[Justme]

Originally Posted by John Robertson

In reply to Scottk 61, here's where I think some unfairness could arise:

Suppose you are the runner on third base in this situation. You are mindful that an infield fly might be called--but also that it might not be called. The ball lands fair near the shortstop. No infield fly call is made. You logically think, "This is now a force play; I have to run." The shortstop throws the ball to the catcher who chooses to apply a tag. You are out. When the play is stopped, the umpires then decide that it really was an infield fly situation and call it after the fact. The batter is out--and you are out too because you were tagged out since the infield fly call meant you ran at your own risk. Double play. Ouch!

The infield fly rule is designed to protect the offensive from a cheap double play (or even a cheap triple play). In this scenario, it has benefitted the defensive team because of the late call.

Call me silly, but I'd say that is unfair.

Hey Silly,

"Rules is Rules" but you enforce them as you see fit.