What is the infield fly rule?

The infield fly rule is a baseball rule designed to prevent a defensive team from intentionally dropping a fair fly ball to turn a double play and get the lead runner out at second base. It's invoked under specific circumstances:

• Bases loaded: The bases must be loaded (first, second, and third base occupied) with less than two outs.

• Fair fly ball: A fair fly ball is one that lands in fair territory. The umpire must judge the fly ball to be catchable by an infielder with ordinary effort. This is subjective, and umpires have leeway in this judgment. A long fly ball that's clearly going to drop out of reach of any infielder isn't subject to the rule.

• Infield position: The fly ball must be deemed catchable by at least one infielder (first baseman, second baseman, shortstop, third baseman, and the pitcher). Outfielders are not considered in this judgment.

When the rule is invoked: If the umpire calls an infield fly, the batter is automatically out. Runners may advance at their own risk, but they cannot be put out for attempting to advance on a fair fly ball (unless they are tagged out).

Purpose: The infield fly rule prevents a team from using a simple, easy out that might result from a deliberately dropped fly ball. It levels the playing field and adds a bit more fairness to the game. Without it, defensive teams could manipulate the outcome of a close play at a key moment.

Important Considerations:

• Umpire's Judgment: The umpire's call is final. There's no review for an infield fly call.
• Batter is Out: Even if the ball is caught, the batter is automatically out; the catch is irrelevant.
• Runners' Advancement: Runners are allowed to advance at their own risk, but an infielder dropping the ball doesn't automatically put them out.
• Exceptions: If the batted ball falls outside of the infield or if it's judged uncatchable by infielders, the rule doesn't apply.

In short, the infield fly rule is a unique and sometimes controversial part of baseball, designed to prevent a potential defensive trick play and create a more even playing field in certain situations.