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I agree with you again, Blaine (believe it or not).
If the runner's previous step was in fair territory and you judge his next left step (when it hits the ground) would also be in fair territory, then he is illegal if interfering with the play---even if the throw hits him in his right shoulder which may be in foul territory. The position of runner makes him, the one who interferes, in violation of the rule.
Now, let's talk about the described play.
The runner has ONLY his left foot in fair territory----not too far from the legal lane going straight to the base.
The throw hits him in the shoulder---not too high.
Sounds to me like the throw is headed to the base at the right height. You know, F3 can still hold the base and reach (or even stretch) to get the ball. It sure doesn't sound like a non-quality throw based on what you described---only what you said.
It sounds to me more like someone might be rationalizing on a call they didn't make when they should have. I have a tough time envisioning a non-quality throw from your description.
Finally, let's drop all this BS about the runner having to move to fair territory because the base is there so he gets the last 10 ft. into fair territory. Hogwash. Maybe they should have made the running lane the last 45-80 feet of the 90 foot basepath.
That was just a stupid excuse to cover for a blown MLB call in the Knaublock play in the playoffs. If players can hit an 80 mph fastball, they can control their feet and their body location. Just how many do you see running in fair territory when they get a hit to the outfield??? NONE. I guess they can control where they put their bodies then. Get real and quit hiding behind excuses.
Just my opinion,
Steve
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