Slow-pitch rule question

[Justme]

I'm new to slowpitch softball and need clarification in regards to an ASA interference ruling.

I had R1 heading into 2B and F6 running toward 2B (with the ball). They arrived at about the same time but F6 was a step ahead (out). Without hesitating F6 then attempted a throw to 1B but overthrew F3.

The defensive coach wanted an interference call on R1 because he did not slide or "pull-out" and since he is 6'6" tall there was no way that F6 could throw over him (but he tried). Coach told me that he had to either slide or pull-out.

I did not call interference since there was no contact nor did R1 seem to make any effort to break up the double play.

Did I "blow" the call?

[Andy]

Originally posted by mcrowder
HTBT, but as described, yeah, you probably kicked this one.

Definitely HTBT, but as described, I probably have nothing here.

There is no requirement that R1 slide or "pull out". As long as R1 did not do anything intentional like wave his hands or try to deflect a throw, I've got no interference on this play.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by Justme
I'm new to slowpitch softball and need clarification in regards to an ASA interference ruling.

I had R1 heading into 2B and F6 running toward 2B (with the ball). They arrived at about the same time but F6 was a step ahead (out). Without hesitating F6 then attempted a throw to 1B but overthrew F3.

The defensive coach wanted an interference call on R1 because he did not slide or "pull-out" and since he is 6'6" tall there was no way that F6 could throw over him (but he tried). Coach told me that he had to either slide or pull-out.

I did not call interference since there was no contact nor did R1 seem to make any effort to break up the double play.

Did I "blow" the call?

No, you did not kick the call, but not exactly for the right reason. BTW, it is same for all disciplines of the game of ASA softball.

The runner has every right to proceed as fast as possible to the base in an effort to be safe. We cannot expect the runner to just disappear the moment the defender touches the base.

In ASA, the interference with a thrown ball must be intentional. If the runner does "pull out", what happens if s/he guesses wrong and heads in the same direction as the defender? The defense is going to want INT on that, too. If the runner stays the course, the defender can predetermine to which side s/he will use in the attempt to retire the BR.

Good "no call".

[mcrowder]

I entirely misread this sitch, and retract my initial call that you kicked the call.