[Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.]

NFHS Rules. Visitor's dugout on the third base side of the diamond. Top of the inning, one out, R3 on third, R2 on second.

Play 1: Batter hits a grounder that is fielded by F6 deep in the hole. F6 throws to F3 to get the B/R out at first base. During F6's throw to F3, R3 scores and heads to his dugout. F3, after tagging first base fires to F2 who then tags R2 out at home for the third out of the inning.

Now lets change Play 1 slightly.

Play 2: Batter hits a grounder that is fielded by F6 deep in the hole. F6 throws to F3 to get the B/R out at first base. During F6's throw to F3, R3 scores and and then takes a position facing home plate about six feet up the first base line in fair territory in a direct line between F3 and F2 who is at home plate. F3, after tagging first base fires to F2 in an attempt to retire R2 who is headed for home. (a) F3's throw hits R3 in the back; or (b) F3 throws the ball over F2's head in an attempt to not hit R3. In both (a) and (b) R2 scores. Has R3 committed intereference in both (a) and (b)?

I have read the NFHS Rules and I would rule interference in both (a) and (b). If F3 never throws the ball because he is afraid of hitting R3, can R3 still be ruled to have committed interference?

I would also be interested in how this would be ruled under NCAA, OBR, and from you big dogs who work in competition like the Pan Am Games, IBF rules. Thanks in advance.

MTD, Sr.