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Softball Case Book Correction - 2011

Page 43 – Situation 6.3.2 A: Add the word “not” in the last sentence as noted below.

6.3.2 SITUATION A: (F.P.) In an effort to deliberately walk a batter without having to throw a pitch (a) F1 intentionally violates the 20-second rule by not delivering a pitch, or (b) F2 does not return the ball directly to F1 , but instead throws the ball to another fielder. RULING: The spirit of the rules is being violated in (a) and (b). The umpire shall warn the coach of the defensive team and if the act is repeated, the violator shall be ejected. Whether or not runners are on base, a ball shall not be awarded the batter. (3-6-13c, 6-2-3)

COMMENT: This particular case play was first put in the case book in 1994 with a ruling that stated, “a ball shall NOT be awarded.” In 2000, the word “NOT” was removed – no editorial change was listed and no asterisk (*) was placed next to the play indicating a change. The current ruling contradicts Rule 6-3-2 Penalty Exception, which states that a ball shall not be awarded to the batter when the rule is being intentionally violated in order to walk the batter without throwing a pitch. The NFHS Softball Rules Committee will review this situation in June at its annual meeting to determine what, if any, other editorial changes need to occur.

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