Batted Ball Strikes Field Umpire


 
There are two outs, the score tied in the bottom of the last inning, and runners on third base (R3) and first base (R1). The batter (B1) ground towards the second baseman for what should be an inning-ending force-out at second base or first base. However, the batted ball strikes the field umpire (who is standing about 15 feet in front of the second baseman). R3 scores, R1 advances to second base, and B1 is safe at first.
 
The two teams have vastly different interpretations of what to call on this play. What are the proper actions:
A) This is a delayed dead ball situation
B) The ball is immediately dead when it hit the umpire in this situation
C) R3's run counts, so the game is over
D) Since the second baseman was in position to retire a runner, B1 is out, and the game goes to the next inning
E) Return R3 to third base
F) B1 remains at first base and R1 remains at second base
 
Call
The ball is immediately dead when a batted ball touches an umpire before touching any fielder and before passing any fielder (except the pitcher) -- NF 5.1.1f. The batter-runner is awarded first base. Others runners return to their bases at the time of the pitch (unless forced to advance because of the batter-runner's award of 1st base). In the situation below, the ball is immediately dead (answer "A"). B1 is awarded first base and R1 is forced to advance to second base (answer "F"). R3 must return to third base (answer "E").