Baseball Instruction/purposely dropped ball

Advertisement

Expert: John Priest - 6/7/2010


Question
Let's say there's a runner on first with no outs. A line drive is hit to the shortstop and you can tell he purposely dropped it to get a double play. It that legal to purposely drop a line drive in order to get a double play? If it's not is batter out and runner must return to base occupied at time of pitch which would be first?
Thanks

Answer
Heather,
This is called the Infield Fly Rule.  The batter is out and runners can advance at their own risks.  This rule is to prevent what you have described.  Because you were specific to a "line drive" I would also ask this question to an expert umpire because I have never been an umpire and I am not an expert on rules.  

Thank You,
John Priest

Baseball Instruction

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

John Priest

Expertise

I can answer all questions regarding baseball fundementals from the little league to the professional level. I have the most knowledge in hitting mechanics and fundamentals and the development of power and batspeed. I can also answer all questions for catchers, pitchers, infielders, and outfielders. I also have experience coaching at the high school and AAU levels. Please no questions about rules and/or rule interpretation. English only please.

Experience

I have played through college, and semi pro baseball. For the past 10 years I have been coaching and providing instruction for all age and ability levels. Numerous clients of mine have gone on to play in college and some are playing in the minor leagues. I have provided coaching and instruction for high schools, training facilities, and the Nokona Baseball Factory.

Publications
http://jpbaseball.blogspot.com/

Education/Credentials
Graduated 2009 Associates degree in Science

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.