Batted Ball Contact with Runner: Rule Clarification

QuestionI just saw a game in where a batted ball hit the first base runner on his way to second. i thought the proper call was a dead ball, runner is out

Understanding Balk Calls in Baseball: Rules and Appeals

QuestionWe had runners on first and third with 2 outs. The third base coach decided to steal the runner on third. The runner on third broke to the plate. T

Cal Ripken 12U Baseball: Defensive Strategy in Foul Territory

Question My sons team played in their state tournament this past weekend. Their classification is Cal Ripken 12 year old 70 foot. Theyve played under those

Dropped Third Strike Play: Rule Analysis & Batter Rights

QuestionI need your input on this play. In the 15 year old level, with the bases loaded, 2 outs, the batter checked his swing with two strikes. The catcher

Balk Rules & Defensive Strategies: Right-Handed Pitcher to Second Base

QuestionIs it a balk if a right handed pitcher lifts his leg and throws back to second base? AnswerHey John, Not automatically. The best way, is to spin

Little League: Catcher Obstruction - Scoring & Rules

QuestionMy son plays Little League.  During an at-bat, he was obstructed by the catcher, hitting the catchers glove prior to hitting the ball in play.

Slow Pitch Eligibility: Player Substitutions and Game Credit

QuestionQUESTION: Martin, This is similiar to the question and answer below, but a little different. We play in a league that requires players to make 8 g

Slapping vs. Driving a Baseball: Understanding the Difference

Questionwhat is the deffence betreen slapping and driveng the baseball? AnswerJames, Sorry for the late reply, my vacation had lasted longer than expected

Drop Third Strike Rule Explained: Scenarios & Clarifications

QuestionTwo parter:  1) is a pitch in the dirt and batter swings and the catcher catches it clean off one bounce, is that considered a drop third stri

Decoding Pitch Movement: How to Read Ball Seams to Identify Pitches

QuestionWhen a pitcher that I am facing has a curveball or any other pitch that has movement, the coach tells us to watch the seams of the ball. How do you

Recovering Pitch Speed After Injury: A Guide for Young Athletes

QuestionQUESTION: I am 13 years old, and last year I blew out my arm? Now this year, the fastest I can throw the the ball is 55- 60 mph compared to 68-70 m

Mastering the Slurve Pitch: Grip, Technique & Practice Tips

QuestionHey dennis, Im going to an all-star tourney in about a week and i need to practice my slurve. The problem is its coming out like a circle change c

National Baseball Congress Rules Compliance & Game Situation

QuestionOur league rules are in accordance with National Baseball Congress for 13 year olds.  Our league states that the bat can only be a -8.5 or les

Advanced Baseball Coaching Resources: Hitting, Fielding & Pitching

QuestionJohn- I have been coaching baseball for the past 7 years and next year look forward to coaching a 12U elite travel team in Illinois.  I am als

Lineup Errors & Umpire Decisions: Protecting Your Child's Game

Question8 under boys--my sons team was home team and coach neglected to put a child on line up card.This was not caught or challenged until 3 or 4 batters

Little League Umpires: Age and Requirements - Tournament Rules

QuestionFor All Star games are the Umpires suppose to be adults in proper atire or can they be teenagers umping the game. AnswerDawn, This is from the Li

Error vs. Fielding Error: Shortstop to First Base Plays

QuestionIf an infielder (15-16 y-olds) picks-up a ground ball at shortstop which is otherwise a regular routine play and then on-hops it to the 1st baseman

MLB Rule: Scoring on a Rundown After a Missed 3rd Strike - Umpire Decision

QuestionThe situation is 2 outs, 2 strikes on the batter, runners on 2nd and 3rd. The pitch is in the dirt and the batter checks his swing. The home plate

Bratt Bat Drills: Maximizing Timing & Reaction

QuestionCould you recommend specific drills for the bratt bat? Thank you AnswerBrian,    The bratts bat can be done with any drill.  

Getting Noticed: How to Attract Baseball Scouts to Your Players

Questionhow can I get baseball scouts to look at a young player I have a 19 year old  team and the other day I was short a player I brang up a 15 year