Interference / Force Play Slide

[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