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Mike
I agree that obstruction should have been called in the situation that I described. However the interpretation seems to have gradually changed over the years.
I understand what you say about the player not having to disappear into thin air.
The ASF definition of about to receive a thrown ball was that the ball is between the runner and the fielder at the time. For whatever reason, in practice that got extended, and what should have been obvious obstruction calls were not being called as such. A fielder could block the base and provided that someone was throwing the ball to them obstruction would not be called.
I have recently returned to softball umpiring after a lengthy absence. I was calling the obstructions but most of the other umpires thought that I was a bit strange. I have adapted easily to the new rule but most of my partners are finding it difficult to adjust.
The umpires I am sure will get the hang of it quickly but I think the players will take a bit longer.
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