Bull of a catcher

[AtlUmpSteve]

While it is true that the catcher impeded the runner from advancing, that isn't obstruction by a defender that has possession of the ball.

While whatever rulebook being used in that game may not define defensive flagrant or malicious contact, I seriously doubt any definition specifically excludes it. In the past few years (2007, I believe), NFHS Softball (at least) clarified in an editorial change that malicious contact could and should be applied to defensive players, not just offensive players.

[canump]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

While it is true that the catcher impeded the runner from advancing, that isn't obstruction by a defender that has possession of the ball.

While whatever rulebook being used in that game may not define defensive flagrant or malicious contact, I seriously doubt any definition specifically excludes it. In the past few years (2007, I believe), NFHS Softball (at least) clarified in an editorial change that malicious contact could and should be applied to defensive players, not just offensive players.

I should have mentioned in the OP that this was under the CASA rule book up hear north of the border. I know most of the rules read the same as yours
with a few variations, "my rule book happens to be in my wife's car which is away at the cottage while I'm stuck here working" but some of your rules do clarify things more in it's wording.
Thanks to you all for your input.