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Originally posted by Daryl H. Long
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Originally posted by bob jenkins
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Originally posted by FltEMTP
1) Runner on 2nd base takes lead to steal 3rd. SS runs between runner and second and stands directly in front of runner. In the split second that SS blocked the view of the pitcher the runner was thrown out. This was a rehearsed play as it was used by the same team in an earlier game. Legal???
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If F6 stops (or moves to maintain position in the line-of-sight), you have a case for visual obstruction. If F6 runs past / in-front of R2, it's nothing.
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2) Same situation only as the SS passes in front of the runner, the runner takes off to 3rd. The SS passes in front of the runner as he's trying to get back to his position and they collide. The runner is thrown out. Obstruction?
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Obstruction.
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I agree with obstruction per last scenario but for the first I have nothing either way. Please give me a rule citation for VISUAL obstruction as it pertains to a defensive player setting up in the line of sight between the pitcher and baserunner. None in my rule book that I can find.
If R2 is so dumb as to remain in a stationary posistion without a view of pitcher while off the base he deserves to get picked off.
BTW: How does that hinder R2 from advancing or going back to second? That is what definition of obstruction requires.
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From J/R: "It is obstruction if a fielder intentionally impedes a runner (e.g., trips, pins, grabs or tackles him, blocks vision, etc.)." This is not in the rule book, but it's an interpretation. The key to this is umpire's judgement on what is intentional. From the scenario described it sounds like a planned play, thus intentional.