Atlanta Braves Cite ‘Baseball Rule’ in Injury Suit Defense

The Atlanta Braves baseball team has asked an appeals court to uphold a special rule and find the team not liable for the serious injuries suffered by a 6-year-old girl who was struck by a ball. Lawyers for the team want the Georgia Court of Appeals to apply what’s known as the “baseball rule.” Already in force in other states, the rule holds that if a stadium operator provides protective screening behind home plate and enough seats for people who want to sit there, it cannot be held liable for balls and bats inadvertently flung into the stands.