batter interference

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Andy

Ummm....Yes there is. In fact, this is probably the key judgement to determine an interference call.

Speaking ASA, (paraphrasing), Interference is defined as the offense hindering the defense from making a play. A play is defined as an attempt to get an out.

Therefore, if there is no chance to get an out (umpire judgement), there is no interference.

A fine semantical line, but if they are hindered from even the attempt at an out, when even a slim possibility exists; we can't be deciding the runner would be safe. We should be deciding if there was even a slim chance; if so, the defense has the right to make the attempt.

So, a runner near a base, possibly even 1 step off can still possibly be out; we don't assume she will be safe 100% of the time. A runner on a base that isn't making any effort to get off the base isn't a play, it's an attempt to draw an interference call.