Batter-Runner Passes Teammate


 
With bases loaded and one out, the batter (B1) hits a deep fly ball to center field. Each runner
returns towards their base in order to tag up. The fly ball carries over the fence for a gland slam! However, while the ball was in flight, the batter touched first base and then made the turn at first base while the original runner at first base (R1) returned to first base, preparing to tag up. After everyone saw the ball fly over the fence, each base runner rounded the bases and R3, then R2, then R1, and then B1 scored.
 
1. Are there any actions required by the umpire?
 
Call
When runners pass each other on the base paths when neither has been retired, the trailing runner is immediately out upon passing the lead runner, play continues, and the force is removed from the lead runner.

This rule still applies when there is a 4-base award for a fair ball that clears the fence in flight (often referred to as a home run). So in questions #1 and #2, the batter-runner is out.

In #1, B1 is the second out of the inning and his 3 teammates all score.


2. Does anything change if there are two outs in this situation?
 
Call
In #2, B1 is the third out of the inning. Since B1 is called out after he touches first base, this is not a force play, so runs can be counted. How many runs? If NF (and NF only) since this is a 4-base dead ball award, three runs count.



Extra Credit: With one out and the bases loaded, what if the long fly ball to center field stays within the confines of the field and the center fielder drops the fly ball. B1 passes R1 between first base and second base. R1 sees the ball dropped and races to second base. The centerfield throws to 2nd baseman, who touches second base just before R1 slides into second base. Anything unusual on this play?
 
Call
Extra credit: As explained above, B1 is out as soon as he passes R1, so the force is removed from R1. R1 can return to first base or advance to second base -- but to be declared out, R1 must be tagged.