The National Federation of State High School Association’s Baseball Rules Committee approved rules changes last month that include how a batter can interfere with the catcher’s ability to field or throw.

The committee voted to add “including backswing interference” to Rule 7-3-5c to address the specific type of batter interference. The rule reads, “A batter shall not interfere with the catcher’s fielding or throwing by making any other movement, including backswing interference, which hinders action at home plate or the catcher’s attempt to play on a runner.

Additionally, the committee revised Rule 6-1-3 to state that the pitcher’s entire pivot foot must be in contact with or directly in front of and parallel to the pitcher’s plate (rubber).

The committee also established several points of emphasis for next season, including malicious contact, coaching attire and umpire authority and enforcement.