Fair Ball/Foul Ball

Question
Mark,
I have an ongoing dispute that I need resolved.  I have been regional playoff high school official and am a former college coach, but I can't find a case book to verify the rule interpretation.

I know that a batted ground ball that hits FAIR before reaching 1st or 3rd base, which then passes OVER the base, would be ruled a fair ball, even if it then first lands in foul territory in the outfield after passing over the base.

Can you give me the rule that would apply and if this is handled in a National Federation Case book or any other publication that will help me prove my case.

I'm the younger brother, I'm never right! Thanks.


Answer
Hi Andrew,

This is a BASIC rule of softball and you are absolutely correct.

ASA rulebook
Rule 1
FAIR BALL
"A legally batted ball that...
B. bounds over or past first or third base in fair territory, regardless of where the ball hits after going over the base."

Tell "big brother" not only does he need to read and understand the rule book (and as I said this is a basic rule) but he should buy you dinner as an apology.

Mark