Interference / Force Play Slide

[ctblu40]

Originally Posted by tjones1

In my judgement, this altered the play to first.

You got the play right if this is truely how you feel. But, the fact that you're questioning it makes me think you may be questioning what it is you saw.

My question would be, did F4 have to step toward third to make the throw, or was it his momentum that took him toward third. If it was his momentum... maybe you kicked it, maybe not. I guess it's HTBT.

[jdmara]

Sounds like the right call to me

[tjones1]

Just wanted to double check and make sure I'm not crazy.

I don't think his momentum as he was stationary when it caught the ball.

[ctblu40]

Originally Posted by tjones1

Just wanted to double check and make sure I'm not crazy.

I don't think his momentum as he was stationary when it caught the ball.

In that case, it seems as though you nailed this one... good job!

[David B]

Originally Posted by tjones1

Just wanted to double check and make sure I'm not crazy.

I don't think his momentum as he was stationary when it caught the ball.

But also remember that many times it is normal for f4 to either step backwards or towards third to make the turn on the DP. This keeps them out of the way of the runner who is legally going into 2B. But you thought he interfered, so its a good call. I think that's the bottom line on this type of play.
Thanks
David

[johnnyg08]

The burden on this type of play is on the offense here. If you think he interfered, the coach needs to coach his players better.

It is my understanding that the runner needs to move AWAY from the fielder if he does not slide. The runner going straight into the bad is NOT moving AWAY from the fielder. Runner Interference. Out and a out.

It is like getting a free out.

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by rei

It is my understanding that the runner needs to move AWAY from the fielder if he does not slide. The runner going straight into the bad is NOT moving AWAY from the fielder. Runner Interference. Out and a out.

It is like getting a free out.

Agreed, but will add that if the fielder is moving away from the bag, then the runner can run straight to the bag.

[David B]

Originally Posted by rei

It is my understanding that the runner needs to move AWAY from the fielder if he does not slide. The runner going straight into the bad is NOT moving AWAY from the fielder. Runner Interference. Out and a out.

It is like getting a free out.

But I would be careful in explaining to a coach that the runner has any obligation to slide.

This is baseball and the runner cannot just disappear. But if there is intent to interfere then the umpire can make the call of DP.

Basically the runner can go directly to the base or away from the fielder, but if he's going right into the base, he does have a lot of leeway as long as he doesn't do anything to intentionally interfere.

If the coach doesn't like the decision, as Carl used to say, "tell him to play an upperclassman at F4" (grin)

Thanks
David