Why does the batter doesn't have to stay on first base to be safe while hitting versus being on 2nd,3rd base?

Answer 1

It is ato allow for the runner to attempt to beat the play to first base on any ball hit on the infield.

The turn foul or you can be tagged is not in the rules book -- as long as the runner makes no feint or attempt to advance to second, he is allowed to return without the chance to be put out.

Answer 2

This probably is a case of trial and error with the rules back in the 1800's. I would guess that originally runners could not overrun first, like any other base. Then as the game evolved, runners had to run hard to get to first before a throw. The current system of "turn left and you are in play, turn right and you aren't" evolved from there.

Remember, when baseball was first starting, the ball was much softer. A runner could be called out if he was hit by a thrown ball. When the ball got harder (and thus easier to hit farther), that rule had to disappear to avoid injury.

The great thing about a game's rules is that they are dynamic. People come up with a rule, and the players get busy trying to go around them. Players used to leave gloves on the field. Then, someone probably got hurt slipping on another person's glove, and it was outlawed.

Answer 3

I assume you mean after hitting the ball. The runner can over run first base after touching and still be safe. This is the only base you can do this with. The assumption is, I think, that you'll be running like crazy to try and beat out the ball.

Answer 4

If you mean when a batter Say gets an infield hit and runs past the bag at first if you notice when they over run the bag they stay to the right of the foul line as long as your on the other side of the foul line you can over run the bag...but only at first.