[Rich Ives]

Originally Posted by rulesmaven

Sorry, I'm sure this is rules 101 stuff, but I'm curious and I find the MLB rules to be organized in a non-counter intuitive way for an outsider.

In the video linked below, the bunt attempt is fielded near the right field line and flipped over the head of the batter. (Runner on first advances to second on the play.) It appears that his feet are to the left of the line. I assume at that point, pretty much any ball that hits him from the fielder's angle is likely to be judged as interfering with the first baseman's attempt to field the ball. The question I had was, what happens to the runner? Is he put back on first base automatically? Also, does it matter if the fielder hits him intentionally because it's easier than trying to throw to the fielder -- I mean, in this case, if the fielder had simply drilled him in the back, is it still interference?

It seems at least potentially interesting as a matter of defensive strategy in a squeeze play, for example. If the bunt is to the right side, and the chances of getting the runner at home are hopeless and it's an important run, it might be worth the pitcher or catcher seeing if they peg the guy outside the running lane if the runner gets put back if the batter is not thinking about it. And, certainly, as a matter of coaching, the batter should know always to get into the running lane on a squeeze attempt, or with runners on base, I would think.

Link (thanks for the imbed). Video: WS2013 Gm5: Lester flips it over to first for the out | MLB.com

Yes - it's still interference.

If it's really obvious then whoever threw the ball better stay loose next time at the plate though.