Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 6/23/2007

Question
If a ball that is hit, hits the top of the outfield fence and bounces back into the field is it considered a homerun or does he get what he can?

Answer
Mike,

It depends on the ground rules at a particular field.  Some stadiums have a yellow line painted along the wall or at the top of the fence.  If the ball hits over the yellow line, it is a home run.

In the abscence of a specific ground rule, if the ball bounces back onto the field of play after hitting the wall, then it is not a home run.  The ball is in play and the runner can get whatever they can.

Hope this helps!

Brian