Quote:
Originally Posted by umpjong
Do you not see the difference? This part of the rule paragraph (a) is for an inning ender not a game ender as (b) is for a game ender, thus the specific note that only the BR and R3 need to advance. You even cite your own answer. "The game is not over until R3 and the BR touch their bases. Thus excluding the other two runners from having to advance. If they wanted them included they would added them to that part of the rule. OBR is known for some vaguely written rules, but this one is not one of them. It is very specific and precise.
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Your interpretation and reasoning is incorrect. It hinges on the word "until". Note also the "exception". The rule is not meant to say, there is an exception to the exception about force plays. Think about it, has ANY MLB umpire crew worked out a mechanic to TIME a 5-4 force in the bases loaded 2 out situation to see if R3 crosses the plate before the force is made at second? Never, never in 50 years of watching baseball has this ever been remotely considered.
OK...4.09(b)...."or any other play with the bases full which forces the runner on third to advance..." Fine, the batter hits a towering fly to the gap warning track deep. Is this "a play"? Yes. Does it force R3 to advance? Yes. Does R3 cross the plate and B/R reach first before the catch is made? Easily done, it was hit that deep. Then, according to rule 4.09(b) the run counts and the game is over. Well, we all know that is wrong because of the way the third out was made. It is the SAME thing if the third out is made by a force (at any base).