Quote:
Originally posted by WestMichBlue
Batter-Runner interference does not have to be intentional. That is why my tittle says "technical." We no longer have a batter (one set of rules), we have a batter-runner (different set of rules.)
Common sense, logic, spirit of the rule suggests that B-R cannot instantantly disappear - BUT - the rule say you cannot interfere - intentional or not.
WMB
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BR Interference does have to be intentional when out of the batter's box. Rule 8.2.F says
When the batter-runner...intentionally interferes with a thrown ball while out of the batter's box.
So intent is required if out of the batter's box.
Play 8.2-19 is not exactally like your play, but it is relevant.
R1 is on 3B. The batter hits a fair ground ball to F3 who fields the ball near the line. They throw the ball to the catcher attempting to retire R1. The throw hits the batter-runner who intentionally interfers.
Ruling: Dead ball. This is interference based on the intentional act. R1 returns to 3B. (8-2F; 1-INTERFERENCE).