Obstruction, or let them play?

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by EsqUmp

I guess the defenders should have pressed the "disappear immediately" button on the remote.

Ok, I have a philosophical difference here. The whole issue about players not being able to go "poof", disappear immediately", or wanting to excuse them because they were "doing what is expected" just doesn't work for me.

I relate the delicate balance between offense and defense as regarding obstruction and interference to the "right of way" taught in driver's ed. Just like the cop/judge/jury will ultimately decide in any traffic incident, SOMEONE has the right of way. Just ONE, not both, in any situation.

The rules are pretty clear. The runners get to choose how/when/where they run in the vast majority of cases; they usually have the right of way to run legally. The exceptions when fielders have the right of way are clearly stated; 1) they have possession of the ball, or 2) in the act of fielding (making an initial play on) a batted ball. The rules also make it clear that intent to interfere or obstruct, as well as trying NOT to interfere or obstruct simply DO NOT MATTER; if an offensive team member interferes, or a defensive team member obstructs, the rule is the rule is the rule.

It is a great effort when a fielder ATTEMPTS to field a batted ball she cannot reach, or pursues an errant throw to try to make a play. But, if she doesn't actually field the batted ball or possess the thrown ball, and the result of her effort is she hinders, impedes or otherwise affects the opportunity (nay, the RIGHT) of the runner, that is text book obstruction. Just like the runner that TRIES to avoid the fielder fielding the batted ball, but makes contact anyway, that is text book interference. Just like the batter out of the box, an already retired runner, the scored runner, the base coach, the on-deck batter; yes, they can legally be on the field, but they simply must NOT interfere, regardless not disappearing, going poof, or TRYING not to interfere.

We need to stop making excuses for what the players do with good or bad intentions, and rule on the effect of their actions according to the RULES.