Runner Crashing into Fielder

[Matt]

Originally Posted by Jim Krueger

Bob,
When does the act of fielding end and the attempt to tag begin? Would that have an effect on this play?

Yes, in multiple ways.

If this was a run-of-the-mill collision, let's say, R1 just wasn't paying attention, then it would be interference while the fielder is in the act of fielding the ball. If he is now done with the act of fielding and then this type of collision happens, it's probably nothing.

If R1 intended to interfere on the tag attempt, then it is an out and a dead ball.

In either case, if he committed MC (a form of interference,) it is an out, a dead ball, and an ejection.