Interference?

[Stevetheump]

Originally Posted by SamG

This is posted on another message board with a discussion of whether this tactic is illegal, unethical, or "smart" playing. I want to get the opinion of umpires if this happened in your game.



The poster later "clarified" the runner is yelling at the 3rd base coach, not at the opposing team. Does that make a difference? Does the age make a difference?

Thoughts?

First of all, why would the RUNNER be yelling that at the 3rd base coach? It makes no sense.
Second, interference is "ANY ACT by an offensive player....." It does NOT have to be just "physical" contact.
Third, if I judged his yelling as the runner's attempt to "impede, hinder or confuse" the defensive player, I'm going to call it. No doubt the manager will pitch a fit, but, I doubt that team would repeat that tactic.