runner struck by thrown ball

[Thatballzlow]

Originally Posted by big

Unless R1 was out of direct line between bases by more then 3 feet and was trying to INTENTIONALLY block throw @ 2nd there would have been no interference.

I take exception to the 3 foot rule interpretation you have there...

The three foot rule has ABSOLUTELY NO BEARING on this play...that is when a runner is attempting to avoid a tag...

In this play...remember the rule of thumb that I was taught a long time ago by a MLB umpire...

"By interpretation, there is only one place the runner can be called out for interference for 'unintentionally' interfering with a thrown ball, and that would be runners lane between home and first on a ball being fielded directly to first base. Intent is assumed by him being out of the lane that they gave him to run in to avoid such a play. Getting struck by a thrown ball (unless forced to avoid or slide by FED rules, etc...) simply by running does not constitute interference...intent must be there."

[SanDiegoSteve]

Originally Posted by PWL

The only time I've ever seen the exception to the rule was in the World Series when the Yankees and Dodgers were playing in the late 70's. Reggie Jackson was forced out at second and was only about a third of the way to the base. He then stuck his backside out to get hit by the throw from second. Guess what? It still wasn't called. Tommy LaSorda argued for all it was worth, but to no avail.

Yes, I remember that! Reggie should have been called out for interference, but I guess the umpires were too much in awe of his stature or something. I couldn't believe what I saw, as he actually intentionally stuck his butt out to interfere.