- May 29, 2015
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How long would that be? One second, five seconds? One step, two steps, ten steps? I'm sure you know there is nothing in the book setting any restrictions other than that the umpire believes there was possession or a voluntary release. Please note in "B.1" of your quote that is notes "while gaining control" Since the umpire made the out call, I have to assume s/he determined possession prior to the fall. Not being able to see it, we cannot render judgment.
What if the SS got the ball in the glove and immediately flipped it in the direction, but not in flight all the way, of another fielder while tripping? Even though the SS didn't clearly show possession, that would be a voluntary release and by rule must be ruled a catch though it may not have even been close.
IMO, many of today's younger umpires carry some of the written rules to the extreme trying to force a rule onto a play.
You cannot have a voluntary release unless you first have control. Swatting a ball (the way I interpret your description) back into the air is not a catch and voluntary release. Sounds like a set in volleyball to me.
But I will agree 110% that you have to see it and that it is the umpire’s judgment so we could all be wrong.
The advice I would offer is advice we have all heard a thousand times ... do NOT make that call too quickly. There is no rush. Make sure it is a catch in your judgment before you call it a catch.