What is the ruling when the home team's coach states that a batted ball over the center-field fence counts as a ground-rule double?

When determining the ruling for a batted ball that passes over the center-field fence, it is essential to consider the nature of the play. In baseball and softball, a ball that is hit over the outfield fence is typically ruled a home run, meaning that the batter is awarded four bases. This is the standard reason why the correct ruling is four bases awarded, as it allows the batting team to score in a standard manner.

In contrast, a ground-rule double is specific to circumstances where a ball bounces in the field or goes out of play in a manner defined by the ground rules of the field, and only two bases are awarded in that scenario. When the home team's coach mistakenly asserts that a batted ball over the fence should be treated as a ground-rule double, this does not align with the regulations that govern what constitutes a home run.

In essence, the ball passing over the fence should not be seen as a ground-rule double but rather as a definitive scoring play that entitles all base runners, including the batter, to complete the full distance of four bases. This understanding reinforces the protocols established in baseball and softball governing scoring plays.