Fly ball on infield dropped and double play turned

Question
QUESTION: Recently, we were playing in an ASA Slowpitch men's league game. There was one out with a runner on first (No IF in affect). The batter hits a high fly ball to the shortstop and does not run to first, simply stands near home plate. The shortstop lets the ball hit his glove drop to his feet and turns a double play. The play was called illegal because the shortstop "baited" the runners, however our opinion was that the runners weren't "baited" because the runner at home never ran, therefore causing the runner at first to be in a vulnerable position. Had the batter ran then there would have been no advantage given to the defense by dropping the ball. I was wondering what the "official rule" is on this. I know the rules for high school and college hardball, but was unclear on ASA. It seems that if this is a rule then it seemingly rewards players for lack of hustle. (Run everything out)

ANSWER: Hi Kevin,

I've never heard of a rule or penalty is ASA for "baiting" the offense.  I guess if the defense became real good at it they could be master b......oh,never mind I shouldn't go there.

OK, ASA has very strict rules on intentionally dropping a line drive or fly ball, other orgs are less strict.  In ASA you must actually catch the ball and then drop it. Allowing it to drop or guiding the ball to the ground is not an IDB.

In ASA this is a legit play by the defense as long as F6 did not catch the ball.  If that's the case the umpire was incorrect in not allowing the DP to stand.  The umpire was also incorrect in "baiting" whatever that is. Remember the "P" word can be your friend. It's either an IDB and those rules apply or it isn't.  

Mark

ps I would call the DP if at all possible for the b-r being lazy.  You never know what's going to happen on a play.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Another Quick Question. Runner at third hit with a line drive while standing on base. Is this a dead ball situation, the batter awarded the base and runners remain as similar to an umpire getting hit.

Answer
Hi Kevin,

In ASA if a fair ball and if the closest defensive player is behind the base it is a dead ball, b-r is awarded 1st and other runners advance only if forced.  If the closest defensive player is in front of the base it is simply a live ball.  In no case is the runner out unless they intentionally interfere.

nsa and u-trip have different rules.


Mark