This quick review considers the various outcomes for the unique case of an unexpected object or equipment's interaction with a fielder as that fielder is attempting to field a batted ball.
OBR 5.09(a)(8) Comment states, "If a bat breaks and part of it is in fair territory and is hit by a batted ball or part of it hits a runner or fielder, play shall continue and no interference called. If a batted ball hits part of a broken bat in foul territory, it is a foul ball," meaning that for the purposes of this play wherein Kansas City's offensive player's bat shattered and the dismembered barrel careened toward a fielding defensive player from Los Angeles, the correct call is no call: the ball is live. If the batter somehow reverse Roger Clemens v Mike Piazza'd the situation and threw part of the broken bat at the fielder and caused a similar fielding error, the proper call likely would be interference.
Here are the following potential situations for odd object obtrusion and official outcomes.
Broken Bat (Fair): If batted ball hits broken bat in fair territory, the ball is live (no interference).
Broken Bat (Foul): If batted ball hits broken bat in foul territory, it is a foul ball.
Helmet (Fair): If batted ball hits fallen batting helmet in fair territory, the ball is live (no INT).
Helmet (Foul): If batted ball hits fallen batting helmet in foul territory, it is a foul ball.
Thrown Bat: If a whole bat thrown into fair territory interferes with a defensive player attempting to make a play, it is interference, whether the bat was thrown intentionally or accidentally.
Thrown Miscellaneous Equipment: If any other equipment is thrown and interferes with a defensive player attempting to make a play, it is interference. An intentional act to interfere, even with a broken bat (e.g., intentionally throwing a broken bat at a ball in fair territory) is also illegal.
Video as follows:
Alternate Link: Rules Review - Broken Bat Hitting Fair Ball is Generally Not Interference (CCS)
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