MLB Rules

Expert Analysis

Plate Umpire Interference: Rule 6.01 (f)

Topics: Umpire Interference

A rule that seldom occurs involves plate umpire interference. There are only two umpires that can be called for interference-the second base umpire when he is positioned on the infield side in front of second base in front of the infielders and is struck by a batted ball, and the plate umpire when he impedes…

Expert Analysis

Runner Can’t Return to Touch a Missed Base After a Following Runner has Scored

Topics: Runners

The Padres and Braves met on April 8, 2023. In the top of the fourth inning, San Diego had Ha-Seong Kim on second base and Rougned Odor on third and one out when Trent Grisham hit a ground ball to Matt Olson at first base. Olson’s throw to the plate skipped past catcher Travis d’Arnaud….

Expert Analysis

Yankees vs Guardians Time Play

Topics: Time Play

The April 12th, 2023 Yankees-Guardians game was marked by controversy that led to the ejection of Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone and a 10-minute delay. Here is what happened. In the bottom of the first, the Indians had Steven Kwan on third and Jose Ramirez on second and one out when Josh Naylor hit a flare…

Expert Analysis

Time Play 2023

Topics: Time Play

The Marlins and Mets played at Citi Field on April 7, 2023. In the bottom of the seventh, the Mets had Mark Canha on third and Eduardo Escobar on first with one out when Tomás Nido, facing Tanner Scott, lofted a fly to left field that was caught by Jesús Sánchez. Canha tagged-up at third…

Expert Analysis

The Right of Way

Topics: Expert Analysis

It’s imperative that players on both sides of the ball understand when they have the “Right of Way.” When a fielder is attempting to make a play, the runner must avoid him. And  when a defensive player does not have possession of the ball, or is not in the act of receiving a throw, the…

Expert Analysis

Protective Netting Issues

Topics: Expert Analysis

The Guardians and Mariners played at T-Mobile Park on August 28, 2022. In the bottom of the fifth, the M’s had runners on first and third with two outs when Dylan Moore hit a pop fly in foul territory near the netting on the outfield side of the first base dugout. Guardians’ first baseman Owen…

Expert Analysis

2022 MLB Examples of Obstruction

Topics: Obstruction

Beginning 2024, pro rules (OBR, MLB) will no longer allow a fielder who is not in possession of the ball to block a base (1B, 2B, 3B) or impede a runner. It will be enforced similar to the Home Plate Collision Rule.  New Rule Explained Here: https://baseballrulesacademy.com/obstruction-enforcement-at-all-bases-in-2024/   The Nats hosted the Phils on June…

Expert Analysis

Rapid Fire Rules Questions with MLB Umpire Greg Gibson

Topics: Expert Analysis

MLB umpire Greg Gibson joins Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Chris Welsh for a series of rapid fire rules questions to help you better understand the rules of baseball in a fun way.

Expert Analysis

If a Pitcher Crosses the Foul Line, He Must Pitch to the First Batter

Topics: Expert Analysis, Pitcher, Rules Changes, Rules Controversy

Rule 5.10 (i) reads, “If a pitcher who is already in the game crosses the foul line on his way to take his place on the pitcher’s plate to start an inning, he shall pitch to the first batter until such batter is put out or reaches first base, unless the batter is substituted for,…

Expert Analysis

What Happened to the Baseline?

Topics: Baseline, Expert Analysis

Major League Baseball rules have changed and there is no such thing as a “baseline” anymore. Major League Umpire, Greg Gibson and Cincinnati Reds broadcaster, Chris Welsh explain how the rule is now about the runners “basepath” in a simple and easy to follow video.

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