Batter interference

[gmtomko]

Can I get some comments from out there on your criteria for calling a runner or batter out for batter interference?

Example: R1 on 2nd. Attempts steal of 3rd as ball is being delivered. Right-handed batter takes the pitch and the catcher receives the ball and contacts the batter as he comes up to make the throw to third. Since the batter can't disappear and did nothing intentional, I would think that to be no interference.

Now take the same situation. The batter swings at the pitch and in doing so, is off-balance enough that he (unintentionally) winds up in the path of the catcher who is trying to make a throw to third. Is this case any different?

Any other guidelines that I can use to assess the situation?

Thanks.

G