Throw Hits the Batter-Runner

NFHS Case Play Challenge

Throw Hits the Batter-Runner

R3 is on third base with 2 outs. B2 hits a sharp fair ground ball up the first-base line to F3, who fields the ball beyond first base. F3 throws to F2 attempting to retire R3 at the plate. The throw hits B2, who is running on the foul line.

Pre-Pitch Signals

• 2 Outs
• Staying Home
• Timing Play

Ruling Question

F3's throw home hits B2 while B2 is running on the foul line. What is the correct ruling?

1. Runner's-lane interference under 8-4-1g. B2 is out and R3 returns to third.
2. No interference. The ball remains live because no play is being made on B2 at first base.
3. Dead ball immediately. B2 is awarded first and R3 is awarded home.
4. Interference because B2 is outside the running lane when the throw contacts him.

Correct Ruling

No interference. This follows NFHS 8.4.1 Situation C. Since F3's throw is to F2 for a play on R3 at the plate, and no play is being made on B2 at first base, the runner's-lane provision in 8-4-1g does not apply.

Bonus Question

Had B2 intentionally made contact with F3's throw, what would be the proper ruling?

1. The ball is dead. B2 is out for interference, and the umpire returns R3 to third.
2. The ball is dead. B2 is out for interference, and the umpire could also call R3 out if B2's interference prevented a possible out on R3. Otherwise, R3 returns to third.
3. B2 is out for interference and the ball is delayed dead. The defense still has an opportunity to get R3 out.
4. Only B2 can be declared out. R3 must always return to third and can never be called out.