2008 NFHS Baseball Points of Emphasis
This page contains the 2008 NFHS Baseball Points of Emphasis.
Batter Hit By Pitch
Batters are not allowed to lean in in order to get hit by a pitch. They also can't stand there and "take one for the team". The batter must make every effort to avoid being hit by a pitch. OSAA Comments: (1) The unwritten rule of the "breaking ball" should still be observed. If the pitcher throws a breaking ball that does not break and, if in your opinion, the batter didn't move because he was expecting the pitch to break, award the batter first base. (2) If the batter turns but in your opinion did not turn in such a manner as to avoid the pitch, or actually turned into the pitch, then he has not been hit by the pitch.
Obstruction
Collisions that include malicious contact are governed by rules that supersede those rules that involve routine obstruction or interference.
Coach Professionalism
The coaching staff sets the tone for each game and the entire season for his team and is expected to lead by example. That is why so much emphasis has be placed on the coach in this year's rule book. Coaches must attend the pregame meeting and should never attempt to emulate what is seen in professional games when it comes to addressing the umpires.
Team Personnel Location
The location of team personnel continues to be an issue. Coaches are not allowed to sit on stools or buckets outside the dugout, this includes sitting within the dugout but with the feet extending outside the dugout. TEAMS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO EXTEND THE DUGOUT TOWARD HOMEPLATE.
A coach coming outside the dugout momentarily in order to coach a player is alright so long as he returns to the dugout prior to the next pitch.
Pitching Requirements
A pitcher can be in only one of two legal positions (The Windup or the Set Positions). The location of the non-pivot foot determines which position he is in.
In the Windup Position a pitcher's non-pivot foot must begin on or behind the line that extends through the front edge of the pitching plate.
In the Set Position a pitcher's non-pivot foot begins in front of that same line.
Non Adult Ball/Bat Shaggers and Pitcher/Catcher Protectors
Non adult bat/ball shaggers and pitcher/catcher protectors must wear a helmet that meets NOCSAE Standards. It is important that such a helmet properly fit the person using it for maximum safety protection.
Game Management
Fields should be lined properly and special emphasis should also be placed on measuring and maintaining the proper height of the pitcher's mound.
Good Sporting Behavior
Umpires, coaches and players all have a responsibility toward good sporting behavior. Intimidating the other team at any time is not an acceptable practice in NFHS games. This includes taunting.