Interference

[UmpireErnie]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

Speaking ASA, no. Just the opportunity to execute a play.

Now a play is an attempt by the defense to retire an offensive player. THAT would require the possibility of an out, but any benefit of doubt must go to the defense's ability.

OK..I think we agree but you are using a lot more words. So a fielder running toward foul ground who is hindered by a runner is not "making a play" if she is running after a foul fly ball that is going to land in DBT. Ditto for a fly ball to the outfield that an infielder is running after but will never reach hindered or not.

But if there is any possibility of the hindered defensive player making a play then INT. Sure.

So there is a judgement to be made by the umpire. Is there a possibility of an out or not?

All I am saying is it could take a beat or two after the runner hinders the fielder before I can decide if there was the possibility of an out when a runner hinders a fielder who may be attempting to catch a fair batted ball.

As soon as I have that it is a dead ball. Not DDB. Any I would submit that my small (probably not even noticed) pause is not a misinterp of the rules which could be protested.