Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 5/31/2008

Question
There are bases loaded and 2 outs.  The runner from 2nd on his way to third is hit by the batted ball.  The runner from third had crossed home plate before the runner from 2nd going to third was hit by the batted ball.  The runner from 2nd that was hit by the ball is out, correct?  Does the run count?  What would happen had there been less than 2 outs?

Answer
Scott,

If the runner hit by the ball was in front of the defensive players, then the batter is awarded first, the runner is out, but the remaining runners are allowed to advance so the run counts.

If the runner hit by the ball was behind a defensive player, then the runner is out, and the play is live.  Since the runner is the third out, no run scores (even if the runner crossed the plate before the other runner was out).  If there are less then two outs, runners are at their own risk, so if one scores, it counts.

Hope this helps!

Brian