1st / 3rd basemen straddling the bag in foul territory

[Mista Bone]

I came across my old reference guide from the Men's League and it points out in rule 4.03 that only the catcher may be in fair territory, which is clear. According to that study guide, however, it says "A first baseman straddling the bag with one foot in foul territory is considered to be in fair territory."

I'm still not sure I buy that one. Isn't it similar to a batter having both feet in the batter's box? Also, it seemed to me that the big leagues made that a point of emphasis a few years ago.

I guess I'll let them straddle the bag in foul territory.

Brings up the question of obstruction, however, which is a judgement call. The runner has the right to the base, while the fielder has the right to block the base while in the act of fielding. I believe the intent, however, would be that the first basemen must leave a path to the base for the runner leading off.