If a pitcher steps off the plate and throws to first base, what is the ruling if the throw goes into dead-ball territory?

When a pitcher steps off the pitching plate and makes a throw to first base, the play is treated as a legal attempt to retire a runner. If that throw goes into dead-ball territory, the rules dictate that all runners are entitled to advance. Specifically, in this scenario, all runners advance two bases from their positions at the time of the pitch.

This rule is in place to penalize the defense for a mishandled throw while still allowing the offensive team the opportunity to gain extra bases due to the error made by the pitcher on the throw. Dead-ball territory indicates an area where the ball is no longer playable, thus making it necessary to provide the runners with additional advancement while keeping the spirit of fair play intact. This understanding of the rule helps players and coaches to effectively strategize during the game.