[Adam]

Originally Posted by mbyron

Ordinarily, intent is required for interference with a thrown ball. But that standard is applied to a runner, and that higher standard is required because the runner has something he's supposed to be doing, namely baserunning. If his doing that puts him in the way of a play by the defense, play the bounce.

The batter has nothing better to do here than to pay attention to where the ball is and to get out of the way. If he fails to do so, he's guilty of interference whether or not he intentionally hinders the defense.

thanks to all who answered, I appreciate it. This makes sense.