Quote:
Originally posted by sprivitor
Situation: R1 at first. Batter hits to F4. F9 is playing very close to F3 infield position. Batter hits between first and 2nd. Both F4 and F9 are making a play on the ball directly in the path between first and second base. Ball hit is between the 2 players and both reaching for ball when R1 splits F4 and F9 and flips over both F4 and F9. F4 comes up with the ball. R1 is on ground in pain and play continues until a tag is made (about 15 seconds after the collision) and R1 is out.
Is F4 protected or can both F4 and F9 be protected on this play as far as interference is concerned? Or, if only one is protected, then could obstruction be the call?
Umpire didn't rule either and went with the tag out but stated he should've called interference.
Thoughts?
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Speaking ASA
Obviously, the runner didn't "split" the fielders if she ran into them. The player protected can only be determined by the umpire. If the umpire stated he should have rule interference, then I guess he kicked the call.
Just because the player was down for 15 seconds means absolutely nothing unless the umpire judged it to be a serious injury in which a delay in medical attention would worsen the situation.