This came from a NFHS rules clinic, but I suspect the answer will be the same for many codes.

We probably agree that if a batted ball hits an umpire after passing a fielder that it remains live and in play.

The question: if a line drive hits the umpire and bounces in the air and is caught by a nearby fielder, it that a caught fly ball? Or a ground ball?

WMB

WMB,
I hope it's a grounded ball. :)
mick

Its the same as a ground ball, we are part of the playing field.
Unless it is the second Tuesday of the same week that has a triple full moon preceded by a Saturday of no sunshine

"Its the same as a ground ball, we are part of the playing field."

Does that me that we are just dirt? :D


WMB

Actually, I teach that we are just a big pebble (some bigger than others) on the playing field.

I think I would rather be refered to as a pebble than
dirt. :D

XRay on eteamz just loves using the analogy that umpires are just like dirt! (But, he's a nice guy, so we let him get away with it.) ;)