Baseball ground rules pertain to the stadiums the games are played in. Some stadiums have a wide range of ground rules because the stadiums may have quirks that tend to have an effect on the game. Some ground rules are universal and are used in all ball parks. Others have to do with the individual ball park.
Universal Ground Rules
Universal ground rules apply to all baseball stadiums. One of the most prominent is that a ball that bounces into the outfield stands after landing in fair territory is a ground-rule double. Another key ground rule involves the tarps that many teams keep on the side of the field to protect it in case of a rain delay. A fielder may lean or stand on the rolled tarp in order to make a catch. However, a ball that rolls under the tarp is declared out of play and the umpire determines where any runners on base will be placed.
Individual Ball Park Rules
Some ground rules are determined by the individual ball park. At Wrigley Field in Chicago it's possible for a baseball to get caught in the ivy growing along the outfield walls. If the outfielder raises his arms, the umpire stops play and calls the play a ground-rule double. If the fielder chooses to search for the ball, the batter can keep going until the ball is found and a play is made.
Dugout Rules
The landing of the dugout that is on the same level as the playing field is in play. The first step into the dugout is out of play. If a player sets his feet on the dugout steps to catch a foul ball, the ball is ruled out of play and the catch does not result in an out. However, if the player stands outside the dugout and then falls into it after making the catch, it is an out. If a player makes a legal catch and then falls into the dugout and there are runners on base, those runners can move up after the catch is made.
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