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The way I would look at the OP is this... If the fielder does not have the ball, and their positioning causes the runner to deviate from their chosen path, then we would have obstruction, regardless of what side of the base they are on. Since home plate is inherently different from second and third (as a runner can touch it and run past it without being liable to be put out after passing it), I would dare argue both as a coach and an umpire that the runner's path can extend beyond the bag. If a fielder's positioning beyond HP affects the runner's ability to continue their chosen path (causing them to slow down, move aside, stutter their steps, etc.), then I would argue that OBS occured.
Mike (IRISHMAFIA) is correct in that this may just be one of those plays that you HTBT in order to see it. However, after chatting with other blues on this one, I got such a variety of answers that I had to see what others thought. I had one of my partners say, "if the runner has about 80% of the plate available to them, I'm not calling OBS."
What?! And here, I thought the runner had their choice...
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Dave
I haven't decided if I should call it from the dugout or the outfield. Apparently, both have really great views!
Screw green, it ain't easy being blue!
I won't be coming here that much anymore. I might check in now and again.
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