USSSA tourney, combined 16/18 division. Team A has bases loaded. Team B pitcher throws wild pitch. Team A runner on third heads home, as does Team B pitcher to cover plate. Runner doesn't slide and runs right over Team B pitcher who was looking to receive the ball from the catcher. Note that the runner was going to be safe no matter what. Team B pitcher was knocked down like a hard body check in hockey, and remains on ground in obvious pain. Ball rolls away a few feet. Team B catcher is worried about her pitcher and is too stunned to react to ball. Meanwhile Team A base runner who was on second comes around to score. Time is finally called.
So, in sum, collision at the plate on a wild pitch resulted in two runs scored. Team B's coaches and parents were very upset that Team A's base runner didn't slide. They were yelling at the ump that the runner should have been declared out (for not sliding) and the other base runners should have to go back to where they were.
Curious if anyone knows if there is an actual rule requiring a player to slide in this type of situation. Thanks.
So, in sum, collision at the plate on a wild pitch resulted in two runs scored. Team B's coaches and parents were very upset that Team A's base runner didn't slide. They were yelling at the ump that the runner should have been declared out (for not sliding) and the other base runners should have to go back to where they were.
Curious if anyone knows if there is an actual rule requiring a player to slide in this type of situation. Thanks.