If an illegal player on defense is involved in a play, the team on offense has the option to let the play stand or to allow the batter to bat again, provided the infraction is discovered:

If an illegal player on defense is involved in a play, the team on offense has the option to let the play stand or to allow the batter to bat again, provided the infraction is discovered:

• A. Prior to the pitch to the next batter of either team.
• B. Before the third out of the half-inning is declared.
• C. Before all infielders cross the foul lines.
• D. Immediately when the play is made.

Answer: (A)

When an illegal defensive player is involved in a play, the offense has a chance to change the outcome, but only if the infraction is found before the next pitch is thrown to the next batter. The best answer reflects that the offense may either accept the result of the play or have the batter bat again, but this remedy disappears as soon as the next pitch to the next batter is delivered. That timing keeps the game moving fairly and prevents replays after the new batter's at-bat has begun. If the infraction is discovered after that next pitch, the option to redo the at-bat is no longer available, and the play stands as it occurred.

When an illegal defensive player is involved in a play, the offense has a chance to change the outcome, but only if the infraction is found before the next pitch is thrown to the next batter. The best answer reflects that the offense may either accept the result of the play or have the batter bat again, but this remedy disappears as soon as the next pitch to the next batter is delivered. That timing keeps the game moving fairly and prevents replays after the new batter's at-bat has begun. If the infraction is discovered after that next pitch, the option to redo the at-bat is no longer available, and the play stands as it occurred.