Runner Hit by Live Ball (USSSA)
Clarification
First, we are seperating this rule by ruleset (other articles are published for other rulesets) because the rules differ significantly. Additionally, while a runner hit by a batted ball is a type of interference, it is different from a runner interfering with a fielder who is fielding a ball. While the penalties are similar, there are some nuanced distinctions that come into play in advanced discussions of the rules.
Runner Hit by Thrown Ball
In USSSA, there is generally no penalty for a runner being hit by a thrown ball. The only exception is if the runner intentionally interferes with the throw (Rule 8.18.F). In this case, the runner is out and the ball is dead. If the intference is intentional on a double play attempt, Rule 8.5.D applies and both the runner and the batter-runner are out.
When the runner is hit by a thrown ball unintentionally, there is no penalty and the ball remains live. This applies to the batter-runner, with some caveats for the running lane to first base (see Rule 8.17.D and the attached rule explanation below for more details).
Runner Hit by Batted Ball
This rule is not overly complex, but the expections and caveats make the rule complicated.
The most consice way to summarize the rule while capturing the key caveats is as follows: A runner is out and the ball is dead when he/she is touched by a fair batted ball in before the ball touches an infielder (including the pitcher) or passes an infielder (excluding the pitcher), or after it passes an infielder (excpet the pitcher) the umpire deems that another FIELDER has a chance to make a play on the ball (Rule 8.18.O).
The runner is awarded first and all other runners return to the base occupied at the time of the interference, unless forced. With the above statement in mind, there are additional caveats to consider.
Caveats to Runner Hit by Batted Ball
1. In USSSA, this rule does NOT apply if the runner is standing on a base when hit (which is not true in other rulesets). This exception only applies if the contact is unintentional. If the contact is intentional, the runner is out and the ball is dead regardless of whether he/she is on the base or not. If the nearest fielder is in front of the base, the ball is live. If the nearest fielder is behind the base, the ball is dead.
2. An exception to the above statement, if a runner is hit by an infield fly while OFF the base, the runner is out for interference, the batter is out on infield fly, and the ball is dead.
3. If a fair batted ball hits two runners (unlikely but possible), the first runner is out and the ball is immediatly dead, thus the second runner is not out but is requried to return to the last legally occupied base.
4. By negation, if a runner is hit by a batted ball in foul territory, the runner is not out but the ball is dead.
5. If the runner is hit by a batted ball after it has passed an infielder (excluding the pitcher) and no other fielder had a chance to make a play on the ball, the runner is not out and the ball remains live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the ball have to be thrown for interference to be called?▼
Most likely yes. Interference on a thrown ball is only called if the interference is intentional. If the ball is not thrown, there is likely no interference under THIS rule. With that said, pending the circumstances, another rule may apply in the situation you are considering.