Final answer:
The correct ruling in a softball game when a runner is hit by a batted ball before it passes an infielder is that the ball is dead, the runner is out, and the batter gets first base.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a softball game, if a runner is hit by a batted ball while attempting to advance and before the ball passes an infielder, the correct ruling is D. the ball is dead, the base runner is out, and the batter is awarded first base. This ruling applies to softball and baseball alike and is in place to prevent fielders from being unfairly disadvantaged by a ball deflecting off a runner. The ball becomes dead immediately upon hitting the runner, which stops the play and all runners must return to their last legally occupied base at the time of the interference.