SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/base-foul-pole-fair

A fly ball hits the foul pole. What is it?

A fair ball and a home run. The foul pole is in fair territory.

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  1. A foul ball
  2. A ground rule double
  3. A home run ✔

Why: Despite the name, the foul lines and foul poles count as fair territory. A batted ball that hits the foul pole on the fly is a home run.

Huh, didn't know that: Many foul poles have a screen on the fair side to help umpires see the ball.

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Why is the foul pole so confusing? It has a name that plays fair.
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References

Answer: A home run. Despite the name, the foul lines and foul poles count as fair territory. A batted ball that hits the foul pole on the fly is a home run.

  1. Joyce's contested hit ruled a homer after review (MLB) www.mlb.com/news/rays-matt-joyces-contested-hit-ruled-a-homer-after-review/c-47996448
    Any ball that hits the foul pole is a home run
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessA ground ball bounces over first base, then rolls into foul territory. Fair or foul?Sports & FitnessWhat is the most common way a batter hits a home run?Sports & FitnessHow many runs score on a grand slam?

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