Runner Kicks Ball After Deflection


 
With the bases loaded, the batter hits a ground ball to the shortstop. The ball hits the shortstop's glove but he misplays it. As the ball is rolling away from the shortstop, the runner advancing from 2nd base accidentally kicks the ball -- and all runners are able to safely advance.

While the offensive team likes the results of the play, the defensive coach questions whether this is baseball or soccer. He wanted the ball to be called dead and runners returned to their bases. What do the umpires do?

Call
Since the batted ball first touched a fielder before being touched by the runner -- the touching is ignored (unless the umpire judges that the runner intentionally touched the ball). The play stands and all runners are safe.