What happens when a fan grabs a fair ball?

The ball becomes dead, and the umpire will award any bases or charge any outs that, in his judgment, would have occurred without the interference. Such interference often occurs when a spectator in the first row of seats reaches onto the field to attempt to grab a fair or foul fly ball.

What happens to the fan in fan interference baseball?

Definition. In every case of spectator interference with a batted or thrown ball, the ball shall be declared dead and the baserunners can be placed where the umpire determines they would have been without the interference.

Do fans get ejected for fan interference?

John Fay reports that a Reds spokesman said ballpark officials have the right to eject the fan, but they usually don’t. One would assume that officials try to determine the fan’s intent and whether there was malice involved.

Can fans keep cricket balls?

Besides, it’s good public relations to let fans keep them. You can keep balls but not bats primarily because the balls belong to the team and dozens of them are hit into the stands during any given game.

What happens when a runner interferes with a fielder?

If any member of the batting team (including the coaches) interferes with a fielder’s right of way to field a thrown ball, the runner on whom the play is being made shall be ruled out.

What is the difference between obstruction and interference in baseball?

One key distinction between interference and obstruction: Interference is defined as a violation of either the offense or the defense; obstruction can only be committed by the defense.

Can a fan interfere with a foul ball?

Rule 3.16 Situation A – If a batter hits a foul fly ball along the first base or third base fence, and as the fielder prepares to catch the ball, a spectator reaches over the fence and touches the ball, this would be considered spectator interference.

Does the runner have to avoid the fielder?

The rule provides that a runner must vacate any space needed by a fielder to make a play on a batted ball, unless the runner has contact with a legally occupied base when the interference occurs. In this case, the runner should not be called out unless the hindrance is intentional.