Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 9/30/2010

Question
I have a question about the interpretation of rule 4.03 below:

4.03 When the ball is put in play at the start of, or during a game, all fielders other than the catcher shall be on fair territory.
(c) Except the pitcher and the catcher, any fielder may station himself anywhere in fair territory.

My question is this:  Is a player (i.e. 1st baseman or 3rd baseman) considered in fair territory if only part of both feet are touching fair territory (or the foul line) while part of both feet are also touching on the foul side of the foul line?  In other words, do they need to be completely in fair territory, or do they only have to have part of their feet in fair territory to be in compliance with the rule?  As written, the rule is not clear.  Please let me know your thoughts.  Thanks for any assistance that you can provide!


Answer
Tim,

Both feet need to be in fair territory.  Back in the late 70s, early 80s, Keith Hernandez used to flaunt this rule when he held runners on base.  There was a ruling one year after opponents complained and umpires made him stand with both feet in fair territory.

Hope this helps!

Brian