Quote:
Originally posted by mpklein
It is my understanding that the definition of offensive interence is as follows:
Offensive interference is an act by the team at bat which interferes with, obstructs, impedes, hinders or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play. If the umpire declares the batter, batter-runner, or a runner out for interference, all other runners shall return to the last base that was in the judgment of the umpire, legally touched at the time of the interference, unless otherwise provided by these rules.
I have read literature that the base path belongs to the runner and cannot be called for interference (unless intentional), except when a fielder is in the path attempting to field a batted ball or when a fielder is in the path and in possession of the ball. Where does it state that in the rules? In addition, it is my understanding that it is not interference when the short-stop that is not in the base path (let us say he is playing deep close to the outfield) attempts to field the ball but he cannot make a play (fumbles the ball) on the ball because his vision is obstructed by R-2 running in the base path in front of the short-stop. R-2 running to third does not break his stride or make any other movements out of the ordinary.
Is my understanding correct? How about if the runner jumps over the ball?
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It is the initial attempt by the fielder. If the ball is bobbled by the fielder and brings him into the path of runner advancing to the following base, Obstruction can be called.
I can't recall the rule or case on that though, maybe someone can help out there. I know I have read it in the past but can't seem to find it.
Just to give an example called by my partner last year on the bases.
Two outs, R1 on 2nd, infield was playing in. Ball hit between shortstop and 2nd base. Ball passes F6, and while F6 is going after it, obstructs R1 going to 3rd. Collision occurs and F6 picks ball up and throws out R1 while sliding into 3rd.
Delayed dead ball, R1 gets third, B4 gets 1st.
[Edited by thumpferee on May 24th, 2003 at 11:41 AM]