Inflield Fly how to "declare" one

[Macaroo]

Generally, the PU will vocalize the IFF. When the ball goes up shallow and high, the BU pointing up is to help the PU recognize that an IFF is likely, or at least possible. PU usually has better distance and angle to see if a fielder has ordinary effort to make this catch. It is not "declared" by the point only, but must be spoken. Of course, there are always exceptions, and BU should call it (if he is sure) when PU fails to do so.

[DG]

Originally posted by lc_huxter
Another umpire and I were discussing the inflield fly rule. He stated just by pointing in the sky should be good enough to declare an infield fly.
I on the otherhand disagree with him. I refered to OBR where there are two types of infield fly. One if it is fair and the other if it is foul. If OBR wanted us to say "Infield fly if fair" how can a finger pointing in the air declare that statement?

We also disagree on the infield fly rule. I say it is not an automatic thing. It is a judgement call, so if we do not "declare" it then it is not so. Is this true or is it automatic?

Thanks

The players can not hear your finger pointing to the sky. If you have your finger up you may as well loudly proclaim "infield fly, batter is out". Do it loudly. If the ball is near a foul line, add "if fair". Either umpire can call it, but if neither does it is still an infield fly if it deemed to be afterwards. Offense and defense should know the rule also. Don't call it too soon, be sure about it.

[bob jenkins]

Originally posted by DG
Either umpire can call it, but if neither does it is still an infield fly if it deemed to be afterwards.

That's the FED rule, but not, I think, the OBR interp.

[aevans410]

Bob's probably right on that one. I deal mostly in FED rules which is where my interp earlier came from.