BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball

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BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
BASEBALL 2022
                                                      A supplement to the NCAA Baseball Rules • Prepared by the editors of Referee

              Signs of the Times
              Technology, Clock Protocols, COVID-19 Accommodations Will Need Attention
                                                                                                                     T   he 2022 college baseball season will
                                                                                                                         occur during a non-rule change
                                                                                                                     cycle for the NCAA. That means a
                                                                                                                     re-emphasis on recent rule changes
                                                                                                                     heading into the spring.
                                                                                                                         However, one offseason rule
                                                                                                                     change will require attention for
                                                                                                                     NCAA umpires and coaches.
                                                                                                                         While the online NCAA baseball
                                                                                                                     rules video for 2022 focuses on several
                                                                                                                     items, let’s look at three areas that
                                                                                                                     demand education and diligence.

                                                                                                                     Technology to Transmit Signals
                                                                                                                         The one off-cycle rule change
                                                                                                                     for 2022 involves an update to how
                                                                                                                     teams can use technology to relay
                                                                                                                     information to players on the field,
                                                                                                                     and is found in rule 5-2-f Note 1.
                                                                                                                         The previous rule read: “Video
                                                                                                                     and communication equipment used
                                                                                                                     to transmit information between
                                                                                                                     coaches, coaches and players,
                                                                                                                     scouts or other team personnel shall
                                                                                                                     not be allowed for intercollegiate
                                                                                                                     competition.”
                                                                                                                         Added language for 2022 is
                                                                                                                     as follows: “To permit the use of
                                                                                                                     an exclusively one-way electronic
                                                                                                                     communication device from the
                                                                                                                     dugout to the field for the purpose of
                                                                                                                     relaying the pitch or play call. The use
                                                                                                                     of an in-ear communication device
                                                                                                                     shall be limited to the defensive
                                                                                                                     position of the catcher.”
                                                                                                                         Two additional provisions must
                                                                                                                     also be noted when using tecnology
                                                                                                                     to communicate with players: A team
              Due to ongoing COVID-19 considerations, if a coach is going to come out of the dugout to               may use an electronic display board to
BOB MESSINA

              discuss a play with an umpire, such as here with Billy Van Raaphorst, San Diego, the discussion        show numbers/letters to any player(s)
              must take place at the midpoint of the respective foul line and not in the dirt circle or the middle
              of the diamond.
                                                                                                                     on the field. However, two-way
                                                                                                                                  See “Signs of the Times” p. 3

                                                                                                                                           Published by Referee
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
Welcome to the 2022 College Baseball Season
                      L   eadership
                          is not about
                      production,
                                            officials for the Championship who are
                                            adhering to the NCAA rules, points
                                            of emphasis and the NCAA Baseball
                                                                                       an official, when you are in control of
                                                                                       your emotions, one can communicate
                                                                                       in a professional manner.
                      it’s about            Umpire Program’s protocols; we have            Ball/Strike ejections led the
                      reproduction.         high expectations of our officials.        way across all divisions of NCAA
                             An important       The NCAA Division I Baseball           Baseball. Forty-seven percent of
                         aspect and         Committee and the Baseball Umpire          the 312 Division I NCAA Incident/
                         responsibility     Program are committed to improving         Ejection/Suspension Reports filed
                         of the NCAA        umpiring during the regular season, as     in 2021 were categorized as balls
   George Drouches Baseball Umpire          well as the NCAA Division I Baseball       and strikes; with most of these ball/
                         Program is         Championship. The continued growth         strike ejection reports indicating
          NCAA National the training        of college baseball makes it imperative    that a formal warning had been
  Coordinator of Umpires and education      that we strive to assign well-trained      issued prior to the ejection. Coaches,
                         of officials to    and qualified umpires to every game        please recognize the rationale of the
increase knowledge, consistency and         throughout the season.                     formal warning regarding balls and
standard interpretations across this            The NCAA Baseball Umpire               strikes; hopefully, we can decrease
great country.                              policies in 2022 will serve as surety      this disturbing percentage. Umpires,
    The information in this 2022 NCAA       and will safeguard these directives.       use the formal warning whenever
Preseason Baseball Guide is designed        For the most part, the officiating         possible, discipline yourself to
to provide not only information, but        community handled the rules changes        be credible and concise in your
clarifications leading into the season.     and game-changing challenges in 2021       communication, and remember your
Umpires, always keep this publication       exceptionally well and will continue to    true role of managing the game.
with your development materials             be leaders of these impactful changes          As we move to 2022, please be
for use in your study and pregame           in 2022. The Baseball Umpire Program       mindful and respectful to on-field
discussions. Coaches, please keep it        will build on its steadfast efforts of     health and safety protocols: players
with your game day materials as a           2021; with that said, our championship     and coaches should maintain physical
quick reference.                            evaluation, selection and assignment       distancing from all umpires and
    In addition, coaches, I strongly urge   procedures need to be continually          opposing players whenever possible
you to join in our collaborative efforts    examined to ensure the best umpires        and not leave their positions to argue
with the American Baseball Coaches          for our championship in the future.        with umpires, nor come within six
Association leadership team to improve                                                 feet of an umpire or opposing player
our great game by registering with          Destiny is never instant; that’s why a     for the purpose of argument.
www.ncaabaseball.arbitersports.com to       good leader gives things time to grow.         Regarding Appendix F, related
access the NCAA’s Home Plate page.              The 2022 season will be year           to the pitch/between innings clock
                                            two of a two-year rules cycle. Rule        protocol, enforce this from opening
Leadership is filled with moods and         interpretations will continue to be        day and the players and coaches will
moving parts, so just focus on the          issued by the secretary-rules editor       adjust.
mission and stay genuine.                   as needed and clarify all to the
    The goal of the national coordinator    provisions.                                The art of teamwork is knowing how
of umpires has always been to                   A NCAA Rules and Officiating           to sharpen the countenance of your
continue to grow the Baseball Umpire        Video, in addition to this guide, will     teammates.
Program and to manage and lead              again be produced for 2022. The 2021           Finally, the standards of the NCAA
the many facets of the program. An          secretary-rules editor’s interpretations   Baseball Umpire Program are for all
excellent, dedicated and passionate         will continue to receive attention as      stakeholders affiliated with NCAA
staff assists this effort, greatly.         an educational tool. Centralized Video     Baseball to align to the training,
    Perception and professionalism          Review will also continue throughout       education and testing benchmarks
continued to be emphasized. Teaching        the 2022 NCAA Division I Baseball          – as this will all but eliminate the
and mentoring the “NCAA Way” is job         Championship.                              possibility that the integrity of our
number one: inclusive of consistency,                                                  great game can be compromised.
accuracy and poise in our dealings          A huge part of leadership is knowing           Wishing all the stakeholders of our
on the field, as it is very important       what to ignore and what not to ignore.     great game of NCAA college baseball
for the integrity of our game to select        This is a fact: whether a coach or      the very best in 2022. 

2 2022 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
BASEBALL 2022
              Signs of the Times                                 or to confer with the pitcher (in which
              Continued from p. 1                                case the timer shall stop, reset and
              communication devices are still not                start again after the catcher returns to
              allowed, nor are players on the field              the catcher’s box).
              allowed the ability to receive data from               • When the umpire calls “time”
              a location other than the dugout.                  for any legitimate reason.
                                                                     Before starting a windup motion
              Clock Protocols                                    or beginning the motion to come set,
                  The idea of “timing” rules in                  if a pitcher steps off the pitcher’s plate
              baseball used to be a foreign concept.             when there are no runners on base or
              However, the game is played and                    steps off without feinting or making a
              coached today much differently than                pickoff attempt with runners on base,
              in previous years, and the consistent              the time limit (or clock) does not stop
              application of timing rules between                unless the umpire grants the pitcher
              innings and between pitches to                     “time” for a legitimate reason.
              maintain pace of play requires a                       If the pitcher has started the
              change in the thought process for                  motion to come set (which stops the
                                                                                                                 On fields where no action clock is visible,
              umpires, players and coaches.                      time limit) or has come to the set              one of the base umpires will be responsible
                  A visible clock makes these                    position and then steps off without             for keeping the clock by using either an
              time limits more obvious to all the                feinting or making a pickoff attempt,           automated timer attached to the belt (as shown
                                                                                                                 here), a wristwatch with a countdown timer, or
              participants and any penalties can                 a violation has occurred. Appendix F            with a handheld stopwatch if necessary.
              be more consistently enforced if                   of the NCAA rule book spells out how
              necessary. However, even if a visible              such violations should be handled.
              clock is not available and the time                                                                situation such as injury, illness or
              limits are being monitored by one                  COVID-19 Rule Waivers                           travel difficulty, a game may be started
              of the game’s base umpires, the                        Due to the unusual circumstances            or completed with one umpire.
              expectation is the timing rules be                 of the 2021 season, there were five                 • Teams are allowed to expand
              enforced consistently throughout                   rule exceptions passed for use related          the dugout area to a designated area
              every game. Between innings, the                   to COVID-19 accommodations.                     in the bleachers for uniformed team
              umpire crew must communicate with                  The exceptions have been reviewed               personnel only if necessary due to a
              each other and with players near                   and three have been approved for                local health decree.
              home plate to make sure the next half-             continued use during the 2022 season,               • The pitcher’s use of a damp rag
              inning starts on time. Between pitches,            one can be used in case of specific             to apply moisture to his hand is no
              umpires need to resist granting “time”             local circumstances and one has not             longer allowed.
              except for legitimate reasons.                     been renewed.
                  Let’s review the circumstances                     • A head coach may only come                Other Areas for Review
              when the time limit stops for the                  to the midpoint of the respective                   Additional rules with which
              20-second action clock:                            foul line and not enter the dirt circle         umpires should become more familiar
                  • When the pitcher begins his                  around home plate to maintain proper            leading into the 2022 season include
              windup motion or begins the motion                 physical distancing when coming on to           the specific bat testing protocol that
              to come set.                                       the field to ask a question about a play.       must be followed for all divisions,
                  • When the pitcher makes a                         • By conference rule or mutual              as spelled out in Appendix G of
              pickoff attempt.                                   agreement prior to the start of the             the NCAA rule book; the use of
                  • With runners on base, when                   game, extra innings may start with              technology to transmit signals; the
              the pitcher steps off the rubber to                a runner on second base. The player             definition of a foul tip; leaving the
              feint a pickoff attempt (in which case             starting the extra inning at second             dugout or bullpen during a potential
              the time shall reset and start again               base is the player or his substitute in         altercation; the designated hitter; the
              immediately).                                      the batting order immediately before            windup and set pitching positions;
                  • When the catcher leaves the                  the first batter of the inning.                 and the possession of or applying of a
              catcher’s box to give defensive signals                • In the event of an unusual                foreign substance to the ball. 

                                                                             Acknowledgments
DALE GARVEY

               Written by Scott Tittrington, Referee associate editor; Graphics and      Copying in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written
               layout by Matt Bowen, Referee graphic designer.                           consent from Referee Enterprises, Inc., and the NCAA. PlayPic® and
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                                                                                                                             2022 NCAA Baseball Guide 3
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
Flashback: 2021 Rules Review
                                                                                                    and may be treated as such.
                                                                                                        Play 2: During the pregame
                                                                                                    meeting with the umpires, team A’s
                                                                                                    head coach turns in a batting lineup
                                                                                                    featuring nine batters. Jones is listed as
                                                                                                    the starting pitcher/DH. In the fourth
                                                                                                    inning, during what should be Jones’
                                                                                                    second plate appearance, Smith comes
                                                                                                    to the plate. In the next half-inning,
                                                                                                    Jones again takes the mound. Ruling
                                                                                                    2: This is legal. Jones began the game
                                                                                                    as the pitcher and the designated
                                                                                                    hitter. Once Smith batted, he became
                                                                                                    the designated hitter, while Jones
                                                                                                    remained the pitcher.

                                                                                                    Re-entry (5-5-k)
                                                                                                        The NCAA has established a
                                                                                                    method of permissible re-entry for
                                                                                                    a player suspected of receiving a
                                                                                                    concussion during the course of a
                                                                                                    game.
                                                                                                        A player who exhibits signs,
                                                                                                    symptoms or behaviors consistent with
                                                                                                    a concussion must be immediately
                                                                                                    removed and receive appropriate
                                                                                                    medical evaluation. However, the
                                                                                                    player may return to his original spot
When Eric Nilson, Kirkland, Wash., accepts the lineup card from a coach during the pregame
                                                                                                    in the lineup if he is cleared by an
meeting at the plate, he must understand how the coach plans to use the designated hitter. The      appropriate medical professional.
NCAA overhauled the designated hitter rule (7-2) for the 2021 season to more similarly mirror the       A player may only re-enter the
one used in professional baseball.
                                                                                                    game one time. The temporary
                                                                                                    replacement player may again
                                                                                                    participate in the game as a substitute

C    ollege baseball featured several
     new wrinkles during the 2021
season as a result of rule changes
                                                   listed in the lineup as the pitcher and
                                                   designated hitter. The new rule also
                                                   requires the designated hitter listed in
                                                                                                    in the same lineup spot only.
                                                                                                        If the temporary replacement
                                                                                                    player is substituted for, that player
approved by the NCAA during the                    the starting lineup to bat at least once         may not re-enter the game.
offseason.                                         unless the opposing team changes                     If a team has no remaining eligible
    The rule changes were first                    pitchers or the designated hitter                players, a starter or substitute who has
proposed by the NCAA Baseball Rules                becomes injured or ill before his spot           previously participated in the game
Committee during the summer and                    in the lineup comes to bat.                      may replace the injured player.
gained final approval from the NCAA                    The change is intended to simplify               The change is intended to improve
Playing Rules Oversight Panel in                   the DH rule while maintaining the                player safety, giving coaches a
September 2020.                                    flexibility of using the two-way player          pathway to have a possibly concussed
                                                   (pitcher/DH) in the collegiate game.             player evaluated and be able to return
Designated Hitter (7-2)                                Play 1: During the pregame                   to the lineup.
    The NCAA has overhauled its                    meeting with the umpires, team A’s                   Play 3: Following a collision
designated hitter (DH) rule to more                head coach turns in a batting lineup             between batter-runner Walker and
similarly mirror the one used in                   featuring nine batters. Jones is listed as       first baseman Nelson in the third
                                                                                                                                                 DALE GARVEY

professional baseball. One exception               the starting pitcher. Ruling 1: Jones is,        inning, team B’s coach removes
is the starting pitcher may be co-                 by default, also the designated hitter           Nelson from the game to receive

4 2022 NCAA Baseball Guide
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BASEBALL 2022

evaluation for a possible concussion        base and B3 reaches first base. Ruling       ball must be caught by the catcher.
and replaces him with Davis. After          5: R2 is safe at third base and B3 is            Play 7: With a 1-1 count and R1
receiving clearance from the team’s         safe at first. This is not considered        stealing on the pitch, B2 swings and
head athletic trainer, Nelson (a) comes     interference.                                makes contact with the baseball. The
to the plate in the eighth inning in his                                                 ball ricochets off F2’s mask, and (a) F2
original position in the batting lineup,    Interference/Thrown Bat (7-11-n)             catches it, or (b) F1 catches it. Ruling 7:
or (b) in a different position than the         If a whole bat is thrown into fair or    This is a foul tip and the ball remains
one he occupied at the start of the         foul territory, whether intentionally or     live in (a). In (b), it is a foul ball.
game. Nelson singles, and the team B        not, and it interferes with a defensive
coach (c) replaces him with Davis as        player attempting to make a play on          Penalty for a Foreign Substance (9-2-e)
a pinch-runner, or (d) sends Davis to       the ball, interference shall be called.          A stronger penalty has been
the plate as the next batter. Ruling 3:         The change is intended to establish      established for using a foreign
Legal in (a) and (c), and not legal in      clearer guidance whether interference        substance on the ball, and/or having
(b) and (d). In (c), once Davis pinch-      has occurred in situations of a fielder      one on his person or in his possession.
runs for Nelson, the latter is done and     attempting to make a play when a bat         The penalty is the pitcher being ejected
cannot return to the game.                  is thrown in foul territory.                 from the game.
                                                Play 6: B1 hits a pop-up near the            If the pitcher expectorates on his
Batter Interference/Uncaught Third Strike   plate and throws his bat to the ground       hand, ball or glove or rubs the ball
(7-11-h Note)                               (a) in fair territory or (b) in foul         on his glove, person or clothing and,
    On a third strike, not caught by        territory. The opposing catcher, while       in the judgment of the umpire, the
the catcher, if the batter-runner clearly   trying to make a play on the ball, steps     pitcher did not intend to alter the
hinders the catcher in his attempt to       on the bat and falls, and the ball falls     characteristics of the baseball, the
field the ball, whether the action is       to the ground next to him. Ruling 6: B1      umpire may warn the pitcher in lieu
intentional or not, the batter-runner       is called out for interference in both (a)   of an ejection. However, if the pitcher
is out, the ball is dead and all other      and (b).                                     persists in violating the rule, the
runners return to the bases they                                                         umpire shall eject the pitcher from the
occupied at the time of the pitch           Fight Rule (5-16-c)                          game.
regardless of the number of outs.               Any team personnel, other than
    If the pitched ball deflects off the    coaches, who leave the dugouts or            Force-Play-Slide Rule (8-4)
catcher or umpire and subsequently          bullpens to enter the field at the time          The updated rule clarifies the
touches the batter-runner, it is not        of a potential altercation or fight shall    force-play-slide rule does not apply to
considered interference unless, in the      be ejected. Ejections would carry a          the batter-runner at first base, and also
judgment of the umpire, the batter-         one-game suspension, unless the              establishes the runner is not required
runner clearly hinders the catcher in       individual physically participates in a      to slide until in the vicinity of the base.
his attempt to field the ball.              fight.
    The change is intended to simplify          The change is intended to establish      Pitch Strikes Animal (6-1-g)
the administration of the rule              a method and penalty for players who             The rule has been re-written to
regardless of the number of outs and        exacerbate altercations and delay the        read, “If a thrown or batted ball
whether the batter-runner’s action is       game by leaving the dugout or bullpen        that remains in live-ball territory
intentional or not.                         at the time of an altercation, in order      accidentally hits a spectator,
    Play 4: With a runner on first base     to prevent further escalations and           authorized on-field personnel or an
and one out, B3 strikes out on a pitch      unsportsmanlike conduct.                     animal, the ball is live.” There is also
in the dirt. The ball bounces off the                                                    a note added that reads, “If a pitched
catcher and into the path of B3, who        Foul Tip (2-37)                              ball strikes a bird in flight or other
takes two steps and inadvertently               The definition for a foul tip has        animal on the playing field, the pitch
kicks the stationary ball away from the     been updated to read, “A batted ball         is nullified, and play shall be resumed
catcher. Ruling 4: B3 is out, the ball is   that goes sharp and direct from the bat      with the previous count.”
dead and R1 must return to first base.      to the catcher and is legally caught. It         The changes are intended to
    Play 5: With a runner on second         is not a foul tip unless it is caught, and   distinguish the difference between a
base and one out, B3 strikes out on a       any foul tip that is caught is a strike,     thrown or batted ball inadvertently
pitch in the dirt. The ball bounces off     and the ball is in play.”                    hitting an animal or authorized on-
the catcher and into B3. The ball falls         The change clarifies that a foul         field personnel and a pitched ball
to the ground, where the catcher picks      tip no longer has to first touch the         striking an animal.
it up, drops it and fails to make any       catcher’s hand or glove before being
additional play as R2 reaches third         legally caught. By interpretation the                         See “2021 Flashback” p. 6

                                                                                                    2022 NCAA Baseball Guide 5
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
2021 Flashback
Continued from p. 5
Play or Attempted Play (2-67-b)
    An additional definition for the
term “play or attempted play” has
been added to identify that it shall be
interpreted as a legitimate effort by a
defensive player who has possession
of the ball to retire a runner. The fact
the runner is not out is not relevant,
and a fake or feint to throw shall not be
deemed a play or an attempted play.
    The rationale for the new wording
is there are references throughout the
playing rules regarding when a play
has occurred, but no definition of what
defines a play.

One Foot in Catcher’s Box (5-4-a, 9-3-i)
    The rule has been modified to state
the catcher must have at least one foot
in the catcher’s box until the pitcher
begins the pitching motion.
    The change is intended to provide
a more enforceable playing rule for
umpires depending on where the
                                             Any team personnel, other than coaches, who leave the dugouts or bullpens to enter the field at
catcher sets up to receive a pitch.          the time of a potential altercation or fight shall be ejected, according to a rule change made at
                                             the NCAA level for the 2021 season.
The Windup (9-1-a)
    The first sentence of the rule has
been changed to read, “The pitcher           pivot foot in contact with and parallel to             Also, a stadium video board may
shall stand facing the batter, their pivot   the pitcher’s plate, and their other foot          now play live video upon contact with
foot in contact with the pitcher’s plate     in front of the pitcher’s plate, unless            the bat after the pitch. Live video must
and other foot free.”                        the pitcher notifies the umpire that               cease once a student-athlete enters the
    In the windup position, a pitcher is     they will be pitching from the windup              batter’s box and may resume upon
permitted to have their “free” foot on,      position under such circumstances prior            contact with the bat after the pitch.
in front of, behind or off the side of the   to the beginning of an at-bat. A pitcher
pitcher’s plate. The pitcher may not take    will be permitted to notify the umpire             Getting the Call Right with Video Review,
a second step toward home plate with         that the pitcher is pitching from the              Coach’s Challenge (Appendix E-2)
either foot in the delivery of the pitch.    windup position within an at-bat only                  If a coach’s challenge is successful
                                             in the event of (1) a substitution(s) by           in overturning a call, the coach will
The Set (9-1-b)                              the offensive team; or (2) immediately             retain the challenge to use if needed
    The first sentence of the rule has       upon the advancement of one or more                later in the game.
been changed to read, “The set position      runners (e.g, after one or more base
shall be indicated when the pitcher          runners advance, but before delivery of            Visual Inspection/Bat Testing (Appendix G)
stands facing the batter with the pivot      the next pitch).”                                      The new Appendix G includes
foot in contact with, and the other foot                                                        guidelines for NCAA bat testing that
in front of, the pitcher’s plate, holding    Rules for Scoreboards, Video and Audio             began with the 2021 season.
the ball in both hands in front of their     (Appendix B, A-4)                                      Divisions II and III were exempt
body and coming to a complete stop.”            An unlimited number of replays                  from the barrel compression testing
    An additional paragraph has              may now be shown at regular speed or               requirement of the bat testing process
been added to read, “With a runner           slow motion only after a play is under             until the 2022 season. Now, all bats used
or runners on base, a pitcher will be        video review and no replays shall be               in competition must undergo the entire
presumed to be pitching from the set         shown once a decision has been made                bat testing procedure and be marked as
position if the pitcher stands with their    by the umpires and/or replay official.             approved with a tamper-proof sticker. 

6 2022 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
BASEBALL 2022

Mechanics Changes
T   he Collegiate Commissioners
    Association (CCA) opted for one
slight mechanics tweak as opposed
to major overhauls when it comes to
mechanics changes for NCAA baseball
umpires during the 2022 season.
    A new optional mechanic in three-
person mechanics allows U3 to return                    LF

to third base and take responsibility
for all plays on the batter-runner
after going out on an uncaught fly                           FLY BALL
ball between the left fielder and the               NO CATCH
                                                                                    BR

foul line. U3 should only return and
recover responsibility on the batter-
runner if U3 can return prior to the
batter-runner acquiring second base.
    On any “trouble” batted balls, U3                                                                              BR

will go out and stay out as a trouble
ball may require additional time to
properly officiate.
                                           an approved NCAA mechanic.                    from one umpire and two bases to two
  The following factors support this          • U3 can return to third base and          umpires and one base, a far preferable
mechanic amendment:                        maximize umpire coverage at second            outcome in the three-umpire system.
                                           and third base whenever possible.                • This eliminates the potential of
    • On any batted ball to the outfield                                                 U1 over-committing toward third base
in U3’s coverage area, U1 will already         With U3 in position at third base:        and being out of position for a play
be coming into the infield to take the         • U1 is relieved from having to           back on the batter-runner at second
batter-runner to second/third base.        take the batter-runner all the way to         base after he initially rounds the base.
    • U1 accepting responsibility for      third base.                                      The new MechaniGram, as shown
the batter-runner into second base is          • Coverage on the play reverts            here, reflects this change. 

Umpire Recruiting and Retention Key
to Game’s Future
I t’s no secret there is an officiating
  shortage across all sports. A variety
of factors have been driving officials
                                           either due to age, physical/mental
                                           health or a variety of other factors,
                                           and it’s imperative that new umpires
                                                                                         coordinator of umpires. “Please take
                                                                                         a moment and reflect upon all the
                                                                                         benefits this avocation has afforded
away from the playing fields in recent     are identified and trained each year to       you, and realize that there is nothing
years, and the effects of the COVID-19     allow the game to continue to thrive.         more important than doing something
pandemic have only added to that               “I have asked the coaching                special for someone and having it go
shortage, with many officials opting       community to encourage their                  completely unnoticed.
out for a season and then choosing not     players to consider officiating once              “Imagine this protégé you
to return.                                 their playing career is over, and now,        introduced to officiating, and
    The game of college baseball has       I am asking you — the officiating             the excitement you have for this
not been immune, with fewer umpires        community — to help identify the              protégé to someday exceed your
now registered to work NCAA games          next generation of people who have            accomplishments, and not just your
at all levels. Each year, a number of      the natural tendency to officiate,” said      expectations.
NCAA umpires work their final game,        George Drouches, the NCAA national                “If you’ve got it, give it.” 
                                                                                                   2022 NCAA Baseball Guide 7
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
Test Yourself
 In each of the following, decide which
 answer(s) is/are correct using the 2022
 NCAA rules.

 1. The current batting lineup is Abel, Baker,
 Charles, Daniel, Edward. Charles, who had
 batted leadoff the entire season, is put in
 the third position for this game. Charles,
 expecting to lead off, bats first (not
 realizing he is listed third) and strikes out.
 Baker comes to bat next and doubles. The
 home team head coach appeals that Baker
 batted out of order.
 a. Rule Baker out and bring Charles up to
    bat again.
 b. Do nothing as this is legal. Baker is the
    second batter on the lineup card and the
    second batter up in the game.
 c. Rule Baker out and bring Daniel up to bat.
 d. Rule Daniel out, remove Baker from
    second and bring Edward up to bat.

 2. The head coach goes to the mound to
 talk to his starting pitcher, which is the         If a pitcher balks during a pickoff attempt, the ball is not immediately dead, and
 first charged conference used during the           several interesting situations can still unfold for an umpire. See question No. 19 for
 game. After the starter gives up a hit to the      an example.
 next batter, the coach replaces the pitcher.
 After the reliever has finished his warmup
 pitches, the pinch hitter is announced.
                                                    a. Dead ball; interference on R1. Both he and     7. An appeal on the last play of the game
 The pitching coach now wants to take a
                                                       B4 are ruled out on the interference and       may be made by the defense:
 timeout to talk to the new relief pitcher.
                                                       R3 returns to third.                           a. While an umpire is still on the field of play.
 a. The first visit to the relief pitcher is
                                                    b. Dead ball; interference on R1. B4 is           b. If all umpires are still on the field of play.
    considered the second trip/conference in
                                                       awarded first and R3 returns to third.         c. Before the pitcher and all infielders leave
    that inning.
                                                    c. Dead ball; interference on R1. Because the        fair territory and the catcher has left the
 b. The coach may visit the relief pitcher
                                                       play happened behind F3, allow both R1            dirt circle around home plate.
    but must remove him after he completes
                                                       and R3 to move up one base.                    d. Can never be made.
    pitching to the first batter.
                                                    d. Ball is live and in play.
 c. The mound conference is legal. The
                                                                                                      8. Jones, the starting designated hitter, is
    coach does not have to remove the relief
                                                    5. B1 is crowding the front edge of the           pinch hit for by Smith, a legal substitute.
    pitcher after he pitches to one batter or
                                                    batter’s box and legally hits the pitch.          a. The role of the designated hitter is now
    the side is retired since this is the coach’s
                                                    His stride through with his swing places             terminated.
    first conference with the new pitcher.
                                                    his front foot on the ground in front and         b. The DH is locked into the position of the
 d. The umpire will deny the request for the
                                                    outside the batter’s box while his back foot         DH and can never be replaced.
    visit to the relief pitcher.
                                                    remains in the box. The batted ball bounces       c. Smith is now the designated hitter.
                                                    up and accidentally hits B1’s front leg.
 3. B1 hits a foul pop-up. As F2 positions
                                                    a. Foul ball.                                     9. It would be a balk if the pitcher, after
 himself to make the catch, B1 screams very
                                                    b. Fair ball.                                     having part of his non-pivot foot pass
 loudly in F2’s ear. F2 drops the ball.
                                                    c. B1 is immediately declared out.                behind the perpendicular plane of the
 a. No problem, legal play.
                                                    d. B1 is awarded first base.                      back edge of the pitcher’s plate, attempted
 b. The play stands, but B1 is warned.
                                                                                                      to pick off the runner at first base.
 c. B1 is out for interference.
                                                    6. With R2 on second base, B3 swings and          a. True.
 d. B1 is out for interference only if the
                                                    misses the pitch for strike two. His follow-      b. False.
    umpire determines B1 affected the play.
                                                    through hits F2 while he is attempting to
                                                    throw out R2, who successfully steals third       10. A batted ball sharply hits the ground
 4. With runners on first and third and one
                                                    base.                                             and rebounds high in the air. It comes
 out, the corner infielders are playing in
                                                    a. There is no interference, the play stands.     down inside the second baseman’s shirt.
 and middle infielders are pinching the
                                                    b. There is no interference, the ball is dead     a. Provided the fielder can pull the ball out
 middle and playing back for the double
                                                       and R2 is returned to second base.                 immediately, it stays live and in play.
 play. B4 hits a ball that goes untouched
                                                    c. This is interference; R2 is declared out.      b. The ball is dead immediately.
 past the first baseman and hits R1 behind
                                                    d. This is interference; both R2 and B3 are       c. The batter is awarded two bases.
 him on its way to right field. R1 is only
                                                       declared out.                                  d. The batter is awarded bases at the
 about three steps off first base when he
                                                    e. This is interference; B3 is declared out and       umpire’s discretion.
 is hit.
                                                       R2 is returned to second base.                 e. Both b and c.
                                                                                                                                                          BOB MESSINA

                                                                                                      f. Both b and d.

8 2022 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
BASEBALL 2022

              11. A pop fly hits the bat which is lying in       17. An obstructed runner who is being            c. An intentional base on balls has been
              foul territory and then touches fair ground.       played on and is returning to a base is             granted.
              a. The ball is deemed to be a fair ball and        awarded:                                         d. All of the above.
                 stays in play.                                  a. The base to which he was returning.
              b. It is a dead ball and the batter is awarded     b. A mandatory two bases.                        23. A runner is attempting to steal third
                 two bases.                                      c. A minimum of one base beyond his              base. The home-plate umpire interferes
              c. The batter is declared out.                        position on base when the obstruction         with the catcher who is attempting to throw
              d. It is a foul ball and immediately dead.            occurred.                                     the ball to third:
                                                                 d. There is no minimum award for an              a. The umpire’s interference results in an
              12. With the runner from second attempting            obstructed runner returning to a base.            immediate dead ball and the runner is
              to advance to third base, the batted ball                                                               returned to second base.
              gets by the third baseman, who was                 18. Jones, while advancing from first to         b. The umpire’s interference results in a
              playing in to defend a possible bunt, and          third, fails to touch second base and is             delayed dead ball and the runner may be
              contacts the runner. The shortstop is not in       standing on third when the throw from the            returned to second base.
              a position to make a play on the ball.             outfield goes into the dugout.                   c. If the catcher’s throw retires the runner, the
              a. The ball is immediately dead.                   a. The umpire is to immediately declare              interference is disregarded.
              b. It is a delayed dead ball.                          Jones out for missing second base.           d. b and c.
              c. The ball stays live and in play.                b. Because Jones missed second base, he
                                                                     cannot be awarded home from the errant       24. The umpires call an infield fly that is
              13. The pitcher, in the windup position, may:          throw to the dugout.                         intentionally dropped.
              a. Deliver a pitch.                                c. If Jones attempts to return to second base,   a. Call time, the batter is out and all runners
              b. Legally step backward off the pitcher’s             the defense cannot appeal his missing           are awarded one base.
                 plate.                                              second until Jones has completed his         b. The ball remains live, the batter is out and
              c. Legally attempt a pickoff at an occupied            opportunity to correct the mistake.             any runners advance at their own risk.
                 base.                                           d. Jones cannot legally return to his missed     c. The ball is dead and the batter is awarded
              d. a and b.                                            base and is subject to being declared out       first base. Any runners advance one base
              e. All of the above.                                   upon proper and successful appeal.              if forced.

              14. The ball is dead immediately and the           19. With the bases loaded and one out, B5        25. An intentional base on balls can be
              batter is out when:                                hits a line drive to the right-field fence. R3   given upon communication from:
              a. He hits the ball fair with part of his foot     and R2 both score, but R1 is thrown out at       a. The head coach of the defensive team.
                 touching home plate and part touching the       home. B5 safely arrives at third, but missed     b. The catcher of the defensive team.
                 line of the batter’s box.                       first base. The defense properly appeals         c. Any coach of the defensive team.
              b. He hits the ball foul with a foot on the        B5’s missing first base.                         d. All of the above.
                 ground completely outside the lines of the      a. Two runs score.
                 batter’s box.                                   b. One run will count.
              c. He bunts the ball fair with his knee            c. No runs will be scored.                       ANSWERS
                 touching the ground completely outside                                                           1. d — 7-11-a-4
                 the lines of the batter’s box.                  20. A player slides into second base and
                                                                                                                  2. c — 9-4-a-1, 9-4-b
              d. b and c.                                        opens a gash on the knee that is bleeding
              e. All of the above.                               profusely.                                       3. c — 2-51, 7-11-f, 8-5-d
                                                                 a. No substitution is required and the player    4. d — 6-2-e Note, 8-2-g, 8-5-k
              15. A defensive charged conference is held            may continue to participate.                  5. a — 7-7-e
              at the pitching mound with the head coach          b. The player must be immediately removed        6. b — 6-2-d
              and all the infielders. The conference is             from the game.                                7. c — 5-8-e, 8-6-b-8
              considered concluded when:                         c. The head coach has 10 minutes from the
                                                                                                                  8. c — 7-2-b-4
              a. One of the players initially starts to return      time play is stopped to decide whether a
                 to his position.                                   substitution in necessary.                    9. b — 9-3-l
              b. The coach leaves the dirt area of the                                                            10. f — 8-3-l
                 pitching mound.                                 21. With the bases empty, B1 swings and          11. d — 2-35-d
              c. The coach leaves the dirt area of the           misses the third strike. The ball lodges         12. c — 8-5-k
                 pitching mound or the pitcher begins his        behind the catcher’s chest protector. While      13. e — 9-1-a
                 warmup pitches.                                 everyone is looking for the ball, B1 touches     14. e — 7-10
              d. The coach crosses the foul line.                first base and advances to second base
                                                                 before the ball is discovered.
                                                                                                                  15. c — 9-4-d
              16. If an illegal player on defense is             a. B1 is out.                                    16. a — 5-5-j-2
              involved in a play, the team on offense            b. B1 is awarded second base.                    17. c — 8-3-e
              has the option to let the play stand or to         c. B1 is awarded only first base.                18. d — 8-6-a Note 2
              allow the batter to bat again, provided the        d. The umpire may declare an out or award        19. c — 5-6-c Exc. 1
              infraction is discovered:                             any base depending upon his judgment of       20. c — 3-9 Note
              a. Prior to a pitch to the next batter of either      the play.                                     21. c — 8-3-k
                 team.                                                                                            22. d — 7-11-a-2
              b. Before the third out of the half-inning is      22. The improper batter becomes the              23. d — 6-3-a
                 declared.                                       proper batter and the results of his time at     24. b — 2-48 Note
              c. Before all infielders cross the foul lines.     bat are legal when no appeal is made and:        25. a — 2-7
              d. Immediately when the play is made.              a. A legal pitch has been delivered to the
              e. There is no option; the illegal player is          next batter.
BOB MESSINA

                 simply removed.                                 b. An illegal pitch has occurred.

                                                                                                                                2022 NCAA Baseball Guide 9
BASEBALL 2022 - NCAA Baseball
Q&A: NCAA Director
   of Umpire Training
Q: Why were you interested in the
position? What drew you to it?

Haze: Well, I really feel, and I felt
this once I heard Tom Hiler’s
announcement that he was stepping
aside from his tenure, that this
would single handedly be one of
the most important hires moving
forward. Tom was doing it for 13
years. And I just felt that in moving
forward and with the advancement
of technology and how much we
are relying on it now, I thought that
I would be able to assist and kind
of tap into some of that technology
piece that maybe we haven’t really
looked into or maybe we’re afraid to
look into just because once we open
that door sometimes it’s hard to go
                                                                        Billy Haze
back. I just felt that in seeing kind of
some of the things that Major League                           NCAA Director of Umpire Training
Baseball has done, and with college
baseball becoming more and more                                                   months. What has been your first
popular and with games becoming            And we’re trying to put content        order of business?
more important, I just thought it          together where, along with the
would be really cool if I could be         coordinators, along with the heads
kind of a pioneer in helping us at the     of the NCAA baseball umpiring          Haze: Getting all my technology was
collegiate level tap into more of those    program, along with the baseball       one of the first things. I took a trip to
resources for the technology.              umpire advisors, we’re making a        Boise, Idaho, and I spent three days
                                           consistent end product that can        with Tom Hiler, and I just wanted
Q: What exactly does being the             go out and do the week-to-week,        to see what technology he had and
director of umpire training for            month-to-month tasks of umpiring       what tools he was using to help
the NCAA entail? What is the job           college baseball throughout the        facilitate the job. We were joined in
description?                               regular season., also in hopes that    the weekend by George (Drouches)
                                           we are educating, mentoring and        as well. And we just sat down and
                                           teaching those people to become our    brainstormed about where the
Haze: Anything that has to do              postseason umpire selections. That’s   program is right now, where the role
with college baseball and baseball         the bottom-line goal.                  of director of umpire training is at
umpires is who your audience is.                                                  right now and where it’s going and
We’re trying to educate and mentor         Q: At the time of this interview,      where we want it to go. And then we
and teach umpires to go out and                                                   kind of just did a blueprint of what
                                                                                                                              BOB MESSINA

                                           you’ve been in the position for two
perform at their highest abilities.                                               the next 30, 60, 90 days was going

10 2022 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2022

              to look like. And obviously what’s       have a solid crew chief that’s going        you’re not, the fact that I’ve gone
              coming up is our material for our        to just navigate that weekend of play.      out there for 12 years representing
              online clinics.                          So that’s one area that I really want       the NCAA and have been very
                                                       to try to focus on is that mentorship       blessed to receive 12 years’ worth of
              Q: What advice did Tom Hiler give        and that teaching of what it looks          postseason assignments … through
              you about the position?                  like to be a solid crew chief at all of     these educational experiences now
                                                       our different levels and how we go          that I’m about ready to take on, I
                                                       about that business and pass that           really hope that in my narration of
              Haze: That you’re going to debate        along.                                      these plays and these experiences
              yourself a lot on your interpretations                                               and the things that I’m trying to get
              of things. Be open to criticisms and     Q: How important is it for there to be      across, whether it’s mechanical or
              other peoples’ opinions on plays         consistency in how things are done          philosophies, that it’s believable.
              and things, and how we may change        at the NCAA Division I level all the        Because I have done that, and I hope
              things or maybe we don’t change                                                      that I did it at a high level. And that
                                                       way down to Division III baseball
              things. And be open to the fact that                                                 gains that credibility. As the director
              you may have an idea or a plan that      and making sure umpires who are             of umpire training for the NCAA,
              you think is great, you really want      coming up through the ranks are             I would hope that the masses that
              to execute it, but you may come          doing things the same way as guys           are out there don’t just look at it and
              to the realization from others and       who are going to Omaha?                     go, yuck, this guy is ego-driven. I
              their input that it might not be the                                                 hope they look at it as a guy that has
              best route to take, and don’t feel       Haze: I think it’s extremely                been there, done that and has done it
              bad about that. Feel good in the fact    important. You hear all the time            recently, and that I feel you. 
              that you brought something to the        just be consistent, all we want is
              table you think could possibly be        consistency. The strike zone is going
              adjusted, and it may not work out.       to vary from guy to guy because
                                                       each person has their own kind of                  NCAA Umpiring
              Q: You’ve been involved in               little bit of interpretation of it. But I           Coordinators
              umpire education and training            feel that if we understand when we                          Division I
              for many years. What do you feel         go into a contest that as long as it is                 George Drouches
              is the biggest area for umpire           what we’ve established from the first                    P.O. Box 27641
                                                       couple of innings, the first couple                 Golden Valley, MN 55427
              improvement going forward?                                                                  georgedrouches@gmail.com
                                                       of batters, and it maintains itself                     612-432-5351 (C)
                                                       throughout the contest, we tend to
              Haze: I think if I could focus           stay out of it a little bit. We don’t                       Division II
              on anything it would be game             really get pushback. So I just feel                        Scott Taylor
                                                                                                            1901 N. Emerson Avenue
              management and crew chiefing.            if we can strive to be as consistent                  Indianapolis, IN 46218
              I want to make sure that we are          as possible I think it’s important.                   d2umpires@gmail.com
              mentoring, guiding and teaching          But it’s not just about the balls and                   317-507-6233 (C)
              our next crop of crew chiefs. We’ve      strikes. It’s about the consistency
                                                                                                                  Division III
              got a really great group of senior,      of the body language. It’s the                            Don Umland
              established crew chiefs at the           consistency about the mannerisms.                        101 Muhs Circle
              Division I level especially. And         It’s the consistency about how we                      Eldridge, IA 52748
              those guys are getting older, and        interact with people. They want                      donumland@yahoo.com
                                                                                                              563-340-3825 (C)
              they don’t have as many years            that consistency. They want that
              remaining. So I want to make             level of professionalism. They want                Director of Umpire Training
              sure that we’re taking those guys,       approachability. They want to be                            Billy Haze
              utilizing their talents and abilities    able to ask us questions. There’s no                    6079 Puerto Drive
                                                                                                          Rancho Murieta, CA 95683
              and their experiences, and we’re         harm in that.                                      billyhaze0809@gmail.com
              passing it on to that next generation                                                            916-690-7082 (C)
              of officials. Because, man, that is a    Q: How does your own on-field
              big-time role, and especially during                                                           Secretary-Rules Editor
                                                       career as a longtime NCAA umpire                           Randy Bruns
              the regular season, getting through      help you in this role?                              3725 NE Otter Creek Drive
              a big conference weekend is critical.                                                            Ankeny, IA 50021
BOB MESSINA

              And then you think about getting                                                                rbruns11@gmail.com
              into the postseason, and it’s vital to   Haze: Whether you’re a fan of me or                     319-240-0403 (C)

                                                                                                            2022 NCAA Baseball Guide 11
Extra Innings
                  I    thought the title
                       for this article was
                                              true tomorrow. The preponderance of
                                              evidence does, however, point to the           I have been
                     appropriate given
                     what is going on with
                                              value of vaccinations, which I would
                                              recommend, and the value of masking,           disappointed at
                     COVID that has just
                     gone on and on and
                                              even for the vaccinated. The medical
                                              evidence seems so clear in that regard         times with the
                                                                                             misguidance,
                     we want to end. Early    that I can only come to believe that
                     in the pandemic, even    most are holding out because they

                                                                                             usually well
   Dr. Douglas J. though I am an opti-        feel like they are being pushed into
           Ramos mist, I would quote          something. That is human nature. The

                                                                                             intended, that
                     Winston Churchill        two things we can do to make each
 Former Chair of the to those who had an      other and ourselves safer is vaccination
   NCAA Committee
                     unrealistic view as to   and masking.
     on Competitive
    Safeguards and where we were in the
 Medical Aspects of pandemic. That quote
                                                   As we think about what each of us
                                              should do, the thought should really
                                                                                             has been given.
             Sports was “it is not the end,   be what is best for those around me. It
                     nor the beginning        is true an individual has the possibility
of the end, but it may be the end of          of an adverse reaction to the vaccine,
the beginning.” Where are we now?             but if we look at the whole population,        Umpires are in this category in my
I will tell you we are not at the end         as a group or society we will have less        opinion. Though most of you are male,
and maybe we are at the beginning of          illness and deaths the more we are all         you can get a booster if pregnant.
the end. One of the many great things         vaccinated.                                    If you got the Johnson and Johnson
about baseball is that time can never              As it pertains to masks, there still is   version, get a booster after two
run out, but that’s a bad thing when it       a role for the vaccinated to wear them.        months, and if you got Moderna or
comes to COVID. In baseball a come-           The possibility exists that if vaccinated      Pfizer you can get it at six months.
back is always possible and that is true      you may not even know you are                      We all look forward to spring and
with COVID.                                   carrying the virus and may transmit            baseball, particularly those of us who
    By the way, the longest game in           it in the absence of that awareness if         can’t play outside 12 months a year.
MLB history was in 1920, ending in a          the vaccine is working effectively. As         There is so much to address in these
1-1 tie between the Brooklyn Robins           we head indoors in some parts of the           times. I worry about all of our mental
and Boston Braves after 26 innings.           country and vaccine immunity starts to         and physical health, the increased risk
That game was called, according to the        wane, and with the potential for new           for those with addictive behaviors and
New York Times, when umpire Barry             variants, cases could go up again, and         the risk for self-harm for those with
McCormick remembered he had a                 that has also led to the importance of         depression. This is the time we need
beefsteak dinner waiting. He held up          booster shots.                                 each other more than ever.
his hand in the dark, thought it looked            As it pertains to the booster shot, I         There is reason to be hopeful and
like a Virginia ham, it made him think        need to make a few comments about.             have realistic positivity. We are in a
about food, so he called the game             All people over 18 who received the            much better position than we were a
on account of darkness. Well, I will          Johnson and Johnson vaccine are now            year ago. Don’t fatigue; stay the course
concede that a good meal after a game         eligible for a booster, and many who           for yourself and others. Like in extra
with your comrades and the beverage           received Moderna or Pfizer should get          innings, make your calls just as good
of your choice is about as good as it         a booster. In general, at nine months          in the 26th inning as you did in the
gets.                                         vaccine effectiveness drops to about           first inning.
    Politicians, doctors and the              50 percent effectiveness from a high               Be well and God bless you my
general public have all been guilty of        of 90 percent. If you are over 65, get         great umpire friends. 
misinformation and influencing the            a booster. Under 65 with a serious
narrative. As a medical community             illness like diabetes, heart disease or
I have been disappointed at times             high blood pressure, get a booster.
with the misguidance, usually well            Smoke, used to smoke or alcoholism,
intended, that has been given. Keep in        get a booster. If you are over 18 and
mind this is still evolving, so what we       at risk due to your job (i.e., educators,
think to be true today may not be as          health care, police, etc.), get a booster.

12 2022 NCAA Baseball Guide
BASEBALL 2018
                                                                                                                                                                                                                BASEBALL 2022

NCAA Misconduct Penalties
          Type of Offense                          Offender                   Consequence for First Offense                      Consequence for Second Offense                      Consequence for Third Offense        Rule Ref.
          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
Unsportsmanlike        conduct or             Assistant  coach,                 a one-game suspension                           Ejection   frominpresent contest plus a
    umpire or an opponent                        personnel                 Ejection from present contest plus                      individual    the same  season
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
language directed toward an                      Head coach                                                                               Same as first offense                              Same as first offense          2-26-f
Unsportsmanlike        conduct or                                                    - no suspension
    umpire or an opponent                                                   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
Unsportsmanlike        conduct or            Player                             a four-game suspension
    umpire or an opponent                     that ofwhose   last
                                                      a pitcher            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
      Game or     an opponent
              Misconduct—                      that of a pitcher
             removing                                                       Ejection from the present contest
      Game                                       Head coach                                                                               Same as first offense                              Same as first offense         5-15-b
 team   from Misconduct—
               the field; refusing                                          plus a two-game (2) suspension
           toremoving
               continue                           Head coach
                                                                            Ejection from the present contest
                                                                                                                                           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
    Prolonged                                                                Two-game suspension added to
   or excessiveorexpressions
                     continued                                                                                                                                                                                             2-26-h;
 arguing,   offensive    language              Any participant              the present accumulative total for                            Same as first offense                              Same as first offense
     directed    at an umpire                                                 Two-gamesuspension
                                                                                         suspensionpenalties
                                                                                                    added to                                                                                                              5-15-a (4)
   or                                                                        applicable
    orexcessive
       game officialexpressions
                        after an                Any participant              the present accumulative total for                            Same as first offense                               Same as first offense
                                                                                                                                                                                                                             2-26-h;
     directed    at an umpire
              ejection                                                                                                                                                                                                      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
              Fighting                         Any participant                                                                                                        for the remainder of the season,                     5-16-a
                                                                                         suspension                                   team’s next five contests            Ejection plus a suspension
                                                                                                                                                                     including postseason competition
                                                                                  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
                                                                                                                                                                         Ejection plus  a suspension
                                                                                                                                                                                    competition
                                               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
                                                                                                                                                                           Ejection  plus a postseason
                                                                                                                                                                                            suspension
                                               Any coach
                                                    participant                                                                                                                   competition
      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
 Leaving dugout or bullpen at                    Player(s) or                                                                                                                       competition
                                                                           Ejection from present contest plus
    the time of a potential                   team personnel                                                                            Same as first offense               Same as first offense                          5-16-c
                                                                                a one-game suspension                                                                                                                         5-16-c,
      altercation
     Leaving      or fight
              position  to                  (excluding coaches)              Four-game suspension after the                      Suspended for the remainder of the
                                               Any participant                                                                                                                          N/A                                   Penalty
    participate in a fight                                                               ejection                                               season
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               (1), (5)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                           5-16-c,
      Leaving position to                                                   Four-game suspension after the                      Suspended for the remainder of the
                                               Any participant                                                                                                                                       N/Aa suspension
                                                                                                                                                                                         Ejection plus                     Penalty
      participate in a fight                                                               ejection                                             season
                                                                                Ejection plus a four-game                            Ejection plus an eight-game                            for the remainder of the        (1), (5)
                                                                           suspension. The head coach is not                       suspension. The head coach is                      season, including postseason.
                                                                                                                                                                                       Ejection plus a suspension
  Intentionally throwing at a                 Pitcher, or pitcher           ejected  if no warning is given. If a
                                                                               Ejection plus a four-game
                                                                                                                                 notEjection
                                                                                                                                      ejectedplus
                                                                                                                                               if noanwarning  has been
                                                                                                                                                       eight-game
                                                                                                                                                                                          If no warning is given, the
                                                                                                                                                                                         for the remainder of the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          5-16-d, (1),
            batter                             and head coach               warning hasThe
                                                                          suspension.       been  given,
                                                                                               head       theishead
                                                                                                      coach      not             given.  If a warning
                                                                                                                                  suspension.           has coach
                                                                                                                                                 The head    been given,
                                                                                                                                                                   is                    headincluding
                                                                                                                                                                                     season,     coach is postseason.
                                                                                                                                                                                                           not ejected.     (2), (3)
  Intentionally throwing at a                Pitcher, or pitcher            coach   is
                                                                           ejected if noejected  from
                                                                                           warning   is that game
                                                                                                        given.  If a               the  head   coach   is ejected
                                                                                                                                not ejected if no warning has beenand                     If a warning  is issued,
                                                                                                                                                                                       If no warning is given, the  the 5-16-d, (1),
            batter                            and head coach                  and  suspended      for one
                                                                           warning has been given, the headgame                        suspended     for one  game
                                                                                                                                given. If a warning has been given,                      head    coach is  ejected
                                                                                                                                                                                       head coach is not ejected.   and   (2), (3)
                                                                             coach is ejected from that game                      the head coach is ejected and                        If suspended
                                                                                                                                                                                           a warning isfor  one game
                                                                                                                                                                                                         issued,  the
                                                                               and suspended for one game                            suspended for one game                             head coach is ejected and
                                             Any participant or                                                                 When verbal abuse/bench jockeying                        suspended for one game
                                                                            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
                                             Any     than head
                                                 participant or                                                                 (no suspension).
                                                                                                                               When               All others
                                                                                                                                      verbal abuse/bench      ejection
                                                                                                                                                           jockeying
                                                                                          suspension
                                                                           After a warning,   offender is ejected
    Verbal abuse/bench                        gamecoach
                                                    personnel                                                                        plus one
                                                                                                                                continues,     game
                                                                                                                                            head     suspension
                                                                                                                                                 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
  Failure to leave sight and                                                             suspension
                                                   coach                                                                            plus one-game suspension
  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
  Failure             after
          to leave sight    an
                          and                                               any penalties already accumulated                                                                                                                2 and 3
            ejection                                                        Three-game suspension added to                                                                                                               3-6-d, Note
sound of the  playing field and                Any participant                                                                            Same as first offense                              Same as first offense
                                                                           any penalties already accumulated                                                                                                               2 and 3
grandstands after an ejection
                                                                            Ejection from the present contest.
         Collision rule                              Player                                                                                Same as first offense                              Same as first offense            8-7
                                                                           Ejection   from
                                                                                    One     the suspension
                                                                                         game   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                    Player or team
                                               personnel   and              Ejected
                                                                           one       from
                                                                                  game     present contest
                                                                                         suspension          plus
                                                                                                     for everyone                          Same as first offense                              Same as first offense           3-11
   Ejection for tobacco use                    personnel  and
                                                 head coach                one-game
                                                                                  other suspension  forcoach
                                                                                        than the head   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                     Ejection from   next   scheduled
                                              Assistant coach,               Ejection  fromsuspension.
                                                                                             next contestThese
                                                                                                            plus                      contest  plus   a three  game
                                             Assistant  coach,                a one game                                            contest for
                                                                                                                                              plusa atotal
                                                                                                                                                       three-game
 Post-participation ejection                 player  (other  than            atwo
                                                                                one-game   suspension.                          suspension                 of four games.                                                    2-26-c;
 Post-participation                                                                games will   be addedThese
                                                                                                           to any                                                                            Same as second offense
for unsportsmanlikeejection
                     conduct                 player (other
                                             a pitcher)     than
                                                        or team                                                                suspension
                                                                                                                                 These fourfor  a totalwill
                                                                                                                                              games      of four games.
                                                                                                                                                            be added    to                                                 2-26-c; D
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Appendix
for unsportsmanlike conduct                  a pitcher) or team            other applicable penalties forany
                                                                            two   games   will be added   to  other             These  four games     will be  added to
                                                                                                                                                                                            Same as second offense
                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Appendix D
                                                  personnel                other applicable    penalties for other                any other  applicable    penalties  for
                                                 personnel                                 offenses                              any other applicable     penalties for
                                                                                          offenses                                          other offenses
                                                                                                                                           other offenses
                                                                           Ejected from team’s next game-No                                                                                                                  2-26-c;
  Post-participation ejection                    Head coach                Ejected fromSuspension
                                                                                        team’s next game-No                                Same as first offense                              Same as first offense        2-26-c; D
  Post-participation ejection                    Head coach                                                                               Same as first offense                              Same as first offense        Appendix
                                                                                       Suspension                                                                                                                        Appendix D
                                             Player whose last
  Post-participation ejection                Player
  Post-participation                          listed whose
                                                      positionlast
                                                                 is         A total suspension of four games                               Same as first offense                              Same as first offense          2-26-e
        for a pitcherejection                listed
        for a pitcher                          that ofposition
                                                       a pitcheris          A total suspension of four games                              Same as first offense                              Same as first offense         2-26-e
                                              that of a pitcher
Possession or use of any foreign
Note 1: It is the responsibility of the institution’s Head Coach and Director of Athletics to administer and enforce any suspension penalties.
 substance or moisture applied                                    Ejection plus four-game                  Ejection plus four-game                Ejection plus four-game            9-2-e
Note 2: Suspension penalties, regardlessPitcher
                                            of the number, shall be served during the offending team’s next scheduled contest(s). Post-participation ejections and any applicable suspension
  to the hand or fingers, or do                                          suspension                               suspension
penalties shall also be served during the offending team’s next scheduled   contest(s). Conferences and institutions may choose to implement additionalsuspension
                                                                                                                                                          penalties for misconduct.
   anything to  deface  the ball
Note 3: A listing of ejection and suspension procedures is contained in Appendix D.
Note1:4:It is
Note       Several     of the rule
              the responsibility of thereferences      listed
                                        institution’s Head    have
                                                           Coach and been   updated
                                                                     Director            from
                                                                              of Athletics      those on
                                                                                           to administer andpages    26-28
                                                                                                             enforce any     of the penalties.
                                                                                                                         suspension   current NCAA Baseball - 2017 and 2018                 Rules book. The penalties remain unchanged.
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.

                                                                                                                                                                                              2018 NCAA Baseball Guide 7
                                                                                                                                                                                             2022 NCAA Baseball Guide 13
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