How many bases are awarded to a runner when a ball is thrown out of play?

When a ball is thrown out of play, the correct number of bases awarded to a runner is two. This is a standard rule in baseball that applies when the ball is unintentionally thrown into the stands, over the outfield fence, or otherwise becomes unplayable. The rationale behind awarding two bases is to ensure fair advancement for the runners in such situations.

To elaborate, the two bases are measured from the runner's last legally occupied base at the time the ball left the field of play. This ensures that the runner has a reasonable opportunity to advance beyond the last base they occupied, reflecting the disadvantage caused by the ball going out of play. This ruling is established in official baseball rules to maintain the integrity of the game and provide equitable play conditions.

The other options suggest different numbers of bases, which do not align with the established rules governing such situations in baseball. Hence, the two-base award appropriately reflects the circumstances of the play.