Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul L
OBR 6.05(k): A batter is out when . . . he runs outside [the running lane] and . . . interferes with the fielder taking the throw at first base.
NFHS 8-4-1-g: The batter-runner is out when he runs outside the three-foot running lane . . ., while the ball is being fielded or thrown to first base; or 1. This infraction is ignored . . . if the act does not interfere with a fielder or a throw.
BRD 273 says that the runner may not interfere by crashing the fielder at first. It also says that all codes hold that the batterrunner is not inside the lane if either foot is outside the lane.
So here, let's say the umpire adjudges that it was a quality throw because it could be caught within reach of the bag, and that the fielder pulled his foot in order to avoid a collision with the rogue batter-runner. Must the fielder take the hit? Does the neighborhood play concept apply?
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I don't believe the "neighborhood play" has ever applied to first base, at lease not by professional umpires and trained amateur umpires.
If the runner doesn't interfere, how could you call interference? I don't know of an "anticipated interference rule" or any interp that follows a "runner would of if the fielder wouldn't of."