Infield fly rule??

Question

I know what it is. When the announcers say that the infield fly rule is in affect, do the umpires use some sort of signal?

Answer 1

Technically the rule is always in effect :)

The announcers say it to remind viewers of the situation: less than two outs and runners on first and second.

Umpires remind each other of the situation using signals. With no outs, the signal we use in my association is a closed right hand patting the upper chest. With one out, we tap the bill of our cap with our right index finger.

When actually declaring a batted ball an infield fly, umpires point straight up and call, "Infield fly, the batter is out if fair."

Answer 2

Umpires use a verbal signal to indicate that that infield fly has been called (Usually "Infield Fly, batter's out!"). The hand signal they use is the same that they use when a fly ball is caught.

Someone referred to the rule as a "stupid rule", but it has a purpose. Without the rule, the defense always has an advantage in this situation. For example, if the bases are loaded with nobody out, the infielder would let the ball fall and then try to turn a double or triple play. The runners cannot advance on the pop up because if it is caught, the fielder will again catch it and attempt to throw to the bases to turn a double or triple play. It would kill a lot of rallies and make the game boring. And contrary to this other post, the Infield Fly rule is enforced in the NL, AL, and all other leagues that I have encountered.

Obviously there is not a risk of this happening if there are two outs, or if there there is not a force at two bases, so that is the reason that it is only called in certain situations.

Answer 3

Part of MLB Official Rules 2.00, from the definition of Infield Fly:

When it seems apparent that a batted ball will be an Infield Fly, the umpire shall immediately declare “Infield Fly” for the benefit of the runners. If the ball is near the baselines, the umpire shall declare “Infield Fly, if Fair.”

The original "shout out."

Answer 4

The signal after the infield fly is declared (not called as some may think) is simply pointing straight overhead while stating "infield fly, batter is out"

The ball stays live and runners may advance at their own peril.

Answer 5

It's in effect in NL games and not AL games. The announcers are primarily saying it to remind the viewer.

Personally, I think it's a stupid rule.

Answer 6

The Umps just yell it out so the fielders and baserunners hear it.

Answer 7

They usually yell it out and throw their hands up basically like when its a dead ball. Just hold up both hands.

Answer 8

Yep, it is called by the umps while the ball is in the air.

Answer 9

of corse lol thats how they all get it around.......