[PeteBooth]

Question:
The batter singles and misses first base. The BR tries to return and is obstructed by the first baseman, who tags him out.

My Answer:
C. Award the BR second, allow the BR to retouch first base before he goes to second, if appealed, the BR is out.

Correct Answer:
E. Award the BR second, allow the BR to retouch first base before he goes to second, if appealed, the BR is not out.

But the BRD and NCAA Obstruction Rule appear to agree that the BR in this situation must touch 1B before he proceeds on to his awarded 2B, or else be liable to getting called out on appeal. So why is E more correct than C

Why would you allow the defense to get an out on appeal when they Obstructed the runner from re-touching first base to begin with.

The rule makes sense. Just because R1 was Obstructed does not relieve him of his duties in touching the bases IN ORDER. In the example given R1 is given the opportunity of retouching first base because he was obstructed. If he does so properly then appeal denied. Why would rule other wise?

Let's give an Extreme example to clarify. BR singles, misses frist. On his way Back to retouch first base F3 Tackles him preventing the BR from touching first base. If you allow the appeal by the defense, then in the future fielders would simply tackle runners so they couldn't re-touch a missed base and subsequently be called out upon appeal.

Summary: The call on this play is

1. TIME
2. That's OBS
3. Award the BR second and see what happens.

If the BR goes back touches first on route to second - Appeal denied. If the BR does not go back and touch first appeal granted.

Pete Booth