OFFICIAL BASEBALL RULES

Rule 5.055.05 (6.09) When the Batter Becomes a Runner(a) The batter becomes a runner when:(1) He hits a fair ball;Rule 5.05(a) Comment (Rule 2.00 (Ball) Comment): If the batterhits a pitch that touches the ground first, the ensuing actionshall be the same as if he hit the ball in flight.(2) The third strike called by the umpire is not caught, providing(1) first base is unoccupied, or (2) first base isoccupied with two out;Rule 5.05(a)(2) Comment (Rule 6.09(b) Comment): A batterwho does not realize his situation on a third strike not caught,and who is not in the process of running to first base, shall bedeclared out once he leaves the dirt circle surrounding homeplate.(3) If the pitch touches the ground and bounces through thestrike zone it is a “ball.” If such a pitch touches the batter,he shall be awarded first base. If the batter swings at sucha pitch after two strikes, the ball cannot be caught, for thepurposes of Rule 5.05(b) and 5.09(a)(3). (Rule 2.00(Ball) Comment)(4) A fair ball, after having passed a fielder other than thepitcher, or after having been touched by a fielder, includingthe pitcher, shall touch an umpire or runner on fairterritory;(5) A fair ball passes over a fence or into the stands at a distancefrom home base of 250 feet or more. Such hit entitlesthe batter to a home run when he shall have touchedall bases legally. A fair fly ball that passes out of the playingfield at a point less than 250 feet from home baseshall entitle the batter to advance to second base only;(6) A fair ball, after touching the ground, bounds into thestands, or passes through, over or under a fence, orthrough or under a scoreboard, or through or under22