[Tru_in_Blu]

I'd say being hindered or impeded has no time element associated with it. If you were impeded on a sidewalk it could have been an honest bump or you might have had your pocket picked. Maybe it was some rude person looking at their cell phone instead of where they were walking.

We've had a couple of our most knowledgeable umpires suggest that if we have a dead to rights force play for an out, take the out and "award the runner a spot on the bench".

Emotionally, and half-logically that might make sense. However, unless there is a rule citation to support that position, I have to call the OBS and award a base.