Question: In high school baseball and softball, when does umpire jurisdiction begin? In parking lot, upon arrival on field of play or at pre-game conference?
Answer: Umpires assume authority once they set foot on the playing field whether as an individual or as a group. It ends when they leave the field of play at conclusion of game. (BB & SB – Rule 10, Sec. 1, Art.2)
Question: If an infield fly rule is in effect, whose responsibility is it for the infield fly rule to be called? Umpire-in-chief or base umpire?
Answer: Both have equal power to enforce the rule; if neither umpire calls the rule but conditions still exist, the rule remains in effect despite not being called by either umpire. (BB & SB – Rule 10-2-3 and 10-3-1)
This is the final article of the season. Anyone interested in becoming a certified high school umpire should call Lynch at (201) 437-3381 or Gene Klumpp Sr. at (201) 858-0024.