Thank you for avoiding the snarky Google is Your Friend - so far, I have found some interesting stuff, but not much in the way of either:
a) the logic behind the Unwritten Rule (in many cases it is obvious, but I would love to hear about the subtle nuance behind any of them, where interesting); and
b) stories about famous examples where the rules held up, were broken, were in dispute, etc…
On that point you are correct, but the term “beaning” has broadened in its meaning to include what does still happen, which is the IHBP (intentional hit-by-pitch) :).
My authority on this is that when Don Sutton used to announce Braves games, he used the term beaning to describe any intentionally batter-directed pitch, and if anybody would know how to use that term appropriately, he would.
I appreciate the humor, sir. And yes, that link is also provided above, but is simply a list of some of the Unwritten Rules. I am looking for more background as to why there is that rule and some stories about rules…
Not sure these were the kind of rules you were looking for though.
One of the most common I think that is observed is if the second basemen sometimes airmailing the bag when turning the double play. I’ve heard lots of fans complain, never once saw an umpire actually call the guy safe because the 2B/SS took his foot off too early.
Just to make sure, because I think I understand what you’re saying, but in most double play situations that a second baseman or shortstop would be involved in (runner on first, ground ball up the middle), there is no “too early.” The play at second is a force play until the batter-runner is out at first, so all the 2B/SS has to do is touch the bag with the ball in his control. He doesn’t have to be in contact with it at the same time the runner touches it.
I believe “too early” means before the ball arrived from the third baseman. He took his foot off the bag before he had possession of the ball. It happens, and it isn’t always called by the umps.
Sorry, I felt someone needed to make the joke.