What is the ruling when a batter interferes with the defense during a play where the ball is hit?

When a batter interferes with the defense during a play where the ball is hit, the ruling is that the ball is dead immediately, and the batter is out due to interference. This ruling is based on the principle that player safety and fair play are paramount during the game. Interference by the batter disrupts the defensive team's ability to make a play on the ball or to attempt to make a defensive play, which is why the play is called dead immediately.

This immediate cessation of play helps maintain the order of the game and protects players from potential injury that could arise from an unexpected situation caused by the batter's interference. The batter's actions in this scenario warrant being called out, as it is a violation of the rules governing proper conduct during play. The runners' status is determined by their position at the time of the interference, and they typically do not advance unless specified by the rulebook, which distinguishes this ruling from situations where the play might continue despite interference.