Controverisal Obstruction Call

[Ump153]

You can't be serious. Have you ever played the game?

Have you ever umpired the game?

[SAump]

Enlighten me on PBUC/MLBUM interps. regarding this most unusual "interference" award and balk call. Support material is appreciated.

OBR 4.03(c) Except the pitcher and the catcher, any fielder may station himself anywhere in fair territory.

Anywhere in front of the 17" plate, or anywhere beyond the cutout in front of the plate to avoid a "batter interference" call, or anywhere in front of another pre-established area in front of the mound to avoid a fielder's balk call? How close is too close to the front of the plate?

Explain why the literal interpretation of OBR 7.07 does not apply to other base situations {such as R1 or R2 only, or R1 and R2}. Explain why a fielder's balk or batter's interference would only apply with R3 in a special squeeze situation and not include other possible scenarios.

Using that criteria, I find OBR 4.03 and OBR 7.07 only address very fine apects of the game itself. Afterall, how practical is anywhere in fair territory?

BTW, I have not determined if I am serious. In this regard, only I can make that ruling.

[SethPDX]

Originally Posted by Ump153

You can't be serious. Have you ever played the game?

Have you ever umpired the game?

It's okay. You know what the right call is. I know what the right call is. Most umpires know what the right call is. Just let it go. Serenity now...

[SAump]

johnnyg08 has some questions in another thread. Was Laz wrong?
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