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Originally Posted by Richard_Siegel
Coach,
First of all I have to laugh. You are the first coach I have ever heard use the term "obstruction" when the violation in question is actually "interference." It is an inside joke among umpires that it is common among coaches that they use the word "interference" almost universally for everything, including "obstruction." For your information, obstruction (OBS) is a violation committed by defensive players (without the ball) who hinder a runner. Interference (INT) is a violation committed by offensive players who hinder fielders in the act of fielding the ball or making a play.
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I knew somewhere along the way I would show my true "Coach" colors so I just decided to confess it up front.
Now that I have been reminded of my improper wording I will be able to impress the umpires.
So what I am hearing is that my understanding of the rule is accurate. INT is a judgment decision made by the umpire and does not necessitate any contact. Therefore what we will continue to impress upon our catchers is to make the play regardless of the where B1 is. Put the onus on the umpire to determine whether the B1 interfered. As I said we are dealing with 9-10 year-olds so I have no problem with sending them back to the base early on as a learning experience but it helpful to note to our officials that the correct ruling once INT is called is actually an out. I just don't like to see the advantage given to the team that neglects the rule altogether.
Another thing I need to do is have a conversation with a league official and encourage him to have a rules review with their young umpires and make sure they are on the same page.
Thanks for taking the time to clear this up. And I am glad I could provide you with some humor in the process.