Runner's Lane Question

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by Dakota

It is hard to leave the lane if you were never in it!

Agree. That's why I said I think it's clear in NCAA play. My question was really focused on NFHS, and any other organizations that use single-first base bags.

[teebob21]

Originally Posted by Manny A

Agree. That's why I said I think it's clear in NCAA play. My question was really focused on NFHS, and any other organizations that use single-first base bags.

NFHS covers this in 8-2-6. That language is different, and does not provide for a last-step exemption, but I think the interpretation is the same: run IN the lane, interfere at the bag = no call. Run OUT of the lane, interfere at the bag = dead ball, BR out for INT, runners return to last touched base.

[CecilOne]

And it is also being out of the lane at the moment of INT, not necessarily the entire length.

[umpjim]

Originally Posted by CecilOne

And it is also being out of the lane at the moment of INT, not necessarily the entire length.

At that moment does the foot have to be touching the ground outside the lane?

[youngump]

Originally Posted by umpjim

At that moment does the foot have to be touching the ground outside the lane?

The NCAA rule seems to imply that, but I'm extremely skeptical that the intent of that rule is for a runner running in fair territory to be able to interfere because both feet are in the air at the time of contact.

Neither the ASA nor NFHS rule have that implication.

[jmkupka]

A couple related questions, please:

1. USA has always interpreted the lane as extending vertically on both sides, meaning that both feet can be entirely within the lines while upper body part(s) can still extend beyond, potentially causing interference. It's been discussed and concurred on this forum. Question: Does NCAA interpret this the same way?

2. Again NCAA, due to the absence of the double base, is the B/R allowed to run in fair territory, without fear of an INT call, if fielder sets up foul to take a throw from foul ground and BR still gets plunked?

3. Again NCAA, is running lane INT enforced TOP or TOT? Does R1 from 3B, crossing the plate right after the bunt and well before the INT, have to return? (This I can find myself, but I don't have my book)