Ruling on interference

[UmpJM]

mbc,

In much the same way as this case play from the MLBUM (my emphasis):

(3) Bases loaded, no outs, ground ball to shortstop. The shortstop's throw to second retires the runner from first. However, anticipating a double play, the runner from first intentionally slides out of the base line and crashes into the second baseman just as the second baseman is beginning a throw to first base. Runner is not able to reach second base with his hand or foot.

Ruling: Runner has willfully and deliberately interfered with a fielder with the obvious intent to deprive the defense of the opportunity to make a double play. Batter-runner is declared out for runner's interference, and runners return to second and third. Note in this example that if the runner had not been ruled out at second (i.e., if the throw pulled the fielder off the bag) and the runner had still intentionally interfered in the manner described, both he and the batter-runner would be declared out.

JM