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.

WizardofOz · 26-30, M

@ChipmunkErnie As you eluded to, the batter is out and the runner is out at second, for "interference". Even though the IFR was in effect, the ball is still live, because the runners can advance, so by rule, interference could have prevented another out. Yes! You are 100% right! There is discussion about changing the rule to make it a "dead ball" as soon as the IFR is called. You nailed it! lol

WizardofOz · 26-30, M

@WizardofOz I do have to add, if the runner was standing on second when contact was made, that would not be considered interference.

ChipmunkErnie · 70-79, M

@WizardofOz But it still side-steps the question, doesn't the runner have the right of access to the base -- in this case the fielder was blocking that access. And I THINK the runners can advance ONLY after returning to their original base and tagging up after the ball is caught -- or dropped -- and so the fielder was interfering with the runner?

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.