Which events constitute a delayed dead ball?

• A. A helmet is removed by a runner
• B. A ball touches an illegal glove
• C. The umpire interferes with the catcher
• D. A, B and C

Answer: (D)

A delayed dead ball happens when play continues with a live ball through the immediate action, and the ball is ruled dead only after the situation has been resolved. In all three scenarios, the umpire allows the live action to play out before stopping the action:

• A runner removes a helmet during a play, which is an equipment safety issue. The situation is allowed to unfold and the play reaches its conclusion before the ball is declared dead, so the ball remains live during the action and becomes dead afterward.

• The ball contacting an illegal glove involves an infraction that is addressed as the play ends. The ball stays alive while the action continues, and the rule is applied and the ball is dead when the play is over.

• If the umpire interferes with the catcher, the disruption is treated as part of the ongoing play, and play continues until the interference is resolved; only then is the ball officially dead.

So these events are classified as delayed dead ball because the ball is not immediately ruled dead at the moment the event occurs, but is allowed to continue until the outcome of the play can be determined and safety or rule implications addressed.