A Few Questions

Question
I have a few questions to ask about ASA Ruling.

1. While my brother's team was in the outfield, my 2-year old nephew ran in the dugout and started throwing balls onto the field, the ump then called "chipping". So I was wondering if you could tell me what "chipping" meant?

2. Is it against regulations for a team member or scorekeeper to wear their hat backward inside the dugout?

3. What is meant when an ump calls "casual profanity"?

Answer
Hi Sam,

I don't know what "chipping" is.  I would deal with this situation depending on what was happening in the game at the time.  It might be as simple as calling time and getting mom or dad to take control of the kiddie.  If it interfered with a play I'd deal with it at that level.

Yes, a hat if worn must be worn properly.

Ah, the age old question umpires debate all the time.  What is allowable, especially in tournament play?

We all agree that the F--- word is unacceptable.  "GD it" is usually the same with most umpires.  Volume plays a part in warning or ejection.
What about a batter that pops up says sh-- under his breath and walks away?  Did they catcher hear it...probably.  Did a spectator hear it...no.  Did I hear it...probably not as I don't have rabbit ears.  The next time he comes up to bat I may mention privately to him to watch the language.  I don't get too excited about it if it's not overt.

Some leagues do have casual profanity rules that usually call for a warning and repeat offenses can be anything from taking an out away, calling the offender out or worse.  It depends on the league.  Church leagues I've worked, for the most part deal with it very severely, but again that's a local rule.

Hope this helps

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