What is the infield fly rule, how is it invoked, what does it mean?
The infield fly rule is often discussed in the media as the most complex rule in sports. There is no reason to feel confused about it. It is actually quite simple.
The infield fly rule applies whenever there are runners on first and second (or all three bases) with less than two outs and the batter hits a fly ball (not a line drive or bunt) into fair territory which can be caught by an infielder with ordinary effort. The umpire must invoke the rule - if no umpire calls "infield fly," the rule is not invoked. It is a judgment call.
The rule is on the books in order to prevent an infielder from creating an artificial double or triple play. With bases loaded, a pitcher might allow an infield fly to drop in front of her then quickly throw the ball to the catcher who throws to third and then to second to nail the runners who stayed close to their bases in order to not be doubled up on a caught ball.
When the infield fly rule is invoked and the ball remains fair, the batter is automatically out thereby removing the force for the runners on base. Runners may advance at their own risk. There is no need for a runner on base to advance. If an infield fly is caught, runners may tag up and advance if they choose. But note that they must still tag up if the ball is caught. If a called infield fly is dropped, runners may advance without needing to return to base to tag up. Really the only thing which occurs outside the normal play is the batter is out - there is no force.
If the ball becomes foul, the rule no longer applies. For example, if the infield fly rule is invoked, a ball drifts foul, and the infielder drops the fly, the batter has merely hit a foul ball and continues with her at bat.
The best way to explain the infield fly rule, especially to younger players, is to tell your team that if the infield fly rule is called, simply return to base and wait to see if the ball is caught. If it is dropped and it rolls away from the fielders, advance to the next base if your coach tells you to go. Aside from this, very little time needs to be spent understanding this "most complex" of all sports rules.
Here are things to keep in mind:
1. A team should be at the field 30 minutes before the game starts so that the girls can warm up and have an infield practice. The VISITING team should have their infield practice at least 20 minutes before game time and have the field for ten minutes. The HOME team then has ten minutes until game time.
2. Games must start at the designated times in order to be able to get in 5 innings.
3. Coaches should make sure the girls wear proper protective equipment - even during warmups and practices.
4. Games must not be cancelled for lack of players. Emphasize this point with your girls. In most cases, your players should know at least one day in advance whether they can make a game or not. They should call you no later than 9 pm the night before so that you can try to get anothe player.
5. RAIN-OUTS. In the event of rain, the umpires will have the final decision once they reach the field.
Some helpful Coaching drills: All in PDF
Catching Drills - PDF
Fielding Drills - PDF
Hitting Drills - PDF
Pitching Drills - PDF