interference?

[PeteBooth]

Originally posted by tbartel
Bases loaded, one out. Infield in. Ground ball to shortstop, runner from second bumps into him slightly and unintentionally. Shortstop is able to complete throw to get runner from first at second.

Interference or not?

First off intent is not a requirement on batted balls, however, judgement is.

The question an umpire should ask himself concerning interference is: Did the runner hinder , impede or confuse any fielder attempting to make a play?

runner from second bumps into him slightly

In your judgement did the act on the part of the runner hinder, impede or confuse F6? Your answer was yes hence the interference call.

Whether FED or OBR, based upon your thread I would not call a DP. In FED you have more leeway, but your situation doesn't sound as if it warrents 2 outs.

Tomorrow it could be no depending upon the judgement used by a different umpire. This is why Interference / obstruction are 2 of the most difficult calls in baseball.

Pete Booth