Slow Pitch - Distracting the batter?

Question
In slow pitch we have our middle infielders play a "NYC defense" where by we never really set in a particular spot prior to and during the pitch. We move laterally and obliquely but in a sportsman like way. This does not allow a good batter to pick a hole. The umpire said this was distracting the batsman. I disagree in as much as we as a fielder should have that option as a defense.

Your thoughts?

Answer
Hi Jeff,

Here's the 2 rules that apply to defense positioning..

The pitcher shall not deliver a pitch unless all available defensive players are positioned in fair territory, except the catcher who must be in the catcher抯 box.

A fielder shall not take a position in the batter抯 line of vision or, with deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, act in a manner to distract the batter. A pitch does not have to be released.
EFFECT: The offending player shall be ejected from the game.

"with deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, act in a manner to distract the batter."  is a very tough standard.  I don't see a defensive shift as meeting that standard or even coming close.


Mark