runner interference??

[David Emerling]

I don't have it handy, but I think plays such as these are discussed by Jim Evans.

I believe the criteria he established involved a determination as to whether the fielder was "chasing" a deflected ball. In other words, if the deflected ball is directed toward a fielder, and that fielder has a legitimate play, the runner must avoid the fielder or be liable for interference.

On the other hand, if the fielder is "chasing" after a deflected ball, the fielder would actually be guilty of obstruction if he should, in any way, hinder the runner's advance.

Tough judgment calls for the umpire.

I think this would be an example:

Line drive hit back to F1 who deflects the ball. The ball rolls in the direction of F4 but is now just rolling slowly on the infield grass. F4 charges in to make would will be a tough play, but while doing so, he cuts in front of R1.

Obstruction! F4 was chasing a loose ball.

The call may be different if, on the same play, the deflected ball had more energy and was directed toward F4 in such a way that didn't require F4 to "chase" it. Any hindrance by R1 in this case may be interference as opposed to obstruction.

I'll have to reread that section by Evans. I think I'm remembering it correctly, however.

David Emerling
Memphis, TN