|
I guess that is the logic behind the exception for infield flies hitting a runner on a base: because the batter is already out when the infield fly is declared, even if the ball was not touched, the play was technically already made on him, resulting in the batter being retired, making the fact that the batted ball hit the runner moot. Otherwise, the runner is out for being hit with a batted ball (even when on a base), because his being hit denied the defense the opportunity to make a play on the batter-runner or other runners. If that does not apply (the ball passed an infielder, and/or no one is in position to make a play), then the runner has not interfered (despite being hit), because no play can be made.
This is crystal-clear for baseball, but softball had to confuse umpires by declaring a base a safe haven for runners at all times, even when said runners are hit by batted balls, and would otherwise be guilty of interference. Disregard if you work baseball only.
|