How umpires can win the game for you.

There is a reason we have instant replay at the higher levels because bad calls cost games.

In softball, if a batter-runner is running to first base in fair territory and gets hit by a thrown ball, they are out.

Here’s why: When running to first base, the batter-runner must stay in the designated running lane (the 3-foot lane to the right of the foul line) for the last half of the distance to first base. If they’re running in fair territory and interfere with a fielder’s throw by being hit by the ball, they’re called out for interference.

The key point is that runners have a responsibility to avoid interfering with defensive plays, and running in fair territory when there’s a designated running lane typically constitutes interference when hit by a throw.

In my coaching experience, I've seen this several times.

• The player fields a bunt, throws to first, and hits the runner in fair territory on the helmet, and it ricochets into right field, allowing that same runner to score.
• Bases are loaded with 2 outs. A slow roller is hit back to the pitcher. The runner is in fair territory, and the first baseman is trucked, causing them to miss the throw. Bases are clear, and the game is over.
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