Quote:
Originally Posted by umpjim
Here's the rule. I bolded parts that you can use to call or not call the CI:
"e. If any defensive player interferes with the batter’s swing or prevents the
individual from striking at a pitched ball;
A.R.—Catcher’s interference on a batter should be called only on the batter’s actual swing to hit the pitch. If a batter, during preliminary loosening-up swings, hits the catcher or the catcher’s mitt during the backswing, the umpire immediately should call time, and not interference. The pitch or swing should not be allowed since the batter’s concentration or rhythm could be affected.
(1) If a play follows the interference, the offensive team may elect to ignore
the interference and accept the play. However, if the batter reaches first
base and all other runners advance at least one base, the interference is
ignored.
(2) Any runner attempting to steal on a catcher’s interference with the
batter’s swing shall be awarded the base the runner is attempting to reach
If a runner is not attempting to steal on the catcher’s interference, the
individual is not entitled to the next base, if not forced to advance because
of the batter being awarded first base.
Exception—If there is catcher’s interference on a squeeze play, the batter
is awarded first base, the run scores and all other runners advance one base on the balk created by the interference.
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Here's the interpretation that says definitively what to call here, from the NCAA:
"Catcher stepping on or in front of home plate to receive a pitch in his attempt to put out a runner stealing home before the batter has an opportunity to swing.
a. Treat as catcher’s interference. A balk is charged to the pitcher, the ball is dead, the run is scored and the batter is awarded first base on the interference."