Coach interference

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by chapmaja

No, I am following the argument that a coach who knows the rules would make, which is 7-4-12 is not the rule applicable under the 2014 rulebook (even though it should be).

Also, you site that rule says use 7-4-12. The rulebook index also does reference rules 3-5-5 and 8-6-16 as interference by a coach.

Given the way the rules are, it is not as clear cut as it seems with using 7-4-12 for the ruling. You may disagree, but I can not use the 2013 rulebook to make a call in the 2014 season, even if the change is just an editorial change. The simple FACT is 7-4-12 does not apply to a coach who is in the coaches box and interferes with a foul fly.

Yes it does. And more to the fact, 3-5-6 does as well.

Rule 3-5 in general deals with Coaching. So what comes under that section (3-5-1 thru 3-5-7) applies primarily to coaches.

When it comes to foul fly balls, 3-5-6 specifically deals with this, not 3-5-5. And it says the batter is out. Even though it refers to team members and not team personnel, the fact that it's listed under 3-5 implies that the coach is included.

7-4-12 is just a direct quote of 3-5-6 to allow for the rule to include base runners as well as coaches.

Argue semantics if you want. The simple fact is, when a coach interferes with a fielder trying to catch a foul fly ball, the batter is the one ruled out, primarily under both 3-5-6.