Ground Rule Double Meaning in Softball

A ground rule double occurs when a fair ball bounces over the outfield fence during play. This event happens automatically based on the specific physical layout of the softball field. The umpire stops the action and awards the batter a safe arrival at second base. Any runners already on the bases move forward exactly two spots from their original starting position. A powerful hitter drives a ball that hits the grass and hops over the wall. The umpire holds up two fingers to signal the automatic award for the offensive team. This rule prevents fielders from having to climb fences to retrieve a ball that left the field. It ensures a fair result when the ball becomes unplayable through no fault of the players. The game pauses until the batter reaches second and the pitcher receives a new softball.