What action is taken if a player is hit by a batted ball while in fair territory?

When a player is hit by a batted ball while in fair territory, the correct ruling is that the ball is considered dead and the player is out. This scenario reflects a fundamental rule in baseball regarding the interaction between players and batted balls. The rationale behind this ruling is that the player, by being in fair territory at the time of the incident, is deemed to have interfered with the play, leading to their being ruled out.

In this context, the situation is distinct from other interactions with the ball, such as being hit by a pitch or an on-field incident involving a fielder or runner. The key factor here is the classification of the hit ball as live until it makes contact with a player or an object that is not part of the field of play.

The other options do not align with the NFHS rules regarding this specific scenario. The assertion that the player is safe or that play continues does not apply when the player is struck by the batted ball. Understanding this rule is essential for both players and coaches, as it can significantly influence game strategy and decision-making during play.