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An infraction of 7.09(e) (congregating at a base to confuse or hinder the defense) is not an "appealable" base running infraction. It's one that should have been called by the official if it occurred. So, the defense didn't "appeal" it, they complained about it. It's umpire judgment and decision as to what he will do regarding 7.09(e).
So, Moose, tell us more about the appeal. What did you see?
Did the defense attempt to play on R2 after gaining the out on R2?
Did they even remember R2 when considering the appeal at 3rd?
How far was R2 from the dish when the appeal was made?
Could the defense have retired R2 after the appeal if they attempted to do so, or was he too close to home plate?
While you indicate the teammmates came out to the dish to congratulate R3, that doesn't mean they are up the line congratulating R2 (and you certainly didn't state that they were). So, has their presence hidden the existence of R2? It seems to me the defense needs to be aware that R2 still existed, and should know his location and actions. In fact, considerations about R2 should have been there before the appeal of R3. IOW, the defense should have been aware he rounded 3B toward home plate and could score during the appeal of R3.
There are too many other factors to consider that you've not provided. IMO, the possibility of a ruling exists under 7.09(e) or 3.15---both being umpire judgment based on all factors of the incident. The defense's complaint about the other players will not be a scapegoat for their own lack of awareness regarding R2, and their needing to be aware that R2 existed and could score---something that appears to be lacking in this situation.
I think more details as to what actally occurred are needed to make a ruling. Still, it brings up the question as to what should an official do if R3 has left early on a game winner. Wouldn't keeping the other teammates away be an indicator as to the umpire's judgment of R3 possibly leaving early? I'd tend to think so. How does an umpire prevent such an incident from occurring without showing his hand before the cards are played?
Just my opinion,
Freix
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