NFHS Examples of Batter Interference

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Manny A

Okay, this silence is killing me. Let me approach this a different way:

Scenario: Runner at third base. Pitch is in the dirt, and the ball goes behind the batter's box. The batter has no idea that the ball is there, and as she backs out of the way when she sees her teammate running home to score, she:

a. Kicks the ball further away
b. Tangles with the catcher as the catcher tries to pick up the ball

In both situations, the runner from third scores easily. Is the batter guilty of interfering with the catcher, and is ruled out with the runner returning to third? FED only please.

Why wouldn't that be interference, in either case? In no case is intent a factor, in no case is "just doing what she is supposed to" a factor, in both cases the offensive player impeded the opportunity a defensive player to make a play.

So, no written exception applies, and it is clear the defense lost an opportunity because of an action by the offense. What is the question?