Foul Tip

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by Robert Goodman

Ok, that's something of a relief. So what kinds of ball can be caught for an out? Are the criteria different in fair & foul ground? Or different for catchers from other players?

I'm looking at NCAA 7-11 now, and I don't see any provision for a catch of anything other than a fly ball or foul tip to make an out. Which does seem to mean you can't line out, fair or foul. Did they sneak it in someplace else?

The definition of "catch" is interesting too. When it says "the fielder does not use...any...part of the uniform in getting possession", does that mean only loose-fitting parts of the uniform that can extend a distance from the body, or does it include any cloth covering any of the player's skin, no matter how closely? And does "use" cover inadvertent deflections, or only deliberate use?

The key words in the "foul tip" definition are "sharp and direct". If it first hits the catcher's hand or glove, then it's a strike. If it hits the catcher or umpire first, then it's foul (and also not technical a "foul tip", but I digress).

Any other batted ball that's caught in flight is an out.