Fielding a bunt / dribbler - interference or obstruction?

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Nov 18, 2015
1,585
113
For various reasons (slow reaction, big follow through, etc.), there are times when the catcher may be able to get out of the box ahead of the batter.

When contact results in a slow dribbler (bunt, weak hit, whatever…) to the front of the plate, or slightly to the 1B side, can the Catcher “cut off” the batter-runner to field the ball? Maybe similar to a football CB jumping a pass route on the WR – the C just anticipated or reacted quicker. So whether or not contact is made, would this be grounds for obstruction or interference? Does contact b/w BR & C affect which call (if any) is made?

Thanks,

Gags
 
Apr 17, 2012
806
18
Wi
It depends. If the ball is right out front and is/should be fielded by the C and the batter interferes with them fielding then its interference. If the ball goes directly to say the P and its obvious they should make the play and the C alters the batters path then its obstruction. Only one fielder can be protected. Umpire judgement comes into play
 
Oct 11, 2010
8,337
113
Chicago, IL
Hopithetical question.

Ball is bunted just in fair, right on 3rd base line 2 feet from plate.

C and Batter-runner meet at home plate, nothing bad they just plow into each other.

Leave it go, stuff happens?
 
Sep 14, 2011
768
18
Glendale, AZ
This particular play is a specifically mentioned situation for interference/obstruction for umpires.

As long as the catcher and batter-runner are both doing what they are supposed to be doing, some contact may occur and not be a violation.
If the catcher is attempting to field the ball, and the batter-runner is running to first, and neither one of them tries to push or shove the other, for example, contact may be ignored.
It's judgement and each play is different.
 
Nov 18, 2015
1,585
113
Thanks Ajay - that's what I was looking for.

Additional background - starting to teach the position to 2nd graders (8YOs), and needed to clarify what to tell them on the most likely scenarios.

So I'll likely tell them for a bunt/dribbler in front of plate - go get it. If it's a "comebacker" to the P, then they need to wait for the runner to pass before stepping out to get ready for a throw home. (b/c in coach pitch, when AREN'T the bases loaded?!)
 

Strike2

Allergic to BS
Nov 14, 2014
2,044
113
This particular play is a specifically mentioned situation for interference/obstruction for umpires.

As long as the catcher and batter-runner are both doing what they are supposed to be doing, some contact may occur and not be a violation.
If the catcher is attempting to field the ball, and the batter-runner is running to first, and neither one of them tries to push or shove the other, for example, contact may be ignored.
It's judgement and each play is different.

Great answer...
 

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