You make the call: NFHS game- Malicious contact at the plate?

[Rich Ives]

Originally Posted by BoomerSooner

I can see the argument that the catcher drifting into the path of the runner was the cause for the contact and agree with this being OBS on F2. I think OBS is the right call until the moment the runner decides to level the catcher. Based on what I saw, the runner's step toward the catcher at the last moment combined with the forearms to the upper chest/neck/head area not only increased the severity of the contact but were unnecessary which leads me to believe this was MC.

Had the runner continued to widen his route to home farther into foul territory (which it appears that he did take a step in that direction), I believe the contact wouldn't have been as severe, and even if the contact were severe, I wouldn't have faulted the runner.

Unnecessary? Putting up your arms is a natural, normal way to brace for impact. Run at a wall and I betcha you'd do the same thing. I'll even let you run at a padded wall. Now suppose the wall moves into your path.