MPCBUA Entrance Exam: Quiz!

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1/105 Questions

R1, R2, one out. B4 hits a high pop up between first base and the pitcher's mound. The umpires call the infield fly correctly. Both F3 and F1 think the other is going to field the fly ball. At the last second, F1 dives for the ball. It hits him on the head while the ball is over fair territory, rebounds and hits F3 over foul territory and then touches the ground in foul territory. B4 proceeds to second base while R1 is thrown out at third before R2 touches home.
- B4 is out, R1 is out and no run scores.
- B4 is out, R1 is out, count R2's run.
- Foul Ball. B4 is returned to the plate with an additional strike added to his previous count.
- The ball became dead at the time of the drop. R1 and R2 are protected because of the infield fly rule.

About This Quiz

This exam has been designed as the entrance exam for the Metropolitan Philadelphia Collegiate Baseball Umpires Association. The MPCBUA is affiliated with the CBUAO (Collegiate Baseball Umpires Assigning Organization).

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2.

R1, R2, R3, no outs. The batter hits a pop-up in a swirling breeze, which the umpires call "infield fly" correctly. The infielder does not touch the ball and it hits the ground in front of second base, bounces past the fielder and glances off R2's leg. R2 has one foot touching second base. All runners advanced one base before the ball was retrieved.
- The ball is dead when it touches R2
- Legal play.
- The ball is dead and the batter-runner is out on the infield fly rule.
- R2 is out for being hit with a batted ball.
Correct Answer

A. Legal play.

Explanation

The correct answer is "Legal play." In this scenario, the umpires correctly called the pop-up as an infield fly. The ball became dead when it touched R2, but since R2 had one foot touching second base, he was not required to be tagged out. All runners advanced one base before the ball was retrieved, which is allowed in this situation. Therefore, the play is legal.

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3.

R1, R2, one out, 3-2 count, bottom of the ninth, V-5;H-4. R1 and R2 are running on the pitch. The batter hits a sharp ground ball between F3 and F4. F4 makes a great diving stop on the ball, jumps to his feet and throws toward F3. The throw is wide. F3 deflects the ball toward the first base dugout. R2 is half-way home and R1 has touched third base when the ball enters the dugout.
- Award the base runners one base, from where they were when the ball entered the dead-ball area, since the ball was deflected by F3.
- R1 is sent back to second base.
- R1 is awarded third base and the batter-runner is awarded second.
- The batter runner is awarded first base.
Correct Answer

A. R1 is awarded third base and the batter-runner is awarded second.

Explanation

The correct answer is that R1 is awarded third base and the batter-runner is awarded second. This is because when the ball was deflected by F3 and entered the dead-ball area (the first base dugout), the base runners are awarded one base from where they were when the ball entered the dead-ball area. R2 was halfway home and R1 had touched third base, so R1 is awarded third base and the batter-runner is awarded second base.

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4.

R1, R3, two outs, bottom of the ninth. The ball is hit where either F3 or F4 could field it. F3 misses but F4 fields the ball and throws to the F6 covering second. F6 misplays the throw and the ball rolls far enough away for R1 to go to third and R3 to score. During his attempt to go to second, the BR was obstructed by F3. The defense appeals that the BR missed first base. The umpire rules that the BR touched first base.
- If the BR missed first, call him out on appeal. The game is over since the BR never touched first.
- Award the BR second base, R1 third and R3 home.
- Award the BR first, R1 second and R3 stays at third since he had not touched home when the obstruction occurred.
- Ignore the BR's missing of first base since the obstruction on the BR was recognized and called.
Correct Answer

A. Award the BR second base, R1 third and R3 home.

Explanation

The umpire's ruling that the BR touched first base means that the BR is considered to have successfully reached first base. Therefore, the correct answer is to award the BR second base, R1 third base, and R3 home. This is because the obstruction on the BR occurred after he touched first base, so his advancement to second base is allowed. R1 is able to advance to third base because the ball rolled far enough away during the obstruction, and R3 is able to score because he was already on base when the obstruction occurred.

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5.

The game has just ended and as the umpires are leaving the game site, the previously ejected F3 directs unsportsmanlike language at the plate umpire.
- The game is over; just walk away and don't create a greater problem.
- The game is over but you owe it to the game to let the coach know that you have just ejected his first baseman for unsportsmanlike language and that it is classified as a post-participation ejection.
- Since the game is over, there is nothing that you, as the base umpire can do about the first baseman's language that is directed at your partner.
- Although the game is over, you should tell the plate umpire so he can eject the first baseman.
Correct Answer

A. The game is over but you owe it to the game to let the coach know that you have just ejected his first baseman for unsportsmanlike language and that it is classified as a post-participation ejection.
6.

After fielding a ground ball, the infielder's throw is wide of the first baseman and sticks in the protective screen in front of the dugout. The catcher is backing up the play and quickly grabs the ball to prevent the batter-runner from advancing.
- Great hustle by the catcher, play on.
- The ball is dead immediately and the batter-runner is awarded second base.
- The ball is dead immediately and the batter-runner is awarded third base.
- The ball is dead immediately and the batter-runner is awarded first base.
Correct Answer

A. The ball is dead immediately and the batter-runner is awarded second base.

Explanation

When the infielder's throw goes wide and sticks in the protective screen, the ball is considered dead immediately. In this situation, the batter-runner is awarded second base because they are allowed to advance one base when the ball becomes dead due to a defensive player's throw going out of play.

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7.

The bases are empty and the pitch clock shows only three seconds left before a penalty is enforced. Though prompted by the umpire to enter the batter's box, the batter has yet to enter the box to prepare to hit. The 20-second time expires.
- A strike is called on the batter for violating the 20-second pitch clock rule.
- There is no penalty as the umpire will allow both the pitcher and batter time to "reset" before the next pitch.
- The batter is ejected if this was his second violation of the 20-second pitch clock rule.
- The batter is warned the first time he violates the rule and is penalized for each violation thereafter.
Correct Answer

A. A strike is called on the batter for violating the 20-second pitch clock rule.

Explanation

The correct answer is A strike is called on the batter for violating the 20-second pitch clock rule. This is because the batter has not entered the batter's box within the allotted 20 seconds, resulting in a violation of the pitch clock rule. As a consequence, a strike is called on the batter.

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8.

Type 1 Obstruction is:
- Obstruction that occurs on a runner that is not being played upon.
- A delayed dead ball.
- All obstruction is immediately dead.
- An immediate dead ball.
Correct Answer

A. An immediate dead ball.

Explanation

Type 1 Obstruction is an immediate dead ball. This means that if there is an obstruction on a runner who is not being played upon, the play is immediately stopped and considered dead.

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9.

Coach of Team A goes to the mound to talk with his starter. After the starter gives up another hit, the coach returns to the mound and replaces the starter. Once the reliever has finished his eight warm-up pitches, a pinch hitter is announced. Team A coach then requests and is granted another time out to talk to his new relief pitcher.
- The umpire will deny the request for the coach to visit the relief pitcher.
- The coach may visit the relief pitcher but must remove him after he completes pitching to the first batter he faces or the side is retired.
- The mound conference is legal. The coach does not have to remove the relief pitcher after he pitches to one batter or the side is retired, since this is the coach's first conference with his new pitcher.
- This first visit to the relief pitcher is considered the second trip in that inning.
Correct Answer

A. The mound conference is legal. The coach does not have to remove the relief pitcher after he pitches to one batter or the side is retired, since this is the coach's first conference with his new pitcher.

Explanation

The correct answer is that the mound conference is legal. The coach does not have to remove the relief pitcher after he pitches to one batter or the side is retired, since this is the coach's first conference with his new pitcher. This means that the coach is allowed to have a conversation with the relief pitcher without any consequences, such as having to remove him from the game.

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10.

About a "chalked-off" area on the home plate side of the dugout that is used for ball persons:
- Extra batter(s) may stand in this area and swing a bat to loosen up.
- This area is not to be used by any uniformed player.
- A coach may stand in this area at any time to observe the playing action.
- If a ball person leaves this area, any uniformed player may use the area to loosen up.
Correct Answer

A. This area is not to be used by any uniformed player.

Explanation

The correct answer is that this area is not to be used by any uniformed player. This means that players who are currently in uniform are not allowed to use this area. It is specifically designated for ball persons or coaches who may stand there to observe the game. If a ball person leaves the area, then a uniformed player may use it to loosen up.

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11.

What is the penalty for the first violation by the defense of the new 20-second clock protocol?
- A ball is awarded to the first batter.
- A team warning is issued. Any subsequent violation by any pitcher of that team results in a ball being awarded to the first batter of that inning.
- A warning is issued that applies only to that pitcher. The initial violation by other pitchers from that team is also penalized with a warning.
- The pitcher and coach are ejected after a warning.
Correct Answer

A. A warning is issued that applies only to that pitcher. The initial violation by other pitchers from that team is also penalized with a warning.

Explanation

The penalty for the first violation by the defense of the new 20-second clock protocol is a warning that applies only to that pitcher. Additionally, the initial violation by other pitchers from that team is also penalized with a warning. This means that the pitcher who committed the first violation will receive a warning, and if any other pitchers from the same team commit a violation, they will also receive a warning.

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12.

R1, R3, no outs, 1-1 count. The batter squares for a suicide squeeze but F1 pitches out when he sees R3 beginning his movement towards home. The batter attempts to bunt the ball but steps in front of the plate with his foot completely on the ground outside of the batter's box. The pitch is fouled off. R3 crosses the plate and R1 advances to 2nd.
- Return R1 and R3 to their respective bases at the time of the pitch.
- Call R3 out and return R1 to first and the batter continues to bat with a 1-2 count. Call the runner nearest home plate out for the batter stepping out of the box to hit the ball.
- Return R1 and R3 to their respective bases and call the batter out for illegally batting the ball.
- Call both R3 and the batter out and return R1 to first base for the batter's interference.
Correct Answer

A. Return R1 and R3 to their respective bases and call the batter out for illegally batting the ball.

Explanation

In this scenario, the batter stepped out of the batter's box with his foot completely on the ground and attempted to bunt the ball. According to the rules, a batter must have both feet within the batter's box when attempting to bunt. By stepping out of the box, the batter has illegally batted the ball. Therefore, the correct action is to return R1 and R3 to their respective bases and call the batter out for illegally batting the ball.

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13.

R3, R2, no outs. After fielding a ground ball, the shortstop's throw is in time for the catcher to receive the ball and tag out R3. Prior to R3 touching home plate, he slides maliciously into the catcher in an attempt to dislodge the ball. R2 moves up to third but had not touched third when the contact occurred. The batter-runner takes second base in all the confusion.
- R3 is out, R2 remains at third, the ball remains "live."
- This is a delayed dead ball situation. R3 is out. R2 remains at third and the batter-runner remains at first.
- R3 is out and ejected. The ball is dead immediately. R2 is returned to second base and the batter-runner stays at first base.
- R3 is out and ejected. This is an immediate dead ball, R2 is left at third and the batter-runner is placed at first base.
Correct Answer

A. R3 is out and ejected. The ball is dead immediately. R2 is returned to second base and the batter-runner stays at first base.
14.

R1, R2, R3, two outs. The batter hits an inside-the-park home run. The defense announces that it is appealing R1's missing third base. The pitcher contacts the rubber and steps off legally. However, the pitcher throws the ball over the third baseman's head but the ball stayed in live ball territory. The ball was retrieved and:
- "the defense has lost its right to appeal. The appeal is not allowed to continue."
- "if the appeal on R1 is upheld, three runs score."
- "the defense cannot make a second appeal on R1 after having thrown the ball away on the first appeal."
- "if the appeal on R1 is upheld, only two runs score."
Correct Answer

A. "if the appeal on R1 is upheld, only two runs score."

Explanation

If the appeal on R1 is upheld, only two runs score because an inside-the-park home run is considered a play that allows the batter and all runners to advance at their own risk. Therefore, if R1 missed third base and the defense successfully appeals it, R1 would be called out, but the batter's home run would still count. Since there were already two outs, the only runner that would be affected by the appeal is R1, resulting in only two runs scoring.

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15.

When a pitcher chooses to wear a neoprene sleeve he must:
- Choose a sleeve that matches the color of the undershirts of the other defensive players on the field.
- Wear neoprene sleeves on both arms.
- Wear a uniform undershirt over the neoprene sleeve that is of the same color as that of his teammates.
- The pitcher can only wear a neoprene sleeve if all the other defensive players are wearing one.
Correct Answer

A. Wear a uniform undershirt over the neoprene sleeve that is of the same color as that of his teammates.

Explanation

The correct answer is to wear a uniform undershirt over the neoprene sleeve that is of the same color as that of his teammates. This ensures that the pitcher's attire matches that of his teammates, creating a cohesive and uniform appearance on the field.

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16.

The jurisdiction of the umpires, as it relates to any personal confrontation or unsportsmanlike conduct toward the umpires, begins and ends:
- Begins: At the plate meeting. Ends: When the umpires leave the field.
- Begins: When the umpires arrive on the field. Ends: Following the final out.
- Begins: With their arrival at the game site. Ends:With their departure from the game site.
- Begins: When the umpires arrive on the field. Ends: When the umpires leave the field.
Correct Answer

A. Begins: With their arrival at the game site. Ends:With their departure from the game site.

Explanation

The jurisdiction of the umpires, as it relates to any personal confrontation or unsportsmanlike conduct toward the umpires, begins when they arrive at the game site and ends when they depart from the game site. This means that they have authority over any such behavior from the moment they arrive until the moment they leave.

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17.

R2, no outs, bottom of the last inning. F2 interferes with the batter's attempt to bunt. The batter gets the bunt down and is thrown out at first base. R2 reaches third but was not running on the pitch.
- The plate umpire calls time immediately on the interference by F2.
- The plate umpire calls time at the end of the play. The batter is awarded first base and R2 is returned to second.
- The plate umpire calls time at the end of the play and then awards the batter first base and R2 third base.
- The offensive coach or manager does not have any options on this play.
Correct Answer

A. The plate umpire calls time at the end of the play. The batter is awarded first base and R2 is returned to second.

Explanation

The correct answer is that the plate umpire calls time at the end of the play. The batter is awarded first base and R2 is returned to second. This is because F2 interfered with the batter's attempt to bunt, which is a violation of the rules. The interference caused the batter to be thrown out at first base, but because of the interference, the batter is still awarded first base. R2, who was not running on the pitch, is returned to second base.

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18.

R3, R2, 1 out. The catcher reaches for the pitch and contacts the hitter's bat on the forward swing. The batter lifts a fly ball to right field that allows R3 to tag up and score. R2 tags but holds up at second as the throw goes to third base.
- R3 scores. R2 remains at second base.
- R3 must be returned to third, R2 remains at second, and the batter is awarded first base.
- Call "time!" at the end of playing action; award the batter first base and return R3 to third base. However, the coach may elect to take the result of the play if he desires.
- Since there is a runner on third base that tagged up, you must allow the run and also award the batter first base.
Correct Answer

A. Call "time!" at the end of playing action; award the batter first base and return R3 to third base. However, the coach may elect to take the result of the play if he desires.

Explanation

The correct answer is to call "time!" at the end of playing action, award the batter first base, and return R3 to third base. However, the coach may choose to take the result of the play if desired. This is because the catcher made contact with the hitter's bat on the forward swing, which is considered interference. As a result, the batter is awarded first base. Since R3 tagged up and scored before the interference occurred, the run is allowed. R2 remains at second base.

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19.

The starting pitcher has been warned once for violating the 20-second pitch clock rule. He is removed as the pitcher in the second inning. The new pitcher immediately violates the 20-second pitch clock rule.
- A ball is awarded to the batter because the old pitcher had already been warned once for violating the 20-second rule.
- No penalty "ball" is issued but the new pitcher receives his warning for violating the 20-second rule and any further violation will result in a ball being awarded to the hitter.
- Regardless of the number of pitchers who follow the second pitcher, no other warnings will be issued and penalties will be enforced with all future violations of the 20-second clock rule.
- Warnings issued for violations of the 20-second clock rule are considered "team warnings" and apply to all subsequent pitchers.
Correct Answer

A. No penalty "ball" is issued but the new pitcher receives his warning for violating the 20-second rule and any further violation will result in a ball being awarded to the hitter.

Explanation

The correct answer is that no penalty "ball" is issued but the new pitcher receives his warning for violating the 20-second rule and any further violation will result in a ball being awarded to the hitter. This is because the warning issued to the old pitcher applies to all subsequent pitchers, so the new pitcher receives a warning instead of a penalty ball. However, any future violations by the new pitcher will result in a ball being awarded to the hitter.

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20.

Umpire jurisdiction, as it relates to personal confrontations and unsportsmanlike conduct directed at the officiating crew, begins:
- "when the umpires enter the game site and ends when the umpires leave the game site".
- "when the umpire receives the lineup cards at home plate and ends when the last out is recorded".
- "when the umpires check the bats and helmets and ends when the umpires leave the game site".
- "when the umpires enter the game site and ends when the last out is recorded".
Correct Answer

A. "when the umpires enter the game site and ends when the umpires leave the game site".

Explanation

The correct answer is "when the umpires enter the game site and ends when the umpires leave the game site". This is because umpire jurisdiction begins when they arrive at the game site and ends when they leave. This means that they are responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during the entire duration of the game, from start to finish.

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21.

Count 3-0 with the next pitch thrown inside. The right-handed batter turns toward the back of the batter's box in order to expose his back to the pitch and protect his arm. The batter is hit in the back; however, the batter did not move closer to home plate when he turned.
- The bater is awarded first base on a hit-by-the pitch. The ball is dead immediately.
- The batter is not awarded first base since he must move away from the pitch.
- The batter is not awarded first base since he allowed himself to get hit by the pitch.
- The batter is awarded first base on ball four. The ball remains live and in play.
Correct Answer

A. The bater is awarded first base on a hit-by-the pitch. The ball is dead immediately.

Explanation

The batter is awarded first base on a hit-by-the-pitch because he did not move closer to home plate when he turned to expose his back to the pitch. This indicates that he did not intentionally allow himself to get hit by the pitch. The ball is dead immediately, meaning that play stops and the batter is awarded first base.

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22.

R1, R3, no outs. B6 gets a base hit with R3 scoring and R1 advancing to third base. As the ball is being returned to the infield, the batter/runner attempts to advance to second and is trapped in a rundown. During the rundown, the batter-runner is called out for interference. R1 has not touched home plate at the time of the interference.
- R3 and R1 both score and the batter/runner is called out.
- R3 scores, R1 is returned to third and the batter-runner is out for interference.
- R3 scores. The UIC may award R1 home if he feels he would have made it home had there been no interference and the batter-runner is out.
- R3 scores but the defensive team may elect to have R1 called out instead of the batter-runner.
Correct Answer

A. R3 scores, R1 is returned to third and the batter-runner is out for interference.

Explanation

In this scenario, R3 scores because he had already touched home plate before the interference occurred. However, R1 is returned to third base because he had not yet touched home plate at the time of the interference. The batter-runner is called out for interference because he impeded the defensive team's ability to make a play. Therefore, the correct answer is that R3 scores, R1 is returned to third, and the batter-runner is out for interference.

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23.

Regarding the batter's box rule:
- It only applies with no runners on base.
- There are no exceptions. The batter may not leave the box.
- Umpires are instructed to enforce the rule both verbally and visually.
- Upon violation, the ball is declared dead and a strike is awarded.
Correct Answer

A. Umpires are instructed to enforce the rule both verbally and visually.

Explanation

The given correct answer states that umpires are instructed to enforce the batter's box rule both verbally and visually. This means that umpires are responsible for ensuring that batters stay within the designated batter's box during their at-bat. They are expected to communicate this rule to the batter verbally and also visually indicate any violations. If a batter leaves the box without permission, the ball is declared dead and a strike is awarded.

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24.

R1 is leading off first base when F1 picks to first. The first baseman drops his right knee to the ground, prevening the base runner from touching any part of first base. F3 then catches the ball and tags R1.
- There is no peanlty and R1 is declared out.
- The fielder is considered "in the act of fielding," thus there is no penalty and R1 is declared out.
- The umpire declares "Obstruction" and awards R1 second base.
- The umpire declares "obstruction" and awards R1 second base, if in the umpire's judgment, R1 could have advanced to second base.
Correct Answer

A. The umpire declares "Obstruction" and awards R1 second base.

Explanation

The correct answer is "The umpire declares 'Obstruction' and awards R1 second base." In this scenario, the first baseman dropping his knee to the ground prevents the base runner from touching first base. This is considered obstruction, as the fielder is impeding the progress of the runner. As a result, the umpire declares obstruction and awards the runner second base.

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25.

The Halted Game rule was not agreed upon before the start of the nonconference game. The score is tied at 4-4 going into the ninth inning. The visitors score one in their half of the ninth. After the first two batters in the bottom of the ninth strike out, the game is rained out.
- The game is suspended with the visitors leading 5-4.
- The game is over, the score is 4-4. The two teams will need to replay the game from its beginning the next chance they get.
- The game is over and it is a "tie" game.
- The game is halted, even though the Halted Game rule was not discussed until the ninth inning.
Correct Answer

A. The game is over and it is a "tie" game.

Explanation

The game is over and it is a "tie" game because the Halted Game rule was not agreed upon before the start of the game. Since the game was rained out in the bottom of the ninth inning with the visitors leading 5-4, the game cannot be completed and the score at the time of the halt stands, resulting in a tie.

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26.

R3, two outs, bottom of seventh. B4's slow ground ball to F5 is fielded and thrown to first base in time beat B4 by a step but F3 cannot hold the ball. B4 has touched the base but does not see F3 drop the ball. Thinking he is out, he continues jogging to the outfield where he is awaiting a teammate to bring him his glove because he thinks he is the third out.
- B4 is out on appeal for overunning or oversliding first base and failing to return immediately and he or the base is tagged.
- B4 is out for abandonment for leaving the infield but R3 scores on a time play.
- B4 is out and R3's run does not count.
- B4 is allowed to return to first base since the umpire had failed to make it clear that he was out. The run by R3 counts.
Correct Answer

A. B4 is out for abandonment for leaving the infield but R3 scores on a time play.

Explanation

In this scenario, B4 is considered out for abandonment for leaving the infield. Even though he touched first base before leaving, he failed to immediately return to the base after F3 dropped the ball. However, since there were already two outs, R3's run counts as a time play, meaning that the run counts regardless of B4 being out. Therefore, B4 is out for abandonment, but R3's run still counts.

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27.

The 20-second time limit (or clock) begins when the:
- Pitcher receives the ball on the mound.
- The pitcher makes contact with the rubber as he is preparing to get his sign from the catcher.
- Immediately after the umpire calls the pitch.
- When the catcher gives the sign for the next pitch.
Correct Answer

A. Pitcher receives the ball on the mound.

Explanation

The correct answer is "Pitcher receives the ball on the mound." This is because the 20-second time limit starts as soon as the pitcher receives the ball on the mound. Once the pitcher has the ball, they must begin their wind-up or come set position within 20 seconds or else it will result in a violation of the time limit.

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28.

R1, 0-1 count, one out. B1 is the batter. Just as F1 pitches, B1 requests "time" and steps out of the batter's box. The umpire does not grant time and the pitch is out of the strike zone.
- Dead ball, the pitch is replayed.
- Live ball, the pitch is automatically called a strike.
- Dead ball, the pitch is automatically called a ball.
- Live ball, the pitch is called a ball.
Correct Answer

A. Live ball, the pitch is called a ball.

Explanation

When the batter requests "time" and steps out of the batter's box just as the pitcher pitches, it is considered a live ball situation. In this scenario, the umpire did not grant "time" to the batter, so the pitch is still live. Since the pitch is out of the strike zone, it is automatically called a ball. Therefore, the correct answer is "Live ball, the pitch is called a ball."

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29.

A half swing shall be called a strike if the barrel of the bat:
- Passes any part of the plate.
- Passes the batter's front hip.
- Passes the batter's front knee.
- Passes the front edge of home plate.
Correct Answer

A. Passes the batter's front hip.

Explanation

A half swing shall be called a strike if the barrel of the bat passes the batter's front hip.

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30.

With the changes in the obstruction rule:
- Any fielder must have possession of the ball in order to block a runner's path at all times.
- The defensive player is never allowed to block a runner's path.
- On a pickoff throw, a fielder must have possession of the ball in order to block a base.
- If a runner is obstructed, the ball is automatically dead.
Correct Answer

A. On a pickoff throw, a fielder must have possession of the ball in order to block a base.

Explanation

The explanation for the given correct answer is that according to the changes in the obstruction rule, a fielder must have possession of the ball in order to block a base on a pickoff throw. This means that the defensive player cannot block a base without having control of the ball. This rule ensures fair play and prevents obstruction by the defensive team.

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31.

R1, R2, one out, score tied. From the set position, the pitcher does not come to a complete and discernable stop. A balk is called. The batter singles on the 1-1 pitch. R2 is thrown out at the plate for the second out. R1 comes to a complete stop before he reaches second base and stands near the bag. The catcher throws to second base and forces R1 for the third out.
- Legal play. The game continues into the next inning.
- R1 and R2 are placed at second and third bases, respectively and the batter-runner is awarded first base on the single.
- All play stops immediately on the pitcher's balk.
- R2 is awarded third and R1 is awarded second on the balk. The batter is returned to the plate with a 1-1 count.
Correct Answer

A. R2 is awarded third and R1 is awarded second on the balk. The batter is returned to the plate with a 1-1 count.

Explanation

The correct answer is that R2 is awarded third and R1 is awarded second on the balk. The batter is returned to the plate with a 1-1 count. This is because a balk is a violation of the rules by the pitcher, resulting in a penalty for the opposing team. In this case, the pitcher did not come to a complete and discernable stop, which is required by the rules. As a result, R2 and R1 are both awarded the next base, which is third and second respectively. The batter is returned to the plate with the same count as before the balk occurred.

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32.

A fielder must possess the ball in order to be considered "in the act of fielding.
- True
- False
Correct Answer

A. False

Explanation

A fielder does not necessarily have to possess the ball in order to be considered "in the act of fielding". The act of fielding includes any action taken by a fielder to field the ball, such as stopping it, deflecting it, or even touching it momentarily. Possession of the ball is not a requirement for being considered "in the act of fielding". Therefore, the correct answer is False.

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33.

The starting pitcher is replaced in the top of the sixth inning. The coach informs the home plate umpire that the replaced pitcher will remain in the game as the DH. As the replaced pitcher is walking to the dugout, he blasts the plate umpire and is ejected.
- No suspension, just a routine ejection for that game.
- A one-game suspension.
- A two-game suspension.
- A four-game suspension.
Correct Answer

A. No suspension, just a routine ejection for that game.

Explanation

The starting pitcher is ejected from the game after arguing with the plate umpire. However, since the pitcher was replaced in the top of the sixth inning and the coach informed the umpire that the replaced pitcher will remain in the game as the designated hitter (DH), there is no suspension for the pitcher. The ejection is considered a routine consequence for his behavior during the game.

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34.

The batter has just hit a home run out of the park. He misses first on his trip around the bases. Once the plate umpire has tossed a new ball to the pitcher, the defense has F4 stand behind first base in foul territory. The pitcher then tosses the ball to F3 who steps on first base and appeals that the batter missed first base.
- Make no call. Indicate that the ball is dead or the ball is not in play. Require the infielder to be in fair ground until the plate umpire has put the new ball into play.
- Call the batter-runner out.
- Call the batter-runner safe
- Since the defense initiated an appeal while the ball is dead, they have lost their opportunity to appeal once the ball is put back into play.
Correct Answer

A. Make no call. Indicate that the ball is dead or the ball is not in play. Require the infielder to be in fair ground until the plate umpire has put the new ball into play.

Explanation

The correct answer is to make no call, indicate that the ball is dead or not in play, and require the infielder to be in fair ground until the plate umpire has put the new ball into play. This is because the defense initiated an appeal while the ball is dead, and they have lost their opportunity to appeal once the ball is put back into play.

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35.

The pitcher's glove must:
- Be any color except gray or white.
- Be black or brown.
- Not have any white logo even if the umpire does not deem it distracting.
- Be two-tone black and gray.
Correct Answer

A. Be black or brown.

Explanation

The correct answer is "Be black or brown." This means that the pitcher's glove can only be black or brown in color. Any other color, including gray or white, is not allowed. The answer also states that even if the umpire does not find a white logo on the glove distracting, it is still not allowed.

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36.

When a relief pitcher enters the game he is allowed:
- 90-seconds to get in his eight warm-up pitches.
- Only the number of pitches he can throw in the 90-second or 108-second time frame.
- The 90-second clock is started at the time the relief pitcher reaches the dirt area of the mound.
- Even though the pitch clock is running, the relief pitcher is allowed eight warm-up throws without penalty.
Correct Answer

A. Even though the pitch clock is running, the relief pitcher is allowed eight warm-up throws without penalty.

Explanation

The relief pitcher is allowed eight warm-up throws without penalty, even though the pitch clock is running. This means that the pitcher has a limited amount of time to warm up and throw his pitches, but he is not penalized if he takes the full eight warm-up throws within that time frame.

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37.

R1, R3, no outs. B4 hits a one-hopper back to the mound. R3 ends up in a rundown between home and third. As the catcher chases R3 back to third, he dives and makes a tag on R3, falls to the ground and the ball pops out of his mitt when he hits the ground.
- This is a tag and R3 is out.
- This is not a tag. The runner is safe because the catcher did not display a voluntary release.
- This is not a tag but the ball becomes dead when the umpire rules R3 safe at third base.
- The umpire will always call time to consult with his partners to see if there was a voluntary release.
Correct Answer

A. This is not a tag. The runner is safe because the catcher did not display a voluntary release.

Explanation

In this scenario, the catcher did not display a voluntary release of the ball when he made the tag on R3. According to the rules, a tag is only considered valid if the fielder voluntarily releases the ball after making the tag. Since the ball popped out of the catcher's mitt when he hit the ground, it can be inferred that he did not have full control of the ball and did not display a voluntary release. Therefore, the runner is safe.

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38.

R3, no outs. The batter hits a high foul fly ball near third base. R3 has returned to third base and is touching the base when F5 bumps into him. The contact by R3 on F5 was not intentional. F5 makes the catch on the foul ball.
- R3 is out and the hitter continues to bat with a strike being added to his count.
- R3 is allowed to to stay at third base and the batter is out.
- Both R3 and B2 are declared out for the interference by R3.
- B2 remains at the plate but is charged with a strike. R3 is not out because it was incidental contact.
Correct Answer

A. R3 is allowed to to stay at third base and the batter is out.

Explanation

R3 is allowed to stay at third base and the batter is out because the contact made by R3 on F5 was not intentional. In this situation, incidental contact is not considered interference, so R3 is not declared out. Since F5 made the catch on the foul ball, it is considered an out for the batter. Therefore, R3 is allowed to stay at third base and the batter is out.

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39.

What is the penalty for the first violation by the defense of the new 90-second pitch clock protocol?
- A ball is awarded to the first batter.
- A team warning is issued. Any subsequent violation by any pitcher of that team results in a ball being awarded to the first batter of that inning.
- A warning is issued that only applies to that pitcher. The initial violation by other pitchers from that team is also penalized with a warning.
- The pitcher is ejected if this is his second violation.
Correct Answer

A. A ball is awarded to the first batter.

Explanation

The penalty for the first violation by the defense of the new 90-second pitch clock protocol is that a ball is awarded to the first batter.

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40.

Visitors 2, Home 1, bottom of the sixth inning. The leadoff hitter drives a pitch into the left centerfield alley for a double. Prior to a pitch to the next batter, the defensive coach correctly appeals the leadoff hitter used an illegal bat because it did not have the BBCOR stamp.
- Call the leadoff hitter out and remove the bat from the game.
- Issue a warning to the home team coach and the leadoff hitter and remove the bat from the game.
- There is no warning, just remove the bat from the game.
- If the practice continues after the warning, the player is declared out and ejected from the contest.
Correct Answer

A. Call the leadoff hitter out and remove the bat from the game.

Explanation

The correct answer is to call the leadoff hitter out and remove the bat from the game because the leadoff hitter used an illegal bat without the BBCOR stamp. This is a violation of the rules and the appropriate action is to penalize the player and remove the bat from play. There is no warning given in this situation, as the violation has already been identified and confirmed by the defensive coach.

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41.

On the coach's first trip in that inning and second of the game, he goes to the mound and removes his starter, who is also the DH. After handing the ball to the relief pitcher, the coach leaves the mound and returns to the dugout. After entering the dugout, the coach comes back to the plate umpire and indicates that "the removed pitcher will remain as the DH."
- This move is a legal substitution.
- The coach should have made the substitution to the plate umpire prior to his entering the dugout. It is too late to request that the old pitcher be allowed to remain in the game as the DH.
- Even if the move was made within the proper time frame, it would not be legal to allow the replaced pitcher to remain as the DH.
- If the coach wants the replaced pitcher to remain as the DH, he must remove the substitute pitcher after the substitute pitcher has completed pitching to one batter or the side is retired.
Correct Answer

A. The coach should have made the substitution to the plate umpire prior to his entering the dugout. It is too late to request that the old pitcher be allowed to remain in the game as the DH.

Explanation

The coach should have made the substitution to the plate umpire prior to his entering the dugout. This means that the coach should have informed the umpire of the substitution before leaving the field. It is too late to request that the old pitcher be allowed to remain in the game as the designated hitter (DH) once the coach has entered the dugout.

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42.

The pitch clock is paused for any of the following reasons, except:
- The pitcher disengages the pitching rubber.
- The pitcher is delayed in returning to the dirt circle because he was backing up a play.
- A fielder is delayed in returning to his position after attempting to field a foul ball.
- The batter is delayed in returning to the dirt area around home plate following his running out of a foul ball.
Correct Answer

A. The pitcher disengages the pitching rubber.

Explanation

The pitch clock is paused for any of the following reasons: when the pitcher is delayed in returning to the dirt circle because he was backing up a play, when a fielder is delayed in returning to his position after attempting to field a foul ball, and when the batter is delayed in returning to the dirt area around home plate following his running out of a foul ball. However, the pitch clock is not paused when the pitcher disengages the pitching rubber.

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43.

R1, The batter has fouled off the first two sacrifice bunt attempts. The batter attempts to bunt a third time but pops it up where F2 makes the catch in foul territory. R1 was moving on the pitch and F2's throw to first arrives before R1 can get back.
- The batter is out and the ball is dead immediately.
- R1 is not called out.
- The result is an immedioate dead ball when the catcher touches the foul pop up.
- This results in a double play.
Correct Answer

A. This results in a double play.
44.

What is the penalty for the pitcher violating the 20-second rule?
- Award a ball to the batter.
- Warn the pitcher twice and then award a ball to the hitter.
- Warn the pitcher and then award a ball to the hitter on the next violation of the 20-second rule.
- Warn the pitcher, award a ball to the hitter on the second occurance and then eject the pitcher on the third.
Correct Answer

A. Warn the pitcher and then award a ball to the hitter on the next violation of the 20-second rule.

Explanation

If the pitcher violates the 20-second rule, they will be warned and then a ball will be awarded to the hitter on the next violation.

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45.

The batter is clearly within the batter's box; the pitch is inside the lines of the batter's box. The batter "freezes" and makes no attempt to avoid the pitch. You call "time."
- Award the batter first base for "being hit by the pitch."
- The batter shall remain at the plate because he failed to make an attempt to get out of the way of the pitch.
- A strike is added to the hitter's count because he did not attempt to get out of the way of the piich.
- A ball is awarded to the count on the hitter and he must complete his turn at bat.
Correct Answer

A. Award the batter first base for "being hit by the pitch."

Explanation

The batter is awarded first base for "being hit by the pitch" because they were within the batter's box and the pitch was inside the lines of the batter's box. The batter made no attempt to avoid the pitch, so the umpire called "time" and awarded them first base.

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46.

R1, R3, no outs. R1 is stealing and gets caught in a rundown and is obstructed. After obstruction has been called on F4, R3 is thrown out at the plate.
- The out on R3 stands
- Award R1 third base on the obstruction.
- R1 is returned to first base and R3 is awarded home.
- R3 is awarded home since he was advancing to the plate when obstruction was called and R1 is awarded second base.
Correct Answer

A. R3 is awarded home since he was advancing to the plate when obstruction was called and R1 is awarded second base.

Explanation

In this situation, R3 is awarded home because he was advancing to the plate when obstruction was called. R1 is awarded second base as a result of the obstruction. This ruling is based on the rules of obstruction, which state that if a runner is obstructed while advancing to a base, he is awarded the base he would have reached without the obstruction.

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47.

Two outs. B9 bats in place of the proper batter, B8, and grounds out to end the inning. The defensive team did not notice the improper batter and leaves the field.
- If B8 leads off the next inning, B8 is not batting out of order.
- B9 should be the next proper batter to lead off the next inning.
- B1 is the batter that should be leading off the next inning if there was no appeal.
- The defensive team can appeal batting out-of-order from the previous half-inning if the next half-inning hasn't started.
Correct Answer

A. B1 is the batter that should be leading off the next inning if there was no appeal.
48.

R2, R3, one out. The batter hits a ground ball to the pitcher and R3 gets into a rundown between home and third. R3 gets back to third safely but R2 is touching the base as well. The defense tags both runners.
- R3 is out because once he headed for home the base belongs to the trail runner.
- R3 is safe and R2 is out because R3 has the right to third base until he touches home.
- R3 is out because he was the first player tagged.
- R2 is out because he was the second one tagged.
Correct Answer

A. R3 is safe and R2 is out because R3 has the right to third base until he touches home.

Explanation

In baseball, once a runner advances to the next base, the previous base is considered "occupied" by that runner. In this scenario, R3 was initially on third base and R2 was on second base. When R3 headed for home, the base belonged to him and R2 was not allowed to occupy it. Therefore, R3 is safe because he has the right to third base until he touches home, and R2 is out because he was attempting to occupy a base that was already occupied by R3.

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49.

About charged conferences:
- An offensive team may meet during a defensive conference without the meeting being charged as long as there is no additional delay.
- A defensive team may meet during an offensive conference without the meeting being charged as long as there is no additional delay.
- In extra innings, a team is allowed to have one defensive conferene every inning without having to replace the pitcher.
- In extra innings, a team is not allowed to carry over unused defensive conferences.
Correct Answer

A. An offensive team may meet during a defensive conference without the meeting being charged as long as there is no additional delay.

Explanation

The correct answer states that an offensive team may meet during a defensive conference without the meeting being charged as long as there is no additional delay. This means that if the offensive team wants to have a meeting while the defensive team is having their conference, they are allowed to do so without any penalty as long as they do not cause any further delay in the game.

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MPCBUA Entrance Exam: Quiz!

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The game has just ended and as the umpires are leaving the game site, the previously ejected F3 directs unsportsmanlike language at the plate umpire.

After fielding a ground ball, the infielder's throw is wide of the first baseman and sticks in the protective screen in front of the dugout. The catcher is backing up the play and quickly grabs the ball to prevent the batter-runner from advancing.

The bases are empty and the pitch clock shows only three seconds left before a penalty is enforced. Though prompted by the umpire to enter the batter's box, the batter has yet to enter the box to prepare to hit. The 20-second time expires.

Type 1 Obstruction is:

About a "chalked-off" area on the home plate side of the dugout that is used for ball persons:

What is the penalty for the first violation by the defense of the new 20-second clock protocol?

When a pitcher chooses to wear a neoprene sleeve he must:

The jurisdiction of the umpires, as it relates to any personal confrontation or unsportsmanlike conduct toward the umpires, begins and ends:

R2, no outs, bottom of the last inning. F2 interferes with the batter's attempt to bunt. The batter gets the bunt down and is thrown out at first base. R2 reaches third but was not running on the pitch.

R3, R2, 1 out. The catcher reaches for the pitch and contacts the hitter's bat on the forward swing. The batter lifts a fly ball to right field that allows R3 to tag up and score. R2 tags but holds up at second as the throw goes to third base.

The starting pitcher has been warned once for violating the 20-second pitch clock rule. He is removed as the pitcher in the second inning. The new pitcher immediately violates the 20-second pitch clock rule.

Umpire jurisdiction, as it relates to personal confrontations and unsportsmanlike conduct directed at the officiating crew, begins:

Count 3-0 with the next pitch thrown inside. The right-handed batter turns toward the back of the batter's box in order to expose his back to the pitch and protect his arm. The batter is hit in the back; however, the batter did not move closer to home plate when he turned.

Regarding the batter's box rule:

R1 is leading off first base when F1 picks to first. The first baseman drops his right knee to the ground, prevening the base runner from touching any part of first base. F3 then catches the ball and tags R1.

The Halted Game rule was not agreed upon before the start of the nonconference game. The score is tied at 4-4 going into the ninth inning. The visitors score one in their half of the ninth. After the first two batters in the bottom of the ninth strike out, the game is rained out.

The 20-second time limit (or clock) begins when the:

R1, 0-1 count, one out. B1 is the batter. Just as F1 pitches, B1 requests "time" and steps out of the batter's box. The umpire does not grant time and the pitch is out of the strike zone.

A half swing shall be called a strike if the barrel of the bat:

With the changes in the obstruction rule:

A fielder must possess the ball in order to be considered "in the act of fielding.

The starting pitcher is replaced in the top of the sixth inning. The coach informs the home plate umpire that the replaced pitcher will remain in the game as the DH. As the replaced pitcher is walking to the dugout, he blasts the plate umpire and is ejected.

The pitcher's glove must:

When a relief pitcher enters the game he is allowed:

R1, R3, no outs. B4 hits a one-hopper back to the mound. R3 ends up in a rundown between home and third. As the catcher chases R3 back to third, he dives and makes a tag on R3, falls to the ground and the ball pops out of his mitt when he hits the ground.

R3, no outs. The batter hits a high foul fly ball near third base. R3 has returned to third base and is touching the base when F5 bumps into him. The contact by R3 on F5 was not intentional. F5 makes the catch on the foul ball.

What is the penalty for the first violation by the defense of the new 90-second pitch clock protocol?

Visitors 2, Home 1, bottom of the sixth inning. The leadoff hitter drives a pitch into the left centerfield alley for a double. Prior to a pitch to the next batter, the defensive coach correctly appeals the leadoff hitter used an illegal bat because it did not have the BBCOR stamp.

The pitch clock is paused for any of the following reasons, except:

R1, The batter has fouled off the first two sacrifice bunt attempts. The batter attempts to bunt a third time but pops it up where F2 makes the catch in foul territory. R1 was moving on the pitch and F2's throw to first arrives before R1 can get back.

What is the penalty for the pitcher violating the 20-second rule?

The batter is clearly within the batter's box; the pitch is inside the lines of the batter's box. The batter "freezes" and makes no attempt to avoid the pitch. You call "time."

R1, R3, no outs. R1 is stealing and gets caught in a rundown and is obstructed. After obstruction has been called on F4, R3 is thrown out at the plate.

Two outs. B9 bats in place of the proper batter, B8, and grounds out to end the inning. The defensive team did not notice the improper batter and leaves the field.

R2, R3, one out. The batter hits a ground ball to the pitcher and R3 gets into a rundown between home and third. R3 gets back to third safely but R2 is touching the base as well. The defense tags both runners.

About charged conferences: