[LIUmp]

What are the runner's LEGAL options in that play....

Go back to third.

Jump over the catcher.

Slide LEGALLY into the tag.

Avoid the tag and go around the catcher to the plate.

The runner did not do any of the four. In order to rule obstruction, as was stated, the runner needed to have change course in some way. She did not.

Softball is a game that is set up for collisions. Runners run on basepaths and fielders are set up to field a ball that crosses those paths.

However, a malicious (had to go THROUGH the catcher) head first dive to knock the ball loose is ILLEGAL and interference should be ruled.

Even if you want to call obstruction on the catcher, (far fetched because runner did NOT alter her course to the plate, but still) interference overrides it. Obstruction is ignored and runner is out.

Yes, the play happened fast. But gather yourself, and if you must, call time and talk to your partner to talk about the play .. and replay it in your mind.