Welcome to Call of the Month!

Each month, we’ll break down an important umpiring tip, rule interpretation, or best practice to help you improve your game behind the plate or in the field. Whether it’s fine-tuning mechanics, mastering tricky calls, or sharpening game management skills, our goal is to make sure you’re always one step ahead. Stay sharp, stay confident, and make the right call!

May's Call of the Month: Malicious Contact – Player Safety First

As umpires, our top priority is player safety. One of the most important calls you can make is malicious contact—especially in plays at the plate or second base. Knowing when and how to make this call helps protect players and keeps the game under control.

What Is Malicious Contact?
Malicious contact is excessive or intentional physical contact that is meant to injure, intimidate, or take out a player. This is not about hard-nosed baseball—it’s about intent and safety.

Examples include:
✅ A runner lowering a shoulder into a catcher
✅ A player throwing an elbow or intentionally sliding spikes-up
✅ A fielder tagging high with force or throwing a forearm

Penalty:

• Immediate dead ball

• Offending player is ejected

• Umpires may award bases or outs based on what would have occurred without the contact
  
  

How to Call It:
“Time! That’s malicious contact! The player is ejected!”
Make the call loudly and clearly, then explain calmly to both coaches. Be prepared to back up your judgment and file a report if necessary.

Common Misconceptions:
❌ All contact is malicious. (Not true—baseball has contact. Malicious means excessive, intentional, or dangerous.)
❌ A player must be hurt for it to be malicious. (Nope—it’s about intent, not outcome.)
❌ You need to warn the player first. (Not required—you can eject immediately.)

Pro Tip for Umpires:
Know your league’s malicious contact and ejection policies. Use clear, calm communication. Don’t shy away from making the call—it can prevent injury and reinforce sportsmanship.