Another Einstein in the 3B coach's box

[Don Mueller]

[QUOTE=PeteBooth]

From the OP



At this point we protect R2 to third base, however,

R2 acquired third base so his protection ends, therefore, why would you protect him back to third? R2 now R3 was not obstructed going back to the bag he was obstructed while going TO THE bag.

Runners do not get "carte blanch" on OBS.

Pete Booth

Pete

I think you're missing my point. Read the way I'm picturing this play in post 4.
In small ball OBR I wouldn't call OBS in the first place. BUT IF I DID
I wouldn't compound my mistake by allowing the out at 3rd and enduring the s%## storm that's sure to follow.

1. I know he's getting to 3rd without my help.
2. The OP said he wasn't awarding home

Under these circumstances absolutely no good can come from this call.

The only result from calling OBS is getting an earfull, which is exactly what happened and if the kid then gets picked at 3rd it's going to escalate ten fold.

I'm not arguing the correct interp of the rule. I'm only saying what I would do if I found myself in this situation.

If the kid was far enough off third to get picked and paused long enough for protection to cease I can make a case that if he hadn't been obstructed he would have made it home.
As I said before, I'd award home before I'd take the out. But since the OP said he wasn't awarding home I spoke to that and said I'd protect him back to 3rd.