Fair ball

In baseball, a fair ball is a batted ball that is legally hit and meets specific criteria relating to its location and path. A fair ball puts the ball in play, allowing runners to advance and fielders to attempt to make outs.

Specifically, a batted ball is deemed a fair ball if it:

• Settles on fair territory between home plate and first base, or between home plate and third base.
• Is on or over fair territory when bounding to the outfield past first or third base.
• First falls on fair territory in the outfield.
• While on or over fair territory, touches a player, umpire, or object.
• Strikes the first, second, or third base.
• While in the air, passes over fair territory beyond first or third base.

The determination of whether a ball is fair or foul is crucial, as it dictates the play's continuation. If a ball lands foul or rolls foul before reaching first or third base, it is a foul ball, and play stops. A fair ball remains in play until the umpire declares a time out or the ball becomes dead for another reason.