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Online now: 2 members: Jkline719, TABLE SETTER 11; 87 anonymousDiscussion: A pitched ball hits the strike mat
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| April 1, 2022 Schwaz 7 posts | A pitched ball hits the strike mat Our recreation league umpires itself so, we have very few experienced umpires. We utilize both a strike mat and a pitching screen, additional safety equipment is optional. A pitched ball hits the strike mat and then bounces a few feet up in the air, batter swings and makes contact with the ball. The ball dribbles towards the infield, defensive team throws ball to first and believes he is out. What is the correct call? Since the ball hits the strike mat it is a strike, but I believe it should be a dead ball and NO further play can be made. If it went over the outfield fence would it be a homerun? If the pitched ball first hits the ground (in front of the strike mat), then bounces and batter swings and makes contact, is it live? I don't have a current copy of the USA Umpires Manual, but I'm a former SSUSA & ASA umpire and want to make sure of the correct call going forward. Thanks, Jack |
| April 1, 2022 DaveDowell Men's 70 4312 posts | DEAD BALL STRIKE ... Here's the rule ... §7.4 • STRIKE CALLED BY UMPIRE A. For each legally pitched ball hitting the strike mat before touching the ground and the batter does not swing. Any pitched ball that hits the ground or strike mat cannot be legally swung at by the batter. NOTE: If the batter swings and misses the pitch prior to the ball hitting the plate or mat it is a strike. EFFECT: The ball is dead. |
| April 1, 2022 Schwaz 7 posts | DaveDowell thanks, much appreciated. I just found the same Rule on our Message Board from Nov 21. Jack |
