Understanding the infield fly rule is essential for every level of fastpitch softball, from youth leagues to national championships. This specific regulation exists to protect the defensive team from an easy, unearned double play that would be unfair to the offensive team. Essentially, it removes the element of surprise when a batter hits a ball high in the infield with runners on base, forcing the defense to make a difficult play.
The Specifics of the Call
The rule is only applicable with first and second base occupied, or first, second, and third base occupied, and there are fewer than two outs. When the umpire判定s that a fair fly ball can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort, they immediately shout "Infield Fly" and make a specific gesture. The ball remains live, meaning runners can advance at their own risk, but the batter is automatically out regardless of whether the ball is caught.
Defining "Ordinary Effort"
A common point of confusion revolves around the definition of "ordinary effort." This does not mean the easiest play possible, but rather a play that a competent infielder could make without requiring an extraordinary dive, jump, or extended reach. If an infielder hesitates or calls for help because the play is difficult, the umpire is likely to let the ball drop and allow the play continue without the infield fly rule being invoked.
Strategic Implications for Runners
For base runners, the infield fly rule presents both an opportunity and a risk. Once the call is made, the runners are not forced to advance; they can stay on their current base if they choose. However, if they decide to run, they must tag up properly if the ball is caught. A runner who leaves the base early and the ball is caught is subject to being called out for a force play, even if they return to the base before the ball is caught.
Avoiding Force Plays After the Call
Because the batter is out immediately, the force play on runners is removed. If a runner on first base was forced to advance to second because the batter became a runner, that force is nullified once the infield fly is called. This means that if the ball is caught, the runner can remain on first base without being at risk of a force out, though they can still be tagged out if they are off the base.
The Ball Being Fielded
If the infield fly is called and the ball is subsequently caught by an outfielder, the rule remains in effect, and the batter is still out. Runners must still tag up on the catch. Conversely, if the ball drops untouched and hits the ground, the batter is out, but the ball is live, and runners can attempt to advance or return to their bases at their own peril. This scenario often leads to aggressive plays from runners trying to gain an extra base.
Interference and Misconduct
Another critical aspect involves runner interference. If a runner intentionally interferes with the defensive player attempting to catch the infield fly, the umpire may declare the runner out and remove the force protection. In such a case, the batter would remain out, and the runner who interfered would be called out, changing the entire dynamic of the inning. This emphasizes the importance of discipline and awareness during this specific rule scenario.
