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Well, we've all talked about what is in the book and pretty much agree it contains nothing specific to this situation.
Therefore, I would rule that the former BR had no standing in the game at the time of the catcher's throw and was in a position which inhibited the defense from making a legal play to get the opponent out. I will rule interference, move the runner back to 1B and rule the runner closest to home out.
Of course, the coach of the offensive team is going to question the ruling, but I'll simply request s/he cite the paragraph which would nullify my ruling. As we have established, it is not there so it cannot be found.
When a protest is filed, I'm simply going to hang my hat on rule 10.1, parts of which state, "The plate umpire shall have the authority to make decisions on any situation not specifically covered in the rules." No where in the ASA rule book is a retired batter addressed when not advancing to 1B with the intent of drawing a throw to that base. I submit that the lack of direction provided by the rulebook would validate my ruling.
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The bat issue in softball is as much about liability, insurance and litigation as it is about competition, inflated egos and softball.
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