[BSUmp16]

Originally Posted by Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.

MTD, Jr., and I watched this play together and keeping in mind that Junior is a former first baseman, we both agree that F3 is not the protected infielder and that F3 committed Obstruction against R1. That said, the replay was inconclusive as to whether the batted ball struck F2 before going into Foul Territory, and since the Umpires in the end ruled that the batted ball was inded a Foul Ball, then the game should have continued with the Batter returning to the Plate with a 1 and 2 count with runners on 1B and 2B with one out.

For the sake of argument (and keep in mind that Junior and I umpire baseball using NFHS Rules not NCAA and MLB): Lets say that the batted ball had touched F2 over Fair Territory before going into Foul Territory. The Batter is out because of IFF and now we have two outs. And F4, instead of throwing to F5, who then tags R2 out before he reaches 3B for the apparent third out of the inning, instead runs to 2B and tags (before R2 acquires 3B) R1 out while R1 is standing on 2B for the apparent third out of the inning. Remembering that F3 Obstructed R1's attempt to return to 1B. What do you have? Our RULING: R1 is out because he is not yet entitled to 2B because R2 had not acquired 3B at the time R1 was tagged out even though he is standing on 2B. BUT, F3's Obstruction is a Delayed Dead Ball and R1 is protected to 2B. After R1 is tagged out, the ball becomes Dead and Time is Called by the covering Umpire and the apparent third out of inning is recinded; R1 is awarded 2B and R2 is awarded 3B becuases he is forced to advance because of F3's Obstruction against R1. New Batter is At Bat with two out and Runners on 2B and 3B.

MTD, Sr.

Please consult the OBR index under: "Razor, Occam's"