[CecilOne]

I remember that we discussed this set of rulings from October Plays, but can't find the topic. Can you?

Play: R1 on 3B, R2 on 1B with 1 out. B4 hits a ground ball to F6.
F6 fields the ball and throws to F4 who steps on 2B to retire R2 for an out. F4 immediately turns and throws the ball to F3. In

a) the thrown ball strikes R2 who is 3 steps from 2B but in the base line; in
b) R2 is contacted by the thrown ball 3 steps off of 1B while in the base line and in
c) the retired runner, R2, veered out of the base line towards right field and was hit with the thrown ball. What would be the rulings?

Ruling: This is a play you would need to see in all three circumstances. Just because a runner is hit with a thrown ball while the defense is turning a double play does not constitute interference. You must always refer to the definition of interference and consider, did the retired runner do something to impede, hinder or confuse the defense from making a play. You cannot take a play and say what interference is always and what is not. Always keep this in mind when looking at interference. Without seeing the play and based on the description of the play I would say the following:

A. I do not find any impedance, hindering or confusion in the description of this play.

B. Based on description on the play the runner stayed in the base line to impeded the throw and we have interference. Again have to see the play to say for sure

C. I do not find any impedance, hindering or confusion in the description of this play.