The outfield fence is the physical barrier that marks the outer boundary of the playing field. This structure separates the live fair territory from the dead ball area beyond the grass. Most fences in softball stand at a uniform distance from the home plate hitting area. A ball hit over this wall in fair territory results in an automatic home run. A batter drives a high fly ball that clears the yellow outfield fence easily. This hit scores all runners currently on the bases plus the batter who hit it. The fence provides a clear target for power hitters and a safety limit for sprinting outfielders. Padding is often added to the fence to protect players who crash into it for catches. Maintenance of this boundary ensures the game stays contained within the legal and safe playing space.
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