Obstruction Rule

[Dakota]

Originally posted by SSCoach
The question is this:
Batter in the box, not now, not ever showing bunt... Batter after batter, never! showing bunt. Players are ASA, U-10 Girl's. Defensive team lines up proper infielding positions and lunge, two-three steps at a minimum in, and towards the batter at every single pitcher released ball. Is this not obstruction as the defensive "bunt technique" is being used as batter diversion and interferes with the batter's designated sight-line? Is this obstruction??? Please help... Have game with team today at 6:00 p.m.

The rule that applies to what I understand your complaint to be is ASA Rule 6-5B,

A fielder shall not take a position in the batter's line of vision or, with deliberate unsportsmanlike intent, acts in a manner to distract the batter. A pitch does not have to be released. The offending player shall also be ejected from the game.

You'll see lots of goofy defensive and offensive tactics used at 10U that would be a complete disaster at higher levels.

No umpire is going to invoke 6-5B for infield corners charging to be in a bunt defense, whether or not the batter is showing bunt.

This rule is intended to cover a defensive player getting in the batter's line of sight of the pitch, not in her peripheral vision. And, even if the rule was invoked for deliberate unsportsmanlike distraction of the batter, the penalty is illegal pitch, not obstruction.

Any team trying this on every pitch with skilled batters will pay a big price.

Teach your batters to concentrate on the ball.