[PeteBooth]

In my opinion batter interference can be called here because even though he didn't intentionally interfere, he didn't pay attention to what the catcher was doing and he had sufficient time to make sure that he wouldn't interfere with any attempt to put the runner headed for home out. Unfortunately he turned his back on the catcher and the ball. Fortunately, it didn't effect the outcome of the game.

Whenever the ball gets away from F2 rule 6.06 DOES NOT apply, Here's the rule that applies

OBR 7.11
The players, coaches or any member of an offensive team shall vacate any space (including both dugouts) needed by a fielder who is attempting to field a batted or thrown ball. PENALTY: Interference shall be called and the batter or runner on whom the play is being made shall be declared out.

The player vacated the space needed for F1 to receive the throw. In addition on thrown balls the word INTENT not "didn't pay attention" comes into play. As other s mentioned there is NO interference on this play.

General Rule of Thumb. - The rules penalize the team that erred.

Pete Booth



[Edited by PeteBooth on Jun 14th, 2004 at 03:29 PM]