UmpInVA

Sometimes they just want to leave. Sounds like you showed them the path.

As former MLB umpire Jim Evans says "What's an umpire's worst enemy? Surprise!" Now that it's happened, learn from it.

It's all about judgment. You judged the contact as malicious and enforced the rule. When I see malicious I enforce the rule also.

After blowing the call, I doubt the coaches would care about the pain you feel. Wasted time, wasted steps wasted effort.

If the tag is made before the BR gets to the 45, it's the PU's call. Tag after the 45 should go to the BU.

You are not wrong. A follow up question to your partner could have been: How many other rules do you not enforce because of personal preference?

Depends on the state, Virginia does not allow high school protests. You may have stumbled into a correct call if your state does allow protests.

Set the rat traps early and often.