[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by JEL
Here is a situation which occured this weekend. ASA tourney, girls FP.

Batter lays down a bunt on or close to the line and runs for 1B. PU, nor BU say a word, don't know if PU ever pointed fair. A very loud fan directly behind the backstop yells "FOUL BALL". BU said runner slowed, but continued on to 1B where she was thrown out. Offensive coach complained that there was "verbal interference" by the fan causing the runner to slow, thus causing the out. In the end, the crew bought the arguement and returned the batter to hit, basically a "do-over". There was an ensuing argument of course from the defense, to no avail.

When told about this situation, my initial response was I no of no basis to call verbal INT on a fan. I've searched, but still can't justify this call. Can a fan commit an act which would result in a verbal INT/OBS call?

Other than reaching inside the fence and interfering with a play, there is no rule or umpire authority as it applies to non-participants.