Infielder Cannot Intentionally Drop a Pop-Up
In a play involving a line drive caught by the shortstop, the fielder intentionally drops the ball and flips it to the second baseman to attempt a double play. The umpire, recognizing the deliberate drop, makes an immediate judgment call. The correct ruling returns the runner from first base to first and declares the batter-runner out. Umpires are advised to favor the runner in such situations to prevent fielders from gaining an unfair advantage. Cincinnati Reds broadcaster Chris Welsh explains in this video.