED OUT GLOVE TO HAIR LIKE GLOVE TO UNIFORM? …

The Pirates have played 3 straight 1-0 games. What is the record for the most consecutive 1-0 games? 
Bill asked: Major league record for the most consecutive 1-0 games played? Rick answered: Bill, thank you for your question. When the Pittsburgh …

How fast does 100mph fastball reach batter? 
John asked: How fast, in seconds, does fastball travel 60 feet? Rick answered: John, thank you for your question. The distance from the pitcher's …

batter makes contact with a batted ball in foul territory what's the call 
Anonymous asked: Batter makes contact with a batted ball in foul territory, what's the call? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

Did umpires in any major team ever get the baseballs from a ground pop up dispenser? 
Vincent asked: I have heard that one major league used a ground pop-up dispensers for getting baseball, just curious if true. Rick answered: …

Force out to end the inning but another runner scores and the run is counted.  
David asked: The situation is there is One out in the inning with base runners on both first and third base. The batter hits a fly ball to right …

Is batter awarded rbi 
Mark asked: Runners on 1st and 2nd . Batter lays down bunt. Batter thrown out at 1st. Runner on 2nd scores. Is batter credited with an rbi? …

do more runners score from third base than second base?  
Jeff asked: A co worker of mine and i were having a discussion around which base productions more runs on a single play, a runner on third, or a runner …

Pitch hits ground then batter is it a ball or hit by pitch? 
Mitch asked: Pitch hits ground then batter, is it a ball or hit by pitch? Question is for Minor Division Softball in Little League. Rick answered: …

Is the runner out if hit by the ball while in play and in the baseline?  
Frank asked: The base runner was hit by the ball while running home . He was in the baseline and the play was live. Is this runner out? Rick …

Bases are loaded and you are hit by a pitch. Do you get a RBI and does it count as an at bat? 
Anonymous asked: Does this count as a recorded at bat and you get a RBI when you are hit by a pitch with the bases loaded? Rick answered: Thank …

batter has count of three balls and two strikes. he runs to first base thinking it was ball four. should umpire call batter back and complete batting. 
George asked: Bases were loaded and batter thought his count was 4balls so he runs to first base. The other runners advance. In the confusion, …

batter stiffins up at point of contact 
Jason asked: My 14 yo son has developed a habbit of straightening his knees and going to his toes at the point of contact, which as you can only guess …

what are the rules for runners staying the baseline from third to home? 
Anonymous asked: Is there a rule for the runner going from third to home to stay outside the foul line or can he run on the field side of the line? …

Should the batter be credited with an RBI when runners on 3B and 2B both score due to a past ball / or wild pitch and subsequent throwing error on the catcher to 3B? 
Steve asked: Batter is up, no outs with runners on 3B and 1B. On the first pitch, runner on 1B advances to 2B, due to defenseive indifference, …

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FOUL OR FAIR 
Bill asked: A GROUND BALL IS HIT DOWN THE FIRST BASE LINE, THE BALL HITS IN FAIR TERRITORITY BEFORE IT GETS TO FIRST BASE, THEN LANDS FOUL AFTER IT …

Does a fielders choice score as 0-1 feiedes? 
Joe asked: Does a fielders choice score as a 0-1 fields? Rick answered: Joe, thank you for your question. In the scorebook, the fielder's …

Is a runner out immediately when he retreats toward home on a bleeder toward first to avoid a tag? 
Scott asked: Batter hits a bleeder up the first base line. To avoid being tagged out he retreats to avoid a tag. Is he out immediately when he …

Is it right / appropriate / sportsmanlike for the scorekeeper to call to fielders where batters hit in previous innings? 
Mandy asked: The scorekeeper from the other team was calling to the pitcher what each of our batters had done in previous innings. Is that sportsmanlike? …

Who should play in the outfield corner positions , a right handed thrower in right and a left handed thrower in left or is it vice versa? 
Bill asked: Should a right handed throwing player in the outfield play right and a lefty thrower play left? I was always told the glove hand in …

fielders choice? 
Ben asked: Man on third with one out. A hard hit ball to third. Normally an easy out at first. However the third baseman looks at home for a possible …

Why do lefty batters supposedly love the "down and in" pitch? 
Lou asked: We constantly hear that "that pitch was down and in (or low and inside), just "where lefty batters love it." It's never explained. Why …

Only pitchers to record wins with the Yankees, Red Sox and Mets? 
Anonymous asked: Only Pitchers to record wins with the NY Yankees, Boston Red Sox and NY Mets? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

Is this situation scored as a fielders choice with an rbi or an error? 
BJ asked: Bases loaded, 1 out, the batter hits a routine ground ball to the shortstop. The ball is fielded cleanly and the shortstop decides to …

Catchers box  
Eugene asked: Is their an actual catchers box and does the catcher need to stay in that box prior to a pitch being thrown? Can he set up outside this …

Why is second base misplaced? 
Denis asked: According to MLB, first base, third base, and home plate are located entirely within the ninety foot square that defines the infield but; …

Can a runner steal second on a caught third strike less than two outs? 
Cliff asked: Runner is on first with one out. Batter misses ball strike three and is out for second out. With batter still standing in the box, …

Sacrifice Bunt  
David asked: Runners at first and third, no outs. Coach signs for a sacrifice bunt. Runner at 3rd stays but the runner at 1st moves up to second …

What position would suit me? 
Anonymous asked: Hi, First of all, I really enjoy your site. It's been super helpful! Question: I've been following baseball for a while and …

Pitcher has a runner on first and no one at second. Pitcher notices runner is stealing second. Can he throw to second to make a play on the runner? 
Dave asked: Pitcher has a runner on first and no one at second. Pitcher notices the runner is stealing second. Can he throw to second to make the …

What is the infield Fly rule 
Anonymous asked: What is the infield Fly rule? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. The rule which covers your question is 2-19-1...An …

on an overthrown ball at first base that stays in play how many bases can you advance in little league? 
Jason asked: I coach a 7-8 little league team and i know that if a ball is overthrown at first base and goes out of the field of play the runner is …

How do you score a stolen base? 
Don asked: Do you get a stolen base if catcher drops the ball? Rick answered: Don, thank you for your question. The rule which covers this …

Is there a video of Mike Piazza covering 3rd (from his catcher's position) to retire an advancing runner? 
Kevin asked: I don't recall which team Piazza was playing for at the time, but I thought it may have been the best play I've ever seen a catcher make. …

Baseball team student manager 
John asked: Hey Rick, I was cut from my high school baseball team. When I was cut, the coach offered me to be a team manager. I was going to play …

when was the last time a world series was won in 4 stright game? 
Michael asked: When was the last time a world series was won in 4 stright games? Rick answered: Michael, thank you for your question. The last …

Who backs up first on a ground ball to second? 
Anonymous asked: Who backs up first on a ground ball to second? Question about fielding. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. With …

Does the run count? 
Nick asked: With two outs, players on third and second. Batter hits a ground ball. Player on third reaches home safe BEFORE the batter gets even …

I hit a line drive down third. The third baseman is in fair territory and it hits his mitt but the ball is in foul territory is it a hit 
Anonymous asked: Third baseman is standing in fair territory. The ball hits off the end of his mitt which happens to be in foul territory. Did I …

Ruling on a Balk 
Jordan asked: I was recently umpiring a baseball game and I was the field umpire. My partner that was behind the plate called a balk that basically …

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Can a person steal first base? 
Anonymous asked: Can first base be stolen by the batter? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. While a offensive player is able to …

Recording a Fielders Choice in the score book? 
Steve asked: I have a debate going on with a scorekeeper. On a fielder’s choice, let’s say runner on first no outs. Batter hits a ball to the shortstop. …

If a pinch hitter who is pinch hit for return later in the game? 
Anonymous asked: Can a pinch hitter, who is pinch hit for, return later in the game? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. If you are …

can a walk off homer be more than one run? 
Dave asked: Bottom of the ninth,score tied, two men on and the batter hits a home run. Is it scored as just one run or three runs? Dave in Morro …

If a first baseman fields a ball and pitcher is covering first, but the first baseman takes the bag and steps on the pitchers foot before the runner gets there, is he safe or out?  
Lanie asked: Pitcher covering first while first baseman is fielding the ball, first baseman takes charge of ball to first, stepping on pitchers foot …

When did Florida Marlins change name to Miami Marlins and why ? 
Al asked: When did the Florida marlins change their name to the Miami Marlins, and why? Rick answered: Al, thank you for your question. The …

If a batter hits a ball that bounced up from in the dirt into the stands is it a homerun? 
Edward asked: A batter swings at a pitch in the dirt. The ball bounces up from the dirt and he golfs it into the stands. Is the ball in play, and …

why do base runners keep their batting gloves in their hands after taking the gloves off? 
Dan asked: Why do base runners keep their batting gloves in their hands after taking the gloves off? Rationale for base runner keeping gloves in hand? …

Does the play stand? 
James asked: Bases loaded with NO OUTS. Count is full. Pitch is a curve ball very low and away and the batter check swings but does not appear …

What was the importance of Babe Ruth both as a player on the field and a hero off the field? Why were the 1961 Roger Maris and the 1974 Henry Aaron breaking Ruth's record so controversial? 
Chris asked: What is the importance of Babe Ruth both as a player on the field and a hero off the field? Why were the 61 Roger Maris and the 74 Henry …

How do I get more air under my hits? 
Joey asked: I hit pretty well and have a high average, but 90% of my hits are singles. I hit a majority of these very hard, but I seem to have trouble …

Catcher throwing out runners 
Tommy asked: In MLB has a catcher ever had 3 put outs in the same inning on attemped steals? Rick answered: Tommy, thank you for your question! …

Who's responsibility is it to tell the runner if a fly ball is an out or a ball in play? 
Mandy asked: My son hit a deep fly ball to left field. He ran the baseline to first base and thought that he heard the umpire yell "out". In actuality, …

Ground Ball back to Pitcher 
John asked: When there are runners on first & second and either no outs or one out, then a ground ball is hit to the pitcher(who fields it cleanly), …

What is the correct call in this situation? 
Andrew asked: The count is 2-1, runner on first base 1 out. Ball 3 is thrown and the runner is stealing second, but the batter thinks its ball 4 …

Why is the home plate called the home plate? 
Aydlett asked: My 7 yr old thinks it is because it is shaped like a house with a roof....what is the real reason it is called home plate? Rick answered: …

If i have a steal sign on, is it ok to have the hitter take the pitch in order to execute the steal? 
Jeff asked: If I have a steal sign on, is it ok to have the hitter take the pitch in order to execute the steal? Rick answered: Jeff, thank you …

3RD STRIKE CALL 
Scott asked: WHEN AN UMPIRE CALLS A BATTER OUT ON 3 STRIKES, BUT THE BALL IS DROPPED, NO RUNNER ON 1ST. IS HE STILL ALLOWED TO RUN TO 1ST EVEN IF …

Game Anxiety 
Alan asked: Hi Coach, Would appreciate your insight & suggestions on this situation please. My son is a solid 10U-AAA level player for a select …

Son can hit all day in practice all kinds of pitches but strikes out almost every time in a game situation. 
Anonymous asked: Son can hit all day in practice, all kinds of pitches, but strikes out almost every time in a game situation. Rick answered: …

Is the foul line fair or foul? 
Nate asked: If the ball is hit in the air and lands on the line.... Is it considered fair, foul, or do you have to wait to see where it rolls? Thank …

What happens when a homerun is hit and a runner ahead of the hitter misses home plate? 
Jody asked: A runner on first heads to home when the batter hits a homerun. The runner on first misses home plate but the batter who hit the homerun …

Is an infielder allowed to fake that the ball is thrown to him to make a player slide? 
Mike asked: I saw a shortstop covering second base. As the runner approached the base the SS faked with a clenched fist and smacked it into his …

why is the home team dugout in the AL on the 1st baseline and on the 3rd baseline in the NL? 
Rick asked: Home team dugouts; why is the home team dugout in the AL on the first baseline and on the third baseline in the NL? Rick answered: …

Force or tag play? 
Anonymous asked: Man on first. Line drive caught by first baseman in foul territory. Is man on first out with a touch of the base, or does he need …

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Rundown or Pickle play 
Robert asked: I was always taught to incorporate 4 players on the run down and to peel back to the bag you came from. For instance with a runner …

Location of Outfielders 
Can all of the outfielders on a team move to the infield (baselines) when a weaker batter is at bat? Rick answered: Jennifer, thank you for your …

Bases Loaded with the winning run at 3rd with 1 out 
Chris asked: I had the bases loaded with one out and a winning run at 3rd, in the last inning. Our second best contact hitter with the highest …

My son cant hit a ball past pitchers mound? 
Jim asked: My 11 yr old son has great hand eye and can hit any pitcher. Problem is he has no power going into ball. He hits all ground balls and …

Can a batter get an RBI on a dropped third strike? 
A runner is on third; the batter strikes out but the ball is dropped; when the catcher throws the batter out at first the runner scores. Does the batter …

Runner on first,ground ball to second the runner on first never left the base. We threw to first to force the batter. Isn't the runner on first supposed to vacate the base? Ken 
Ken asked: Baserunning rules: Runner on first, ground ball to second, the runner on first never left the base. We threw to first to force the batter. …

My son can't hit off a kid pitch. Why? 
Anonymous asked: My son can hit off the coach pitch but not kid pitch. He is 8 loves, the game but is getting aggravated at not being able to hit. Help! …

Double Play or Triple Play? 
Bruce asked: No outs. Runners on first and second. Runners begin to advance on the batter's line drive. First baseman catches the line drive, …

Hit or Fielder's choice? 
Karla asked: Runner on second, no other base runners. Batter hits a high chopper between short and third. The pitcher runs over and fields the play …

Son being benched repeatedly!! 
Gio asked: My son is 10 years old and on a full time travel league. For the last 4 years my sons heart has been into baseball, let me add he is pretty …

When do you run? 
Nick asked: Okay, so I've got a question. :) There's a runner on first base. No outs. That's all. So when let's say in this case, the batter gets …

Consecutive Strikeouts 
Anonymous asked: Record in mlb is ten, by Tom Seaver, who has come up with 9? Dodger pitcher did it yesterday, how many more? Rick answered: Thank …

Etiquette on first base? 
Anonymous asked: Recently, we have had an incident of our baserunner running through first base, and the first baseman also running to the bag to try …

Has a player ever hit the cycle twice in a game? 
Drew Asked: Has a player ever got two singles, two doubles, two triples and two home runs, all in one game? Rick answered: Drew, thank you for …

Who are the players to hit 50 homeruns an steal 50 bases 
Cody asked: Who are the players to hit 50 homeruns and steal 50 bases? Rick answered: Cody, thank you for your question. There has not yet …

can a batter cause a balk 
Rusty asked: Man on third, a batter steps out of the box without the umpires permission and the pitcher stops his windup and doesn't throw the ball. …

Sac Bunt or Fielder's Choice? 
Anonymous asked: Batter attempts a sac bunt to score runner on 3rd. Pitcher fields the bunt throws to catcher (runner is safe); catcher then throws …

How many pitches should a 17 yr old throw in 1 day? 
Anonymous asked: My son pitched a double header last year with a total of 204 pitches. He spent 1 1/2 innings at short stop also. This year, first game …

LIttle League Baseball: Batter hits solid double but is thrown out trying to stretch it for a triple 
Anonymous asked: Howdy: Question on how to properly log the following situation: Little League Batter (Age 10) hits a solid double. He safely reaches …

Drop 3rd strike with bases loaded can the batter advance 
Anonymous asked: Can a batter advance on a droped 3rd strike with the bases loaded? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. A batter may …

r1 missed second 
Ron asked: With 1 out, R1 at 1st is stealing on the pitch when B2 hits a deep drive to left. R1 rounds 2nd completely stepping over the base and …

What is the best way to learn how to pick every ball thrown to you? 
Dallas asked: What is the best way tolearn how to pick every ball thrown to you? Like I want to be able to pick every single ball that's thrown to …

I see a stat on the MLB site called AO (Air Outs). Are Sacrifice Flys included in this stat? 
Floyd asked: I'm doing a research project to better understand some stats. AOs are not an official stat in the MLB rulebook, so I'm curious why it …

Must a catcher throw the ball in an attempt to retire a baserunner before batter interference is called? 
John D asked: Must a catcher throw the ball in an attempt to retire a baserunner in order for a batter, who steps out of the batter's box and hinders/prevents …

Can a umpire award a base for obstruction? 
Rick Ortiz asked: Batter runner hits long fly ball to right field, as he rounds third he hits the third baseman and goes down. Runner gets up, looks …

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if a batted ball hits first base and then bounces out of play is it fair or foul 
Anonymous asked: If a batted ball hits first base and then bounces out of play, is it fair or foul? Rick answered: Thank you for your question! …

When did MLB batters start using arm & leg guards? 
Ken asked: What year or decade did batters start using them? Rick answered: Thanks for your question Ken. I have had no luck in locating any …

dugouts home team 
Anonimous asked: What are the rules as far as home team choosing dugout whether first or third? Rick answered: Thank you for your question! …

Need an I.D on an old baseball photograph Jersey... Thanks! 
Dan asked: Hi! Can anyone tell me anything about this old negative on glass photograph... I reversed the image (inverted) so as to be able to see …

How to teach to have a level swing? 
David asked: My son is starting to develop an uppercut motion in his swing. He's dropping his whole back shoulder and coming up under the ball. What …

on deck batter 
Ezra asked: I just witnessed in a ball game the following. Ball was put in play with runners on first and second, first runner scored as the ball was …

What MLB batter first used a shin guard while at home plate? Who invented the batters shin guard? 
Johnny asked: What Major league batter first used a shin guard while at home plate? Who invented the batter's shin guard? An offshoot of my previous …

how often per year has a base runner on second base score on a scrifice flyball 
Dan asked: How often has a baserunner on second base score on a fly ball in the outfield? Rick answered: Great baseball question, thanks Dan! …

What player first used or invented the shin guard? 
Johnny asked: What player first used or invented the shin guard? We were just wonderin. Rick answered: Johnny, thank you for your question. …

if a pitch hits your hands while holding the bat is it a walk or a strike 
Anonymous asked: If a pitch hits your hands while holding the bat, is it a walk or a strike? Rick answered: When a pitched ball hits any part of …

Does a runner have to tag the next base? 
Jim asked: Does a runner have to tag the next base when the ball is caught in the outfield before returning to the previous base? Rick answered: …

My son benched...what to tell him? 
Anonymous asked: My son (7) just started playing baseball last year and fell in love with the sport. Baseball is taken very seriously in this area and …

On a force play at first, if the infielder dives and touches the bag, does the ball have to be in the same hand that touched the bag? 
Anonymous asked: In a youth league with amateur umpires, there was a ball hit to the first baseman. The ball was bobbled and by the time the first …

Who hits first, home or away? 
Anonymous asked: Is home at bat first or is away? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Visitors always bat first, home team last. Yours …

is the pitcher condsidered an infielder ? 
Anonymous asked: Ground ball hit to but not fielded (untouched) by the pitcher and then hits the runner is the pitcher considered an infielder if so …

is it a hit by pitch or ball if the ball hits the ground on the pitch then hits the batter 
Gary asked: Pitch hits ground then batter is it a ball or hit by pitch? Rick answered: Gary, thank you for your question. The rule covering …

5-20-2011 Indians: Was Carrera actually out after the bunt last night? 
Mary asked: Hello from Ohio City (Cleveland neighborhood rated worldwide top 10 bar hopping site in USA today): My husband Doug and I watched the …

Bases Loaded, one out!!!!! Was I right??? 
Ross asked: Hi Rick, I enjoyed looking at your website tonight and I'm pleased I found it!!! I have a very simple question for you. My travel ball …

Have the Colorado Rockies ever won both games in a double header ? 
Lee asked; Have the Colorado Rockies ever won both games of a double header? Rick answered: Good question for today, as the Rockies swept the …

Scorekeeping/Fielders Choice. 
Al asked: Runner on 2nd no outs. Batter lays down bunt, pitcher fields and throws late to 3rd. All runners safe. What is the scorekeeping decision …

What is the rule on a runner who runs through 1st base and steps into fair territory, but then runs outside the base line? 
Anonymous asked: Is that runner fair game before he gets back to the base? Thank you for your question. First base is the only base where a …

My son is a junior playing in JV and is being benched with freshman  
Elizabeth asked: Hello, I just wanted to get advice on my son's current situation. He is a junior playing in JV and is being benched with freshamn …

Running the bases....hitting the inside corner of the bag with your left or right foot? 
Anonymous asked: I have read from some coaches that fundamentally you should use the left foot, but seems awkward and maybe impossible to teach? …

How do you break a bad throwing habit. 
Bertrum asked: Kid places throwing hand near the ear rather than extending the hand back? Rick answered: Bertrum, thank you for your question. …

WHY IS A FOUL TIP INTO THE CATCHER'S GLOVE NOT CONSIDERED AN OUT? 
Joel asked: Rick answered: Great question Joel! The answer lies in the technical aspects distinguishing a foul tip, from a foul ball. The ball …

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Switching batting and running gloves. 
Robert asked: Why do runners change from a batting glove to a running glove when reaching first base? Robert from Florida submitted this question …

Is a base runner out if he starts to the dugout (but does not enter the dugout) and returns to the base 
Michael asked: One out, runners on first, second, & third. Batter hits ground ball to third base, third baseman fields the ball, steps on third, …

My question is about pitchers routines they pitch a game to day what should they be doing the next 5 days before there next start ?  
J.A.Omalley asked: My question is about pitchers routines, they pitch a game today, what should they be doing the next 5 days before their next start? …

If a batter swings at a pitch and the pitch hits his hands and lands in fair territory what is the call? Fair or foul? 
Jody asked: If a batter swings at a pitch and the pitch hits his hands and lands in fair territory what is the call? Fair or foul? Rick answered: …

My son thinks he can't hit anymore, what can we do to get him going again? 
Marc asked: My 14 year old son, on a high school feeder team, got hit in the left eye about a month ago during a game fracturing his orbital bones …

Can the infielders stand in the runners baseline? 
Keil asked: The basecoach said my shortstop had to backup because he was in the runners baseline at second base, before a pitch was made. Rick answered: …

Dropped third strike 
Marcus asked: Runner on third two outs. Dropped third strike batter doesn't run right away. The catcher throws to the pitcher for a play at …

Why do players smell their bat? What does it tell them? 
Holly asked: I have seen them smell their bat very aggressively. What kind of smell are they looking for? What does it tell them and how do they …

Is the Fake Bunt OK to use...with every single batter? 
Scott asked: I have a child in Little League Baseball, Minor A's 8-12 yr old. One of the Teams he played, had the best record. Then at about the halfway …

Scoring a runner hit by a batted ball 
Bob asked: The team had two outs with the bases loaded. The batter hits a ground ball between the short stop and third that hits the runner heading …

If a right fielder fields the ball, does he have a designated cut off man? Who should he throw the ball to? 
Sandy asked: My son was playing right field. He fielded a ball that was hit, and that player was advancing to first base. Another player on …

Why do we call the final baseball series, the World Series? 
Fred asked: We play the World Series in the USA but no teams we play are outside the United States. Also how did the World Series get it's name? …

Should 12U kids be taking pitches? 
Jeannine asked: We have 2 boys (10 and 11) on the same team with a rec league and the coach gives them signals prior to every swing when they are at …

Batting out of order 
Mandy asked: My son plays for a 16u team. We recently had the opposing team bat out of order due to confusion with subs and re-entering. We …

How did the NY Yankees get their name? 
Anonymous asked: How did the NY Yankees get their name? The "yankee" part in particular. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Credit …

What Cleveland Indians pitcher struck out Joe DiMaggio three times in one game? 
William asked: Can someone give the answer to this question? Rick answered: William, thank you for your question! Mel Harder is the pitcher …

Run scoring on double play 
Steve asked: Man on 1st and 3rd,one out. Fly ball to center caught for 2nd out. Man on 3rd tags up and gets in before 3rd out. Man on 1st …

what foot should touch the bag when rounding first to second 
Kevin asked: I have seen it taught both (right foot first/ left foot first) ways and wanted to teach the correct way. thank you. Rick answered: …

What team did Brownie Szafranski pitch for? 
A. Szafranski asked: It's family legend that my grandfather, Brownie (Braunislaw) Szafranski pitched in the major leagues and left to fight in WW2. I …

Whats the distance between the shortstop and the pitcher. 
Abby asked: The distance between consecutive bases on a baseball field is 90 feet. A second baseman stands halfway between first base and second …

Switch Hitter Batting Averages 
Hank asked: Where can I find batting averages for switch hitters by hitting dominant hand, i.e., throws right, throws left. Rick answered: Hank, …

Difference between hit and run and run and hit 
Mike asked: Difference between hit and run and run and hit. Rick answered: Mike, thank you for your question. For some time, there has …

In baseball if you have runners on 1st and 2nd with no outs, and the runners are stealing on pitch, where does the short stop go? Not rated yet
In baseball if you have runners on 1st and 2nd with no outs, and the runners are stealing on pitch, where does the short stop go? Thank you …

swing and a miss, strike out but the pitch is in the dirt. Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: After the batter swings and misses on a called third strike,but the pitch is in the dirt, why does the batter still try to run to first …

A batter's bat strikes the catcher's mitt as he swings at the ball. Is the batter credited with a hit and awarded 1st base> Not rated yet
Richard asked: A batter swings at a pitched ball but his bat hits the catchers mitt. Does the batter get 1st base and credited with a hit? Rick …

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fair or foul Not rated yet
Fred asked: Pop up lands between pitcher's mound and second base. Ball is untouched, the spin of the ball causes the ball to roll into foul territory …

fielder's choice count as an at bat? Not rated yet
Tony asked: Runner beats out a ball hit and runner was on first. Does a fielder's choice count as a time at bat? Rick answered: Tony, thank …

Chances of scoring a run from 3rd base on an infield ground ball with less than 2 outs. Not rated yet
Giannis asked: I know that the decision of scoring from 3rd base on an infield ground ball depends on many factors (where the ball goes,what the infielder …

If you say your seat is on the third baseline, what does that mean? Not rated yet
Nancy asked: If you say your seat is on the third baseline, what does that mean? Rick answered: Nancy, thank you for your question. As …

Why don't they throw the runner that is advancing to second or third out first? Instead they seem to throw the runner advancing to first out first. Not rated yet
EG asked: It always seems that they do not concentrate on throwing out runners advancing to third or second. It seems that you would try to keep …

If a player gets ejected during a play, and was involved in the play to the conclusion what is the umpire's call? Not rated yet
Gary asked: I was watching the Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals game last week. John Lackey was thrown out of the game during a base hit to right …

Most runs scored Not rated yet
Zach asked: What is the most runs scored by 1 team in back to back games on different days? Rick answered: Zach, thank you for your question. …

I had a batter runner called out forbacking up toward home to avoid a tag from pitcher  Not rated yet
Don asked: Batted ball fielded by pitcher who started to tag batter-runner and then remembered runner on 1st who was going to 2nd. Batter-runner …

And at bat when hitter intentionally tries to pound ball into the ground just in front of Homeplate is called what Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Seldom used with today's playing conditions, when batter intentionally tries to hit pitch into the ground right in front of home plate, …

STAT FOR SCORING FROM 2ND BASE ON A SINGLE Not rated yet
Reed asked: WHAT ARE THE ODDS OF A RUNNER SCORING FROM 2ND BASE ON A SINGLE? Rick answered: Reed, thank you for your question. When a base …

if i hit a home run over the fence, run around bases and dont touch home, the umpire hands a new ball to the catcher and she tags me am i out Not rated yet
Chris asked: Hit a home run over fence - I don't step on home, the umpire handed the catcher a ball then she tags me. Am I out? Rick answered: …

RBI or not? Not rated yet
Tim asked: The situation is as follows: bases are loaded, no outs. The batter hits the ball into the ground and it bounces up towards the pitcher. …

if a pitcher pitches a perfect 9 innings and is takenn out in the 10th and his team loses does he still get credit for a perfect game? Not rated yet
Eleanor asked: If a pitcher pitches 9 perfect inning but his team has not scored and he is taken out in the 10th, his team loses, does he still get …

runner is safe Not rated yet
Paul asked: A BATTER HITS A BALL TO SHORTSTOP WHO OVERTHROWS FIRST BASE. THE BALL DOES NOT GO OUT OF PLAY. THE RUNNER ATTEMPTS TO REACH 2ND …

Going home Not rated yet
Judy asked: I was watching baseball on Fox. The pitcher dropped the ball accidentally and the runner was allowed to score. I am new to baseball …

In some Major League teams' farm system there is a step which is just above Rookie (R) status which is designated as (SS). What does SS stand for? Not rated yet
James asked: I'm just asking a question. How does one describe a question??? Rick answered: James, thank you for your question. The following …

Tagging the base with the ball Not rated yet
Cris asked: Is the batter out if he hits a ground ball to first, and the first baseman tags the base with the ball only (before the runner reaches first)? …

3rd out forceout Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If a batter hits a ground ball and the 3rd out is made at another base, what is the batter scored for that at bat, and does it count …

fielders choice or hit for the batter? Not rated yet
Don asked: Runner at first base one out. The batter hits a line drive that the right fielder short hops and throws immediately to second. The …

Should batter be given fielder's choice on hit and run. Not rated yet
Terry asked: A man is on first base and a hit and run is called on the pitch. The batter hits a hard shot up the right middle of the infield and …

What is the official rule in Major League Baseball regarding the removal of helmets by a runner? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: what is the Official Rule in MLB regarding the removal of helmets by a runner? For example, bases are loaded, and the runner at …

Just saw Adrian Beltre thrown of the game because he moved the on deck circle. What the heck? Is there a real le for that? Not rated yet
Leslie asked: Just saw Adrian Beltre thrown out of a game, because he moved the on deck circle. Is there a real rule for that? Rick answered: …

Why are baseballs saved during a game Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Some baseballs are catalogued during a game by someone who places sticker on the ball. Why do they save them? Rick answered: …

should runner at 3rd base go hom Not rated yet
Justin asked: Runners at first and third , no outs. Batter hits ground ball to second baseman who is playing in. Should runner at third go for …

why do ptichers warming up in bull pen do not have a person stand in batters box? Not rated yet
Timothy asked: Why don't bull pen pitchers warming up have someone stand in box? Rick answered: Timothy, thank you for your question. At …

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pitching Not rated yet
Richard asked: How long do pitcher's have to throw between pitches? Rick answered: Richard, thank you for your question. Rule 8.04...Pitcher …

what is you definition of a "double header"? is it also a day/night game? Not rated yet
Marty asked: Are a "double header" and a day/night the same? Are they both referred to as a double header? Rick answered: Marty, thank you …

who is credited with the rule you cant steal first base from second base? Not rated yet
Mark asked: Who is credited with the quote:" You can't steal second base with your foot on first base". Rick answered: Mark, thank you for your …

Runners on 1 & 3 with one out Not rated yet
Tommy asked: Runners on 1st & 3rd with 1 out. Batter hits fly ball, outfielder catches fly ball throws out runner at 1st for leaving base before …

Man at 1st and 2nd batter squares to bunt then swings and hits ball to short stop, who should be covering 1st? Not rated yet
Kevin asked: Man at 1st and 2nd with 0 outs. Batter squares to bunt then pulls back and swings. Hits ground ball to short stop. Who should …

in cycle batting Not rated yet
Judy asked: I was told that at a recent San Francisco mlb game, a batter had in-cycle hits, in order. If true, who was the batter? Rick answered: …

Can a call of foul ball made by the home plate umpire be changed if the base umpire declares catcher's interference? Not rated yet
Jim asked: The batter swung and fouled the ball back, hitting the catcher's mask, and then rebounded into fair territory. The home plate umpire …

Mound visits Not rated yet
Michael asked: In light of Jerry Remy’s comments about bringing an interpreter for a mound visit last night (6/6); I was wondering if MLB restricts …

Sidearm, breaking the cycle. Not rated yet
Annonymous asked: I coach 7,8 and 9 year olds. My 2 most talented players have developed a sidearm throw. They watch Tulowitzki and want to be …

Fair or Foul ball? Not rated yet
Tim asked: Recently there was a pop-up in my Grandson's little league game. The first baseman running for the ball with glove extended over the …

Error or mental mistake.  Not rated yet
Marty asked: Is it considered an error if third baseman decides not to field a fair ground ball hoping it will roll foul before passing third base? …

Interference???? Not rated yet
Heath asked: Trying to find clarification, runner on 1st batter hits ball to 2nd baseman. As runner runs in front of second base doesn't get hit …

Batter due up to start the next inning. Not rated yet
Tom asked: NHSF rules. Batter #6 is up at the plate with two out. Runner on third attempts to score from third on passed ball and is tagged out at …

scenario, uncaught third strike, bases loaded, two outs.  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Scenario above, unable to get the force out at home before the runner from third scores, though the throw is made down to first and …

Is this a triple play? Not rated yet
Bill asked: Batter up. Bases loaded. Swinging bunt. Runners in motion. Ball scooped by catcher steps on home for force out and throws to 1st …

Bases loaded bottom of the 9th with 1 run lead: where should the outfield play? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Bases loaded in the bottom of the 7th inning with 1 run lead, high school baseball. Where should the outfielders be positioned? …

does the home run count Not rated yet
Billy asked: One out. Runners on first and second. A home run is hit. The runner on first misses second. What happens on the play when second …

how many complete were pitched in 2016 in major league baseball Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: How many complete games were pitched in 2016, in Major League Baseball? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. The place …

Catcher diving to the ground after every ball Not rated yet
Assistant Coach asked: Our head coach tells the catcher to dive to the ground if the ball is thrown inaccurately, on every throw he misses. I say, …

Is it a hit or fielders choice? Not rated yet
Mitch asked: Runner on first batter hits a ground ball to the short stop trying to turn a double play. Runner is out at second base but throw to …

Catcher calling time out immediately following a walk before the hitter reaches first base Not rated yet
Tom asked: Runner on third and batter walks but continues to run to second base drawing a throw from the catcher which allows the runner on third to …

Runner on first thrown out at third but batter credited with a double Not rated yet
Stephen asked: With a runner on first, a batter hits a ball over the head of the left fielder. The left fielder tracks down the ball and fires …

if a batter hasn't taken a pitch and the third out is made is he still up the next inning Not rated yet
Jeff asked: If a batter hasn't taken a pitch and the third out is made, is he still up the next inning? Rick answered: Jeff, thank you for your …

Thirdbase  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: As a 3rd basemen, do you watch the ball as the pitcher is throwing it to home plate, or do you keep your eyes on the hitter? Rick …

can batter runner go back toward home plate when fielder attempts to tag him?  Not rated yet
Don asked: While coaching a high school game with a runner on first, batter hit ball up 1st base line 2 feet inside fair territory. The pitcher …

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How to score this play Not rated yet
Neil asked: Runner on third, one out. Batter hits fly ball to left field, left fielder drops the ball. Runner on third scores. Is the play a …

If bases are loaded and there is a ground all hit to as and 3rd Base makes it home before we can make an out for what ever reason, is it still a run?7 Not rated yet
curt asked: If bases are loaded and there is a ground ball hit as the runner on third base makes it home before the defense can make an out, for whatever …

Drop stoke on stoke three Not rated yet
Michael asked: The batter strikes out and catcher drops ball. The batter run eight step to dugout on goes in . Then take off for first. Is the …

score-keeping question Not rated yet
Dave asked: Rick answered: Dave, thank you for your question. Sounds like this one may have gotten interesting. In the book, E-6-2-3. Shortstop …

Why does a 3 and 2 count "release the runner" at first base? Not rated yet
Debbie asked: Why does a 3 and 2 count "release the runner" on first base? Rick answered: Debbie, thank you for your question. With a runner …

Hit or FC? Not rated yet
Greg asked: Bases loaded, less than two outs. Pop up to shallow center field. Ball lands cleanly, run scores. Runner on first advances to second. …

deep fly ball off outfielders mitt hit orr error? Not rated yet
Steve asked: A deep fly ball to left field that tips off fielder mitt trying to catch . Double or error? Rick answered: Steve, thank you …

10 yr old hit in the face with a pitch - now steps out. Not rated yet
Jackie asked: My 11 yr old grandson has loved baseball forever and still does. However, last yr. he was hit the face with a fast pitch, which broke …

How did the New York Yankees get their name Not rated yet
Kayla asked: I am wondering where the New York Yankees got their name from. Rick answered: Kayla, thank you for your question. If you do …

Based loaded Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Bases loaded one out. Ground ball to third. Runner on third goes halfway and comes back to bag. Runner on second touches 3rd before …

This boy steps on the plate at every pitch.  Not rated yet
Because asked: A boy stands in the box. At every pitch his back foot hits the middle of home plate. The blue is told to watch his foot. …

With 2 outs in the final inning and you are up by 3, do you hold a runner on first base? Not rated yet
Scott asked: Two outs, final inning and your up by 3. Does your first baseman hold the runner? Rick answered: Scott, thank you for your …

Run Scoring Situation? Not rated yet
Lambert asked: 1 out, runners on 2B and 3B. Batter hits a sharp ground ball to 3B, where the runner on 2B tries to advance to 3B where he is tagged …

Runner on third. Fly ball to center. Center fielder drops ball. Does batter still get scored a Sac Fly? Not rated yet
Craig asked: Batter Sac Fly and on by error 8? Rick answered: Craig, thank you for your question. Rule 9.08 Sacrifices The official scorer …

Why does the pitcher have to throw the ball after a line drive Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: There was a player on first and the batter hit a line drive to the pitcher. The pitcher then threw to 2nd and from 2nd the ball …

Hit or fielders choice? Not rated yet
Mike asked: Bases loaded, batter hits a slow grounder towards 1st. 1st baseman fields ball, throws home for the force out but runner beats the throw. …

hit or error if ball goes off of pitcher Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Ball is hit up middle off of pitcher. Ball bounces toward third baseman who picks it up and throws to first. Throw is high …

If the pitcher bounces a pitch that hits the batter is it still a free base Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The pitcher threw a pitch that hit the ground in front of the plate and bounced into the batter. Does the batter get the free pass …

On a long fly ball to right field, the fielder deflects the ball while both he and the ball are in fair territory. The ball goes over the fence in mid-air in foul territory. What’s the call? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: On a long fly ball to right field, the fielder deflects the ball while both he and the ball are in fair territory. The ball goes …

When a coach yells four to his outfielder where should he throw the ball? Not rated yet
Joe asked: When a coach yells 4 to his outfielder, where should he throw the ball? Rick answered: Joe, thank you for your question. When …

How to score error Not rated yet
Eddie asked: If there was a clean base hit in the 5-6 gap, but the LF fails to catch it after squaring up. Batter advanced to 3rd. How do you handle …

If a player slings a bat is it an out Not rated yet
Austin asked: Player up to bat swings and hits the ball and lets the bat fly into the fence. Is he/she counted out? Rick answered: Austin, …

Error or Fielders Choice Not rated yet
Leah asked: Runner on 1st base. The ball is hit to left field. The fielder drops it, but picks it up and throws to 2nd to get the runner trying …

What is meant when an announcer says the batter is "cheating on the pitch"? Not rated yet
John asked: What does an announcer mean when they say a batter is cheating on the pitch, and why is that legal if its "cheating"? Rick answered: …

force play at second, with runner on first Not rated yet
John asked: In a force play at second base, a ground ball is shoveled from the shortstop to the second baseman. The second baseman picks up the …

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How many stolen bases? Not rated yet
Hogan asked: This question comes from my own experience. I would like to keep track of my stats as accurately as possible this season, but I cannot …

How many innings in a texas high school baseball game constitute a complete game? Not rated yet
Kerry asked: A Texas high school baseball game was called in bottom of 5th inning due to a fight, with the home team winning 8-4. What is the ruling …

what counts as an earned run. Not rated yet
Mitch asked: First batter gets a clean single. The next batter also gets a hit but the outfielder bobbles the ball allowing the first batter to …

Why is a walk not counted as a time at bat? Not rated yet
Jim asked: With the extremely rare exception, every time a batter is in the batter's box at home plate it is to hit/bat the ball. With that intent, …

ON A FORCE PLAY AT FIRST BASE, THE INFIELDER TOUCHES THE BASE, DOES THE BALL HAVE TO BE IN THE SAME HAND Not rated yet
Paul asked: On a force play at first base, the infielder touches the base, does the ball have to be in the same hand? Rick answered: Paul, thank …

How do you encourage a player to throw harder? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I have a twelve year old son who often doesn't throw as hard as he can. What can I do to break this habit? He is mechanically sound …

how do you score a certain play  Not rated yet
Andrew asked: Runners on 1B and 2B. Line drive to SS. SS catches the ball, tags 2B then throws the ball to 1B, for an inning ending triple play. …

batted ball  Not rated yet
Michael asked: Batted ball line drive strikes the pitching rubber but not the ground. It lands in the stands between home and first base. Is this …

The Ball Hits a Bird Not rated yet
Viva asked: A ball is hit by a batter and is heading over the home run fence in fair territory, then suddenly hits a bird and lands over the fence in …

Does a defensive player have to actually throw for interference to be called? Not rated yet
Dan asked: Batter leans over the plate causing catcher to not throw to 3rd base to put out a runner advancing from 2nd base. Does the catcher have …

In High School baseball,what is the percentage of a runner getting thrown out when the outfielder misses the cut off Not rated yet
David asked: In High School baseball, what is the percentage of a runner getting thrown out, when the outfielder misses the cutoff man? Rick answered: …

Does run count? Not rated yet
Bob asked: Bases loaded , two out, batter hits ground ball to third base. Third basemen lets ball go through his legs, runner on third runs home …

2 outs man on first gets picked off is the batters ab over or does he come up next inning Not rated yet
Brian asked: When a batter is up with 2 outs and a man on first gets picked off, is his ab over or does he get to lead off next inning? Rick answered: …

Stealing home/2 outs in MLB Not rated yet
Steve asked: With a runner on third & batter at the plate, a 3/2 count and two outs, the pitcher starts his wind-up, the runner on third breaks for …

A fly ball hit to right field, the right fielder goes up to catch the ball the ball hits his glove and goes over the fence, is this a home run or an error? Not rated yet
Korey asked: A fly ball is hit to right field, the right fielder goes up to catch the ball the ball hits his glove and goes over the fence is this a …

Can a pitchers glove have red leather and navy blue lacing? Here is the glove-http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wilson-A2000BBGG47GM-12-25-Baseball-Glove-/191959780712?hash=item2cb1b1cd68:g:9twAAOSwFdtXyGu8 Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Can a pitchers glove have red leather and navy blue lacing? Here is the glove-http://www.ebay.com/itm/Wilson-A2000BBGG47GM-12-25-Baseball-Glove-/19195 …

Fielder's Choice or Hit? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on first, no out. Batter hit blooper to shallow CF. Runner goes halfway. Ball drops, but CF picks it up and throws to …

If a baserunner steals a base, where the catcher doesn't throw because the runner is too quick/got a good jump, should it be ruled as a stolen base or defensive indecision? Not rated yet
Chris asked: If a base runner steals a base,where the catcher doesn't throw because the runner is too quick/got a good jump, should …

First time playing Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Hello, my child is playing 7U/8U baseball for the first time. The players vary in skill level from beginner/no experience to intermediate. …

CAN A SHORTSTOP KICK DIRT ON BASE RUNNERS SHOES Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: JUST A GRANDFATHER WHO DISAGREES WITH KICKING DIRT ON ONE ANOTHER. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. There are rules …

my son pitched a 114 pitches in a 3 day 12u travel ball tournment is this ok Not rated yet
John asked: Trying to see if my son is getting over pitched. Rick answered: John, thank you for your question. Let me start by saying, …

Trapped baseball in throwing hand Not rated yet
Bill asked: If the 1st baseman has his foot on the bag and the baseball trapped to the ground in his throwing hand (without showing possession off the …

Why is this not a hit Not rated yet
Debbie asked: A Dodger was walked (I think it was the 8th inning). So he is on first base. The next batter, hit the ball. The shortstop …

team batting first or second Not rated yet
Jim asked: I was watching a mlb game on tv and the commentators were discussing the home team batting first or second. It was said that until the …

mlb rule question Not rated yet
Aaron asked: There is 2 strikes and the batter bunts the ball foul, he is out and its considered a strikeout but is a base runner allowed to steal a …

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is it a hit if you hit a baseball after it hits the ground Not rated yet
Roy asked: If you hit the ball safely is it a hit if it bounced in front of the plate and you hit it as the ball comes off the ground. Rick answered: …

If a batter hits into a fielders choice is he 0/0 or 0-1? Not rated yet
Royce asked: If a batter hits into a fielder's choice, is he 0/0 or 0/1? Rick answered: Royce, a fielder's choice gets recorded as a time at …

Is a foul ball on a bunt that is caught by catcher a out? Not rated yet
Stephen asked: Watching the Mets tonight a Arizona player bunting popped up, maybe 10-15 ft up. Met's catcher turned around took about 2 steps and …

home run during third out throw out Not rated yet
Ron asked: 2 outs. Man on third. Ground ball to deep second base. Bobbles the ball but throws out at first but third base runner scores before …

Fair or Foul Ball Not rated yet
Michael asked: Batter hits a fly ball just over first base and the second base player attempts to catch the fly ball with his feet in fair territory …

Runner on 1st,batter has 3 and 2 count Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on first, batter has a 3-2 count. Runner steals and is caught. Does the batter bat first next inning with a fresh count? …

Why the throwing around after an out? Not rated yet
Jim asked: I have never understood why, after the first and second outs occur, the players throw the ball around rather than give it directly back to …

Obstuction or not on attempted pickoff Not rated yet
Ed asked: Hi Rick , man on second base takes his lead, the shortstop flashes in front of the runner, the second baseman breaks to the bag for a pick …

does the run count Not rated yet
Ben asked: We have runners on 1st and 3rd, one out. Ball is hit in the air to second baseman. Runner on 3rd tags and scores at home. Runner …

Is this a strike? Not rated yet
Ed asked: The batter calls TO just as the pitcher starts his wind up, before the ump gives him the TO. The batter steps out of the box. The pitcher …

With a runner on 1st the batter hits a hard ground ball to the center fielder he picks the Ball up and forces the runner out at second base how is the play scored  Not rated yet
Joe asked: Runner on 1st the batter hits a hard ground ball to the center fielder, who then forces the runner out at second base. How is this scored? …

Fielders choice or base hit ? Not rated yet
Dave asked: There are no outs and a runner on first base. Runner is stealing 2nd base on the pitch when the batter hits a high shallow fly to right …

with the bases loaded and there is umpire interfence does a run score Not rated yet
Vernon asked: The bases are loaded and there is umpire interference on the batted ball. Does the runner score or is he simply removed from the base? …

a runner coming home stops then circles around the catcher to avoid the tag . is he safe or out? Not rated yet
Victor asked: A runner was headed home from third base on a grounder to first. The first baseman made the play at first, then thru home. The …

Double play on dropped ball. Not rated yet
Louie asked: Runner on first no outs. Batter hits line shot to first. Runner leaves base, but returns and stands on first. The line shot …

if a pitcher change is made during a batter's count such as 3 and 0, does the new pitcher continue with this count or does the batter start with a new count? Not rated yet
George asked: Whether a batter gets a new count after a pitcher change during his existing count? Does an injury during a batter's count such as …

2 outs runner on second and third ball hit to short stop and tags runner coming from second after the runner from 3rd crosses the plate crosses the plate for the final out does the run count Not rated yet
Herb asked: 2 outs runner on second and third. Ball hit to short stop who tags runner coming from second, for the 3rd out, after the runner from 3rd …

Did I get credited with a stolen base? Not rated yet
Garrett asked: I'm playing a baseball game. I'm on first base and my teammate is on third with two outs. The pitcher tries to pick off my teammate, …

calculating ERA Not rated yet
John asked: First game of the season and the first batter hits a home run. The second batter sees one pitch when the starting pitcher has to leave …

What is rule 5. Not rated yet
Richard asked: Pitchers R picked up through a rule 5. What does that mean? Rick answered: Richard, thank you for your question. The Rule …

if a ball is hit by the batter and then hits either 1st or 3rd base without touching the ground and then goes into the stands over the dugout  Not rated yet
Bob asked: If a ball is hit by the batter and hits either first or third base without touching the ground,then goes into the stands,is this a home run? …

[Coaching question] Not rated yet
Gerry asked: Runner on 2nd base with 2 outs. Routine grounder hit to my 3rd baseman. Should he still check the runner on 2nd in case he could …

Giants Braves game today, 6-2-16, white flag thrown on the field by home ump Not rated yet
Jay asked: In the Giants Braves game today, 6-2-16, the home plate umpire produced and threw a white flag onto the field after Jeff Francouer struck …

Error Charged? Not rated yet
Ryan asked: Runner on first, pop up to right field, ball is dropped; but the right fielder picks it up and gets the force out at second base. Is …

run counts or not Not rated yet
Steve asked: Bases loaded two out. Batter hits ground ball back to pitcher who fumbles the ball but still throws out runner at first. If the runner …

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walk off homerun Not rated yet
Anthony asked: WAS THERE EVER A LEAD OFF BATTER TO HIT A WALK OFF HOME RUN AND LEAD OFF THE NEXT GAME WITH A HOME RUN? Rick answered: Anthony, …

Does run count Not rated yet
Dixie asked: Runners on second and third with one out. Both runners off bag when short stop catches next batters line drive. Runner on third …

Runner scores before 3rd out Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runners on 1st and 3rd, ground ball is hit to first baseman who tags the base then throws to second to tag the runner for the 3rd out. …

How many bases on an "overthrow" from the OF Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner at 1B, base hit to CF. CF tries to throw the runner out at 3B, throws the ball in the dugout. How many bases does …

Should this run have counted? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The following play occurred last night in my sons (12yr old) game. Situation is 1 out, runners on first and third. Batter hits …

Fielder's Choice Not rated yet
George asked: If a batter gets a clean single between third and short and a slow running gets thrown out at second, does the batter get charged with …

is a base runner allowed to talk, clap, move arond on the base path during the delivery of a pitch? Not rated yet
Troy asked: I am a 13U travel league coach. During a tourney I had a base runner scolded by an umpire for constantly moving in out out from third …

Runner at Third Base with one or no outs Tags Up Not rated yet
Joe asked: Their is a runner at third base. The batter hits a fly ball to left field. While the ball is in flight, the runner backs up three …

palm facing outfield when in power position Not rated yet
We teach our pitchers to have the palm facing outward, what other positions should be taught this method? Rick answered: Jim, thank you for …

runner on 1st and 3rd..runner from 1st takes off to second base, pitcher while still in contact with pitching rubber turns and throws to second with out stepping off first...is this a balk Not rated yet
Randy asked: Runner on first and third. Runner from first takes off to second base. Pitcher, while still in contact with the rubber, turns and …

Hit or Fielders choice Not rated yet
Jamie asked: Tie game going into bottom of Ninth inning. Runner on third with one out, batter hits to short stop, fields it , runner scores and …

Hit or error..... Not rated yet
Quaid asked: Batter hits a high pop up just behind first base. The first baseman goes back to catch the ball as does the second baseman and the …

fc or base hit Not rated yet
Bob asked: Guy on first batter hits one toward 3 base side, shortstop lays out fields the ball has no chance to throw batter out. Tries to throw …

Hit or fielders choice..... Not rated yet
Quaid asked: Runner on first with nobody out. Batter hits grounder to the third baseman who fields the ball and starts to throw to second to force …

Selfish Assistant Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Have an assistant coach who also is head coach of a T-ball team. Two of his sons are on the baseball team he assists with. …

Batter is hit by pitch as he was swinging Not rated yet
Jeff asked: The batter was swinging at a pitch, but was hit by the pitch. How would you score this. As a strike or hit by pitch. Rick answered: …

High School Baseball; Intentional pickle to score a run Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Hello, how would you correctly score the following situation: A High School Freshmen Baseball team has base runners on first and …

when home coach says dugout rail in front is in play. Not rated yet
Don asked: At plate meeting the home coach says the front of the rails are in play. What do you call it if a batted ball hits the rail and goes …

What is a "clean" single? Not rated yet
Pat asked: What is a clean single? Hear announcers saying this a lot lately. Rick answered: Pat, thank you for your question. The term "clean …

Two "base" related queries. Not rated yet
Jim asked: First, why is home plate the only base set at ground level? Second, why are first, second, and third bases switched out every three innings? …

trick play Not rated yet
Shawn asked: Can a coach call time, during the timeout give the second baseman the ball, which allows him to tag runner out leading off 2nd base after …

Who gets the win? Not rated yet
Tim asked: Starting pitcher concludes the fifth inning in a seven inning college game trailing 4-1. The visiting team scores eight runs in the top …

What's the most runs a team has scored when their pitcher has a no-hitter? Not rated yet
Gail asked: The Cubs have scored 13 runs as of the 8th inning and Jake Arietta has a no-hitter going. Is this the largest number of runs behind a no-hitter? …

Dropping hands only during live pitching Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I have a 14 yr. old boy who NEVER drops hands during tee work, soft toss, front toss, coach pitch BP. Then, in game, almost every …

Score keeping question regarding holding a runner. Base hit? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Hi. I have a score keeping question. Runner on third base with less than two outs. Batter connects on a 'swinging bunt' (i.e. …

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After a foul ball does a runner have to return and retag or retouch the base he is on? Not rated yet
Chris asked: Runner on third base and leads off. Batter fouls the pitch. The runner does not go back to tag up. Pitcher throws ball to 3rd baseman …

My son is 11 and now all othe sudden he is now throwing balls into the dirt and not reaching bases and now squaring up the ball while hitting ...last yrar he hit 5 homeruns and was hitting everything? Not rated yet
Lori asked: Son not playing up to his potential. Rick answered: Lori, thank you for your question. It would help to have some additional background …

scorekeeper/hit Not rated yet
Joe asked: Batter hit hard ground ball to right field, infielder has no chance to make a play, but right fielder could have easily thrown batter out, …

Bases Loaded squeeze play with error Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Just trying to see how this is scored. Bases loaded, squeeze play perfect bunt down the first base line, runner on third scores, …

Runner on 1st. Batter hits a slow roller to second baseman who throws to 2nd but not in time to get the runner. Is this a hit or a fielders choice? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on first. Batter hits a slow roller to second baseman, who throws to second base to get the runner, but not in time. Hit …

Bases loaded, 2-2 count, pop foul ball, pitcher and catcher collide trying to catch, should an error be charged on that play when batter gets a hit on next pitch? Not rated yet
Ric asked: Bases loaded, 2-2 count, pop foul ball, pitcher and catcher collide trying to catch. Should an error be charged on that play when batter …

Youth Baseball Not rated yet
Guy asked: My 13 year old is really struggling with his bat this year. He's now batting in the bottom of the line up. The interesting thing is he tied …

Unique Force vs Tag Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on 1st - Batter hits a fair ground ball down 3rd base line where it is knocked down but no throw is made. Runner slides …

Does the MLB have any rules/regulations against helmet/cap radios? Not rated yet
Jim asked: In the NFL, the quarterback and one other offensive player can have a radio receiver in their helmets to get plays called/radio-ed from the …

The Sacrifice Bunt Not rated yet
Dan asked: Why do you provide instruction on sacrifice bunting when doing so, rather than letting the batter swing away, can be shown to result in fewer …

Ball hits Players Hat Not rated yet
Ron asked: Outfielder places his hat on the ground before the pitch, the batted ball is hit to the outfield and rolls and hits the hat on the ground, …

2 outs with runner at 3rd. Batter gets hit, runner advances to home but hitter is out at 1st. Does run count? Not rated yet
T.A. asked: Two outs, with a runner at 3B. Batter hits the ball, runner advances to home; but the batter is out at first. Does run score when …

Why are batting averages not percentages? Not rated yet
Alex asked: Why are baseball batting averages expressed as a decimal to 3 decimal places rather than a percentage? I feel like a .335 BA could better …

Lefthanded Pitchers Not rated yet
Sam asked: When is a lefthanded pitcher required to deliver a pitch to the batter and a balk would be called if he doesn't? 1. From the set position …

Scoring Query Not rated yet
Myron asked: Two parts. Runner on 3b, bottom of the last inning, tied, no out. The ball is hit to the third baseman softly coming down the line, …

Who gets the win Not rated yet
Marcelo asked: Starting pitcher goes 3 innings high school game, he's taken out with a 8-1 lead. Reliever goes 3 innings leaves with 13-2 lead. …

does the batter get credited with a base hit when catcher interference is called? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Does the batter get credited with a base hit when catcher interference is called? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

Walk off hit scores winning run(s) Not rated yet
Matt asked: Two men on, in home team's last at bat. Score tied 0-0. Batter hits a line drive to the gap. Both base runners reach home plate. …

What is the ruling..hit, error, fielders choice? Not rated yet
Lynn asked: Runner on third base. Hitter bounces one to the third baseman. Third baseman chases runner back toward third. As the runner stopped …

Is this an error? Not rated yet
Doug asked: Bases are loaded with less than two outs. Fielders are playing in to prevent a run from scoring. A batted ball is hit up the middle …

if a ball is hit foul but a defenseive player touches it before it hits the ground is it fair or foul? Not rated yet
Daniel asked: A ball was popped up foul, the first baseman ran then dove and got a glove on it but dropped it as he hit the ground. Is this fair …

Are more outs recorded at first base than any other position on a baseball field?  Not rated yet
Emil asked: First base is a critical spot for recording outs, many of those outs depend on the first-baseman picking one-hop throws. I was wondering …

Call on Fake Catch (line drive) and throw with runners on base. Not rated yet
Coach Joe Ward asked: Runners at first and second base. There's a line drive over the shortstops head, but the shortstop jumps up (24 inches vertical) …

Is a baserunner out when he gets hit by a ground ball behind a fielder who lets the ball go through his legs? Not rated yet
Charlie asked: Is a base runner out when he gets hit by a ground ball behind a fielder who lets the ball go through his legs? Rick answered: Charlie, …

A hard ground ball is deflected by the pitcher, picked up by the third baseman and thrown to first baseman at first base for the out. How do you record this on your score sheet? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: A hard ground ball is deflected by the pitcher, picked up by the third baseman and thrown to first baseman at first base for the out. …

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What kind of play is this and how do you record it on your score sheet? Not rated yet
Ray asked: Runner on first base, nobody out. The batter squares and bunts. The ball is then fielded by the third baseman who throws to the second …

The bases are loaded and there are two outs. Batter hits a triple but misses second base. A legal appeal is made by the defense. How many runs should score? Not rated yet
Ed Asked: The bases are loaded and there are two outs. Batter hits a triple but misses second base. A legal appeal is made by the defense. …

Your in right field and you miss a ground ball, there are 2 outs and there is a runner at first. Where does right field through the ball??  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Your in right field and you miss a ground ball, there are 2 outs and there is a runner at first. Where does right field throw the …

Does the run count? Not rated yet
Mike asked: Situation - Runners on second and third, one out. Batter hits a fly ball to center field that is caught for second out. Runner …

a run scored ? Not rated yet
Man on third, 2 outs. Line drive to right field one bounce to right fielder. Runner on third crosses plate. Right fielder throws out batter …

What does no rules of gravity mean Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What does no rules of gravity mean? A black dot,no rules of gravity. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. I will …

How do I get my throwing arm back in shape? Not rated yet
Hunter asked: I recently started on the high school team after 1 year or so of no baseball, and my throwing arm has been getting sore every time we …

2 old baseballs Not rated yet
Jack asked: I have 2 good to fair condition baseballs, all there just dirty. One is about 1/2 to 2/3 the size of the other which is regular. …

How many defensive players ( infielders or outfielders are allowed on the base path at one time during the run down of a base runner? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I recently saw 5 defensive players on the base line involved with a runner in a run down. As the first base man and the pitcher …

Multiple Inside the Park Home Runs in a Season Not rated yet
Mike asked: Who was the last player to hit multiple inside the park home runs in a season and when? Rick answered: Mike, thank you for your …

If a batter hits a bases loaded triple with 2 outs , but does not steps on 1st , the the pitcher throws to 1st and called out for not stepping on 1st, do any of the runs count??? Not rated yet
Jesus asked: A hitter hits a bases loaded triple with 2 outs. Then the pitcher throws to 1st because he didn't steped on 1st and gets called out? …

on a double switch involving the pitcher why does the pitcher end up in the 8th sspot in the batting order Not rated yet
Lawrence asked: In a double switch involving the pitcher, why does the pitcher end up in the 8th spot in the batting order? Rick answered: Lawrence, …

Batter interference Not rated yet
Richard asked: Runner on first no outs. Runner goes to steal second and batter interferes with catchers throw. Who is out? Same situation but …

why is home plate shaped the way it is? Not rated yet
David asked: Why is home plate shaped the way it is? Rick answered: David, thank you for your question. Baseball fields are laid out from …

If a ball bounces off your shoe into your glove out? Not rated yet
Monica asked: If the batter hits the ball and it bounces off a catchers shoe and up into his glove, is the batter out? Rick answered: Monica, …

Has any baseball team in postseason history lost the first three games and come back to win the next four and take the series  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Has any baseball team in postseason history lost the first three games and come back to win the next four, and take the series.? …

When the cacher throws ball back to the pitcher Not rated yet
Ellis asked: When the catcher throws ball back to the pitcher and the ball hits the batters bat or hand and the batter is still in the batters box, …

Do major leagers still wear metal spikes? Not rated yet
Jonny asked: Do major League players still wear metal spikes? Rick answered: Jonny, thank you for your question. They still wear metal spikes; …

Takeout slide at second no where near the base. stops double play Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Is it legal to take out the second baseman and not go at the bag? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. This was …

Answer to anxiety. Not rated yet
Lou wrote: Thank you Rick for suggesting "The Mental Game of Baseball" by H. A. Dorfman and Karl Kuehl. I previously sent a question regarding …

When was the sacrifice fly rule changed to only include fly balls that resulted in a run scoring? Not rated yet
Tony asked: I remember in the early 60's players getting credited with a sacrifice fly if a runner tagged from second base and advanced to third on …

Why not adopt a new philosophy? Not rated yet
Todd asked: With all the Tommy John, pitch-count concerns, why haven't more teams adopted a philosophy of having 2 strong pitchers per game idea? …

What is the record for a pro-baseball team for having the most bases-loaded situations and the team does not score? Not rated yet
Mike asked: Last night the Pirates loaded the bases 5 times but failed to score a single run. Has this ever happened before? Rick answered: …

baseball Not rated yet
Michael asked: In the central division the cards are in first place and the pirates are in second place...if the pirates beat the cards do they win 1 …

Is a player allowed to simulate an umpire's call?  Not rated yet
Paul asked: Is a player allowed to simulate an umpire's call? For example, can a catcher yell "Time Out!" behind the batter during the pitcher's …

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Batters interference Not rated yet
Justin asked: We had a situation this past spring where a baserunner was attempting to steal third. The catcher comes up and throws down to third …

Who has the best record in MLB since may 1st? Not rated yet
Taylor asked: Who has the best record in MLB, since May 1st? Rick answered: Taylor, thank you for your question. I have not been able to …

Batter Hitting Breaks Leg Not rated yet
Edward asked: Batter at the plate hits the ball to the infield, but on his way to first he falls down and breaks his leg, unable to continue to first …

Is it a homerun? Not rated yet
Devanand asked: The batter hits a deep fly ball in fair terriority. The outfielder leaps in the air and catches the ball but his momentum takes …

Is it a fielders choice, sacrificeor hit Not rated yet
Paul asked: A runner on 3rd with 1 out or less. 3 rd baseman is playing up for a bunt. Batter bunts the ball. 3Rd baseman fields the ball cleanly …

Does run score? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Bases loaded, two out, tie score ,bottom of ninth. Slow roller hit down third. Third baseman tosses ball to home plate and …

Ball to SS/3B, Double Out? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Let's say that there is a runner on 2nd base and a batter. If the batter hits a ball straight to shortstop or 3rd base, without …

2 ump team 60/90 field what's the call Not rated yet
Gary asked: Runner on 3rd 2outs, batter hits a grounder to the infield, infield throws to 1st. Field ump is 10ft away from 1st base and called the …

A pinch hitter leads off the inning. His team bats around. Does the pinch hitter bat a second time or must he be pinch hit for? Thanks Not rated yet
Bob asked: Its a question about batting. A pinch hitter leads off the inning. His team bats around, does the pinch hitter bat a second time, or …

has any mlb team ever had all 8 position players hit at least 10 home runs, if so, how many? Not rated yet
Rick asked: Has any team ever had all 8 starting position players have at least 10 home runs? Rick answered: Rick, thank you for your question. …

Question about rule 5.08(b) Not rated yet
John asked: Some friends of mine were debating this last night, after watching and reading about the Diamondback/Reds game two days ago, and rule 5.08(b). …

Who provides more of the power a pitcher or a batter? Not rated yet
Andrew asked: Can you hit a home run with swing extremely hard, if the pitcher provides enough power? Who provides more of the power, a pitcher or …

Runner hit with ball during rundown ruled out for interference Not rated yet
Frankie asked: Runner caught in rundown between 2nd & 3rd goes into 3rd standing up, but puts his arms out intentionally. Ball hits him in back. …

Line drive Not rated yet
Woo asked: As a base runner you want to freeze on your secondary lead when a line drive is hit. So my question is, after you freeze on your secondary …

Line drive out or base hit? Not rated yet
Jiey asked: So a line drive to the pitcher...it hits the pocket of his glove, knocks the glove off his hand and glove hits ground, ball stays in glove. …

How many infield singles have there been in the 2015 season? Not rated yet
Geoff asked: I play Fantasy Baseball and watch a lot of games and its seems there have been a larger than usual number of infield singles. Its great …

Why does the pitcher get 'all' the credit? Not rated yet
Jim asked: In a TEAM sport, why does one player -- the pitcher -- get all the credit for a win or loss, or even a play? How is a pitcher any different …

are bases interchangeable  Not rated yet
G asked: Having a hard time trying to describe my question, but can 1st base be used at Third and third be used at first, or is first base just designed …

catch or not? Not rated yet
AJ asked: Defensive outfielder catches the ball but glove comes off.....ball is in the glove but the glove comes off the hand and is on the ground......catch …

BALL ON PLAY Not rated yet
Lorenzo asked: WHEN THERE IS ONE OUT, RUNNERS ON FIRST AND THIRD. BATTER HITS A GROUND BALL TO SECOND BASE. THE FILDER GETS THE BALL, TAGS THE …

Why run? Not rated yet
Jim asked: In games I watch on TV, whenever a batter hits a fly ball foul down either baseline, he takes off running for 1st base. Why? If the …

WHAT GREAT BASEBALL PLAYER AROUND 1910 TO 1920'S WHERE THE FIRST 500 HUNDRED FANS RECEIVED A FREE BASEBALL CARD  Not rated yet
Mitchell asked: I THOUGHT IT WAS THE GREAT HONUS WAGNER, BUT I HAVE FOUND ZERO ON THE SUBJECT. THE REASON I ASK I KNOW A LADY WHO HAS 2 SHE THOUGHT …

What is the final score Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The baseball game is tied 0 to 0 in the bottom of the ninth inning. There are 2 outs and a man on first base. The batter then …

Brock Holt Not rated yet
Matt asked: Can you tell me the last MLB player selected to the All Star Game who has played every position except pitcher and catcher? Has there …

Why do catchers get a new ball when the ball drops to the ground Not rated yet
KC asked: Why do catchers receive a new ball when the ball drops to the ground? Rick answered: KC, thank you for your question. The link …

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Runners Passing Runners Not rated yet
M Struck asked: Runner on first, no out, ball hit to center. The CF makes a long, but relatively easy run to the LF alley, to the ball, so the …

Foul or out? Not rated yet
Kevin asked: Play 2 outs full house, batter 3 balls 2 strikes. Batter hits ball and hits catcher in the chest, he caught it before it hit the floor. …

Fielder's choice or Hit Not rated yet
Art asked: Runner on second no outs, batter soft slaps to third, batter reaches first before ball is fielded. Runner on second delays until batter …

Scoring Decision FC question Not rated yet
Chris asked: How would you score the following play? Man on 3rd less than 2 outs and the infield is up. The batter his a hard ball to the SS …

Hit or FC? Not rated yet
Max asked: Runner on 1B, high fly ball is hit behind the shortstop between him and the left center field gap. It isn't 100% clear that the SS will …

how would you score this. Not rated yet
Runners on 1st and 2nd. Batter bunts to pitcher, pitcher throws wild to 1st base. Runner on 2nd scores runner on 1st goes to 3rd. Batter goes …

Is batter out Not rated yet
Matty asked: On a 3 & 2 count the batter foul tips the ball back to the catcher, who puts his glove facing his chest to get the ball pinned to his chest. …

How did Gregerson get the win last night in Astros/Kc game? Not rated yet
Randy asked: The Astros went ahead 6 to 5 in the bottom of the seventh. The pitcher who finished the top of seventh received a blown save for giving …

Can a pitcher make an alignment line during a game?  Not rated yet
Greg asked: During a game, can a pitcher make a line from the center of the mound toward home plate (4-5 feet) and use it as an alignment aid while …

Rotating wrist during swing?? Not rated yet
Justin asked: Does rotating your wrist during contact increase distance on the ball? When playing myself, I have always rotated after I had made …

Is there a "bad" spot on the bat where the ball should never be hit from? Not rated yet
Jim asked: During the few years (1969-1975) that I played grade school & high school baseball, we were told never to hit the ball with the logo-ed side …

When to run Not rated yet
Woo asked: As a base runner, say there is a runner on third and second with less than 2 outs. The batter hits the ball to the outfield, the ball …

If a player is sent to the minors how long before he can be called back up to the majors league club? Not rated yet
Len asked: If a player is sent to the minors, how long before he can be called back up to the major league club? Rick answered: Len, thank you …

Baseball hats Not rated yet
Steve asked: Why do some pitchers wear there hats sideways? Rick answered: Steve, thank you for your question. There are probably as many …

how many all star players have the expos had Not rated yet
Zac asked: How many All Star players have the Expos had? Rick answered: Zac, thank you for your question. I have been unable to locate the …

No -Hitter ??? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: In high school a complete game is 7 innings. The pitcher pitches a no hitter for 7 innings. He comes back out in bottom of …

Foul ball hits base runner, is runner out? Not rated yet
Jim asked: Batter hits a foul down third base line. The ball hits the runner who has a lead-off from third base. Is the runner out? At …

how many innings must a starting pitcher be involved to record a win or loss Not rated yet
Ben asked: How many innings must a starting pitcher be involved to record a win or a loss.? Is it 5 or 7? I can't remember. Rick answered: …

Do runners on first and second have to touch their next base in order for the runner from third run to count Not rated yet
Jerry asked: Do runners on first and second have to touch their next base in order for the runner from thirds run to count? Scoring ruling? Rick …

If a runner is on first and the ball is hit to second, he throws to first base first and then ball is thrown to second. Does player on second base have to tag the runner coming to second? Not rated yet
Jason asked: I would like to know if runner is forced or does he need to be tagged at second after player at first was put out? Rick answered: …

How do you make and score this put out at second base Not rated yet
Larry asked: With a runner on first the batter hits a fly ball to left centerfield. The runner advances all the way to second base. Thinking …

Sac fly or out? Not rated yet
Doug asked: Runners on 1st and 3rd with 1 out. Fly ball caught by an outfielder, runner on third tags. Runner on first thinks there are 2 outs …

After laying down a bunt, where whould the batter ideally place the bat Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: After laying down a bunt, where should the batter ideally place the bat? There is debate whether it should be in fair or foul …

can a batter switch from left to right during a at bat Not rated yet
GB asked: Can a batter switch from left to right during an at bat? Rick answered: GB, thank you for the question. The link below will take …

Runner touches the ball Not rated yet
As the runner was coming into third base, the throw was late and he stood up. The ball came in on the hop and he swatted the ball into foul territory …

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drop third Not rated yet
Ned asked: Two outs man on 1st and 2nd drop third strike on batter, batter runs to first. Catcher picks up ball and over throws into right field. …

Can a player switch how he bats or pitches during same at bat? Not rated yet
Jim asked: Can a switch hitter change which side of the plate he's batting from during his at bat appearance at the plate? Also, can a pitcher change …

Is it counted as an at bat if a player hits a ground ball and is thrown out at first base while the base runner at 3rd base scores? Not rated yet
John asked: Is it counted as an at bat if a player hits a ground ball and is thrown out at first base, while the base runner at third base scores? …

Fielders in fair territory Not rated yet
Ralph asked: Rule 4.03 states that all fielders except the catcher must start each play in fair territory. What constitutes being in fair territory …

Isn't there a new rule about "intentional walk"? Not rated yet
Jim asked: This past weekend (May 29-31, 2015; and even tonight, June 1) as I watched the Arizona Diamondbacks games, I noticed several 4-pitch "intentional …

Are all base runners required to tag up on fly outs? Not rated yet
Wooseok asked: Are all base runners required to tag up on fly outs, no matter what base they are on, or how many outs there are or where its hit? …

How is a dropped third strike show on score if runner reaches first safe Not rated yet
Douglas asked: Hitter takes third strike catcher drops ball. Hitter runs to first is safe, how is it scored in book? Rick answered: Douglas, …

earned or unearned Not rated yet
Batter leads off the inning with a single. Next batter flies out to center. While the third batter is up the runner on first steals second and …

does run count? Not rated yet
Ron asked: Scenario: 2 outs, bottom of last inning,tied game, runner on 3rd, batter hits a ground ball down 1st base line,goes between 1st baseman legs, …

bases loaded with one out and the batter strikes out. runner on first base runs to pitchers mound towards his dugout assuming 3rd out. should he be called out? Not rated yet
William asked: Bases loaded with one out. Batter strikes out and runner on first heads to dugout reaching pitchers mound before going back, untagged. …

Pitching rules Not rated yet
Fred asked: The Cardinals have a pitcher whose name is Walton(?) or Waldon(?) or Walten(?), I'm not sure which. When he pitches, he jumps straight …

pop out and runner on third Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I was wondering the rule if a batter hits a pop fly and it is caught. If runner on third runs before caught and reaches home plate …

interference  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runners on first and second, batter hits the ball, third baseman goes to field the ball and tag the runner. The runner throws his …

Live or dead,fair or foul? Not rated yet
Dan asked: If a batter swings and the batted ball hits the ground and then comes up and hits his knee,trickles fair right in front of the batters box,without …

If the fielder tags the runner with the ball and then trips and falls taking 2 steps after the tag, falls to the ground and the ball comes loose. Is that an out or is it safe?  Not rated yet
Todd asked: If the fielder tags the runner with the ball, and then trips and falls taking two steps after the tag, falls to the ground and the ball …

fielding coach interferance Not rated yet
D.J.asked: Batter hits a ground ball to the outfield where the outfielder tried to throw him out but the ball evades the first baseman and goes into …

What happened to the home plate umpire's protective padding? Not rated yet
Jim asked: I remember the old B&W movies from the 1940s and 1950s, along with Norman Rockwell's painting, of the home plate umpire having a large, nearly …

Why the 'turn-over' of baseballs during a game? Not rated yet
Jim asked: At times, it appears that a new ball is put into play for the flimsiest of reasons. When my dad played ball as a pitcher back in the …

Does this run count? Not rated yet
Edward asked: Runner on third, two outs. A squeeze bunt and runner on third scores well before the batter is thrown out at first. Does the run …

man on first Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Man on first, no outs, batter strikes out and catcher drops the ball. Does the batter run to first? Rick answered: Thank …

scoring Not rated yet
Steve asked: Man on first, one out. Ground ball to short who boots it. Next hitter singles in run. Then two more outs. Is this an earned …

out or safe and why Not rated yet
Pat asked: A ground ball is hit to short, the short stop throws the ball to the first baseman who's mit is on the ground and never leaves the ground. …

When should a runner on 2nd base tag up and when should they maintain a lead on a fly ball to the outfield. Thanks Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: When should a runner on second base tag up, and when should they maintain a lead on a fly ball to the outfield? Could you answer for …

is it a base hit or fielder's choice  Not rated yet
James asked: Runner on second. Batter hits ground ball cleanly through the six hole. Left fielder comes up with the ball, throws home and gets …

Why does first baseman play the 'front' (home plate side) of the base when holding a runner on? Not rated yet
Jim asked: It seems to me that if the first baseman played the back of the base, there'd be less reaching around or to the back (ie., less 'drastic' …

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if a shortstop catches a line drive, is the batter safe at first or is he out? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If a shortstop catches a line drive, is the batter safe at first or is he out? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

Why do pitchers take up a different stance once someone is on base? Not rated yet
Jim asked: I've noticed that when a runner reaches base, the pitcher changes his stance prior to the next pitch. Is this done for convenience of …

over thrown ball Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on 2nd base. Ball hit to the shortstop, ball is thrown to first base and over thrown and in the dugout. Does the runner …

bases loaded with no outs. batter flies out to left, runner on second tags and starts towards 3rd. runner on third stays put so runner on second has to go back. it it a force or is a tag needed? Not rated yet
Pete asked: Force out or tag required? Rick answered: Pete, thank you for your question. Base runners only need to tag up, if they wish to …

how to field a gapper Not rated yet
Dave asked: Can you show a diagram on how to field a gapper? Rick answered: Dave, thank you for your question. Outfielders are looking to …

stolen bases Not rated yet
William asked: In a double steal, if one base runner gets tagged out, does the other base runner get credited for a stolen base? Rick answered: …

Runners base award on fielder out of play Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Game under NFHS rules, runners on first and second. Pitcher throws a pitch in the dirt that bounces off the catcher and rolls towards …

has any major league player ever played all 9 positions? Not rated yet
Vance asked: I was told that no pro player had ever played all nine positions, however, I know several to have played at most seven. Rick answered: …

My 12 year old son hits ball very hard in BP but only makes soft contact in game. Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Dear Rick, my son is able to hit hard line drives in BP. He is able to hit fast pitching off a pitcher and machine in practice. …

How many runs are earned for the pitcher? Not rated yet
Jeff asked: Runner on first, the batter hits the ball to short. SS could get the batter at 1st but instead throws to 2nd. The runner on 2nd beats …

Anyone know about these giant cards? Not rated yet
William asked: I have a question about some giant cards that was given to me along time ago. Has anyone seen anything like this? Do you think …

Interference at home? Not rated yet
Pat asked: Interference by a batter? Is a there interference at home if a right handed batter crosses home plate to get out of the way of a runner …

Does the batter still get credit for a base hit if the ball hits a baserunner resulting in the third out? Not rated yet
Ron asked: Does the batter still get credit for a base hit if the ball hits a base-runner resulting in the third out? Rick answered: Ron, thank …

is the runner out if he fails to touch home plate and then enters the dug out? Not rated yet
Ken asked: Runner came in from 3rd base, missed home plate and entered dug out. He returned and touched home plate just ahead of the tag. …

the first baseman has the ball in hand but touching the ground foot on the bag is the runner safe? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The first baseman has the ball in hand but touching the ground, foot on the bag. Is the runner safe? Rick answered: Thank …

Runner hit by batted ball Not rated yet
Jack asked: With runners on first and second, the batter hits a line drive up the middle that strikes the runner on second, who is two steps off the …

Umpires missing a game Not rated yet
Richard asked: I once read about an incident where major league umpires were stuck in Boston because of fog and that they could not get to their next …

Thrown out at 3rd! Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: This happened last night in our LL game and was wondering how to score it properly. Hard hit ball to center field runner attempts …

rbi's vs er's Not rated yet
Mike asked: Is there ever a situation where the pitchers earned runs can be greater than the opposing teams rbi total? Rick answered: I have …

with a batter in the batters box, a runner on third base and the pitcher throws a wild pitch, the runner on third base scores does the batter get an RBI? Not rated yet
Art asked: The batter is in the batters box, there is a runner on third base, the pitcher throws a wild pitch which allows the runner on third base …

outfielder goes over the left field fence while catching the ball. Home run? Not rated yet
Mike asked: What's an out - what's a home run? Rick answered: Mike, thank you for your question. Rule 5.10...The ball becomes dead when an …

Hit or error on infield pop fly? Not rated yet
Greg asked: Scenario for High School Varsity Game: Pop fly between first and second basemen. Both are a couple of feet apart in position to …

if a ball hits third/first base and goes into foul territory without crossing the base, is it fair or foul? Not rated yet
Bee asked: A batted ball hits first or third base, never crosses the base and goes into what would be foul territory. Fair or foul? Rick answered: …

If a switch hitter steps up to bat righthanded does he have the option to switch to left or must he complete his at bat right Not rated yet
Charlie asked: If a switch-hitter steps up to bat right-handed, does he have the option to switch to left or must he complete his at bat right? …

Runner on, batter hits home run. Runner trips over base and breaks his ankle. Can batter-runner pass him? Not rated yet
Bruce asked: What happens to the batter-runner who hits a home run, when the runner ahead of him trips and breaks his ankle preventing him from advancing …

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defensive player in foul territory Not rated yet
Brad asked: I would like to know what the rule is on a play if the first baseman is totally in foul territory on a pick off play or if the pitcher delivers …

hit by batted ball Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: R1, R2, double steal. F5 is playing in for a bunt, but the batter swings away and hits a chopper that bounces over F5’s head and …

what is the official score on the question below? Not rated yet
Steve asked: Runners on 1st and 2nd no outs. Batter bunts the ball down 3rd base line, the defense throws the ball to 3rd base trying to force the …

If an infielder throws there glove at the ball how many bases does the runner get. Not rated yet
Stefen asked: If a infielder throws their baseball glove at the baseball, how many bases does the runner get? Rick answered: Stefen, thank you …

OBR Rule1.14 Glove Size Not rated yet
Gus asked: Has OBR Rule 1.14 requiring no glove (excluding catcher's mitt and first baseman's glove) shall measure more than 12 inches long been amended? …

Coverage of first base on a bunt Not rated yet
Jim asked: If a bunt is hit about halfway to first base, what is the role of the pitcher, catcher, first baseman, and second baseman? Specifically …

What's the umps call on a batter hit by a thrown ball going to first. Not rated yet
Myron asked: In a sacrifice situation with a runner on first, the right-handed batter bunts toward first, and the catcher fields the ball and hits the …

Foul ball Not rated yet
Javier asked: Batter hits a pop fly and it's a foul ball, but hit the player and goes back in. Is it still a fair ball? Rick answered: Javier, …

Does anybody know what city this baseball figure or statue is in? Thanks so very much! Not rated yet
Dave asked: It's driving me crazy. I think I've passed it. Getting older now and memory is slipping. Rick answered: Dave, thank you for your …

Ball hit off home plate towards pitcher...fair or foul?? Not rated yet
Kyle asked: Batted ball hit, bounces off home plate & rolls to pitcher, who fields it & throws to 1st for the out. Was the batted ball fair or …

what players for number 3 hitter and number 4 hitter hit 100 home runs and 300 RBIs and 1 season Not rated yet
James asked: Combined season for number 3 and number 4 hitter together what player hit a hundred runs and 300 yards. Rick answered: James, thank …

I need to know how to manage players egos Not rated yet
Bob asked: I manage players who are 52+ years of age. I know that ball players need a certain amount of "swagger" but I need to know how to manage …

no hitter rules Not rated yet
Danny asked: A starter starts a game, pitches to one batter gives up a single but has to leave due to injury. Replacement comes in and retires …

Fielders choice determination Not rated yet
Greg asked: Tie score bottom half of the last inning. Runner at third. Batter drops a bunt down. Pitcher fields the ball and chooses to throw …

Hello rick, I received a Pete rose autograph baseball as a gift! Not rated yet
Jeremy asked: My friend gave me a Pete Rose ball that says "to pat at 4,160 hits best wishes Pete Rose". I was wondering if you could tell me what …

Why can't I hit the ball far Not rated yet
Andrew asked: I exercise and go to the gym on days I don't play sports. I make good contact and I have good bat speed. Also there are a lot …

do coaches teach the runner on 2nd to skip 3rd on a double suicide bunt in order to score Not rated yet
Matthew asked: Double steal. I have a coach that told our kids to steal third on a suicide bunt but to skip third when the ball was thrown to first …

grounder to 2nd. How often does a runner on 2nd go to 3rd with no outs? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Grounder to 2nd. How often does a runner on 2nd go to 3rd with no outs? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. The …

is the base a safe haven for the runner Not rated yet
John asked: Runner on third, ground ball down the third base line. The runner retreats to third base and is hit by the ground ball, is he ouy or …

SHOULD A 12 YEAR OLD BE LEARNING TO THROW TO A BASE WHEN NOBODY'S THERE? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: My 12 year old beginner was taught to throw to 2nd base when a ball rolls to him in right field. The thing that bothered …

How many game are we ahead in standings Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Our team has 11 wins and 3 losses. Another team has 9 wins and 4 losses because of a tie. (no extra innings in our league) I say we …

Which Rookie of the Year winner was sent to the minors early in the following season Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Which Rookie of the Year winner was sent to the minors early in the following season. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

when fielding a ground ball do you eyes watch the ball all the way into your glove? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: curious. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Bill Klem, long time MLB umpire stated, "keep your eyes on the baseball, …

Chris Short vs. Sandy Koufax Not rated yet
Sam asked: I recall many great games when these two pitched against each other. I would like to know their record lifetime when they went head …

Hit, SAC or FC ?? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: No outs, runner at 3rd, tie game. Batter bunts the ball to 1st baseman, runner breaks for home. Batter runs to 1st but slows …

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why when a runner is reaching a base sliding... then he shows his hands to the umpire? thanks a lot Not rated yet
Andreas asked: Why, when a runner is reaching a base sliding... then he shows his hands to the umpire? thanks a lot. Rick answered: Andreas, …

What does a high school baseball manager do? Not rated yet
Madelyn asked: I am a girl, so I can't be on the baseball team at my high school and I don't like the girls on the softball team, so that's also out. …

if two players are on the same base who do you tag first Not rated yet
Cecil asked: If two players are on the same base who do you tag first? Rick answered: Cecil, thank you for your question. Rule 8-2 Art 8...If …

Relay and cutoff responsibilities Not rated yet
Lou asked: With all the different relay and cutoff situations, how can coaches and young players remember all of the player responsibilities? Example: …

stolen base before pitch is thrown Not rated yet
Eric asked: Runner steals second base before the pitcher winds up to throw a pitch. Then the batter hits a fly ball. Does the runner have to …

3. R1 on first base/less than 2 outs. Batter hits short fly to LF. R1 goes part way to 2nd to see if ball is caught. Batter rounds 1st base and passes R1. What is the call? Is the play stopped?  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner 1 on first base/less than 2 outs. Batter hits short fly to Left Field. Runner 1 goes part way to 2nd to see if ball …

What types of drills could lefty hitters work on when facinf lefty pitchers? Not rated yet
Jack asked: My son is 14 years old and currently playing High School Baseball. He is a lefty hitter with good bat speed. Last year he open his stance …

There is a runner on third with one out in the bottom of a regulation play the ball is hit to the first baseman who gets it what should the first baseman do Not rated yet
Cassie asked: There is a runner on third with one out in the bottom of the regulation play. Ball is hit to the first baseman, who gets it. What …

A swich hitter bating four in catcher position in playoff games? Not rated yet
Jaime asked: A catcher hitting in a four position as a switch in playoff games. Rick answered: Jaime, I am not understanding your question. Need …

defensive question Not rated yet
Ralphy asked: Runner on first, hitter hits the ball to third base. Who's responsibilty is it to cover second base? Is it the shortstop and the …

what does .ops mean Not rated yet
Fellini asked: When a batter comes to the plate-the graphics come up. What does ops mean? Rick answered: Fellini, thank you for your question. …

who has the fewest extra base hits in the 3000 hit club Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Who has the fewest extra base hits in the 3000 hit club? Just need answer. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

The defenseman catches the ball and touches the bag with his opposit hand is the runner out on a force Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Short stop catches the ball in his left hand and touches the bag with his right. Is the runner out on force play? Rick answered: …

1) Batter hit by pitch while squared to bunt but pulls his bat back. 2) Umpire hit by fair batted ball. Not rated yet
Robert asked: With a runner at second base a batter squares to bunt. The runner takes off for third. The batter pulls his bat back but is unable …

While trying to avoid being struck by a pitch, the ball hits the bat into play. Is that a fair ball? Not rated yet
Rob asked: While trying to avoid being struck by a pitch, the ball hits the bat into play. Is that a fair ball? Rick answered: Rob, thank …

Why the tag-up rule? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What is the purpose of the tag-up rule on fly balls? You don't have to tag up after a fielder handles a grounder, so why after …

Runner hit by batted ball. Not rated yet
Jeff asked: There is a runner on first with two outs. Runner is hit by batted ball and is the third out. How would you score the batter in score …

Runner interference call Not rated yet
John asked: Runner on second R2. Only 1 out. Ground ball hit to SS. R2 runs into SS fielding the ball but SS is in the baseline from 2nd to 3rd. …

Possession on a Force Not rated yet
High Heat asked: Man on 1st, comebacker to the pitcher who turns and throws the ball in the dirt to SS covering 2nd. SS blocks the ball with glove, …

Ball in grasp of fielder but touching the ground, out or safe? Not rated yet
Ira asked: A batter hits a grounder to the pitcher who whirls and throws weakly to first base. The first baseman cannot handle the throw before …

Runner Scores before the Out Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: There's a runner on 2 and 3 with 2 outs. Batter hits a pop-up to the pitcher and the pitcher drops it. He picks it up and still …

runners on first and second with one out umpire calls infield fly the fielder drops the ball does the runners have to tag to advance Not rated yet
Gerald asked: When the umpire calls infield fly and the fielder drops the ball, does the runners have to tag to advance? Rick answered: Gerald, …

bench-clearing brawl Not rated yet
hello,(female here)asked: Now, thats out of the way! Very curious, when was the first recorded all out of the dugout brawl and between who? Appreciate …

who sells more tickets Cubs or White Sox? Not rated yet
Marianne asked: Want to know who sells or fills up their park 2013/2014 more Cubs or White Sox? Rick answered: Marianne, thank you for your …

What is your opinion? Not rated yet
Tim asked: Is it smart to swing in a 2-0 count, bases loaded, no out, after the pitcher walked 5 in a row? Rick answered: Tim, thank you for …

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What MLB pitcher has the most wins and saves in a single season? Not rated yet
Brandon asked: What MLB pitcher has the most wins and saves in a single season? It seems the stats favor starting pitchers and modern closers. My …

Base Runner Calling Plays For The Defense Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Can a base runner scream out to the defense where to throw the ball during a play? A runner was at 2nd base and screamed out to …

Ump calls a ball, pitcher throws and hits batter, way happens? Not rated yet
Kevin asked: Ump calls a ball, pitcher throws and hits batter, what happens? See question. Rick answered: Kevin, thank you for your question. …

Did umpires in any major team ever get the baseballs from a ground pop up dispenser? Not rated yet
Vincent asked: I have heard that one major league used a ground pop-up dispensers for getting baseball, just curious if true. Rick answered: …

Has any major league player ever stolen second, third, and home in the same inning Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Has any major league player ever stolen second, third and home in the same inning? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

If a runner scores from third base due to a balk, is anyone credited with an rbi Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If a runner scores from third base due to a balk, is anyone credited with an RBI? Also, does a balk go as an error on the pitcher? …

Is this a good hitting position to be in when contact is made? Not rated yet
I would like to know if this is a good hitting position to be in when contact is made? Rick answered: Blake, thank you for your question. …

the the run count Not rated yet
Dave asked: Runners on first and thrid with two outs. Batter hits ball to the outfield, runner from third crosses home plate, before runner from …

Runner on first. Batter hits a liner to center field that drops in. Center fielder throws to second to retire the runner. Is the batter credited with a hit (fielder had only one option)? Not rated yet
John asked: Batter hits a liner to center field that drops in. Center fielder throws to second to retire the runner. Is the batter credited with …

catchers position Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Third times a charm!! My son said I worded my question wrong. So here it goes in his words. I hit a single over second base,they …

catchers position Not rated yet
My 12 year old hit a home run, as he was coming into home the catcher was standing on home plate without the ball. Is that considered obstruction? …

catchers position Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: My 12 year old hit a home run. The ball was in the outfield as my son was leaving third base, heading for home. The catcher …

On scorecards strikeouts are shown as a egular K and sometimes a backwards K..is one a swinging strike out and the other with the pitch taken? Not rated yet
Bill asked: On a baseball score sheet a strikeout is shown as a regular "K' or as a backward K...does one represent a swinging strikeout and the other …

does this run score as the game ending winning run Not rated yet
Rob asked: Bases are loaded and it is the bottom of the last inning, score is tied at 4. Hitter hits ball to left field and touches first base. …

home Not rated yet
Paul asked: Does anyone keep track of players thrown out at home plate? How can I find out how many times each team has been thrown out at home? …

Who was the first player to have a walk off home run as their first home run? Not rated yet
Jeff asked: I was sitting with my bar buddies one evening when one friend asked the question above. It had us all scratching our heads and wondering …

if standing out of play, say falling over the outfield fence, and you reach over the fence to grab the ball, is that considered a homerun? ground rule double? or live ball? Not rated yet
Daniel asked: OUTFIELDER RUNNING BACK ON FLY BALL, DROPS THE BALL BUT FALLS OVER CENTER FIELD FENCE. WHILE HE IS OUT OF PLAY HE REACHES BACK OVER …

Force Out??? Not rated yet
Steve asked: Base runner on first. Batter hits the ball and is thrown out at first on a fielders choice, the ball is now thrown to second. …

out or safe Not rated yet
John asked: Runner standing on third base and is hit by a ground ball, is he out or safe? Rick answered: John, thank you for your question. …

If a batter takes off his helmet when he gets a homerun before he crosses the plate if you get a warning before you called out Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I was called out because I took my helmet off before I reach home plate. When I hit homerun and I out before I get a warning to do. …

If a player has a hitting streak and gets hurt before his 1st at bat. Is the streak still in tact? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If a hitter has a hitting streak and gets hurt before his first at bat, is the streak still in tact? I am doing a follow up on a question …

Is the umpire part of the field? Not rated yet
Howard asked: In Major League Baseball on 6/24/14 Joe West was umpiring behind first base. The batter hit a line drive that hit the umpire squarely …

Batter safe on caught line drive to first? Not rated yet
Todd asked: What is the ruling that would award a batter first base on a caught line drive? Situation: Runner on first and batter hits a soft line …

Is this scored as a Hit or an Error? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Howdy: Question on how to properly log the following situation: Little League Batter (Age 12) hits a line drive to the second …

is the runner at first out? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Ground ball hit, runner on first. Guy running to first is thrown out. Runner from first stops running and goes back to first …

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Sudden Fear of Baseball Not rated yet
Concerned mom asked: My 9 year old son played tball at age 5 and 6 years old, moved up to coach pitch for age 7, and we had to take a year off due to …

fair or foul Not rated yet
Tony asked: Ball hit down first base line hit fair. First baseman standing in fair ground, ball is caught going foul but before it hits foul. …

Stalling. No action by Offense or Defensive player, what's the call Not rated yet
Rod asked: Example one, batter hits a ground ball in fair territory to an infielder. The runner does not run to first base and the fielder holds …

Hit vs. Error on Bunt left to roll foul/fair Not rated yet
Brad asked: We had a play in little league this weekend where the catcher let the ball roll hoping it would go foul. The ball stayed fair and the …

third pitch foul ball back to catcher Not rated yet
Matty asked: If a catcher catches a third pitch foul ball on his chest, is it a out? Rick answered: Matty, thank you for your question. …

Runner on first, batter hits line drive to left field and base runner is thrown out at 2nd base. How is that scored? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on first, batter hits line drive to left field, base runner is thrown out at 2nd base. How is that scored? Rick answered: …

Does the run count if the 3rd out of the inning is based on appeal at 2nd base? Not rated yet
Randy asked: Bases loaded, one out. Batter hits the ball to right field where the right fielder catches the ball for the 2nd out. Runners at …

Can a team "bribe" its way into the major league? Not rated yet
Dan asked: Hi! I'm writing a book but I need to know how a team gets into the majors. I also need to know which league a team from New Mexico would …

Re: Cutoff positions for middle infielders Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: My son's 16u travel ball coach has the second baseman covering second base on singles to right field with nobody on. Likewise, …

what is the responsablity of the batter once he hits the ball? Not rated yet
Zeno asked: hat is the responsibility of the batter once he hits the ball? Yes, obviously to make it to the bag safe, but is it head down all the …

Ruling on Tag Up Play Not rated yet
Robert asked: Runner on third, one out. Batter hits fly ball to left fielder. Runner on third goes to tag up for a sac. fly but leaves way too early. …

Obstruction on lead off of 2nd base Not rated yet
Bill asked: If the Short Stop is cutting in front of the runner leading off second base, and moves into the base path between the runner and 3rd base …

If you have two base runners on a base at one time which one is out Not rated yet
Bob asked: If you have two base runners at a base at once which one is out? Rick answered: Bob, thank you for your question. Rule 8-2 Base …

A batted ball hits Home Plate than goes into fair territory. Fair Or Foul? Not rated yet
John asked: The batter swings and hits the ball,it bounces off home plate and into fair territory. Is it a fair ball ? Rick answered: John, …

In baseball if the base runner beat throw to first base and runs through base turns left but goes in the direction of his doug-out is he out Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Batter hits ball to right field. Thinking the ball is caught he runs through first base turns left, but goes in the direction of his …

Can a Pitcher covering 1st block base with foot? Not rated yet
James asked: Ball hit to first baseman pulling him down the line. Pitcher covers and steps on the leading edge of base just under the runners foot. …

Did I pitch? Not rated yet
Justin asked: Today my coach put me in to pitch with runners on first and third. The runner on third is the winning run for the other team. I …

who was the first person pudge threw out at second base as an MLB catcher. not minors! But as a Ranger. Not rated yet
Jeremy asked: Just wanted to know WHO was the first pro throw out for Pudge? Rick answered: Jeremy, thank you for your question. I was unable …

An intentional base on balls must be asked for before a pitch is made? Not rated yet
Joshua asked: Must an intentional base on ball be requested by the defense before the first pitch of that at bat? Rick answered: Joshua, thank …

The batter hits a grounder and throws the runner out at first. the coach asks to see the ball then shows it to  Not rated yet
Dick asked: The batter hits a ground ball and is thrown out at first. The opposing coach notices that the ball is not a legal ball and shows it …

Runners advance? Not rated yet
Sy asked: Man on second and third with one out in the first inning. Slow roller hit to the shortstop. Should the runners advance immediately or …

I have three cycle-related questions:  Not rated yet
Alan asked: (1) Has any MLB player ever hit for the cycle when having only 4 plate appearances in the game? (2) Has any MLB player ever achieved …

Defensive Situation--what would you do? Not rated yet
Tim asked: Coach/parent debate: 12U travel ball (full major league rules, except 6 innings, 70ft bases, 50 ft mound). Tie game (8-8) in the …

Interference Not rated yet
Mandy asked: Runners on 2nd and 3rd. Batter goes for a squeeze bunt, but misses. Catcher catches the ball and the runner is already halfway …

12 yr old dropping elbow, releasing high, not tucking glove Not rated yet
Rob asked: My son has been pitching since he was 9. For being the smallest on the team, he has always had one of the stronger arms on the mound. …

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Is the runner out or safe? Not rated yet
Clarence asked: One out and runner at third. A fly ball is hit to deep left and the left fielder gets under the ball to make the catch. …

There is a guy on first base and the batter hits a bunt down the first base line I'm the second baseman what should I do Not rated yet
There is a guy on first base and the batter hits a bunt down the first base line. I'm the second baseman what do I do? Rick answered: Thank …

Foul or Fair Ball Not rated yet
Ken asked: Rick answered: Ken, thank you for your question! Fair or foul on in this situation is determined by where the ball passed over third base. …

Ruling of a Hit Not rated yet
James asked: Situation: Runner on 2nd and no runners on 1st or 3rd. One out. Batter/ runner hits hard groundball into 3rd/SS Gap. Without knowing …

last inning down 1 with runners on 2nd and 3rd with no outs...Should you bunt? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Last inning down 1 with runners on 2nd and 3rd with no outs...Should you bunt? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

Baseball helmets Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: My grandson was wearing a helmet designed to withstand 80 mph pitch, was hit on side of head with pitched ball and now has a concussion. …

im 5"8 130 and all iv been able to do is hit the wall is their something i can do to get a extra 10 feet Not rated yet
Dawson asked:> I need help. Rick answered: Dawson, thank you for your question. Without looking at your swing, it is hard to make an assessment …

Will the batter lose his hit? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: A batter hits a double. After reaching 2nd base and play is dead, a courtesy runner comes in for him. Next batter comes up …

Fielder's choice or hit? Not rated yet
Gary asked: Runner on second, one out. Batter hits ground ball deep in the hole between 3B and SS. SS makes diving stop and fields ball on outfield …

How to do a forward dive catch? Not rated yet
John asked: I just recently joined my high school BB team. In the warm up we have to do a forward dive in the turf. Any ideas on how to do it without …

If the pitcher steps off the rubber in an attempt to pick off a runner at first and the throw goes out of bounds, is the runner awarded one base or two bases? Not rated yet
Robert asked: We have several high school fields that are not completely enclosed. Overthrows by a pitcher attempting to pick off a runner at first …

A batted ball first hits foul, bounds over first base, then hits foul. Is this a fair or a foul ball? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The question is about fair or foul ball. A batted ball hits foul, bounds over first base in the air, and curves back foul and …

Practice Scripts--Game situations Not rated yet
D.J. asked: I am trying to find new game situation scripts to execute in practice. Like a 21 out simulation in practice where we try to put our …

Who covers second base? Not rated yet
Murray asked: With one out and a man on first base who covers second base if a ground ball is hit back to the pitcher? The second basemaen or the short …

Do you know Pete Rose's vision measurement? 20/20, 20/10, ? Not rated yet
Barbara asked: Want to know if Pete Rose had better vision than average. Rick answered: Barbara, thank you for your question. I have been …

Who came up with putting base ball players names on the bcak of there shirts Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: In 1962 the St. Louis Cardinals put the players names on the back of the players Jersies. This was the first time in major league base …

is it a balk Not rated yet
Jason asked: If there is a runner on 1st stealing 2nd, can the pitcher throw to 3rd for the 3rd baseman to throw out the runner? Or is this a balk? …

when bases are loaded? Not rated yet
PG asked: Bases are loaded. Do I bring in my corners or middle infielders? Rick answered: PG, thank you for your question. Bases loaded …

Home run or out? Not rated yet
Stephen asked: Outfielder catches ball and falls over wall in fair territory. Is it an out or home run? Rick answered: Stephen, thank you …

There are no outs and runners are at second base & third base should you walk the batter to load the bases? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If there are no outs and you have runners at second & third, should you walk the batter to load the bases? Rick answered: Thank …

called out for base runner lane rule. Not rated yet
Richard asked: Had a batter,no one on base, hit the ball into left field. As batter ran to first base, outfielder missed ground ball which runner …

Pitching & warming up Not rated yet
Johnny asked: I hope you can answer a question about warming up. Starting pitchers, or relievers, when taking their warm ups do various motions …

Should my son bat left handed or right handed? Not rated yet
Rex asked: My 11 year old son is right handed, but left eye dominant. He is batting right handed. He has been having trouble hitting the ball. …

What does it mean to be tagged out after making the turn?  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What is meant by "making the turn" which seems to allow a runner to be tagged out after he touches the first base bag after a play …

Is it possible to get my baseball Little League records/stats 1970 records from games played Not rated yet
Scott asked: Is it possible to get my baseball Little League records/stats 1970 records from the games played? Rick answered: Scott, thank you …

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What's the call? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runner on 3rd with no outs. Batter hits a fly ball to right field that is caught. Prior to the ball reaching the fielder, the coach …

Batter bunts with runners in 1B and 3B does he get a hit if there is no throw to first when base run is safe at home? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runners 1B and 3B, batter bunts. The play to home is safe, catcher doesn't even throw to first, batter safe. No throw, batter is …

If the home team is down by one and at bat in the nineth inning, bases loaded, and a HR is hit, how many runs are scored? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If the home team is down by one and at bat in the nineth inning, bases loaded, and a HR is hit, how many runs are scored? Rick …

Is the first baseman always responsible to inform defense of a steal to 2b?  Not rated yet
Chuck asked: 1b is holding runner on. Runner takes secondary. 1b moves off base into position, is focused on batter and ball now. Runner steals, …

Stealing home  Not rated yet
Eugene asked: If a runner on third steals home and gets hit by the pitch as he crosses home plate, what is the outcome? Is it runner interference …

Call at first base. Not rated yet
Tyler asked: Is there a Pony Baseball rule I can refer to on this call? If so can you mention the rule number. I have heard several different versions. …

How far in can you play your outfield Not rated yet
Mark asked: I am the coach of a girls softball team and the opposing coach complained that i wasn't playing my outfield deep enough. Rick answered: …

Is the batter out when he bunts a ball that strikes the plate and bounces immediately back up and strikes the bat? Not rated yet
Kevin asked: The batter squared to bunt, and bunted the ball cleanly. Before he could even get out of the batter's box the ball went straight down …

Is it a balk when the pitcher, with no one on base, is in the set position, and begins to move the ball out of the glove and then puts it back in, and then starts his delivery? Not rated yet
Kevin asked: I was the field ump and the pitcher was pitching from the stretch, set position. No runners on base. While in the set position the …

What do you call a shortened hit? Not rated yet
Miko asked: I need help on it I do not know anything about baseball? HELP!!! Rick answered: Miko, thank you for your question. Using your …

The ball is hit towards first, the first baseman throws to first base being covered by second baseman. How is that written in the book? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The ball is hit towards first, the first baseman throws to first base being covered by second baseman. How is that written in the book? …

Dropped fly ball followed by a 8-6 putout... Not rated yet
Dean asked: Greetings, Rick. High School baseball...we had a runner on first with 0 outs. Fly ball to CF should have been caught, but CF dropped the …

Fielder's choice or base hit? Not rated yet
Steve asked: Runner on second with no outs. Hitter hits a ground ball into left field. Runner at second tries to advance to third and is thrown …

Double play Not rated yet
Alan asked: 1st and 3rd, 1 out ,fly out to cf,runner on 1st doesn't tag,3rd does. 3rd crosses plate before 1st gets thrown out. Does run count? …

What do you score the batter in this situation? Not rated yet
Sam asked: Bases loaded. The batter hits a ball into the 5-6 hole. The 3rd baseman makes a play on the ball. The 3rd baseman then makes a throw …

Is there ever a situation where a GB to second would throw to 3rd? Not rated yet
Ron asked: Was thinking infield in , but they would be DP depth unless runner on 3rd then play is at home. Rick answered: Ron, thank you for …

If the ball hit 1st base when hit and bounces in foul territory is it fair or foul? Not rated yet
Anthony asked: The batter hit the ball and it hit the front of 1st base and bounced into foul territory. The ball never went past 1st base it stopped …

Who covers second base on a steal from first? Not rated yet
James asked: I was wondering if there is a runner on first who covers second on a steal, the short stop or second baseman? Is this determined by …

Correct Call on a Balk? Not rated yet
Robert asked: Two outs, runners on 2nd and 3rd, batter with 2 strikes. Batter grounds out to first and the inning appears to be over. After …

Base loaded Not rated yet
Steven asked: If the bases were loaded and gets out, why does the runner at 3rd goes the home plate? Rick answered: Steven, thank you for your …

When to steal 3B Not rated yet
Corey asked: I know the cardinal rule of do not make the 1st or 3rd out at 3B; but for 8u-10u baseball, when the bases are shorter and the fielders …

Error on tag up? Not rated yet
Jim asked: Runner at 1st, one out, fly ball to center field, caught, but runner has advanced too far toward second. Center fielder throws to first, …

Sliding rule Not rated yet
Myron asked: Little league juniors play with no loc rule to the contrary. Bases loaded, no out, drive to left center wall on a rope with a weak …

coach ejection Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Following a previous warning can a head coach be ejected for player on his team found wearing a damaged batting helmet? Rick answered: …

the runner breaks for home Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Runners on 2nd and 3rd, 2 outs. As the pitcher begins his windup, the runner breaks for home. The batter squares up like he's going …

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Batting Issue Not rated yet
Angela asked: My son is 15 and in love with the game. I'm so sick of hearing about baseball and the season hasn't even started. Problem is my …

Can an appeal be made by the defense on the last play of the game? Not rated yet
Cody asked: Can the defense appeal the last play of the game? Rick answered: Cody, thank you for your question. The defense is able to appeal …

Why don't you guys have any tips for catchers on here? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: It is the most important position on the field and without a doubt the hardest to learn to play and coach. Rick answered: Thank …

How do I prepare for my first coaching experience? Not rated yet
Cruz asked: Hi Rick, Our son is 6yrs old and beginning his first coach-pitch baseball season in 2 weeks! As a Family we are so excited and as …

Runner at 1st, ball hit to second baseman, he bobbles the ball and flicks it to 2nd for the out. Should he have gone to first, or is this fielders preferrence?  Not rated yet
Scott asked: Runner at first, ball hit to second baseman, he bobbles the ball and flicks it to 2nd for the out. Should he have gone to first, or …

Ruling Not rated yet
Jim asked: With a runner on second, the batter hits a grounder to the shortstop. Baserunner moves to third, shortstop tried to get him, but throw …

If a batter has two strikes and gets hit by a pitch why is the batter out if he drops the bat on the ground? Not rated yet
Burke asked: Spring training A's vs Angels top of first last batter 2 strikes 2 outs. Rick answered: Burke, thank you for your question. …

do you ever coach an infielder to throw underhanded?  Not rated yet
Don asked: I have never allowed young players to throw underhand regardless of the situation or the proximity of the target because I feel they are …

Official at bat Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Two outs in the inning. Player is at bat but, before any ball is pitched, the third out is made by a runner. Does that constitute …

What is the safe limit for a junior to pitch without over using his arm in a single game? Not rated yet
Lynn asked: The question I have is, my son is 17 and a junior in school and he pitched his first game of the season the other night and threw 112 pitches. …

In a run down, can the same player get the ball twice in a row?  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If the runner is in a pickle can in 1st baseman throw it to the 2nd baseman twice, or do they have to switch out? Rick answered: …

What time would a 7th grade baseball team have practice? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: How late would a team practice for baseball on a Saturday night? My friend said he had baseball practice around 9:15 on a Saturday …

Which MLB holds the record for most wins and saves in a season? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Which MLB pitcher holds the season record for saves? Who owns the record for most wins? Rick answered: Thank you for your …

Twins  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What are the numbers on the 1991 Minnesota Twins World Series rings on the right side representing? Rick answered: Thank you …

How much distance can i save myself if i run straight from 1st base to 3rd base without touching 2nd base first? 90 feet between bases Not rated yet
GraceAnne asked: How much distance can I save if I run straight from 1st base to 3rd base without touching 2nd base first? 90 feet between bases. …

Autographed Baseball Not rated yet
Tom asked: Greetings! I have an ole autographed baseball signed by many players. Those that can be easily read include: Gil Hodges, Joe Morgan, …

TV fan disruption Not rated yet
Bill asked: When did T.V. broadcasting first implement the rule of not showing on field fan disruption? Rick answered: Bill, thank you for your …

how to make a high school team? Not rated yet
John asked: This year I am determined to make my high school's baseball team. Unfortunaty I have only 3 years of experience all when I was younger. …

Game ending play Not rated yet
Paul asked: The scores are tied in the bottom of the last inning, with a runner at third. The pitcher pitches a low inside pitch to the batter which …

Plate approach Not rated yet
Nathan asked: What is the best way to teach a "middle to opposite" hitting approach? Rick answered: Nathan, thank you for your question. …

Visitors bat first....when? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Originally the order of which team bats first was determined by chance. When was the tradition begun of the visiting team batting …

Has there been any runs scored by a man on 2nd base on a long fly ball since 2005? Not rated yet
Angie asked: My husband and I were watching the WS and the Giants had a guy on 2nd and I said "with a long fly ball "he" could score". My husband …

How many runs score? Not rated yet
Peter asked: Bases are loaded with two outs. Batter hits a single. How many runs score? Rick answered: Peter, thank you for your question. …

What is the player called who teams up with the pitcher on every team? Not rated yet
Hannah asked: What is the player called who teams up with the pitcher on every team? For my baseball crossword puzzle homework in PE. Rick answered: …

If a pitch hits your bat behind you and you haven't swung, is it a strike? Not rated yet
Mike asked: If a pitch hits your bat behind you and you haven't swung, is it a strike? Rick answered: Mike, thank you for your question. …

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What is the job of the guys dressed like umpires sitting in the stands with their backs to the play? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What is the job of the guys dressed like umpires sitting in the stands with their backs to the play? About officials. Rick answered: …

What does the term "American League Lineup" mean? Not rated yet
Dave asked: I heard the term used to describe the St Louis Cardinals batting order. Rick answered: Dave, thank you for your question. The …

Why would a pitcher signal from the mound to the manager? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Why would a pitcher signal from the mound, to the manager? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. The most common …

should a 16 year old player be using overweight underweight training and what will it do for him? Not rated yet
John asked: My nephew is trying to get back into baseball after being out of it for 7 years. He has trained for about two years now in preparation …

How far (distance) from the baseline does the dugout must be?  Not rated yet
Tony asked: We're rebuilding our dugouts and would like to know we're in compliance with any rules that might be in place, as far as the distance is …

Should the batter be credited with a HIT when the fielder on a FC doesn't beat the lead runner to the base? Not rated yet
Steve asked: Runners on 1B and 2B, there are no outs. Batter comes up hits a hard ground ball up the middle, that the SS fields cleanly, and throws …

Cutoff responsibilities Not rated yet
Steve asked: On single to center, who is the cutoff man? Rick answered: Steve, thank you for your question. I use my shortstop as the cutoff …

why would the Boston Red sox hire a manager ( Bobby Valentine ) and not allow him to hire his own staff of coaches ? Not rated yet
jporz asked: Having fired Bobby Valentine yesterday, I was wondering why would a team hire a field manager and yet have field managers who are not his …

interference Not rated yet
Scott asked: Batter is called out on third strike,which is the second out. He steps out of the batter's box, and catcher hits batter on the helment …

Hey Rick: my question- can a player be called out if hit by ball? Not rated yet
Richard asked: Bases loaded 1 run game, 9th inning count 3-2. Batter blattenly leans into ball gets hit. Can the ump call him out or does he …

what teams do the Nationals play during the regular season: Not rated yet
Ann asked: We play every team in the Eastern Division the same number of times. Then we play some of the teams in the central and western division. …

In USSSA base ball is the batter out if he intentionally steps on the plate without a pitch being thrown. Not rated yet
Gene asked: There was 10 seconds in the game and the visiting team was behind, so the batter intentionally step on the plate to extend the inning. …

Has every current mlb team played every other yet? Not rated yet
R.J. asked: Has every current MLB team played every other yet? General knowledge. Rick answered: R.J, thank you for your question. The first …

Are the lineup cards signed by the Managers? Not rated yet
Karen asked: My team actually markets game day line up cards. Card shows both teams listed. Do the Managers have to sign them? You know, like …

1st base runner stealing 2nd pticher starts his delivery to batter just before the runner reaches 2nd. Foul ball does the runner have to return to 1st or does he stay at 2nd?  Not rated yet
The pitcher is in a set position when the 1st base runner attempted to steal 2nd. The pitcher did not attempt to stop or make a throw to 2nd base, …

What players played for both Lou Piniella and Joe Torre?? Not rated yet
Debbie asked: What players played for Lou Piniella AND Joe Torre? Rick answered: Debbie, thank you for your question. I have not been able …

Did TyCobb,Tris Speaker and Al Simmons ever play as the starting outfield for theA's in 1928? Not rated yet
James asked: I find it amazing that these three played on the same team. Obviously Cobb and Speaker were over the hill but still, those three in …

Hit or error Not rated yet
John asked: Batter hits a chop up the middle. F4 fields the ball at 2nd base and collides with F6, he holds onto the ball but is unable to complete …

rookie pitcher era more detailed Not rated yet
Steve asked: Rookie pitcher in the first inning of his first game pitching. First 3 batters he faces walk. Next batter hits a grand slam. Pitcher …

ruling please Not rated yet
Philip asked: One out,runner on 1st. Batter hits weak fly, short left field. Runner on 1st goes half way, then back to 1st. Routine out, two …

rookie pitcher era Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Rookie pitcher, 1st inning, 1st game. First 3 batters walk, next batter hits grand slam. Pitcher injures self, never pitches …

Trades Not rated yet
Curt asked: How is it legal for teams to trade after the trade deadline? They do it every year. Rick answered: Curt, thank you for your question. …

In the late fifties Chicago Cubs and Brooklyn Dodgers played game was not played in Chicago are Brooklyn  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: A game between the Chicago Cubs and Brooklyn Dodgers in the late fifties, was not played in either Chicago or Brooklyn. Where was it …

Did Harmon Killebrew ever pitch in his career? Not rated yet
Mike asked: Did Harmon Killebrew ever pitch in his career? Rick answered: Mike, thank you for your question. Harmon Killebrew played 22 years …

What is the umpire's ruling? Not rated yet
Sandy asked: Bases loaded 2 out and 3&2 on the batter. The pitcher is in the stretch position. The runner on 3rd breaks for home before a pitch …

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Sacrifice fly or miss hit? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Who decides whether the batter mean't a sacrifice fly or whether he is trying to get credit for a miss hit? This seems to be statistically …

what is the longest streak of perfect innings by a team? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Felix Hernandez threw a perfect game on Wednesday, now today Iwakuma has thrown four perfect innings, making 13 perfect innings. …

Can a player use a bat that is not part of the equipment in the dugout at the beginning of the game ? Not rated yet
David asked: Player in a game receives a bat from another player. This other player is on a different team during, a game that has already begun. …

Past Players Not rated yet
Nate asked: My name is Nate, and my question is in regards to past players. I am currently seeking out any players at all that were born or onced …

Why do some players have their name their jersey but not others Not rated yet
Tobey asked: Some players dont have their name on their jersey, some do. Why is that? Rick answered: Tobey, thank you for your question. …

Who was the last pitcher to face the minimum number of batters in a nine inning game and not have a no-httter? Not rated yet
J.F. Weeks asked: Who was the last pitcher to face the minimum number of batters in a nine inning game and not have a no-httter? Rick answered: …

I often see players not stand on or touch the base before throwing to complete a double play? Not rated yet
Gary asked: How come I often see players not touch base before throwing for a double play? Rick answered: Gary, thank you for your question. …

Lefty batter knocks baseball down with right hand, should he be allowed to take 1st base? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: The score is 8 to 7 and bases are loaded with 2 outs. A lefty batter is behind in the count and uses his right hand to swat at …

What three measures did Major League Baseball take during the 1930's to reawaken the fan interest Not rated yet
Chris asked: What three measures did Major League Baseball take during the 1930's to reawaken the fan interest? Rick answered: Chris, thank …

What starting lineup had the most combined gold gloves? Not rated yet
JP asked: The Yankees just got Ichiro, and with Andruw Jones that makes 20 GG (10 each). Jeter has 5, arod 2, Tex 4, etc. What starting lineup had …

Joltin' Joe hit in 56 straight; what players who qualified for a batting title hit in the most games in the course of a season? Not rated yet
Myron asked: What baseball players hit in the most games safely during a season? They have to have qualified for the batting title, whatever that was …

why when a hitter doesnt hit regularly in three or more weeks, sent down to AAA and one of those guys, who is hitting, brought up? The pitching could not be that different.  Not rated yet
Emily asked: Does the players union have the league so locked up with rules that a non hitter like Travis Hafner is permitted to keep taking up space …

Force out  Not rated yet
Chris asked: Bases loaded and two outs. Ground ball to the third baseman toward the SS and the runner from second stops to avoid being tagged. …

bases loaded 2 out. ground ball to short, he bobbles it but recovers and gets the force at 2nd base for the 3rd out. does the run count Not rated yet
Butch asked: Bases loaded 2 out. Is this called a continuation play due to the bobble? Does the run count? Rick answered: Butch, thank you for …

What is the correct call? Not rated yet
J.B asked: RUNNER ON THIRD ATTEMPTS TO STEAL HOME ON THE PITCH. THE CATCHER CATCHES THE PITCH THEN STRETCHES OUT TO TAG THE RUNNER COMING HOME. …

What is the correct running lane for 3rd base to home? Not rated yet
Tom asked: Base runner avoided the tag from the catcher by going more than 10 feet out from marked base line on his way home. What is the correct …

if a reliever comes in the bottom of the 8th ahead 2 to 0 but his team scores 4 runs in the top of the nineth does the reliever get a save if he pitches 2 scoreless innings Not rated yet
Howard asked: A reliever cones in the bottom of the 8th, leading,2 to 0. He pitches 2 scoreless innings but; in the top of the nineth his team …

Hit or Fielder's Choice? Not rated yet
Dean asked: Two outs, man on second. Batter hits ball sharply down third base line, 3rd baseman attempts to back hand the ball deep down the third …

Does the run schore Not rated yet
Orton asked: Runner on third with two out. Runner starts running home and batter hits ball to infielder. Runner crosses home plate before …

Runner Interference Not rated yet
A few weeks ago in a game, I was on 2nd and a ball was hit towards the ss playing at the edge of the infield. I started running and as the ball …

Batter hit on hand not holding bat Not rated yet
Chris asked: In a U14 baseball game tonight, my batter jumped back to avoid a pitch and released his grip of the bat with his left hand, while holding …

Sacrifice Fly or Not? Not rated yet
Tim asked: There is a runner on third with one out. The batter hits a shallow fly to right field and it's caught. The runner returns to third with …

Should an umpire reverse a call after the game has ended? Field ump was overruled by plate ump.  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Two runners on, two outs, bottom of nine. Ground ball to second baseman, thrown up the line and the first baseman stretched for …

Cant identify and put a good swing on an inside pitch. Find myself chasing Not rated yet
James asked: Can't identify and put a good swing on an inside pitch. Find myself chasing. Have any advice? Rick answered: James, thank you for …

What is the most amount of times the same pitcher has struck out the same batter in the same game? Not rated yet
Rep asked: Extra innings count... Rick replied: Rep, thank you for your question. I have been unable to locate the information you are looking …

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Is it easier for a NL hitter to go to the AL or an AL hitter to go to the NL ? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: We saw Pujols struggle early on, some of that was the new league. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. I would say …

Error or hit? Not rated yet
Mark asked: Hard hit ball to center field. The CF breaks in a step but the ball goes over his head (he does not touch it). Hit or error? In …

Defensive Obstruction Not rated yet
Mike asked: Men on first and third, batter bunts the ball down the first base line, the two runners on first and third break to second and home. The …

What is the least effective means of sending a message to your players? Not rated yet
Stacy asked: Give a 15 minute explanation. Rick answered: Stacy, thank you for your question. I will need some additional information from …

Double Play question-Returning to first base Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: With a runner on first, the batter hits it to the first baseman, who steps on first and throws to second. The runner from first …

Batter (waiting) on home plate interfers with play Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Next player at bat standing on Home Plate waiting for play to be over and his turn at bat. Meanwhile, player at third base runs …

If a kid plays in an inning do they have to bat or be in batting lineup? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Just curious, if you play an inning do you get to bat or is it okay to play and not bat in a game? Rick answered: Thank you for …

What happens next? Not rated yet
Corey asked: Two outs guy on first, batter hits a liner to right center that goes out, but runner on first misses second base , the other team appeals …

what would happen if the yankees released alex rodriguez ? Not rated yet
Paul asked: I suppose he could sit back and collect his money and not play baseball. But if he wants to play baseball he could re-negociate a fair …

Is there a difference in pitching or batting technique that explains the modern use of shin guards by batters? Not rated yet
Mike asked: Is there a difference in pitching or batting technique that explains the modern use of chin guards by batters? Equipment and game change? …

If ball is hit to the infield and the shortshop throws the ball to first base and the first baseman is backing up across the bag to catch the ball cause he is scared of it is this obsturction? Not rated yet
John asked: My son plays 10u, we have had several situations this year where the first baseman had is foot all the way across the bag to where my players …

A sacrifice or not? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I was wondering, if you have a base runner on 2nd base with no outs. The batter bunts the ball to advance the runner. The runner …

How to throw a change up Not rated yet
Mike asked: When teaching a young player the circle change or any type of change up, how should they finish the pitch? Do they finish with a fastball …

interference runner 2nd base Not rated yet
Nijhove asked: Answers for runners 2nd and 3rd, base ball hit to short. Runner on 2nd hinders the shortstop. Is the hitter also called out? Rick …

What can I do to keep my kids motivated after loosing the first 6 games? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What can I do to keep my kids motivated after losing the first 6 games? New team. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

series information at a glance Not rated yet
Steve asked: What's the easiest way to find out which of the major teams are starting a fresh series? Rick answered: Steve, thank you for your …

Is home run official if batter doesn't make it to home plate? Not rated yet
Mark asked: Scenario: Bottom of the 9th with 2 on and home team is down by 1. Batter hits a homerun and the 2 runners cross home plate putting them …

what is the ruling regarding a retired runner left on base? Not rated yet
Joe asked: Baseball rule regarding a (retired )runner mistakenly left on base? Rick answered: Good question Joe. A situation like you described …

Down 4 next to last inning, runners on 1st and 2nd no outs, contact hitter at the plate, what do you call?  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Down 4 next to last inning, runners on 1st and 2nd no outs, contact hitter at the plate, what do you call? Rick answered: Great …

Signals Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Is a signal from the coach to his pitcher and catcher legal from dugout? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Yes, …

If the outfielder is in the act of running and misses a ball is it a hit? Not rated yet
Joe asked: If an outfielder is in the act of running and misses a fly ball is it an error? Rick answered: Great question and great baseball name. …

How to stop hitting ground balls Not rated yet
Chuck asked: My 10 year old son hits the ball well,and seems to have a level swing, but seems to hit mostly ground balls. Any tips? ps. I noticed …

Runner on first,pick and overthrow Not rated yet
a diagram Phillip: I am not sure what information you are seeking. If you could resubmit with some additional information. Yours in baseball, …

Ball Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Really simple question here. Pitcher throws a ball. Batter still hits it to the outfield. Does it count as a homer? Thanks! …

With less than 2 outs, a runner on 3rd and a ball hit to 3rd - does the runner go home? Not rated yet
Ken asked: With a runner on 3rd base and less than 2 outs; should the runner go home on a ball hit back to the third basemen? Rick answered: Ken, …

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When is a base considered occupied? Not rated yet
Chip asked: This comes into question when a dropped third strike happens but a runner on first base has already left the base on a steal of second. …

Bunt: out, fair ball, or hit batter? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Batter turns towards to the pitcher and attempts a bunt. The ball slightly glances off the bat, and hits the batter on the shoulder. …

Is 4/18 the latest date (as of today) that both the Orioles & Nats have had sole posession of first place? Not rated yet
Tom asked: Is 4/18 the latest date (as of today) that both the Orioles & Nats have had sole posession of first place? Rick answered: Tom, I have …

Batter steps over first base without touching the bag Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: If a batter hits a ball and runs to first base but actually fails to touch the base(steps over it) and there is no play by the first …

Position for the defense with one out and bases are loaded. Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Position for the defense with one out and bases are loaded? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Where the infielders …

Fastest base running? Not rated yet
Steve asked: If two guys are of equal speed, who is quicker getting from third to home - the guy on third who starts from a dead stop, or the guy on …

tag ups Not rated yet
Rich asked: Runners@ 3rd and 2nd, one out, batter hits a fly out to center. Runner on third tag is legal, but runner on 2nd left to soon. Runner …

High school ball equals no play time Not rated yet
Frustrated parent asked: How to handle.... New coaches to a high school. they roster 32 kids on the team...half varsity, half JV.... No freshmen team. …

pitch count Not rated yet
Gerard asked: What is your philosophy concernig the 3-0 count? I personally believe in having my batter take the next pitch in almost every situation. …

A single to center field,runner on first,each player has a specific assignment, where does the pichter need to be? Not rated yet
Greyson asked: A single to center field,runner on first,each player has a specific assignment, where does the pitcher need to be? Rick answered: …

Last player to be awarded first base for interference by a player other than a catcher Not rated yet
Roger asked: Player awarded first base for interference not by a catcher. Rick answered: Roger, thank you for your question. I have been unable …

Holding runer on second in high school Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What do you suggest is the best way to hold runner at second in high school? Is it a called play and who calls it, the catcher , pitcher …

Do you have a drill that can teach a young SS a quicker transfer to throw and proper arm placement?  Not rated yet
Shortstop drill to get the ball to 1st quicker. Anonymous asked: My son is pretty athletic and coordinated (gets it from my wife) and gets to most …

Do you have any recommendations for team pitching goals similiar to the team hitting goals described? Not rated yet
Eric asked: I love the concept of the team hitting goals. I believe it will benefit my team tremendously. I was wondering if you have any recommendations …

Hey, is it possible for a 15 year old who hasnt played baseball for a few years can be able to rejoin the game in a high school JV level with pitches up to 80 mph? Not rated yet
John asked: Well, its been 6 years since my friends 15 year old has played baseball. He is not sure wether or not he will be able to hit pitches up …

In a bunt defense, what is the reverse? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Where do the infielders go in the "reverse" bunt defense? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. To fully answer your …

Can the DH also be the backup catcher? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I realize anyone on the team can DH. But if the DH for a certain game is also the backup catcher... and say the catcher is pinch hit …

Are we instucting our hitters and pitchers to do the same thing (ground balls)?  Not rated yet
Ron asked: I hear so many pitching coaches teaching their pitchers to keep the ball down to get more ground balls. My question is: If ground balls are …

Scoring winning run Not rated yet
Andrew asked: The situation is: bottom of the 9th, bases loaded, no outs. Defense playing in - batter hits to shortstop who dives to smother the ball …

Do you go to a school to be a umpire, or are you elected by committee?  Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Do umpires go to school or are they elected by committee ? Rick answered: Thank you for your question! There are a couple …

Does this website or another supply statistics for MLB teams batting average with 2 strikes? Not rated yet
Jason asked: I am trying to find MLB team batting averages throughout the 162 games with two strike counts? Can you give me advice? Jason, CA Rick …

What does two outs, no doubles mean? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: What does two outs no doubles mean? Rick answered: Thank you for your question. Two outs and no doubles is a defensive strategy. …

Is it bad sportmanship to steal bases in the bottom of the 9th down 12-0? Not rated yet
William asked: It is generally recognized that stealing bases when the game is way out of hand, by the winning team is considered unsportsman-like. …

Can players advance if third baseman catches ball in foul territory and then momentum carries him out of base line? Not rated yet
Mike asked: While playing softball today this situation came up. A foul ball was caught in foul territory by the third baseman. Momentum carried him …

force play at first Not rated yet
Joe asked: If a first baseman fields a ground ball and has the ball in his right but dives to tag the bag with his left, is the runner out? Rick …

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batter/ runner is hit by ball he bunted down 1st base line. umpire calls ball foul but batter/runner is out. Is this correct? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Batter/runner is hit by ball he bunted down the first base line. Umpire calls the ball foul, but batter/runner is out. Is this correct? …

My coach is making his son the starting pitcher on varsity? Not rated yet
Wally asked: Hello Rick, I just wanted to get some advice on my situation that I'm sure is quite common amongst atheletes. As I said before, my …

Focus / Refocus during a long inning? Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: I am an assistant coach on my son's coach pitch team. The team is pretty good but has trouble focusing or getting refocused during …

Over throwing first base. Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: When a batter has hit the ball and is running toward first base, the ball is fielded and overthrown, what is the rule as far as how …

hitting/power Not rated yet
Eduar asked: rick its eduar the high school jv 2nd base. Rick answered: Some information on hitting power. Your hitting power is generated …

Were batters allowed to run to, what is now known as third base after hitting the ball? Not rated yet
Eddie asked: I once heard on a baseball history program that originally the first batter of each inning determined which base was first base, the first …

On deck circle Not rated yet
Eugene asked: We were in a recent tournament where the umpire would not let the on deck batter stand in the on deck circle to take practice swings. …

can you be tagged out at first if you do not make an attempt to second base? Not rated yet
Eugene asked: Player hit a ball down third base line. Ran to first, was safe and over ran first base, turning away into foul territory. The first base …

Runner at 2nd with no outs. Batter hits ground ball cleanly fielded by shortstop who holds the ball to prevent runner from advancing. Batter is safe at first. How is this situation scored? Not rated yet
Paul asked: Runner at 2nd with no outs. Batter hits ground ball cleanly fielded by shortstop who holds the ball to prevent runner from advancing. …

If a foul ball is caught next to 1st base and the first baseman catches the foul and then steps on 1st because the runner who was on first left early, is the runner out? Not rated yet
Jim asked: Rick answered: Jim, thank you for your question. The answer is yes, the runner is out. This situation is a live ball appeal. The defense …

What is the best way to teach a 12 year-old to hit an above average fastball? Not rated yet
Roy asked: I've heard at 12 years of age the reaction time required to hit above average fastballs approximates major league reaction times. What is …

Is a baserunner proceeded from first to second out if he runs out of the baselline follwoing a walk. Not rated yet
Skip asked: Here is the situation. Bases loaded, 2 outs and a 3 - 2 count to the batter. A close pitch is called ball 4. However, the runner on first …

Should little league batters "take" a pitch to advance a runner? Not rated yet
Robb O asked: Rick answered: Thank you for your question Robb. My answer to your question is a definitive no! The least dangerous player on a …

Should under 10's use donuts/weights? It appears to me it they are usually just getting their swing down and this might just mess them up. Your thoughts? Thanks Not rated yet
Should under 10's use donuts/weights? It appears to me that they are usually just getting their swing down and the weights give them bad habits. Your …

11 year old hits great in practice, can't seem to hit in game. Holds the bat up front (to correct late swing) ,load/follow thru good...just can't hit the ball. Trying too hard? Not rated yet
Roberge asked: Eleven year old hits great in practice, can't seem to hit in a game. Holds the bat up front(to correct late swing), load/follow through …

What Causes baseball to be such a mental problem? Not rated yet
Samantha asked: I am a sophomore in college, and I am majoring in psychology. I am also an athlete and really love my sports. So I decided to take …

Has there ever been an inning of professional baseball where not a single official at bat was recorded? Not rated yet
Pat asked: It might have happened in the top of the last inning in the Phillies-Brewers game on Monday night. Up to that point when the 2nd out was …

Who started short relievers and when? Not rated yet
V. Moore asked: I want to know when pitching changed that pitchers didn't pitch complete games. Rick answered: Thank you for your question. …

Single Cut Not rated yet
Matt asked: Why does third make the cut from left with a runner on second? What is the reason for the shortstop not to make the cut? Rick answered: …

How long is the throw frOm short stop to first base Not rated yet
Anonymous asked: Hi, how long is the throw from shortstop to first base? Rick answered: The distance thrown from shortstop to first base will vary …

Transition from Coaching Tee Ball to Coach-Pitch Not rated yet
Lisa asked: Hi Rick, Great site! I coached tee ball last spring and really enjoyed it. Now I will be coaching a coach-pitch team. How do you recommend …

arm strength? Not rated yet
Kevin asked: I recently asked you a question about what it takes for a pitcher to make it to an elite college. I am setting those goals, but is 81 mph …

Sliding On Knees To Catch The Ball Not rated yet
Kathy asked: My son is 13 years old and makes some very exciting catches. The problem is he slides on his knees, and I am afraid this will lead …

Tagging a runner on base Not rated yet
Ron asked: Runner on 1st. Ground ball to 2nd. Runner dives back to first thinking ball was caught in the air. 2nd base tags runner & steps on 1st …

Regarding your Answer Not rated yet
Marty asked: Rick- Thanks for your thorough & quick response. You mentioned: "There are softball teams which throw the ball to the 1B after strikeouts; …

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Outfielder sliding for a ball Not rated yet
Mike asked: We had a debate on a ball that was hit to center field and the outfielder came in on the play and slide for the ball that hit his glove …

What is the correct way to bring your arm back when you throw? Not rated yet
Daniel asked: Recently I have started a bad habit of dropping my arm slot and throwing off the side of my hand. I think the problem has something …

How to deal with my sons coaches poor coaching during games? Not rated yet
Eddie asked: My son is on a 10 year old little league tournament team. His coach seems to lay all the blame on the players during games that resulted …

Technically, isn't the batter out? Not rated yet
Brian from Ham Lake, Mn submitted this question last week. In answering the question, I accidentally deleted it from the system. I am resubmitting …

tag of base Not rated yet
A Visitor Asked: Can a player tag the base with his hand while the ball is in his glove? Rick Answered: A player can tag a base with his hand …

Is this a time play? Not rated yet
T. Dobi asked: Runners at second and third one out. Deep fly ball to center field. Center fielder makes catch and both runners tag. Runner from …

Hitting in the game Not rated yet
Tom Asked: Hi, My son is 8 and a pretty good ball player for his age. Better than his old man was...He has only been hitting against other kids for …

CATCHER INTERFERENCE Not rated yet
Question Recently Asked: With R2 stealing, the batter swings at the pitch and is interfered with by the catcher. The catcher throws to third base …

what is a hit and run Not rated yet
Chris asked: What is a hit and run? Rick answered: Great question Chris! A hit and run is where base runners, either on first base, second …

11 year old son playing for the first time Not rated yet
Mike Asked: Hello- Our son is a late bloomer in finding what interests him. He has played soccer in the past, ran track and also a red belt in …

how would you teach a twelve year old to bunt? Not rated yet
what is the preferred method to teach a twelve year to bunt? square up or pivot? Matthew Posner asked: How would you teach a twelve year old to bunt? …

Which hand to throw with? Not rated yet
Kyle asked: My son is 4 years old and is starting his first year of organized ball, T-ball. My concern is which hand do we go with for the remander …

how many ways can u score from third base Not rated yet
Henry asks: How many ways can you score from third base? Rick answers: Henry: Thank you for your question on scoring from third base. There …

Playing Third base Not rated yet
John asks: My son is 12 years old. Plays third regularly. It is USSSA rules. When a runner is occupying 3B, should he hover over the base ( not …