Obstruction

[bob jenkins]

Not in my game (in the play presented).

I *think* there's some wording to the effect you mention in the book -- but it's intended (imo) to apply where Br is obstructed rounding first and is awarded third -- of course he must touch second or be liable to be out on appeal. It isn't meant to apply in situations like the OP.

[MD Longhorn]

In this play, home must be touched.

The J/R ruling regarding "if the OBS is the proximate cause of the runner missing the base," applies to cases like this:

Runner rounding first heading toward 2nd is prevented from touching first by F3, and continues to 2nd safely. Defense then appeals the miss at first.

[umpjim]

I think we would have to know how the umpire called the obstruction. If he called time "that's obstruction, you home" I think the runner would know to touch home. If he called "that's obstruction, safe" I would not allow the appeal.

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by umpjim

I think we would have to know how the umpire called the obstruction. If he called time "that's obstruction, you home" I think the runner would know to touch home. If he called "that's obstruction, safe" I would not allow the appeal.

it might also depend on whether the runner was blocked short of the plate or blocked past/around/by the plate.

In any event, the defense messed up, so 100% of the benefit of the doubt to the offense here.