MLB rules: Three of the strangest seen in the game
MLB rules are always open for interpretation to umpires, but what are some of the strangest we’ve seen implemented?
MLB rules. What initially comes to mind is the strike zone, fair or foul, or even a bang-bang play at the plate. As of 2017, the most up to date MLB rulebook is exactly 284 pages, mostly compiled of usual MLB formalities.
However, there are some MLB rules within the official rulebook that are quite peculiar. Even better, seeing these unique moments go down in an actual MLB game are priceless.
MLB rules: 5.09(b)(10): Any runner is out when, after he has acquired legal possession of a base, he runs the bases in reverse order for the purpose of confusing the defense or making a travesty of the game.
Herman “Germany” Schaefer was a real showman. A modern day Adrian Beltre or Joey Votto.
Case in point was on August 4, 1911. Clyde Milan, his teammate, was on third representing the potential winning run. Schaefer used this opportunity of stealing second base, hoping his teammate would notice, pulling off a double steal, a common trend in any MLB game.
However, the catcher held onto the rock, putting a damper on Schaefer’s plans.
So, instead of staying on second and relying on his counterpart at the plate, Schaeffer raced back to first, hoping to implement his plan once again.
The White Sox protested the call but neglected to ask the Umpire for a timeout.
Schaeffer used this as an opportunity to race to second again, finally getting nailed down in a rundown, without the other runner scoring. Close, but no cigar.
Obstructing the line of site
MLB rules: 6.04(c): No fielder shall take a position in the batter’s line of vision, and with deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, act in a manner to distract the batter. (PENALTY: The offender shall be removed from the game and shall leave the playing field, and, if a balk is made, it shall be nullified.)
On August 9, 1950, Boston Braves third baseman Bob Elliott asked permission, for the umpire blocking his view, to alter his positioning just ever so slightly. New York Mets second baseman Eddie Stanky used this moment as an opportunity to make some adjusting of his own.
“Smart ballplayers have been pulling stuff like that for all the 25 years I’ve been in baseball and as far as I’m concerned it’s perfectly legal.”
Stanky waltzed over to where the umpire had previously set up shop and started doing jumping jacks. Yes, jumping jacks.
Believe it or not, no one had a problem with Stanky’s antics, continuing to play ball.
Two days later against the Phillies, Stanky struck back, finally getting the attention he sought.
He delivered these antics while Philadelphia Phillies catcher Andy Seminick stood on second, infuriating the backstop in the process.
To Seminick’s demise, there was no rule preventing a player from doing jumping jacks on the baseball diamond during live action at the time.
Who can fault a guy who is trying to stay in shape and keep that cardio up?
A modern day example of this MLB rules debate was when Daniel Murphy asked the umpire to move in a 2017 contest, with the official having no part of that inquiry. What a jerk. He’s only trying to do his job.
Two words. Anger management.
Coaching at it’s finest
MLB Rules: 6.01(a)(9): It is interference by a batter or a runner when, with a runner on third base, the base coach leaves his box and acts in any manner to draw a throw by a fielder.
Before the modern era, players and coaches would try even crazier shenanigans to guide their team to victory. Take the 1890 season for instance.
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In 1887, the coaches box was created so coaches would not try impersonating runners attempting to move from third to home.
George Smith, the third base coach for the Brooklyn Dodgers at the time, is an example of such peculiar methods. He was so caught up in the moment that the coach ran home himself, with the catcher tagging him out instead of the actual runner.
Even with Smith’s efforts, the runner was eventually ruled out at the plate, even though the rule was not active at the time.
It was not until 1904 that the MLB outlawed base coach interference. Maybe the NFL should enforce this rule too — yeah, we are looking at you, Mike Tomlin.
I have no problem with coaches attempting this in today’s MLB. In fact, it would add much-needed excitement during the slow-paced middle innings, that’s for sure.
Next: Joey Votto: Mr. Personality of Major League Baseball
The trio of crazy plays and grey area rules are just tipping the iceberg on the craziness with MLB rules, umpires, players, and coaches.
What are your favorite MLB rules moment? Share in the comments below and on our social media pages.