Baseball is a game of strategy and rules that go far beyond the highlights seen on the evening news. There's a lot more to the game than a big slugger bashing home runs or a pitcher setting strikeout records. Managers and savvy players use strategy and rules to their advantage in games.
Balk Rule
The stolen base is an important part of baseball strategy, and keeping the runner close to first base in an attempt to keep him from stealing second is part of the pitcher's job. The pitcher may attempt to pick off the runner by throwing to first base, but he cannot step toward home and then throw to first base in an attempt to catch the runner leaning toward second. If a pitcher breaks an imaginary 45-degree line between first and home with his foot by stepping closer to home plate, he must throw home. If he does not, a balk is called. A balk can also be called if a pitcher has any break in his motion toward home plate and there is a runner on base.
Designated Hitter
At the high school and recreational level, a designated hitter can be used in all games. Unlike in professional baseball, where the designated hitter bats for the pitcher, the DH can be used to bat in place of any defensive player at the high school and recreational level. Additionally, teams can use courtesy runners for pitchers and catchers who reach base. Managers have to agree to this option before the start of the game.
Obstruction and Interference
When a runner is on base and a ball is hit, the runner is entitled to move to the next base. If the fielder who is not involved in the play gets in the runner's way, the umpire shall call obstruction and award the base to the runner. If a ball is hit to a fielder and the runner contacts the fielder as he is making a play, the umpire shall call interference and declare the runner out. If the umpire believes that the interference by the runner prevents the fielder from completing a double play, the umpire may award a double play at his discretion.
Trips to the Mound
In high school baseball a manager can make three trips to the mound in the course of a game before he must remove the pitcher. On the third trip, he must put a new pitcher on the mound. He can make two trips in one inning without having to remove the pitcher. In professional baseball, the pitcher must come out of the game on the second trip by the manager.
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