What ruling applies if malicious contact occurs after a player has touched the plate?

When a player has touched home plate and malicious contact occurs, the ruling is that the player who committed the malicious act will be ejected from the game, and any runs that have scored by the offensive team will still count. This is based on the principle that the offense should not be penalized for the actions of a player on the defense who engages in unsportsmanlike conduct.

Ejection serves as a disciplinary measure to maintain the integrity and safety of the game, recognizing that malicious contact is a serious offense that goes against the spirit of fair play. The run scoring is preserved because the action of the player who touched the plate was legitimate, and the offense should benefit from their successful play despite the ensuing confrontation.

This ruling emphasizes the importance of safety and sportsmanship while ensuring that legitimate scoring plays are upheld, allowing the game to progress fairly.