You make the call!

Runners on first and second, no outs. The batter hits an infield fly about two feet third base side of second base, the "infield fly rule" is put in effect. As the runner on second goes back to second, he bumps the second baseman, causing him to drop the ball. What is the call?

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ChipmunkErnie · 70-79, M

It seems that depends on the umpire's whim, judging by recent evidence. I'd have said that because the infield fly rule was called the batter was out either way, BUT I believe they called the runner at second out for interference. Which raises the question, doesn't the runner have the right to go back to the bag unimpeded by the fielder. Also raises the question, does the runner have to tag up before trying to advance? I know the rule says something about the runners "advancing at their own risk", but I'm not sure about the exact mechanics of it. Personally, I think the rule should be changed to making the ball dead once the infield fly rule is called and having the runners simply stay where they were.

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WizardofOz · 26-30, M

@ChipmunkErnie It would be no different than my question before this. If a ball is tipped in front of home plate down the first base path and the batter makes contact with the catcher as the catcher tries to field the ball, the batter is out. Even on a IFR, a runner cannot interfere. Also, a runner is not required to tag up if the infielder drops the ball. Of course they usually do go back to their base.

ChipmunkErnie · 70-79, M

@WizardofOz But WHY does the fielder get to interfere with the runner, that's what I wonder. And yes, the runner doesn't have to tag up, but the whole concept of the infield fly rule is to stop fielders from dropping the ball on purpose to get a double play.

WizardofOz · 26-30, M

@ChipmunkErnie But the infielder still has a right to catch it, because he can still appeal a non tag up. A runner can't bump him if the runner was caught misjudging the fly and could get thrown out.

biandlargeny · 56-60, M

I think the runner should be on second. The interference is irrelevant since the infield fly was called

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biandlargeny · 56-60, M

@WizardofOz LOL Angel Hernandez hated the strike zone. he was horrible. There are many many rules the fans and players never heard of. I enjoyed umpiring. I started in my teens. Its really not bad, Most coaches and players are decent. As long as your calls are consistent and you are loud. they wont bother arguing.

WizardofOz · 26-30, M

@biandlargeny YES! They mentioned that! lol teams will respect you if you are consistent! You give him a big strike zone, then my pitcher gets one! I think you were the one saying that catcher's are usually the most "rule conscious" people on the field? I've learned that too! And they can develop a special rapport with an umpire. It is really cool learning!

biandlargeny · 56-60, M

@WizardofOz absolutely catchers are your best friends on the field. Especially the good ones, they stop bad pitches from hitting you.

You can have a tight zone too but let the catcher know where you are calling the zone so they know in advance. In little league the zone is a bit bigger becauseyou want the hitters to swing.

biandlargeny · 56-60, M

You might enjoy the book The Umpire Strikes Back by Ron Luciano, former MLB umpire

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