Obstruction Placement Federation only

[AtlUmpSteve]

Most consider a "rounding" obstruction to have hindered the runner both before and after the base. In other words, we should protect the runner throughout the act of obstruction, not just the location at the first instant of the obstruction.

I would assume protection between first and second unless it was specified only before the base. Coffee may help, of course.

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

Most consider a "rounding" obstruction to have hindered the runner both before and after the base. In other words, we should protect the runner throughout the act of obstruction, not just the location at the first instant of the obstruction.

That's an interesting perspective that I've never heard before. I certainly don't disagree with it. I would never think that your could "carry" an obstruction infraction before, on, and after the base.

But if that's the case, then why do we still hold a runner liable for missing a base that she was obstructed from touching? If she can't be put out at either base, shouldn't we ignore the base miss? I know the rules make this a requirement.

Suppose the BR in the OP misses first base because of F3's position, and reaches second safely. An appeal at first by the defense would be upheld. That goes against what she should be afforded since the obstruction as she rounds the base should protect her at first and second.

[MD Longhorn]

Originally Posted by Manny A

That's an interesting perspective that I've never heard before. I certainly don't disagree with it.

That perspective is rather standard. Ask yourself ... was she obstructed between first and 2nd? Absolutely.

As to a missed base - the runner is allowed (required!) to retouch a missed base when her award is announced.

[Tru_in_Blu]

Originally Posted by MD Longhorn

That perspective is rather standard. Ask yourself ... was she obstructed between first and 2nd? Absolutely.

As to a missed base - the runner is allowed (required!) to retouch a missed base when her award is announced.

If the runner made second base safely, after missing first base, would there be a base to award? And if no base to award, how does the runner return to 1B to retouch it, assuming she actually realized it and wanted to?

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by Tru_in_Blu

If the runner made second base safely, after missing first base, would there be a base to award? And if no base to award, how does the runner return to 1B to retouch it, assuming she actually realized it and wanted to?

Good point. I was under the impression that if the runner achieves the base she would have reached minus the obstruction, then there's no real reason for the umpire to call Time and make any formal announcement.

[MD Longhorn]

Originally Posted by Manny A

Good point. I was under the impression that if the runner achieves the base she would have reached minus the obstruction, then there's no real reason for the umpire to call Time and make any formal announcement.

But ... we just discussed this 2 weeks ago.

For the exact reason you just mentioned (she has a base to retouch), there IS (obviously) a reason to announce this award.