Understanding what constitutes a fair ball in baseball can be perplexing, especially when you’re in the stands watching a game unfold.
Unlike football, where sideline catches often define the play, baseball’s rules hinge on where the ball is when it’s first touched by a fielder.
If the ball is over fair territory when first touched, it’s a fair ball; if over foul territory, it’s a foul ball. Simple, right?
Yet, this rule often confuses even seasoned fans. The distinction is crucial because it determines whether the batter continues their run or the play is halted.
Knowing the nuances of fair and foul balls can enrich your appreciation of the game and deepen your understanding of those split-second decisions made by umpires.