American Legion

Question
I read your bio and since your forte is catching I need your help. This for American Legion ball. Courtesy runner for catcher or pitcher. Can it be the same player for both poaitions or does it have to be two separate players? Once a player is desiginated that player has to always run for that position until that player enters game or not? Thanks Steve

Answer
Hi Steve,

I coach AAU and USSSA ball.  While each tournament or event may have slightly different rules depending upon who is operating it, I have found that the following is true in most cases.

Any player that has not yet been substituted into the game may be used as a speed up runner for the catcher.  In some cases, the pitcher is also allowed a speed up runner ( why, I cannot say ).  The same player may run for either so long as he has not been used as a sub, but it does not have to be the same player.

When a team has only 9 players or is reduced to 9 by injury, then the last player to make an out may be used as the speed up runner.  

Best of luck.

Pete