Which is true about the last play of the game appeals regarding the umpire's presence?

Which is true about the last play of the game appeals regarding the umpire's presence?

• A. While an umpire is still on the field of play.
• B. False.
• C. Only after the umpire calls time.
• D. Only if the batter did not reach base.

Answer: (A)

Appeals on the last play of the game must be made while the ball is live and the umpire is still on the field to observe the play. The umpire’s presence is what authorizes and enforces any appeal, so once the umpire leaves the field or time is called, the window to appeal closes and the result stands. This is why the statement that last‑play appeals depend on the umpire being on the field is the correct one. The other ideas don’t fit because appeals aren’t allowed simply at any time after the game ends, they’re not limited to whether the batter reached base, and they aren’t valid only after the umpire has called time.

Appeals on the last play of the game must be made while the ball is live and the umpire is still on the field to observe the play. The umpire’s presence is what authorizes and enforces any appeal, so once the umpire leaves the field or time is called, the window to appeal closes and the result stands. This is why the statement that last‑play appeals depend on the umpire being on the field is the correct one. The other ideas don’t fit because appeals aren’t allowed simply at any time after the game ends, they’re not limited to whether the batter reached base, and they aren’t valid only after the umpire has called time.