The defense is initially protected so that they can make a play on a batted ball. There must be a reasonable chance to make the play. Otherwise, defenders would have free reign to run into runners and cry "But I was playing the ball." That, obviously, could not be tolerated. Keep in mind that the play may merely involve stopping or slowing the ball down. It may not require having an opportunity to execute an out. The defense has the right to slow the ball down so that R2 on 2nd base doesn't round 3rd and score.
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