Rules

Looking Ahead

by Bob Nasser

Now that the season is over, let’s talk about plans Vin Vena, Thomas Francis and I have for the rules committee next season. One of the committee’s responsibilities is test prep, and I would like you to join me in giving a warm welcome to fellow umpire Matt Powers to our committee. Matt is out of Maryland and will be able to provide those working high school games in Maryland with some valuable and experienced perspective on that state’s rules exam…welcome, Matt!

The Virginia High School League has a new rules interpreter; MAC’s own Tony Carilli. Once Tony gets settled into his new position, I will be reaching out to get his thoughts on some of the new rules coming out next year. I’ll ask him how we should handle the double first base rule; as you know the double first base is optional next year and mandatory in 2027. I’ll also ask him about the new rule, effective in 2026, which limits the number of player to player defensive visits to one per inning.

But that’s just the beginning…

Besides test prep, look for rules’ guidance in every edition of next year’s Blue Crew News. Please reach out with any requests for rules topics. Next year we hope to have a forum of some kind where officials, and possibly even coaches can reach out with rules questions. Until we figure out the details, please just reach out to me at [email protected]. Someone on the rules committee will get back to you.

We’re also developing a rules related digital platform. Again, we don’t have all the details; it may be something as simple as a YouTube channel. Questions, comments and/or recommendations are always welcome.

In the meantime, this is a perfect time of year to brush up on your rules’ knowledge. Of course, the NFHS rule books and case books are the best place to start. Please don’t make the mistake of confusing high school rules with college rules, pro rules, or even Little League rules! Please look at the book if you haven’t looked in a rule book in a few years! Rules change over time.

That’s it from the rules committee. Hope to see everyone at the banquet or in the spring!

-Bob Nasser