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ASA does not have a rule to determine how long a fielder is still attempting to field a batted ball. It is umpire judgment. However, a long accepted "rule of thumb" is to allow the fielder a "step and a reach." Within that space, the fielder is still protected from interference. Beyond that - obstruction.
NFHS codified "step 'n reach" into it new initial play rule in 2007, along with a rule to cover a deflected ball (secondary fielder is not protected from interference when trying to field a deflected ball, unless ball deflects off F1, or is continuously in flight).
WMB
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