Running Lane Play

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by WestMichiganBlue
Seems as though a lot of Blue do not want to make that call on a runner down the first base line; afraid to "reward" the defense for making a poor play.

Remember that Interference is IMMEDIATE dead ball; you don't wait around to judge the end of the play. In this situation, you have no clue whether or not the fielder could have caught the ball; she never had a chance. The ball hit the runner which prevented the fielder from making a play.

Note that the runner is protected when she is within the 3' lane. The thrower is required to adjust her throw to get around the runner if she wants to get an out. But if the runner is in the fielder's territory (outside the 3'lane)then the thrower should not have to adjust; she should, by rule, have a clear path to first base. If the runner gets in the way - don't protect the runner!

WMB

WMB,

I think you are misreading the posts. No one has remotely suggested waiting for the result of the play or ignoring the interference.

You may be looking at the wrong end of the play. The rule book is specific that for the BR to be ruled out is totally reliant on whether their action interferes with the fielder taking the throw at 1B (ASA 8.2.E). Nowhere does it say anything about interfering with the actual throw unless intentional (8.2.F). The reason for this is that the BR would become a virtual target for all pitchers and catchers when there is a play near the line. And, yes, many of us have heard the coaches scream, "hit her with the ball" at one time or another.

We are not proposing ignoring the interference, just calling it for what it is as defined by the rule.