defensive movement

Question
QUESTION: In a game watched last night , The middle infield was moving around SS %26 2b (not setting) The umpire said they could not move until the ball was released from the pitcher's hand . Please help on this , I could not find it in the ASA rule book. Thanks

ANSWER: Hi James,

because it's not there, the only req is that all fielders except the catcher be in fair territory.  They can move.

Mark

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Please explain page 73 RULE 6 SECTION 4B please.

I think rocking back and forth (2b) and bolting across the field (SS) before a pitch would fit into that .


If I was a batter that sure would bedistrating to me.

Answer
Hi james,

you might, but 6-4-b says "deliberate unsportsmanlike intent". That's a very tough standard.  Unless there is something the defense is doing that is beyond the normal play of the game and I don't see that in your example, F4 can rock and unless F6 is streaking toward the batter yelling like a banshee and not repositioning themselves, I have nothing.

M

sorry initially typed wrong #