What is the infield fly rule?

The infield fly rule is a special rule in baseball designed to prevent the defensive team from intentionally allowing an easy pop-up to drop, then executing a double play. Here's a breakdown:

• Definition: The rule states that with runners on first and second, or first, second, and third, with less than two outs, the batter is automatically out if he hits a fair fly ball (not a line drive or bunt attempt) that can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort.

• Purpose: To prevent a situation where an infielder deliberately drops an easily catchable ball in order to force out runners at second and/or first. Without the rule, the infielder could drop the ball, force out the runner at second (or third) who is advancing thinking the ball will be caught, and then throw to first to complete a double play.

• "Ordinary Effort": This is a crucial element. The umpire must judge whether an infielder could catch the ball with what is considered "ordinary effort". Factors like wind, sun, and the infielder's positioning are taken into account.

• Umpire's Declaration: The umpire must immediately declare "Infield Fly, if Fair" or "Infield Fly" for the rule to apply. This alerts the runners and batter that the rule is in effect.

• Batter is Out: If the umpire calls the infield%20fly, the batter is automatically out regardless of whether the ball is caught.

• Runners Can Advance: Runners may advance at their own risk after the ball is touched. Because the batter is automatically out, the ball is live (unless the infield fly is dropped, in which case the ball is also live as normal).

• Fair or Foul: The ball must be fair for the rule to apply. If the ball is foul, the infield%20fly%20rule does not apply, and the play proceeds as normal.

• No Force Play: Even though the batter is out, there is no force play. This means that if the ball is dropped, a runner is not automatically out if they are standing on their base. They must be tagged if not on their base.

• Who is an Infielder?: Generally, any fielder who is positioned in the infield when the pitch is thrown can be considered an infielder for the purposes of the rule. This can include the pitcher, catcher, or even outfielders who are playing in a shallow position.

• Exceptions: If the infielder intentionally drops the ball, the ball is live, but it is treated as if it had been caught regarding advancement of runners.

In short, the infield%20fly rule is a somewhat complex rule designed to prevent unsportsmanlike play.