"Intentional" interference

[jrvankirk]

Alex - I misinterpreted your reply. There are quite a few "flamers" on these lists. I work about 125 HS, College and ASA games/year and see about 75 more. Consequently, I have an opportunity to watch other umpires work. It appears to me that many of our colleagues are extremely reluctant to call any act "intentional" unless it involves a push, shove, etc. For example - interference with a fielder about to receive a thrown ball - F2 throws to F4 with runners on 1st and 3rd, hoping to goad the runner on 3rd to break for the plate. Runner going from 1st to 2nd flattens the F4 just as she was about to receive the throw. Runner scores. F4 was 5ft or so inside the base path between 1st and 2nd. Umpire makes NO call. Not the "safe" mechanic indicating no violation. Nothing. Of course, the coach of the team on the field is wild. His reply - no "intent." Seemed to me that leaving the base path was a clear indication of her "intent" to interfere. Jeff BTW - my family is originally from Buren. We left in 1658, however. Went to a little place called New Amsterdam.