overthrow/kick ball

Question
ASA

Batter-runner hit ball to Shortstop. Shortstop overthrow the ball over the 1st baseman.. Right fielder accidently kicked the ball and it went out of play/dead ball area. What is the ruling since it is not an overthrow? Runner to be award 2nd base? Where do I find this in a rule book?

Answer
Hello Gary,

Interesting scenario!  As I've stated before, I'm more familiar with USSSA rules and they do differ in some cases.  Rule 15-D of USSSA rulebook states that if a defensive player loses possession of the ball during a tag and ball enters a deadball area then the runner is awarded one base.  I feel that, as you said, the ball did not enter the dead ball area as a direct result of an over throw this would be the correct ruling.  You may want to forward this question to Mark who is a certified ASA umpire for confirmation on that.

Coach Mike