This is the sixth in a series of 2018 season weekly softball umpire bulletins. We will cover issues pertinent to softball including, but not limited to, game issues, rule interpretations, etc. This issue will cover items observed during games.
ILLEGAL PITCH: Per Rule 6-1-1 Penalty, states “… The batter is awarded a ball and baserunners are awarded one base without liability to be put out.” This rule has not changed. However, we continue to receive complaints from coaches concerning umpires not giving a base to base runners. You are responsible for knowing the rules. If you do not know the rules you do not need to be on the field. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME IN SIX WEEKS WE HAVE HAD TO COVER THIS POINT. It is time umpires start enforcing the rule correctly.
ARTIFICIAL NOISEMAKERS: Artificial noisemakers are not allowed in the dugout. Players cannot use buckets as drums by hitting them with their hands or other item.
JEWELRY: This is the second time we are coving this issue. Rule 3-2-12 prohibits players from wearing any type of jewelry, including cloth and string types. Umpires have been seen allowing players to wear cloth friendship bracelets. This is considered jewelry and cannot be worn. It is your job to enforce the rule as written. There is nothing in the jewelry rule open to interpretation. The rule is clear – NO JEWELRY OF ANY TYPE. The only exceptions are religious medals and medical alert medals, both of which must be taped. You cannot wear tape over earrings. The earring must be removed or the player cannot play.
