Quote:
Originally posted by frolichoek
Infield fly rule:
If there are runners on first and second or the bases are loaded and there are less than two outs, a pop fly results in an automatic out. This rule doesn't make sense until you explain why it came into effect.
If you have runners on first and second with less than 2 outs, imagine a pop fly to the second baseman. He waits under it to catch it and the runners have to remain close to their bases so they don't get doubled off. A smart player figured out that he could just drop the ball on purpose and get an easy double play (by forcing the player at third and second). So the infield fly rule was put into effect to prevent that very thing from happening.
What happens though is that so many players don't understand the rule they think they have a free pass to run, which is not true. They still have to tag up or return to the base or they can be doubled off. It just prevents the fielder from dropping the ball on purpose (thereby removing the force outs).
Now, if someone can explain Cricket to me, we would be in business. I caught some cricket on Dish Network a couple of weeks back, and I couldn't have been more confused.
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Good explanation.
But, it should be noted that it must be a fly ball that an infielder could catch with "ordinary" effort. Hence the name; "Infield Fly Rule". However, it does not necessarily mean that an infielder has to make the catch. Also, the ball is live, even if the rule is called.
Try explaining this to a bunch of angry parents during a little league game Sheesh!
