The base runner, in running to first base, is only exempt from being touched out after overrunning the base, when he turns to the right after overrunning the base. If he crosses the foul line after overrunning, toward second base, that is tantamount to turning to the left, but so long as he is on foul ground after overrunning the base, it is immaterial whether he turns to the left or to the right. The leaving foul ground in overrunning decides the point against him. It is best, however, always to turn to the right in returning. DOUBTFUL DECISIONS IN FAVOR OF THE BATTING SIDE. The rules expressly make a distinction in favor of the batting side in all cases where there is any doubt as to the player being fairly out. Especially is this the case in the case of the batsman's being put out at first base, for Section IV. of Rule 48 requires the ball to be securely held by the base player "_before_" the runner touches the base in order to put him out, and the rub applies to the touching out of all base runners on bases; the words being "_before_" the runner reaches the base, if at the same time, he--the runner--is not out. Time and again were base runners unfairly decided out last season in cases where the ball was held by the base player simultaneously with the runner's touching the base, every such decision being illegal. In regard to the umpire's enforcement of Rule 48, President Young says, "Too many base runners are decided out when the ball is held by the base player simultaneously with the runner's reaching the base, which decisions are illegal." If umpires will strictly enforce the rule it will greatly increase the chances for base running and team work at the bat. Mr. Byrne, of the Joint Rules Committee, in joining with Mr. Young in having this rule enforced, says: "We are doing all we can to encourage base stealing and a proper attention to the rule, by more frequently deciding men safe at first, as it will add interest to the game. I believe, too, that it would be wise in all cases of decision on first base points for the Umpire to give the base runner the benefit of the doubt." BATTED BALLS HITTING THE BASES. Since the first and third bases were placed entirely on fair ground and within the foul lines, every batted ball touching either the first or third base bag, must be declared a fair ball no matter where it strikes after touching either bag. It would be better to have the bags in question on foul ground, so as to make every batted ball foul that strikes them; but until this is done, all such batted balls must be declared fair. COACHERS MUST KEEP WITHIN THEIR LINES. Captains or their assistants who engage in "coaching" base runners, must keep within the lines of their designated position, or if they attempt to coach a runner while standing outside of their position, or to run toward home base outside the lines of their position, they must be fined five dollars for each violation of the rule. OPEN BETTING PROHIBITED.