Coach doesn't know proper batter

[Replacematt]

This did not happen to me, but is driven by this thread: http://umpire-empire.com/index.php/topic/58916-double-play-called-on-interference-of-foul-ball/

 

So, let's say that the foul-ball interference results in the third out, with Able at bat. An inning later:

 

1. OC asks if Able or Baker should lead off the inning; or

2. Baker leads off, and DC asks you if he is the correct batter.

 

In 1, do you answer? In 2, do you consider this an appeal?

[afaber12]

If a coach asks me a serious question I'm not going to just not answer. (Rhetorical questions trying to get a rise out of me may be a different thing, but even then there's likely to be some sort of "knock it off".) In this type of situation, it would depend on the level being played: at low/young levels I'll answer as best I can, but if its low/young enough it might have been some time ago and I may have forgotten. At more competitive levels I'd expect the OC to question/clarify when the play occurs about who's out, but if he leaves it till the next inning I'm much more likely to give a more generic "The guy due up is whoever follows the last guy to complete his at bat."

 

As far as the DC is concerned, I don't require him to use magic words, a secret handshake or anything like that for a BOO appeal (or any other appeal for that matter). Now depending on what he actually says I might need to clarify what it is he's asking, but once its clear I'll treat it as an appeal, and check with my partner(s)/the scorer(s) and rule as needed.

[Chip]

1. I get similar questions from coaches at lower levels all the time. Runner gets thrown out for the third out, and they'll ask if the guy at the plate comes up again next inning (probably just to demonstrate how little they know about the rules). Whether they ask that at the time or the start of their next at bat, I'll answer in terms of providing a rules clarification for them.

 

2. If DC asks me while the player is at the plate, I will treat it as an appeal. If they ask between innings who the appropriate batter would be, I would answer just as I would for OC.

[noumpere]

I agree -- answer the questions..

[maven]

Yes, and yes.

[Rich Ives]

This did not happen to me, but is driven by this thread: http://umpire-empire.com/index.php/topic/58916-double-play-called-on-interference-of-foul-ball/

 

So, let's say that the foul-ball interference results in the third out, with Able at bat. An inning later:

 

1. OC asks if Able or Baker should lead off the inning; or

2. Baker leads off, and DC asks you if he is the correct batter.

 

In 1, do you answer? In 2, do you consider this an appeal?

 

1.  Logical question if it was unclear who was called out - batter or runner.

 

2. He doesn't know who was called out either.  (If he does then it's a stupid time to appeal.)

 

Sounds like no one knows who was called out. It's a pretty uncommon play so it's not surprising.