BASEBALL 2019 - ArbiterSports
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BASEBALL 2019
A supplement to the NCAA Baseball Rules • Prepared by the editors of Referee
GAME TIME:
Rule Changes Target Pace of Play
I t’s a rule-change year for college
baseball and the changes for 2019
and 2020 are significant — “game
The time between innings
shall increase from 90 seconds for
untelevised games and 108 seconds
changing,” according to George for televised games to 120 seconds
Drouches, NCAA national coordinator for all games. The 120-second clock
of baseball umpires. shall begin when all defensive players
The NCAA Baseball Rules have started to leave their position
Committee and the Playing Rules after the last out is made. The clock
Oversight Panel (PROP) approved stops when the umpire calls “play”
changes that range from an expansion for the first pitch of the first batter of
of video review and adding coaches’ the next half-inning. A team may use
challenges to updating the hit by one of its charged conferences to avoid
pitch rules so intentionally making a a penalty. If the offensive team is not
movement to get hit results in a strike ready within the 120-second limit,
regardless of pitch location. the umpire shall call a strike. If the
There are also significant changes defensive team is not ready, the umpire
that aim to improve pace of play, will award a ball to the first batter.
which remains squarely in the The committee noted that although
crosshairs for college baseball. the length of time between innings
“Let’s not kid ourselves here — the would be potentially increased, the
approved rule changes are, literally, rule for when to start the clock would
game changers. Coaches, players and be more restrictive — specifically,
officials will have to make adjustments starting the clock when the last out is
to their once-comfortable routines,” made, instead of when the last fielder
Drouches said. crosses the foul line, will create a
“The committee felt that with the consistent inning break and should
increasing popularity of our sport, reduce the overall duration of games
pace of play was a very important and improve the pace of play, the
Rule changes for 2019 and 2020 include
topic to address during this rules several aimed at pace of play, including committee noted.
change year,” said Jim Carone, chair of changes to the time between innings. Alex Further, the 2019 and 2020 rules
the NCAA baseball rules committee. Ortiz of Los Angeles signals to the plate recommend use of a visible clock to
umpire there are 30 seconds left between
“The committee recommended innings. make this easier for coaches, players
numerous changes that we firmly and umpires. The rules committee
believe will help increase the pace-of- recommended a rule change that
play issue. Having a consistent time would have made use of a play clock
limit between innings and limiting the Time Between Innings/Between Pitches – mandatory, but PROP rejected that
amount of mound visits by players Appendix F recommendation, citing the cost
will certainly help keep the game Consistent enforcement of both implications, particularly for Division
flowing.” time limits between innings and II and Division III programs. Where no
DALE GARVEY
Some of the significant pace-of-play between pitches are important to a visible clock is used, conferences may
rule changes are: game’s pace of play. See “Pace of Play” p. 3
Published by Referee
Welcome to the 2019 College Baseball Season
A n important aspect and
responsibility of the NCAA
Baseball Umpire Program is the
umpiring performance;
• To promote a national and consistent
approach to rule application and
were head coaches, 50 were assistant
coaches and 137 were student-athletes.
In Division I alone, the total number of
training and education of officials to interpretation, mechanics, and suspended games in 2018 was a record
increase knowledge, approach to handling in-game 368 games (up from 287 in 2017). In
consistency situations; and, response, the Baseball Rules Committee
and standard • To improve the student-athlete’s asks the following:
interpretations across experience in NCAA baseball. Coaches: Calibrate your emotions.
the country. Ultimately, the vision of the NCAA Umpires: Adhere to NCAA protocol,
The 2019 NCAA Baseball Umpire Program is for ALL no exceptions.
Preseason Baseball umpires officiating NCAA Baseball Student-Athletes: Eliminate
Guide is designed to to align to the training, education profanity as a retort.
provide information and testing benchmarks as this will Neutral-site contests continue to
and clarifications all but eliminate the possibility that be problematic as head coaches and
leading into the the integrity of our great game can be directors of athletics are not notifying
George Drouches
season. Umpires, compromised. their respective conference coordinators
NCAA National keep this guide with As we move to 2019, much of these scheduled contests. It is
Coordinator of Umpires your development credit should be given to Randy required that all neutral-site games
materials — for use in Bruns, NCAA secretary-rules editor, involving Division I opponents have
your study and pregame discussions; conference baseball coordinators, the conference-coordinator approved
coaches, please keep with your Division I Baseball Committee (Ray umpires. Many such events occur early
gameday materials as a quick reference. Tanner, chair) and the NCAA Baseball in the season at neutral sites; however,
In addition, coaches, please join in our Rules Committee (Jim Carone, chair) use of conference coordinators to
collaborative efforts to improve our for moving forward rule changes that approve officials will help ensure
great game by registering with www. are not only enforceable by umpires, quality umpiring at such events.
ncaabaseball.arbitersports.com to but will greatly improve our great game Looking ahead to 2019, we will
access the NCAA’s Home Plate page. and the student-athlete’s experience as continue to teach proper handling,
The Collegiate Commissioners well. proper language and minimizing of
Association (CCA) passed two updates The several rule changes respective the confrontational situations between
to policy related to NCAA Division I to pace of play for 2019 and 2020 are coaches and officials and hold umpires
baseball umpiring at its annual spring game-changers. More consistency accountable. Finally, consistency of
meeting this June. The CCA administers of enforcement with the batter’s box mechanics, increased teamwork,
officiating policy for regular-season rule, between-inning clock and play consistency of rule interpretations and
competition. Both changes bring the clock timing rules will compliment the situation management will continue to
umpire requirements for regular-season overall pace-of-play effect desired by be important goals.
Division I competition in line with the NCAA Baseball Rules Committee. I would be remiss if I did not
the standard requirements for being The expansion of video review aligns to formally recognize Scott Taylor and
eligible to umpire in NCAA Division I reduce excessive delays and enhances Don Umland for their efforts respective
postseason play. the chances, with available technology, to Divisions II and Division III. I would
1. An umpire must be registered with that the correct call was made. The like to thank all who participate in
ArbiterSports. conference baseball coordinators and our NCAA Baseball Umpire Program
2. Complete the annual NCAA Bruns have clarified the pitching for their selfless passion to service. In
umpiring examination. positions. The safety of the student- addition, much appreciation as well to
The mission statement of the NCAA athlete was also addressed as defensive the conference baseball coordinators.
Baseball Umpire Program’s Home Plate players will not be allowed to block a We have much work to do in 2019.
is as follows: base without possession of the baseball. We are all accountable to the game,
• To maintain the integrity of the game In 2018, the national coordinator of coaches, players and umpires.
of baseball; umpires received 859 NCAA ejection Remember who you are. Who you
• To ensure officiating consistency and reports (708 in 2017; 692 in 2016; represent. Why we do what we do.
quality throughout NCAA baseball; and 658 in 2015). These included 337 Wishing all the stakeholders of our
• To provide umpires with necessary Division I reports (302 in 2017; and great game of NCAA college baseball
resources and technology to improve 264 in 2016). Of this list for 2018: 150 the very best in 2019. *
2 2019 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2019
Pace of Play
Continued from p. 1
choose to instruct on-field umpires
to use a stopwatch. “In either case,
these time limits must be administered
consistently at all levels of NCAA
play,” the new rules state.
“We’re not mandating a visible
clock, but we are recommending it,
just to regulate our existing rules,”
said Randy Bruns, NCAA baseball
secretary-rules editor.
Visible clock or not, baseball
officials want the pace-of-play rules
enforced: “One of the things we are
making a direct point in our training
this year is these are not guidelines,”
Bruns said. “We’re making a big point
about that at all levels. These are no
longer guidelines. These are like the
football play clock and basketball shot
Jason Rogers of Phoenix visits the mound to break up a conference. Rule changes for 2019 and
clock.” 2020 include limits on defensive conferences.
Umpires who do not enforce the
pace-of-play rules may face postseason
consequences: “If we have umpires not
enforcing those (pitch/between inning used to doing it and using it,” Bruns why professional baseball instituted
time) limits, they will probably not be said. something similar,” Bruns said.
considered for postseason selection,” He said incidental communication
Bruns said. “Because what other rules Defensive Conferences 6-5-f is not considered a charged conference.
are you not trying to enforce?” A team will be allowed six Further, if a pitcher and catcher are
Umpires who manage the between- defensive conferences during a crossed up on the signals, an umpire
inning timing on a stopwatch should regulation game. A maximum of three could direct them to meet even if
put up their arm with 30 seconds of these defensive conferences may the six conference have been used.
remaining and visually cue the plate include a coach. Additionally, if there’s an injury to a
umpire. The plate umpire should then “If a player does something to player or umpire, there is no charged
relay, “30 seconds left,” to the pitcher delay a game, calls timeout or just goes conference.
and catcher, and summon the lead-off out to talk to the pitcher, or delays But this change could impact the
batter to the plate. At 15 seconds, the the game in some way, it’s a charged old strategy of having the catcher
base umpire should hold an arm off to defensive conference,” Bruns said. make a visit to waste a little time while
the side. At expiration, the base umpire If the game goes into extra innings, a new pitcher warms up, followed
should point to the plate umpire. the team will receive one extra by the coach coming out. If the coach
If the catcher is the third out or on defensive conference and one extra doesn’t make a pitching change in
base when the third out was made, offensive conference, plus any unused that visit, that would be two charged
and the 120-second time limit has conferences from the first nine innings. conferences, Bruns said. (If the coach
expired, he will still be allowed to If there is a pitching change, there is no went out the same time as the catcher
throw the ball down following the last charged conference. and didn’t remove the pitcher, that
warmup pitch. “This hits right home to the would be only one conference.)
“It should be easy if we just get pace-of-play issue, which is exactly See “Pace of Play” p. 4
Acknowledgments
Written by Brent Killackey, Referee’s managing editor; Graphics and in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written consent
layout by Matt Bowen, Referee graphic designer. from Referee Enterprises, Inc., and the NCAA. PlayPic® and
BOB MESSINA
Major portions of this newsletter are protected by copyrights of MechaniGram® are registered trademarks of Referee Enterprises, Inc.
Referee Enterprises, Inc., and are used by permission. Copying
2019 NCAA Baseball Guide 3
Pace of Play pitches (PlayPic A). This change aligns
Continued from p. 3 A the NCAA with professional rules,
which adopted a no-pitch intentional
“We don’t want to be too critical of walk for the 2017 season.
what’s going on. People need to know Play: R2 on second. With a count
if there’s communication that’s going of 1-2, the head coach requests that B3
to delay the game, it’s probably going be issued an intentional walk. During
to be a charged conference.” the intentional walk, R2 steals third.
Ruling: B1 is awarded first. The ball is
Offensive Conferences 6-5-f-4 (deleted) live, so R2’s steal is legal.
There’s no such thing as a free
lunch — or a free offensive conference Feint to Third from Pitching Plate 9-3-a
during a defensive-charged conference. Pitchers will no longer be able
An offensive conference will be to step directly to third from the
charged if any batter or runner leaves pitching plate and feint the throw.
their position during a defensive- That effectively ends the move of
charged conference. feinting to third and spinning around
However, a pitching change is not just the plate umpire, to be aware of and throwing to first – the so-called
a charged conference and the next the number of conferences remaining “third-to-first move.” Third base will
batter and any runners are allowed and to communicate with each other. be treated like first base: a pitcher who
to leave their positions to meet with That way, for example, if a shortstop steps there on a pickoff throw cannot
a coach, but should return before the goes to talk to the pitcher and that feint to the base; a throw must be made
last warmup pitch so the game can be team has used its six conferences, that or a balk will be called. This change
started promptly. can be halted, Bruns said. And if the aligns the NCAA with professional
This rule change is aimed at pace player acts in defiance of authority, he rules, which adopted the change in
of play by decreasing the number of may be ejected, Bruns said. 2013.
unnecessary delays during breaks in “The end result of that is from a
the game and to allow for consistency No-Pitch Intentional Walk – 2-7 (also 7-5) pitching position, the only place you
in charging offensive and defensive The defensive team’s head coach can feint a throw is second base,” Bruns
conferences. will be able to signal to the umpire said. “You can still step off and feint,
Bruns said these new rules about that he or she intends to intentionally but you’ve got to step off and become
conferences require all umpires, not walk the batter without throwing four an infielder before you do that.” *
Video Review Expanded; Challenges Added
F or the 2019 and 2020 seasons, NCAA
baseball rules-makers approved
expansion of video review to include
Those challenges can be used on any
of the 12 plays identified as eligible for
the use of video review — the first six
third out. With no runners on base, a no
catch within the infield can be changed
to a catch at any time.
additional plays and added coaches’ unchanged from the 2017-18 rules; the e. Spectator interference.
challenges. last six new for 2019-20. f. Deciding scoring plays at home
The changes are reflected in The original six reviewable plays are: plate inclusive of collisions (illegal and/
Appendix E, Section 2: “Getting the Call a. Deciding if a batted ball is fair or malicious slides) or time plays.
Right with the use of video review.” or foul. The ball must first touch the Added to the list of reviewable
Under the new rules, each team’s ground or a fielder beyond the initial plays:
head coach will be permitted two position of the first or third baseman. g. Force and tag-play calls at any
challenges per game. The head coach b. Deciding if a batted ball is either a base.
should notify an umpire immediately — ground-rule double or a home run. h. Calls involving whether a base
within approximately 10 seconds — at c. Any catch or no-catch ruling in the runner passes a preceding runner;
the end of a play if he intends to use a outfield or foul territory. determining whether a base runner
challenge on the previous play. If on a d. A no-catch ruling in the infield in scored ahead of a third out; and upon
game-ending play, the coach must call some instances. With runners on base, an appropriate appeal by the defensive
for a review before all umpires leave the a no catch within the infield can be team, determining whether a base
field of play. changed to a catch only if it results in a runner touched a base.
4 2019 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2019
i. Plays involving a hit by pitch. realistic? If we’re just going to review the new thought process it introduces;
j. Deciding if a runner failed to every close play that happens, then some umpires are hesitant to initiate
retouch a base after a fair or foul ball is we’re going to slow down the game a review on their own. “There’s this
legally caught. even more,” Bruns said. However, view that it’s a sign of weakness to go
k. Non-home run boundary calls there are some plays that deserve to be to video review,” Bruns said. “That is
including the placement of runners reviewed and that is why coaches could not the case. It’s making best use of the
following a boundary call. still use one of their two challenges to tools that we have available to get the
l. Deciding if interference occurred have any of the plays reviewed at any judgment right.”
on a runner’s attempt to break up a time during the game. Using technology to get another
double play. When centralized video review is look can even help avoid an argument
The crew chief, at his discretion used, the off-field video review official with a coach and a potential ejection.
at any time during the game, may will be considered an extension of As video review capabilities
also initiate a video review on items the umpiring crew and will have the expand, including to the Division II
a-through-f. The crew chief may ability to notify the umpires on the and Division III levels, Bruns said more
initiate a review of plays g-through-l field that a review should be initiated. and more umpires will be introduced
only during the last two innings of The off-field video review official will to using this technology to review
regulation and any extra innings. follow the same review protocols as the decisions.
Randy Bruns, NCAA secretary-rules crew chief, including initiating review Bruns recommends umpires carry a
editor, said that limitation was aimed at on items a-through-f at any time; and card listing what plays are reviewable.
keeping a balance between pace of play items g-through-l during the final two Also, it would be helpful for teams to
and video review. “How many video innings or during extra innings. post a sign in the dugout so coaches
reviews do you want to have if you’re Bruns said most amateur umpires know what they can challenge. *
going to want to keep the pace of play aren’t accustomed to video review and
Intentionally Move to Get HBP = Strike
U nder a new rule for 2019 and 2020,
a batter is not permitted to make
an intentional movement to be hit by a
pitch, regardless of where the pitch is
located. If, in the umpire’s judgment, a
batter makes an intentional movement
to be hit by a pitch, the batter will not
be awarded first base and, instead, will
be charged with a strike. The pitch is
ruled a strike regardless of the pitch’s
actual location.
The rule change provides guidance
in enforcing the hit-by-pitch rule and
to deter batters from attempting to be
hit by the pitch. A batter who “freezes”
inside the batter’s box and gets hit by
a pitch shall be awarded first base.
“Freezing” by the batter within the
batter’s box is not considered making
an intentional movement.
“The whole idea is to encourage
JOHN PETERSON/ICON SPORTSWIRE
people to continue to avoid being hit
whenever possible,” said Randy Bruns,
NCAA baseball secretary-rules editor.
“But we know there’s a fastball that
rises up that the batter didn’t have a If the batter had intentionally moved to get hit by the pitch, under a rule change for 2019 and
See “Intent” p. 6 2020, a strike would be charged to the batter regardless of the pitch’s location.
2019 NCAA Baseball Guide 5
Bruns said the hit-by-pitch rule happens, but we want to try to avoid
Intent
change stems from players moving in the ones that were intentional,” Bruns
Continued from p. 5
such ways as to intentionally get hit said.
chance to get out of the way. We expect by a pitch — something dangerous in Because judging whether a batter
those batters to go to first base.” college baseball. intentionally makes a movement to
At the same time, freezing and “There were still some people that be hit by a pitch involves a ball/strike
getting hit outside the batter’s box were intentionally trying to make it decision, coaches may not argue the
doesn’t protect the batter. look like they were avoiding being hit call, but they can use one of their two
Play: A batter gets frozen on a pitch and they were turning in a such a way video review challenges.
but he is outside of the batter’s box where they were sticking out an elbow “That’s a decision on a pitch like
when his arm gets hit by the pitch. and leaning in and turning backward,” a ball and strike,” Bruns said. “But
Ruling: If the batter freezes and allows a Bruns said. “In reality, they were with video review, a coach has two
pitch that is not within the batter’s box trying to get their elbow, hip or knee challenges and that is something
to hit him, the ball is dead and a strike closer to the path of the ball and in a coach can use one of their two
is called. The batter is not awarded first effect stealing first base.” challenges on.” *
base. “We understand hit by pitch
Pitching
Position Rule A C
Change
T wo rule changes about pitching
positions aim to clarify when a
pitcher is in the windup position and
when a pitcher is in the set position.
Windup Position – 9-1-a
To be considered in a windup
position, a pitcher must stand with
his chest and shoulders generally
facing the batter, with the pivot
foot on or in front of and touching
the pitcher’s plate (PlayPic A). The
pitcher’s free foot must be touching
or be behind the plane of the front B D
edge of the pitching plate (PlayPic B).
This clarifies the windup pitching
position for umpires to properly
apply the applicable pitching rules
and further distinguish the windup
position from the set position.
pitching plate, and his free foot must
Set Position 9-1-b be in front of the pitcher’s plate
For a pitcher to be in a set (PlayPic D). It is permissible for the
position, the pitcher must stand with pitcher to turn his shoulders and face
his chest and shoulders generally the batter while getting the sign and
facing the respective foul line before bringing his hands together in
(PlayPic C). The pitcher’s pivot foot the set position.
must be in contact parallel with the See “Pitching Positions” p. 7
6 2019 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2019
Possessing Ball Key in Obstruction Rule
I n a change to Rule 8-3-e-1 Note, a
defensive player may not block any
part of the base with any part of his
body unless he has clear possession of
the ball. If the defensive player blocks
a base before having clear posses-
sion of the ball, the umpire shall call
obstruction, the ball shall be dead
immediately and the runner involved
shall be awarded one base beyond
the last base the runner had attained
before the obstruction.
Randy Bruns, NCAA baseball
secretary-rules editor, said the rule
change is aimed at player safety and
reducing collisions. Effectively, the
obstruction rules don’t change, he
said — for example, nothing in the
language involving the definition of
obstruction has changed, neither have
the collision rules — instead, what
really changes is the interpretation
of what it means to be in the act of
fielding the ball.
“The act of fielding is much more
restrictive and we’re trying to make
that more consistent at every base,”
Bruns said.
“Now that play all has to happen a base hit to center field. R2 tries to of fielding the ball and is not guilty of
right at the base,” Bruns said. “If advance to third. F8’s throw to F5 is obstruction. R2 is out.
that throw is off, you’re not going to slightly off, and at the last moment, Previously, the language in 8-3-e-1
be able to go up three steps because F5 is pulled into the path of R2. F5 Note only applied to pickoff plays, and
that’s where the throw was taking tags out R2. Ruling: F5 was in the act now it applies to all plays. *
you. If that’s where the throw is
taking you and you block the runner’s
access to the base, that’s probably In the set position, the pivot foot
Pitching Positions
going to be obstruction. But if you’re must be parallel to the pitching plate.
Continued from p. 6
giving that runner the path to the base In the windup, the free foot – the
and now you’ve got to jump or step Randy Bruns, NCAA baseball non-pivot foot – must be touching or
in order to catch that — everything secretary-rules editor, said the rules breaking the plane of the front edge
coming there at the same time — committee tried to address pitching of the pitching plate.
that’s in the act of fielding.” positions two years ago by stressing “Now I should know based on
Play: R1 is attempting to steal language related to the shoulders. where the feet are what’s going to
second base. F6 sets up with his leg However, a problem remained because happen with that first motion,” Bruns
and foot blocking access to the base of the rule language allowing the free said.
(as shown in the PlayPic). R1 slides foot to be placed anywhere, and in Bruns said it was also important
into F6’s foot, the catcher’s throw certain pitching positions it wasn’t to stress an existing rule related to
arrives and R1 is tagged before he immediately clear if a pitcher was in the step with the free foot in the
can get his hand on the base. Ruling: the windup or set position. windup position — that can be
F6 is guilty of obstruction and R1 is “It just became harder and harder sideways or backwards, but not
awarded second base. to determine which position are you forward. *
Play: R2 on second. Batter gets in,” Bruns said.
2019 NCAA Baseball Guide 7
Test Yourself
In each of the following, decide which
answer(s) is/are correct using the
2019 and 2020 NCAA rules.
1. Which of the following do not result
in an immediate dead ball?
a. Runner interference.
b. Batter interference.
c. Base umpire interference.
d. A fair batted ball touches a
spectator.
2. With R3 on third and one out, B1
hits a foul pop up near third base. R3
inadvertently prevents F5 from making
What is the call by plate umpire John Bullock of Fort Worth, Texas, if the batter hits a line
the catch. drive right back at the pitcher’s feet, but the ball misses the pitcher, hits the pitching plate and
a. B1 is out. rebounds across the foul line in front of first base? Question 16 deals with such a scenario.
b. R3 is out.
c. R3 is out only if the interference
was deliberate.
3. Which of the following result in an 5. With R1 on first and R3 on third, R1 starting pitcher (who has not yet faced
immediate dead ball? attempts to steal second. As F2 cocks a batter).
a. A runner is hit by a batted ball his arm, his hand hits the plate umpire. a. He may, provided the starting
before it passes a fielder other F2’s throw is wild into centerfield. R1 pitcher re-enters in the bottom of
than a pitcher. is subsequently thrown out at third, the first.
b. The catcher interferes with the while R3 scores. b. He may, provided the pitcher is
batter’s swing. a. The play stands. also the designated hitter (DH).
c. The batter interferes with the b. Umpire interference has c. He may not.
catcher’s throw. occurred.
d. The batter interferes with the c. R1 must return to first. 8. With R1 on first, running on the
catcher’s attempt to field a d. R1 must return to second. pitch, F1 pitches wild and the ball rolls
dropped third strike. e. R3 must return to third. near a dugout. The ball rolls to a stop
e. A batter hits a fair ball with part of as R1 touches second. The catcher
one foot touching the plate and 6. With R1 on first, R3 on third and (F2) intentionally kicks the ball into the
part of the foot touching the line one out, R1 breaks with the pitch. B1 dugout.
of the batter’s box. lines to right center and F8 makes a a. R1 remains on second.
sensational catch. R3 tags and scores, b. R1 is awarded third.
4. With no runners on base, B1 but R1 is doubled off first. c. R1 is awarded home.
grounds into the hole at short. F6 a. R3’s run always counts. d. F2 is ejected.
fields the ball, but holds it when he b. R3’s run never counts.
sees he has no play at first. B1 makes c. R3’s run counts only if he touched 9. F8 makes a sensational catch of B1’s
a wide turn at first and is on his way home before R1 was retired. liner. F8’s momentum carries him into
back to the bag when F6 decides to d. R3’s run counts unless the the fence and the ball pops out and
make a play. The throw goes into the defense appeals that he didn’t goes over the fence in fair territory.
stands. B1 is awarded: touch home before R1 was a. Legal catch.
a. First. retired. b. Home run.
b. Second. c. Three-base award for B1.
c. Third. 7. In the top of the first, the visiting d. Two-base award for B1.
DALE GARVEY
coach wants to pinch hit for his
8 2019 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2019
10. With the bases loaded and the 14. B1 hits a long fly ball to right field. b. The play stands only if the coach
scored tied in the bottom of the last Before F9 can get to it, the ball hits the was in his box.
inning, B1 receives a two-out walk. B1 top of the fence and goes over. c. R2 is out.
runs down to first as R3 scores, but R1 a. Home run. d. R2 must return to second.
goes off to celebrate. b. Three-base award for B1. e. R2 is held at third.
a. The run counts. c. Two-base award for B1.
b. The run counts unless an appeal d. Depends on local ground rules. 19. In a game where the DH is not
is made on R1. used, Bubba pinch hits for B8 in the
c. The run does not count. 15. B1 bunts down the first-base line bottom of the second, but does not
and drops his bat in fair territory. The take the field in the top of the third. In
11. With R3 on third and one out, backspin on the ball causes it to roll the fifth inning, Bubba comes to bat
the suicide squeeze is called. R3 back into the bat. F2 fields the ball, but again in the same spot in the order.
prematurely breaks for the plate. F1 B1 is safe at first. a. Legal play.
legally steps back off the pitching a. Dead ball; B1 was out when the b. If Bubba is discovered before
plate and fires home. B1 bunts and ball contacted the bat. completing his at-bat, he can be
makes it to first safely as R3 scores. b. Delayed dead ball; call B1 out replaced by a substitute.
a. B1 is out. after the play is over. c. Bubba is out when discovered
b. R3 is out. c. Delayed dead ball; B1 is safe if while at bat.
c. R3 returns to third. you judge the contact had no
d. The play stands. material effect. 20. Just prior to F1 beginning his
e. F1 has balked. d. Play stands. pitching motion, B1’s preparatory
movements bring his bat in contact
12. With the bases empty and a 2-2 16. B1 lines a pitch right back at the with F2’s mitt.
count, B1 swings and misses at a low pitcher’s feet. F1 eludes the ball, but it a. A ball is awarded.
pitch. F2 catches the pitch on one hop. hits the front edge of the rubber and b. Catcher interference; B1 is
As B1 heads for his first-base dugout, rebounds across the foul line in front awarded first.
the defensive coach yells for F2 to of first base. c. No penalty; the ball is
throw to first. F2 proceeds to throw a. Fair ball. immediately dead.
the ball into right field. The first-base b. Foul ball. d. Delayed dead ball.
coach now yells for B1 to come to first, c. Depends on local ground rules. e. If F1 stops his motion, it is a balk.
which he does.
a. B1 is out for abandoning his 17. In the top of the first inning, team ANSWERS
attempt to reach first. A’s coach comes out to the mound to
b. B1 may remain at first if he had visit his pitcher. There is a brief chat 1. b – 6-3-b
not entered the dugout. and no pitching change occurs. When 2. b – 8-5-d
c. B1 may remain at first if he had does the conference end? 3. a, d, e – 6-2-e, 7-10-a, 7-11-f Exc.
not left the dirt circle around the a. When the coach leaves the 18- 4. c – 8-3-o Note 1
plate. foot dirt circle of the mound. 5. b, c, e – 6-3-a
b. When the coach crosses the foul 6. c – 5-6-c Note 2
13. The batting order is B1, B2, B3, line. 7. b – 7-2-c, 7-2-d-3-a
etc. At the end of the fifth inning, R2 c. When the coach reaches the 8. c – 8-3-o-4 Note 1
is picked off for the third out while dugout/bench area. 9. b – 2-16-a, 8-3-h
improper batter B3 is at bat with an d. When the umpire calls “play.” 10. a – 5-8-d Note
0-1 count. B2 should have been at the 11. b – 7-11-v
plate. To start the next inning: 18. With a runner on second and 12. c – 7-11-u
a. Since B3 started the at-bat in the one out, B1 skies the ball to right 13. b – 7-11-a
previous inning, he is the legal centerfield. R2 tags and attempts to 14. a – 7-6-e Note
batter. advance to third. F8’s throw skips past 15. d – 7-11-m
b. B2 is the legal hitter; the end of the F5 and hits the third-base coach, who 16. b – 2-27-d, 2-35-a
inning did nothing to change that. attempts to avoid the ball. The ball 17. a – 9-4-d
c. The defense can appeal for a deflects off the coach’s back and goes 18. a – 8-3-j
potentially advantageous fourth into the stands. 19. c – 5-5-j-1
out for batting out of order. a. The play stands. 20. c – 8-2-e Note
2019 NCAA Baseball Guide 9
Q&A with Randy Bruns NCAA Baseball Secretary-Rules Editor
Q: What’s most Q: What’s being expected in the the point where a coach or player gets
significant about consistent enforcement of rules related ejected. The responsibility to raise the
the 2019 and 2020 to time between pitches and innings? level of professionalism, respect and
rule changes? A: In the past, timing regulations good sportsmanship rests with all
A: The Rules in baseball were often treated as parties. While everyone understands
Committee did a “guidelines,” not as rules that should that participants are very competitive
great job passing be accurately enforced. Some umpires and no one is going to agree with
changes that have been hesitant to enforce the every call in a baseball game, there is
were needed to timing rules, often not even having a no place in college baseball for poor
keep our game stopwatch with them on the field. The sportsmanship, obscene language and
up to date. The changes are a mix of expectation with the updated timing personal comments to umpires.
pace-of-play improvements, safety rules is that they will be enforced
issues and allowing additional plays to consistently at all levels, in every Q: From a rules perspective, what is the
be reviewed using technology. game. Timing rules in baseball are an state of college baseball?
important step in managing pace of A: Overall college baseball is in a
Q: Many of the changes seem aimed play, no different than they are in other great position with increased interest
at pace of play — why is pace of play sports like basketball or football. and more games being broadcast.
important in college baseball? With that attention comes the
A: With the increased interest being Q: Are there rules areas that you responsibility to provide a game that
shown in college baseball, pace of play recommend some extra study emphasis is competitive and a great experience
is more and more important. Today’s going into the season? for the participants at all levels of play,
players are better engaged in a game A: Certainly all the rule changes as well as an athletic contest that is
that keeps moving. Networks prefer are important. The pitching rules enjoyable to watch. Our challenge in
to broadcast games that have lots of and the updated hit-by-pitch rule the future is to continue to improve
action and don’t last too long, and fans are especially critical. The one our game by balancing baseball’s
want to watch that type of game. If we improvement I would really like to traditions with where we want college
expect to keep growing that interest see isn’t a new rule but it relates to baseball to be in the future. It is no
in our sport, college baseball needs interactions between umpires and longer appropriate to resist change
to keep up with the changes that are coaches and players. There are still just because “that’s not the way we’ve
happening at all levels of play. too many situations that escalate to always done it.” *
Contact information for Randy Bruns: 3725 NE Otter Creek Drive, Ankeny, Iowa 50021 • rbruns11@gmail.com • 319-240-0403
Ejections Up in 2018 2018 NCAA Ejection/Suspension Reports
Division I
Player 137
R educing the number of ejections
and suspensions in college base-
ball remains a priority, especially as
After an ejection, get out of there and
get the coach off the field. We don’t
want umpires showing up coaches,
Assistant Coach
Head Coach
50
150
2018 saw a record number of ejections. yelling at them, being profane. We lose Total: 337 39%
George Drouches, NCAA national credibility when that happens. Then, Division II
coordinator of baseball umpires, said finally, with the student-athletes, plain Player 126
coaches, student-athletes and umpires and simple, just eliminate profanity Assistant Coach 19
all could improve in civility. as a retort. If you don’t like the pitch, Head Coach 115
Drouches said the Baseball Rules don’t turn around and swear at the
Total: 260 30%
Committee has outlined expectations umpire.
Division III
for coaches, student-athletes and “I think if we keep it that simple —
umpires. to those three areas: coaches calibrate Player 119
“For the coaches, calibrate your your emotions, umpires adhere to our Assistant Coach 32
emotions. Umpires, adhere to the protocol, student-athletes eliminate Head Coach 111
NCAA protocol — no exceptions. That profanity — the amount of ejections Total: 262 31%
protocol involves a formal warning. and suspensions should go down.” * Grand Total: 859 100%
10 2019 NCAA Baseball GuideBASEBALL 2018
2019
NCAA Misconduct Penalties
Type of Offense Offender Consequence for First Offense Consequence for Second Offense Consequence for Third Offense Rule Ref.
Unsportsmanlike conduct or Assistant coach, Ejection from present contest plus a
Ejection from present contest plus
language directed toward an player or team three game suspension by the same Same as second offense 2-26-f
a one game suspension
umpire or an opponent personnel individual in the same season
Unsportsmanlike conduct or
Ejection from present contest - no
language directed toward an Head coach Same as first offense Same as first offense 2-26-f
suspension
umpire or an opponent
Unsportsmanlike conduct or Player whose last
Ejection from present contest plus
language directed toward an listed position is Same as first offense Same as first offense 2-26-e
a four-game suspension
umpire or an opponent that of a pitcher
Game Misconduct—
removing Ejection from the present contest
Head coach Same as first offense Same as first offense 5-15-b
team from the field; refusing plus a two-game (2) suspension
to continue
Prolonged or continued
arguing, offensive language
Two-game suspension added to
or excessive expressions 2-26-h;
Any participant the present accumulative total for Same as first offense Same as first offense
directed at an umpire 5-15-a (4)
applicable suspension penalties
or game official after an
ejection
Ejection plus a suspension
Ejection plus a four-game Ejection plus a suspension from the for the remainder of the
Fighting Any participant 5-16-a
suspension team’s next five contests season, including postseason
competition
Ejection plus a suspension
Any participant
Physical abuse of Ejection plus a four-game Ejection plus a suspension from the for the remainder of the
includes head 5-16-b
participants or umpires suspension team’s next five contests season, including postseason
coach
competition
5-16-c,
Leaving position to Four-game suspension after the Suspended for the remainder of the
Any participant N/A Penalty
participate in a fight ejection season
(1), (5)
Ejection plus a suspension
Ejection plus a four-game Ejection plus an eight-game for the remainder of the
suspension. The head coach is not suspension. The head coach is season, including postseason.
Intentionally throwing at a Pitcher, or pitcher ejected if no warning is given. If a not ejected if no warning has been If no warning is given, the 5-16-d, (1),
batter and head coach warning has been given, the head given. If a warning has been given, head coach is not ejected. (2), (3)
coach is ejected from that game the head coach is ejected and If a warning is issued, the
and suspended for one game suspended for one game head coach is ejected and
suspended for one game
Any participant or When verbal abuse/bench jockeying
After a warning, offender is ejected
Verbal abuse/bench game personnel continues, head coach is ejected
for that game plus a one game Same as second offense 5-17
jockeying other than head (no suspension). All others ejection
suspension
coach plus one game suspension
Failure to leave sight and
sound of the playing field Three-game suspension added to 3-6-d, Note
Any participant Same as first offense Same as first offense
and grandstands after an any penalties already accumulated 2 and 3
ejection
Ejection from the present contest.
Collision rule Player Same as first offense Same as first offense 8-7
One game suspension
Player or team Ejected from present contest plus
Ejection for tobacco use personnel and one game suspension for everyone Same as first offense Same as first offense 3-11
head coach other than the head coach
Ejection from next scheduled
Ejection from next contest plus
Assistant coach, contest plus a three game
a one game suspension. These
Post-participation ejection player (other than suspension for a total of four games. 2-26-c;
two games will be added to any Same as second offense
for unsportsmanlike conduct a pitcher) or team These four games will be added to Appendix D
other applicable penalties for other
personnel any other applicable penalties for
offenses
other offenses
Ejected from team’s next game-No 2-26-c;
Post-participation ejection Head coach Same as first offense Same as first offense
Suspension Appendix D
Player whose last
Post-participation ejection
listed position is A total suspension of four games Same as first offense Same as first offense 2-26-e
for a pitcher
that of a pitcher
Note 1: It is the responsibility of the institution’s Head Coach and Director of Athletics to administer and enforce any suspension penalties.
Note 2: Suspension penalties, regardless of the number, shall be served during the offending team’s next scheduled contest(s). Post-participation ejections and any applicable suspension
penalties shall also be served during the offending team’s next scheduled contest(s). Conferences and institutions may choose to implement additional penalties for misconduct.
Note 3: A listing of ejection and suspension procedures is contained in Appendix D.
Note 4: Several of the rule references listed have been updated from those on pages 26-28 of the current NCAA Baseball - 2017 and 2018 Rules book. The penalties remain unchanged.
2018NCAA
2019 NCAABaseball
BaseballGuide
Guide 11
7Extra Innings: Health and Well-Being
T he offseason is an ideal time to
do a personal inventory of your
health and well-being. It is difficult to
risk and needs some time to occur.
Symptoms can also include profuse
sweating or even the inability to
neurocognitive testing (SCAT) to
establish a post-injury baseline.
Sleep is underrated and like
get the time or the sweat, cramping, weakness, flushed hydration, optimal performance
mindset to carry this skin, poor coordination or other cannot be achieved without adequate
out in season. To that neurologic symptoms or headaches, sleep. But getting enough sleep is
end, I would like to just to name a few. Treatment with often difficult with travel schedules.
discuss some of the rapid cooling is essential and of the Though older individuals may
general personal utmost importance. Remember it is have a little more resistance to sleep
items to inventory, life threatening. The most effective deprivation than younger individuals,
and address some method of heat loss is convection, the impact of lack of sleep on quality
current and in-game where airflow over a moist surface of life is underrated. The effect of sleep
Dr. Douglas J. health and safety causes the greatest rate of heat loss. loss also can vary from individual to
Ramos issues that may arise. Moisture-wicking clothing may make individual. Obstructive sleep apnea
Chair of the As you think about you feel drier, but may impede this is often underdiagnosed and more
NCAA Committee your own health, process, and extra garments, which common in individuals who are
on Competitive both physical and many like to wear, is to be avoided overweight and have thick necks. This
Safeguards and
mental health issues on hot days. The value of moisture- contributes to sleep loss and even
Medical Aspects of
Sports need to be addressed wicking clothing is debatable. increases the risk for many diseases,
to not only optimize Sunscreen should be worn by including cardiac diseases. Chronic
your current performance but also to everyone and an SPF 50 protects from partial sleep deprivation is most likely
maintain good health and habits later 95 percent of the sun’s rays. A higher to occur in season. Multiple nights of
in life. Going extra innings or overtime sunscreen has minimal added effect. partial sleep loss is likely to impair
is not a bad thing if you are in good Sunscreen not only helps decrease some of the precise functions required
health. Heat stroke, sun protection, heat risk, but it also decreases the for the umpire or referee during
concussions, hydration and sleep are lifetime skin cancer risk, which competitions.
a few issues that can impact your in- is higher in individuals with fair A variety of physical and mental
game performance or can come into complexion. issues do occur to varying degrees in
play in the heat of the season. Concussions can vary in all of us. The first and perhaps most
A very basic item to attend to is presentation. Some manifest no important step is to recognize that
hydration. Almost everything we symptoms initially and don’t present there may be a problem and then to
do — every injury and every illness until later, maybe even the next day seek help. We all need to destigmatize
— is made worse by dehydration. As or two. Not everybody responds the issue of compromised physical and
a rough guideline, every individual the same or recovers the same once mental health when it occurs. We are
should drink approximately three a concussion is sustained. There all human and these are real human
liters of fluid per day. During periods is literature to suggest that using issues that are more common than
of significant sweating, fluid losses the brain during recovery can be we admit. Recognizing and dealing
can sometimes be as much as one beneficial and early return to activity with these issues is a sign of human
liter per hour in addition to the three can be detrimental. It appears that it strength, not weakness.
liters. The risk of heat stroke, which takes longer to recover than initially Last but not least, we are all
is more likely to occur in southern thought and a second concussion involved with sports because of the
climates, is a very serious and life- during this recovery period has joy of competition, the health benefits
threatening condition. The risk of particularly detrimental effects. it conveys, and the camaraderie that
heat stroke rises in the presence of A gradual return to activity over occurs among participants and non-
dehydration, and sunscreen can offer the course of a week after being participants alike. It is contradictory
additional protection from heat stroke. symptom-free is a minimum time for to be involved in sports and smoke
Keep in mind also that alcohol intake resumption of normal activity. During cigarettes. With the changing
contributes to dehydration. this time period, activity should be landscape, a future discussion on the
Classic heat stroke (non-exertional) increased incrementally. Since an usage of marijuana and cannabinoids
in general has a rectal temperature athletic trainer is often available, if will be forthcoming. The legalization
above 40 degrees Centigrade (104 F). a concussion is suspected, it is not of marijuana opens up a myriad of
Acclimatization helps to decrease the unreasonable to perform a post-injury potential uses and abuses. *
12 2019 NCAA Baseball GuideBASEBALL 2019
Mechanics 2018 NCAA Championship Umpires
Points of Division I Division II Division III
Emphasis
Joe Burleson Chris Deichman Al Bosdell
Las Vegas, NV Mt. Vernon, IL Mechanicsville, VA
Barry Chambers Ken Fitts David Fields
A lthough there were no mechanics
changes by the Collegiate
Commissioners Association (CCA)
Little Mountain, SC Atlanta, GA Davenport, IA
Chris Coskey Patrick Griffin Tom Gandolfo
for 2019, there were several points of Springfield, MO Hennessey, OK Belle Mead, NJ
emphasis for the season ahead. Those
were broken down under principles Perry Costello John Lavin Mike McGloon
of platework and basework and DeWitt, MI Port Orange, FL Chicago, IL
summarized below (see the 2019 CCA
Baseball Umpires Manual for the full Jeff Henrichs Mark Lima Martin Rall
points of emphasis). Sacramento, CA Succasunna, NJ Medford, NY
Platework: Travis Katzenmeier Brandon Misun Ryan Thacker
• Umpires need to get into proper Mesa, AZ Edmond, OK Sanger, TX
position when setting up for a pitch.
Even at the highest levels, many umpires Frank Sylvester Joe Volpe Tony Turk
are too far back and out of the slot. This Philadelphia, PA Masontown, PA Indianapolis, IN
will lead to the umpire being blocked
from viewing the entire strike zone. Poor Billy Van Raaphorst Andrew Wolverton Steve Williams
position and head movement on pitches Los Angeles, CA Thousand Oaks, CA Quincy, MA
leads to an inconsistent strike zone.
• Strikes should be signaled without
turning the head away from a potential
batter’s interference or runner attempting
to steal.
• The ability to stay focused pitch NCAA Umpiring Coordinators
after pitch is essential to a plate umpire’s
success. Division I Division III
Basework: George Drouches Don Umland
• Stop and get set — with the head P.O. Box 27641 2951 Katie Lane
stable — to see the critical action of a play. Golden Valley, MN 55427 Bettendorf, IA 52722
• Read the “true throw” by an
infielder before stopping and coming set georgedrouches@gmail.com donumland@yahoo.com
— an adjustment may be needed to get an 952-227-3347 (O) 563-340-3825 (C)
optimal view of the play. 612-432-5351 (C) 309-794-7706 (F)
• Get the appropriate distance 952-227-3348 (F)
away from a tag play, which may vary Director of Umpire Training
depending on the number of umpires Division II
working the game, an umpire’s instincts Tom Hiler
and reaction time. Remember: the Scott Taylor P.O. Box 777
“working area” on the field is not a 1901 North Emerson Avenue Mountain Home, ID 83647
destination point. Indianapolis, IN 46218
• Look to the fielder and how he is TomasHiler@gmail.com
playing a fly ball before determining d2umpires@gmail.com 208-598-5558 (C)
whether to go out, and don’t chase the 317-507-6233 (C)
ball — get a good angle to view the
play. *
2019 NCAA Baseball Guide 13Additional Rule Changes
O ther rule changes for the 2019 and
2020 seasons include:
Intentionally Disrupting Pitcher’s Delivery
– 5-15-a-2
A batter may not use tactics with
in the PlayPic). The pitch is a strike.
Ruling: The batter is ejected for a
deliberate unsportsmanlike act. The
Backswing Interference – 6-2-d the obvious purpose of disrupting the substitute batter assumes a 3-1 count.
During a batter’s backswing (his pitcher’s delivery. If a balk or illegal Randy Bruns, NCAA baseball
follow-through after swinging at the pitch occurs, or if the pitch is called secretary-rules editor, said it was
pitch), if the batter hits the catcher a ball, the call shall be nullified. The important to assess the batter’s intent.
or the ball, the pitch shall be called batter is ejected for unsporting conduct. If something happens unintentionally,
a strike, the ball will be dead and no Play: On a 3-0 pitch, the batter call time and let everybody reset. But if
runner shall advance on the play. deliberately drops his bat just before intentional, it’s an unsporting act and
This clarifies that any bat contact the pitcher delivers the pitch (as shown the penalty should be invoked. If the
with the catcher during the backswing pitcher stops his motion or throws ball
— including when the ball is not four, that should be nullified and the
caught by the catcher — will be batter should be ejected. If the pitcher
considered backswing interference. throws a strike, the batter is still
Previously, the rule language stated ejected, but the count now includes
“as the pitch is caught.” that strike.
The exception in 6-2-d-2 remains. If
a catcher is in the act of throwing when Bat/Ball Persons - 1-15-a
the contact occurs, time is called and All non-roster, designated bat/ball
the runner returns, unless the catcher’s persons — i.e., team personnel other
initial throw retires the runner. than players or coaches — must wear
Play: R2 on second steals on the a double-ear flap protective helmet
pitch. B2 swings and misses, but as while performing their duties. This
the catcher gets up and steps to throw, change is aimed at enhancing the
B2’s bat contacts F2. F2’s throw does safety of support personnel.
not retire R2. Ruling: Backswing
interference. B2 is charged with a Dugout Extension Area – 1-16-b
strike. R2 is returned to second. Uniformed team personnel,
Remember: Backswing interference coaches and extra on-deck hitters are
— a swing that unintentionally prohibited from standing or sitting in
interferes with the catcher — is treated the dugout extension area or dead-
differently from batter’s interference, ball area on the home-plate side of
and the penalties for those actions are the dugout during play. This is aimed
very different. at enhancing the safety of bat/ball
persons who are supposed to be in this
area by restricting coaches and other
2019 Rules Points of Emphasis team personnel from entering those
areas to observe the game.
The NCAA Baseball Rules Running Lane Runner Touched by Ball – 8-5-k
Committee selected the following • Consistently enforce running lane Rule 8-5-k was modified to clarify
points of emphasis for 2019: violations. the status of the pitcher for purposes
• Teams may be intentionally of a fair batted ball striking a runner.
Pace of Play instructing runners to run to first The change in language codifies
• Keep the game moving. base in fair territory. existing practices. A runner will be
• Consistently enforce rules related out if hit while in fair territory by a
to the batter’s box, charged Coach/Player/Umpire Interactions fair batted ball before it has touched a
conferences and timing. • Maintain professional interactions fielder, including the pitcher, or before
and reduce the number of it has passed all infielders who have
necessary ejections. a chance to make a play on the ball,
other than the pitcher. *
14 2019 NCAA Baseball GuideBASEBALL 2019
Q&A: Division II and Division III Coordinators
Scott Taylor Division II Umpire Coordinator The goal every year is to improve. Two things
stand out for me because I think we did improve. No. 1, three of the eight umpires that
ended up going to the national championship in Cary were part-time Division I umpires.
In fact, one of the umpires worked Duke/North Carolina the week before our regional. So
I was really happy with the quality of umpires.
The other thing that stands out for me, when I was hired before the 2017 spring, George (Drouches,
How did last national coordinator) put a vision together that all three divisions work together and we became an
season go in your umpire development program. Division II wasn’t a part of that program as much as I would like to
division — what think that they are now. I really think that we’re giving Division II umpires more opportunities to
stands out? improve and go to the next level that I don’t know they were getting three, four, five, six years ago.
Don Umland Division III Umpire Coordinator I thought the season as a whole was terrific.
There were numerous examples of outstanding officiating across the country in the
regular season and postseason. However, there is still a growing concern regarding
unsportsmanlike behavior. I don’t like to focus on the negative (or the total number of
ejections) as the behaviors may or may not have led to an ejection.
Officials have to continue to be diligent in addressing behavior and utilize the tools that have been
afforded to them in dealing with such behavior. This must be a team effort between officials, coaches
and players to accentuate a positive sports climate.
Taylor Some of the new rule changes, such as pitching positions. That’s going to be a major push this
year.
The thing with Division II baseball is we start two weeks earlier than Division I. We have a unique
What are you opportunity in Division II to step up and enforce the rules as written two weeks before the Division I
planning to stress umpires go to work. Hopefully we’ve got two weeks of track record going into the Division I season,
with your umpires which makes it easier for them when they start their year.
for 2019? I think the eye is always going to be on continuing to improve the product we put on the field at
the Division II level.
Umland The upcoming season will involve rules and mechanics changes (which occur every two
years). Proper and consistent enforcement across the country will be a priority at all levels of NCAA
Baseball. Officials must make every effort to attend regional clinics and/or study these changes
online and amongst organizations to establish consistent enforcement and verbiage of all rules and
mechanics.
Taylor Umpire every single game like somebody is in the stands watching you who is a decision-maker.
Too many umpires at our level think nobody sees them, therefore there is a tendency from time to
time to take a game off or take an inning off. When they do that, they get exposed. And I always seem
What should to find a way to find out about it. Especially for those on the radar, you can’t take an inning, you
umpires who have can’t take a pitch off. You’ve got to work every single game like it’s the national championship. Quite
their eye on securing frankly, I don’t evaluate Division II postseason umpires at a Division II level. I evaluate Division II
a postseason postseason umpires at a Division I level, because when I’m done with them, they should never have to
assignment be come back and work Division II. They should be ready to go to the next level.
doing?
Umland 2019 offers a unique opportunity for officials with the introduction of a regional, super regional,
and national championship format for the first time. The postseason format falls in line with Division
I. It will also offer an increased number of opportunities to participate in the postseason as the number
of officials for regional play increases from 53 to 93. The mere addition of the super regionals means
that 32 officials will be working an additional weekend! Ultimately, the national championship is to
follow, which is exciting as we are moving to a new location. The championship will make its way
from Appleton, Wis., to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for a four-year stint.
2019 NCAA Baseball Guide 15You can also read
