Interference by R1 into 2nd on double play

[PeteBooth]

FWIW the FPSR should be re-written.

It's virtually impossible when sliding not to slide through a particular bag and make contact with a fielder which ultimately can be construed as altering the play.

Think about it for a minute. The object of R1 is to break up a DP which means Alter the play. That's what R1's job is supposed to be.

The FED did not want runners doing what the PROS do meaning take a direct "B" line for the fielder and Upend the fielder. The runner was ok as long as they could reach the base with their hand.

Therefore, IMO the rule should simply say as long as a runner slides directly to the bag or away from the bag to avoid a fielder making a play, the runner is ok unless said runner raises spikes, takes a rolling cross body block at the fielder etc. No mention of making contact, alter the play etc. because R1 is supposed to alter the play.

IMO, that would make more sense and avoid the confusion. You cannot take all contact out of baseball or it becomes a joke of a sport.

However, we have to deal with what the rules says and as an umpire association try and rule consistently from game to game which in dealing with the FPSR can become difficult.

Pete Booth