Dropped 3rd strike verbal interference call

[Crabby_Bob]

For the record, the ASA rulebook doesn't specify the word "verbal" as NFHS apparently does.

Rule 1 - Definitions
Interference: The act of an offensive player, or team member, umpire, or spectator, that impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player attempting to execute a play. Contact is not necessary.

Even though it doesn't specifically mention the word "verbal", you may get different opinions from umpires on what constitutes "confusion".

Suggest you also refer to the RS#33 Interference, which DOES specifically mention "verbal".

There is also a definition of coaches' interference; and that DOESN'T include verbalizing instructions to runners, even if that instruction might lead the defense to do something stupid. The defensive team's coaches have the responsibility to COACH their team, including telling their catcher when the dropped third strike rule applies and when it doesn't.

Agree. In the definition, it is the "act" that impedes, hinders, or confuses a defensive player that we're concerned about. The "act" could be physical, verbal (spoken), even visual.

The dropped third strike is so common that players really should know the rule and play accordingly. DMC.

[Softbald Dad]

Under the play you’ve described you have a double play. Interference was called on the coach. The batter was retired on strike 3 so she is considered a retired batter and is already out. Now we have the Interference call to deal with. The runner closest to home is out and all remaining runners must return to the base they occupied at the time of the interference call.

Hope this helps

[MTR]

Under the play you’ve described you have a double play. Interference was called on the coach. The batter was retired on strike 3 so she is considered a retired batter and is already out. Now we have the Interference call to deal with. The runner closest to home is out and all remaining runners must return to the base they occupied at the time of the interference call.

Hope this helps

That would be a bad call. There is no INT

[just4fun]

Under the play you’ve described you have a double play. Interference was called on the coach. The batter was retired on strike 3 so she is considered a retired batter and is already out. Now we have the Interference call to deal with. The runner closest to home is out and all remaining runners must return to the base they occupied at the time of the interference call.

Hope this helps

That would be a bad call. There is no INT

It would be a bad call, but it is still the result if the umpire calls interference.

[MTR]

Under the play you’ve described you have a double play. Interference was called on the coach. The batter was retired on strike 3 so she is considered a retired batter and is already out. Now we have the Interference call to deal with. The runner closest to home is out and all remaining runners must return to the base they occupied at the time of the interference call.

Hope this helps

That would be a bad call. There is no INT

It would be a bad call, but it is still the result if the umpire calls interference.

Without a doubt, right up until the time the UIC upholds the protest.