Exhibits, Shows and Displays

Is there or do you think there should be a rule for catching foul balls in the stands/over the wall?

I've seen players catch the ball and fall completely into the stands. I think the rule should be that they have to keep part of their body (like their feet) on the field-side of the wall for the catch to count. What do you guys think?

Public Comments

1. they have to make the catch with somepart of their body still in play.
2. I like to see those catches, they take hustle. But the baserunners get a one-base award when the fielder falls into dead-ball territory (like the stands) after a catch.
3. Rather than current rules, you asked for opinions. I agree with you, in that a player must keep part of their body "in play." I think it would make for interesting double play possibilities, if the runner advanced at his own risk.
4. Actually there is incentive to keep part of the body in play already. If a player catches the ball, falls into a dead ball area (HS) or bench or stand (pro), the out stands, the ball becomes dead, and the runners are awarded one base. Good risk with 2 out, bad if less than 2 out.
5. I agree with your piont and it seems to be happening alot more lately. Any ball over the wall is fair game for the fans and no fan should let an opposing player catch a ball in the stands. Foul territory has shrunk over the years to make more seats for more revenue. Don't think that will change, do you?