because then a defender would leap into the stands with the ball to prevent the runners from advancing. I see no reason it should be a dead ball. If the fielder breaks a leg going into the stands and can't get a throw off fine, but the runners should have to advance at their own risk. It was enforced correctly, but it's just a dumb assed rule. then the player just fakes an injury, and what do you do if a fan interferes if it's live? You need a rule that covers this situation and you can't leave it up to umpire discretion.