New Puzzler, 5/31/97: Dropping The Ball

RAY: All right look. Here it is. Here's the new puzzler. And because we are in the throes (no pun intended) of the baseball season -- throws -- throws -- when you have to explain it...

TOM: I didn't get it.

RAY: When you have to -- never mind.

TOM: Mostly because I wasn't paying attention if you want the truth.

RAY: Well how do you ever hope to remember this next week if you don't pay attention?

TOM: Don't you wish you knew.

RAY: The baseball season is now in full swing, so to speak. Full swing -- baseball season's in full....

TOM: Full swing! He said full swing! I got it, I got it!

RAY: All right. I'm going to set the stage.

TOM: Yeah.

RAY: Its the ninth inning.

TOM: OK.

RAY: Batter at the plate. The pitcher throws the ball. There's a long fly ball hitting to the right field corner.

TOM: Yeah. That's good.

RAY: The outfielder runs to the proper position, gets positioned to catch the ball, and in fact, he catches it but at the last second, he drops it -- on purpose. Why does he do this? If you think you know the answer send it to us at -- and I gave you all the information that you need I believe....

TOM: You always do.

RAY: Except for a few pieces I may have left out. Which you will be able to deduce.

TOM: Of course. Yeah.

[ Car Talk Puzzler ]