Infield Fly Rule

[tcblue13]

Call it
The rule is there for a reason
Too many complications can arise by not calling it especially with base runners not knowing what to do.

The batter has to be out so that the runners can stay put

I would be interested in knowing the logic behind not calling it.

[gsf23]

Originally Posted by tcblue13

Call it
The rule is there for a reason
Too many complications can arise by not calling it especially with base runners not knowing what to do.

The batter has to be out so that the runners can stay put

I would be interested in knowing the logic behind not calling it.

I think some of it is oridnary effort for a high schooler is not ordinary effort for a 12 year old. I don't agree with that, but I think that is where some of it comes from.

[tcblue13]

Originally Posted by gsf23

I think some of it is oridnary effort for a high schooler is not ordinary effort for a 12 year old. I don't agree with that, but I think that is where some of it comes from.

I understand the difference in skill level and that has to play a part in the call itself. Every call is different in every game.
But to say that you (generic sense) won't call it at all in a certain level of play is to say that you are ignoring a rule that helps protect the vulnerable base runners from getting hung out on an infield fly.
That is what I am saying.

[gsf23]

Originally Posted by tcblue13

I understand the difference in skill level and that has to play a part in the call itself. Every call is different in every game.
But to say that you (generic sense) won't call it at all in a certain level of play is to say that you are ignoring a rule that helps protect the vulnerable base runners from getting hung out on an infield fly.
That is what I am saying.

But you do have to take level of play into account somewhat. A pop-up into short left field is going to be an infield fly in a high school and college game, but is probably not going to be in a 12-under game. I do think you have to decide before hand, What is reasonable effort at this level. I'm not saying that I will never call it, I'm just saying that as you move up in level , the area for an infield fly is going to get larger.

Now, I don't extend it to individual players I keep it at a league level. I'm never going to call an infield fly for one team and not another just because they have a better shortstop.

[Dakota]

Yes, level of play / player skill can be taken into account. After all, ordinary effort for Crystl Bustos is not the same as ordinary effort for little Sally Tenyou.

However, you do need to keep in mind the purpose of the rule - to protect the offense; to allow the runners to stay put on their bases.

Also, in ASA, it is allowed to call the IF after-the-fact and rectify placing players in jeopardy by not calling it. (Although you could expect some lively discussions to follow.)