Infield Fly Or Not? This was really strange.

[whiskers_ump]

Originally posted by Gre144
What I am suggesting is that the infield fly rule should be changed. Under the current rule you automatically call the batter-runner out on on an infield fly even if all the runners including the batter-runner advance one base. It is my opinion that if the defense cannot even catch a routine infield fly than they should not be awarded an out if all the runners including the batter runner advance. Of course, under the current rule you have to call the batter-runner out. I am suggesting that the rule change as follows:

1) The umpire calls the infield fly immediately.
2) However, if all runners including the batter runner advance one base than the infield fly is ignored

This would be similar to ignoring an obstruction if the runner being obstructed advances to the base that he would have reach had there been no obstruction.

In short, I think it is absolutely ridiculous to award a defense team, who is unable to catch a routine fly ball, with an out. I guess my question would be is why would anyone think that the infield fly rule as it stands makes sense to them?

Gregg,

Referencing your suggested change 1)The umpire calls the
infield fly immediately.

When you made this call, the batter runner cannot
advance one base, because by the rule you imposed, BR
is out!