What occurs if a batted ball hits a player in fair territory before hitting the ground?

When a batted ball strikes a player in fair territory before hitting the ground, the ball remains in play and is ruled fair, allowing the game to continue. This situation indicates that the ball has not yet been declared dead, and because it is still in play, the defensive team must react accordingly.

Players in fair territory are subject to the influence of the ball, and unless the ball is caught or goes out of bounds, it is treated as part of the game playing field. In this case, the player who is hit does not incur an out, nor does the ball become dead, as it is still valid for play according to NFHS rules.

Thus, the result is that the play continues, and all players must observe how the batted ball behaves following the impact. Decisions about base running and defensive actions can evolve from this moment, which emphasizes the importance of understanding that a batted ball can create ongoing action even when it strikes a player in fair territory.