Running outside the base path

[rhsc]

Originally posted by azbigdawg
the "base path" is not a straight line between bases, and if you are basing your calls on that, it aint good. I had situation last week where a runner swung wide to avoid interfereing with the shortstop fielding the ball. The shortstop had a choice of plays, tried to make a tag on the runner (who was headed towards third at this time), and missed. The coach of the defensive team wanted her out for bein gout of the basepath, but I would have been wrong to call it. remember we WANT runners to avoid the interference, so why punish them for doing what we want them to do?

Great points.
I dont think, however, if the BR is already outside the 3' line for any of the afore mentioned reasons(like Mike stated) and a fielder comes up with the ball close to said BR, you shouldnt punish the BR.