Deflection

[David B]

Originally Posted by bob jenkins

If F4 is still fielding the batted ball (and not just chasing after a loose ball), then he's still protected. This sounds like the case -- so it's interference.

That part of the rule is the same in FED and OBR.

Whether it's a DP or not depends on the code. In FED (as in the OP), you can get it if a DP is "likely". That's a HTBT. In OBR, only if the interference is willful and deliberate with the intent of preventig a DP -- and that doesn't sound like the case here.

Note that there's a difference between "contacting the fielder" and "contacting the deflected ball" -- the runner is protected from the latter, not from the former.

Great explaination. I've seen this call missed many times through the years.

The reason the runner is covered on the deflection is because he will not have time to adjust or get out of the way.

He will have time to get out of the way of the fielder who he can see etc.,

Makes sense to me especially is you've seen one of these plays in real time.

Thanks
David