What is the umpire's action when F1's pitch strikes F2 and rolls into dead-ball territory?

When the pitch from the pitcher (F1) strikes the catcher (F2) and then rolls into dead-ball territory, the correct action for the umpire is to award one base to each base runner from the time of the pitch. This rule is in place to protect base runners by allowing them to advance due to an inadvertent play that has no influence on the ability to defend against the runners.

This scenario typically occurs when a pitch bounces off the catcher after a failed attempt to catch it cleanly. Since the ball has gone into dead-ball territory, it has become unplayable, thereby granting the runners the opportunity to advance safely. Thus, the umpire enforces the one-base award rule, recognizing that the runners should benefit from the situation rather than being penalized for it. This action not only keeps the game fair but also helps maintain the flow of play by swiftly resolving the situation.