Walked batter continues toward second

Question
QUESTION: After receiving a ball four walk, the now runner runs to first and takes several steps toward second base. The runner stops and returns to first. The pitcher has the ball in the circle when the attempt toward second happens. Is the runner allowed to return to first base or is she out? This is a middle school league softball game.

ANSWER: Lou,

This is perfectly legal and really isn't an attempt for second base.  As long as the runner is moving when the pitcher receives the ball in the circle they can keep moving and are allowed one stop.  Once they stop, they must immediately start heading to a base.  The younger the age group the longer "immediately" is.

Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Infield fly rule. Runners on 1st and 2nd with one out. Pop up to shortstop. Ump calls infield fly, batter is out. The runner on second is off of the base. The shortstop tags the runner. I say the runner is out. The base ump ruled that the runner can go back to second safely even though she was tagged by the shortstop with the ball. I'm confused again!

Answer
Lou,

You are not confused the umpire is confused.  The IFR only affects the batter.  The runners can advance at there own risk and must tag up if the ball is caught.  The IFR doesn't protect the runners from anything but an intentionally dropped ball to create a double play.

Tom