Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 5/9/2005

Question
Can you please explain the infield fly rule?

Answer
Dave,

The infield fly rule is considered in effect if both of the following conditions are met:

1)  There are less then two outs, and
2)  There are runners on 1st and second, or the bases are loaded.

If a batter hits an easy fly ball to the infield, the umpire will declare the infield fly and the batter is immediately out.  The ball does not have to be caught.  If the ball is dropped, the runners may advance at their own risk.

The rule was put into place because savvy infielders would drop easy fly balls on purpose and turn double plays.  The runners would stay near their bases; the infielder would drop the ball on purpose and then easily retire two runners because they could not advance to the next base in time.

Hope this helps!

Brian