At the time of the pitch, what is the status of fielders except the catcher?

At the time of the pitch, fielders, except for the catcher, must be on fair ground. This rule ensures that there is a standard positioning for fielders, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the game and ensuring that all players are positioned appropriately in relation to the batter and the play.

Fielders being on fair ground means they are not allowed to be positioned entirely in foul territory, which could lead to confusion and potential unfair advantages during play. This positioning rule helps maintain the balance between offense and defense, ensuring that both teams have a fair opportunity to compete during each pitch.

The distinction made in this rule also includes the requirement that fielders be well within the playing area, allowing for a fair game environment where the rules of play can be uniformly applied. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the necessity for fielders to occupy legal positions on the field that comply with the game's structural guidelines.