interference without contact

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by CecilOne
ASA. Do you agree that a runner can interfere without contacting either the ball or fielder? For example, on a slow batted ball toward F4, R1 gets to the path of the ball about the same time as the ball. R1 runs between the ball and fielder just as F4 tries to make the play, but F4 holds up because R1 is in the way. Would it make any difference if the pitcher tipped the ball on the way?

Yes, there can be interference without contact.

In the play above, if R1 did nothing more than advance to the next base (what they are suppose to do), it is nothing unless you deemed the R1 didn't have room and kept F4 from reaching the ball.

Now, if R1 hesitates and times their passing to be as close as possible with the ball reaching the fielder, interference is going to be the most likely option. Might even get two out of it