HS Trick Play

[mbyron]

Originally Posted by Dave Reed

Casebook 2.22.1 Situation A has a related play and uses the phrase "verbal Obstruction".

Originally Posted by Case Book

2.22.1 SITUATION A: R1 attempts to steal second. F2, upon receiving the pitch,
throws a pop-up to F6. F5 yells “get back, get back.” R1 thinks B2 has hit a popup
and starts back to first where he is tagged out. RULING: This is verbal obstruction
and R1 shall be awarded second base.

Dave, I disagree that this case is relevantly similar. 2.22.1A is a case where the runner is advancing and the defense (verbally) attempts to STOP his advance. That is correctly ruled obstruction because the advance has been hindered.

The Miami fake pickoff is legal deception intended to induce a runner to BEGIN his advance. This is not obstruction and is legal at all levels.