Batter Interference

[UmpJM]

yo...blue,

Originally Posted by yo...blue...

Why are my questions "full of crap"?

I'm guessing it's because you implied that Tim McCarver had "good rules knowledge".

Once you make an assertion that absurd, nobody is going to take what you say seriously.

1. When is it appropriate to move a player out of the way of an impending play?

Never. Umpires observe play and communicate the result. They are not there to affect play.

2. Is there a different level of importance between mechanics and rules?

No, they are both equally important to competent umpiring.

3. Is it correct to call interference even is it's not in you coverage?

Generally, interference is a "shared responsibility" call - any umpire who sees it may call it. I would say a 6.06(c) violation (which Kleff's OP was NOT) would be an exception and a call reserved for the PU.

4. Does anybody left around here have a sense of humor?

In reference to your question 1, if a participant gets in your way, simply knock him down (if you're bigger) or trip him (if he is).

JM