INT and IFF in one play

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by jmkupka

Steve, I've always heard it's never too late to declare the IFF, but never heard how (to declare the delayed IFF).

Say we both miss the fact that it's in effect, the batter pops up, ordinary catch is dropped, and (a) multiple outs are made because runners didn't run, or (b) no outs are made due to runners off on the pitch.

In (a) when OC complains about the no-IFF call, do we protect the runners back to 1st & 2nd and call batter out?

In (b) when DC complains about the no-IFF call, do we send the runners back to 1st & 2nd and call batter out?

This assumes that we agree that IFF should have been called, we just missed it.

Your (a) is the exact reason the rule exists; to protect runners that shouldn't be forced to advance when the rule applies. So, yes, absolutely what you said.

In (b), the defense deserves the IFF out; only. They do not get any other protection for failing to catch the ball and allowing runners to advance safely, at risk.

You missed the worst scenario. In (c), no call is made, ball is dropped, runners are out while attempting to advance thinking they have to, defense made "force plays" without tagging any runners thinking they don't have to. Now you realize it was an infield fly, batter is out; but there were no forces. Oh, happy day. DC wants the force outs, OC wants runners to have safely advanced since not forced, so not out.

(c) Batter is out, put runners back on 1st and second in THIS scenario; delayed/reversed call disadvantaged both teams.