Scoring Question

Dodger, according to everything I have been told, it is a judgement call. But in your scenarios, all are a stolen base. The rule is make an attempt. If the catcher mishandles the ball, then he obviously (or not) was trying to make a play. If the pitcher is just too slow, then it is a stolen base on the pitcher (not many books have room for that so you just make a little note). So yes all of your examples are steals.

As for two runners advancing at the same time, only the runner that the catcher makes an attempt on gets a steal. The other player is advances on a fielders choice. I have not read the official rule book for this rule, but three different people (one ex major pitcher, one very smart high school coach and one DI college coach) all said the same thing. It cannot be a steal if the catcher does not make an attempt. Just what I have been told.

 

Definately a fielders choice.

 

Not a smart play by the second baseman, but it is a fielders choice and the NCBBFan is correct once again. LOL

 

New twist on scoring question

My first inclination would have to be a fielders choice as well.

On another note. As to the 2nd baseman allowing the batter to reach without a throw, with no runners on. I have always been under the impression that in order for an error to be scored, a play on the ball had to be made (ie, watching a dribbler roll by without moving=not an error, just plain stupid)??? So he fields the ball cleanly, no error there, and holds it. So I guess that would narrow it down to FC or a HIT. Well, if you make a dazzling play in the hole, and don't attemt a throw to avoid rushing and throwing away, then its a HIT. Although clearly, in this 2B's case, he could make the play easily. So, I'm interested to know what would be the official scoring. Single, or Fielder's Choice?

Isn't it great how great questions can breed so many more questions. Great thread indeed. If you need me, I'll be the one scratching my head over here.