Quote:
Originally posted by Andy
I disagree, Michael.
This is one of those HTBT plays, but more than likely all you have is a train wreck. I had this type of play a few years ago and discussed it with our then UIC, who is very well known and respected in ASA across the country.
Her response was that both players are doing exactly what they are supposed to be doing. F3 is trying to recover the ball, BR is trying to get to first base.
Short of any intentional actions by either player, there is really nothing for you to call, play on....
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Many things to consider.
Andy is right as if both are doing what they are supposed to do, a "train wreck" is probably the best description you can have. However, when something like this occurs and the BR is knocked to the ground through no fault of their own and is placed in jeopardy, I will probably protect the runner to 1B. After all, the runner is pretty much restricted as to where they may be to avoid an interference call, while the defender may leave the base and still possibly get an out or at least keep the ball from leaving the field of play.
Another point to consider is whether F3 KNEW the ball wasn't in the glove. If so, you may have a fake tag which is a form of obstruction, but that would not guarantee protection any further than 1B. Much may depend on how far the ball got away from the closest defender and if I, as the umpire, felt the runner may have made it to 2B had the "tag" not occurred.