Quote:
Originally posted by DownTownTonyBrown
The defense standing in front of the runner is to the runner's advantage because of the obstruction call.
Unless the ball comes to that defensive player, the runner ought to run into the defense... now they can't be put out.
I've seen this in adult leagues where it was an atagonistic thing the defensive player was doing to upset the runner (childishly stupid).
"Can you get the first baseman to move out of the basepath?"
"No. But you can run over him and I will give you and obstruction call."
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When I played 1B, I always stood in the vicinity of the baseline if I thought it would upset the runner or coach (RH batter only). When they complained to the umpire, I didn't wait for them to speak up, I did. I would tell them that if the ball wasn't coming to me, they can run me over and get away with it. Of course, I'm not a fool. A always took two steps forward on the pitch. But it was unbelievable how many adults got so bent out of sorts by something so trivial.
Same as a catcher. I would chatter my head off and talk to anybody other than the other team. I don't know why it bothered them so much, but apparently it did.
Like it or not, adults playing kids games like to play mind games whenever they can. For example, the Red Sox questioning the "300 Win" emblem on Clemens glove on Memorial Day. From what I understand, the Sox players also made a point of spreading their warm-up area all over the outfield especially in an area where Clemens like to have a long-toss with teammates before a game. To some, winning isn't everything, but it sure is a lot of fun trying