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Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Video Analysis of New Bona Fide Slide FPSR Rule 6.01(j)

MLB adopted a new bona fide slide rule—essentially the force play side rule (FPSR) for professional baseball. Rule 6.01(j) relates to sliding to bases on double play attempts and, accordingly is a modified version of this FPSR, specifically for double play attempts at the base of the initial out (generally second base, but possibly at third base or home plate as well).

Here is the criteria for Rule 6.01(j) - Sliding to Bases on Double Play Attempts
The runner attempting to break up a double play must engage in a bona fide slide. This means the runner:
1) Begins his slide and makes contact with the ground before reaching the base;
2) Is able and attempts to reach the base with his hand or foot;
3) Is able and attempts to remain on the base (except home) after completing the slide; and
4) Slides within reach without changing his path for the purpose of initiating contact with a fielder.

Penalty: Failure to satisfy all four criteria of a bona fide slide is the already-existing double play interference.
Note: As has been interpretation in years past, the intent of the runner may be cause alone for an interference ruling. For instance, a runner may satisfy the new bona fide slide criteria, but if the umpire rules the runner intentionally attempted to initiate contact with the fielder, then double play interference may be called (Result: Both the runner and batter are out; dead ball, any remaining runners return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch).

Video Examples (the criterion that was not satisfied [for illegal plays] is indicated by text in italics):
Introducing the UEFL Videoboard: Click each thumbnail image for a video of the illustrated play.

Legal Slide
Legal Play. This is a bona fide slide.
1) Slide begins before the base.
2) The runner's foot will reach base.
3) The runner will remain on the base.
4) Runner does not change path.
Legal Slide
Legal Play. This is a proper slide.
1) Slide begins before second base.
2) Runner's foot & hands reach base.
3) Runner able to keep hand on base.
4) Runner does not change his path.
Legal Slide
Legal Play. This is a bona fide slide.
1) Slide begins prior to the base.
2) Runner's hands reach the base.
3) Runner stays on the base.
4) Runner slides within reach on path.
Illegal Slide
Illegal Play. This is not a legal slide.
1) Does begin before the base.
2) A foot does graze second base.
3) No attempt to remain on the base.
4) Changes path to initiate contact.
Illegal Slide
Illegal Play. This is entirely illegal.
1) First contact is even with base.
2) Does not touch second base.
3) Does not attempt to stay on base.
4) Changes path to initiate contact.
Illegal Slide
Illegal Play. This is a roll block.
1) Begins before the base.
2) Foot arrives near second base.
3) Unable to remain on second base.
4) Slides within previous path.

Pace of Game: MLB also adopted a new 30-second time limit for mound visits by managers and pitching coaches. The clock will begin when the coach exits the dugout; when the time reaches zero, the meeting will be over.
MLB issued a Press Release accompanying the Rule 6.01(j) announcement.