No reason for rants, guys. It was just a question like one of you said, seems to always come up. Tired of hearing from my same local group so that's why I expanded it out to you'all.
The odd part is people seem to take rules of things that happen at the plate more with more vigor. I know (and agree it's obstruction), but the same people that would call it that way at home DON'T call it that way in the field, i.e.- runner plasters a 2nd baseman about to field a grounder. To me there is no difference. You are allowed to alter your base running to avoid interfering with a fielder making a play. The same applies at home. Just because it's in the field rather then at home where it could affect a run should not change the way it's called. Just sayin'... |
For what it’s worth, there is a difference in your stated scenario. A second baseman about to field a grounder is making an initial play and is therefore protected. The catcher, unless she is making an initial play (fielding a bunt for example) cannot hinder the runners chosen path.
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IMO, part of the issue is that most, it not all of us grew up watching baseball where, until recently, it was part of the game to plow the catcher and try to dislodge the ball. Since softball is "baseball for girls" to a significant number of people, some of that mentality still exists.
I believe that is why we have umpires that view a play at the plate differently than a play at any other base. |
SP, I'm going to break down each part of your statement. No rants by me. Also, if you are a member of the chapter I think you are, your rule interpreter and the district interpreter will echo exactly what I'm saying.
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-When does the fielder have "rights"? a) when fielding a batted ball; b) when in possession of the ball. Notice this isn't about "blocking a base/plate" or "about to catch a ball." Now, if a or b isn't satisfied, then the runner has the rights. Pretty simple, now let's look at your statement: Quote:
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