Fastpitch Softball: Rules for Walks & Advancing Bases

Question
On ball 4, can a runner run directly to second base all in one play or must they take only first?  and, on ball 4, if the runner runs to first and then takes a few steps towards 2nd, is she out..  The ump said once u commit to go to 2nd on your ball 4, u must go or you're out automatically??  thank-you

Answer
HI Ruff,

A BB is treated the same as a batted ball.  The LBR does not go into effect until the b-r touches 1st and the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle.

If the look back rule is in effect

A b-r walked can legally round the base, stop once and immediately advance to the next base or return to 1st base.

If they over-run 1st toward rt field and turns left and moves directly toward 2nd , they must attempt non stop to advance to 2nd

If they over-run 1st toward rt field and turns left and stops, they must immediately move non stop back to 1st or to advance to 2nd

If they over-run 1st toward rt field and turns left and moves back toward the infield in any direction other than directly toward 2nd, they must immediately move non stop back to 1st

If they over-run 1st toward rt field, turn right, is committed to return non-stop to 1st

mark