If an illegal substitute on second base is discovered after a home run is hit, what is the ruling?

When an illegal substitute is discovered after a home run is hit, the ruling is that the home run is nullified and the illegal runner is called out. This ruling is based on the principle that the integrity of the game must be maintained, and allowing an illegal substitute to benefit from a scoring play undermines this principle.

In this case, the illegal substitute on second base represents a violation of the game's rules, and any advantage gained from their presence must be penalized. Therefore, the home run that was hit cannot be counted, as it was influenced by an illegal player. By calling the runner out, officials ensure that the rules are enforced and that the situation is rectified appropriately within the framework of the game. This ruling emphasizes the importance of adhering to player eligibility requirements and the consequences that arise when these rules are violated.