Quote:
Originally Posted by MD Longhorn
True, but I don't see intent (implied or actual) in the OP.
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In my view, the reason intent remains in the deflected ball rule is to account for the unpredictable nature of where a deflected ball will go.
That does not apply here.
Where does it state that if the fielder does not field the ball perfectly that the protection disappears? The only impact on the runner is it took the fielder a bit longer than it otherwise would have to glove the ball securely. The fielder was there in one spot all along. The runner merely chose to not alter her path.
It seems to me you either apply the fielding a batted ball rule or if you choose to apply the deflected ball rule, the fact that the runner made no attempt to avoid the fielder is enough to rule intent.