Expert: Andrew Mullins - 4/9/2009

Question
Little League, AAA Minors (IF it matters)
Runner hit by a batted ball. In what situation is the runner out or safe. In what situation is the ball alive or dead. I hope you can help in each of the following rules, and what the difference is. In trying to clear this up locally, I have received very different answers. Thank you in advance for your time.
6.08 - The batter becomes a runner and is entitled to first base without liability to be put out ( ) when -
   (d) a fair ball touches a umpire or runner in fair territory before touching a fielder

7.04 - Each runner, other than the batter, may, without liability to be put out, advance one base when -
   (a) …. or when the batter hit’s a fair ball that touches another runner or the umpire before such ball has been touched by, or has passed a fielder, if the runner is forced to advance.

7.08 - Any runner is out when -
   (f) touched by a fair ball in fair territory before the ball has touched or passed an infielder. The ball is dead and no runner may score, no runners may advance, except runners forced to advance

7.09 - It is interference by a batter or runner when -
   (k) a fair ball touches the batter or runner in fair territory before touching a fielder.
     (penalty for interference- runner out, ball dead)

Answer
The bottom line is if the runner is hit by a batted ball BEFORE a fielder has a chance to make a play, he is automatically out & the ball is immediately dead.

If a fielder had an opportunity to make a play first, in other words in front of the runner, & then it hits the runner, you have nothing play continues w/ no dead ball or penalty.

Sorry, for the delay, on vacation the last ten days....If this helped rate me positively, if not let me know back...

Thanks, Andy