Interference from a base coach?

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Aug 23, 2016
359
43
One first base coach in DD's league (ASA/USA Softball League, 10U rec) is so close to the field that he stands with the side of his foot touching the safety bag and he won't move.

So on a D3K, the ball has squirted up the first base line a little, the 1B would normally set up for the catch on the safety bag because the throw is coming from foul territory. But because the coach isn't moving, 1B instead stays in fair territory and C has to throw over the runner's head or in the runner's path.

On wide throws, or pop-ups in foul territory near first base, coach doesn't move, either. Some girls would rather pull up short then run into him and they miss some plays that they'd make if the coach wasn't right there.

This coach insists that he can set up where he wants (and he seems to play dumb when it's suggested that his position has any effect on 1B's ability to make plays).

So, can the ump call interference, or does there have to be contact between the coach and 1B for the call to be made?
 
Jun 12, 2015
3,848
83
Isn't there usually (at least when the tournament starts and the lines are drawn) a box for the base coach? I'm pretty sure they can't just stand wherever they want to.
 
Oct 11, 2010
8,337
113
Chicago, IL
Yes then no.

We never line coaches boxes and the rules just say they need to start there, if they get in the way it is a problem.
 

Strike2

Allergic to BS
Nov 14, 2014
2,044
113
Absolutely that call can be made...with or without contact. The opposing coach should point out to the umpire where the 1B coach is standing, but being in the way during the play can easily draw an interference call, and SHOULD. I tell my players to go directly to wherever needed to get the ball. If someone is in the way, player or coach, don't be afraid to make contact. That 1B coach is the definition of "bush league", and deserves to get called out.
 
Last edited:
Aug 23, 2016
359
43
There's a box, he says he doesn't have to stand in it. And to be honest, I've never seen a base coach stay in their box.
 
May 24, 2013
12,461
113
So Cal
I'm not sure what the rule is here, but...

...what an @$$hole!


Oh...wait...I forgot. 10U rec ball is serious business.
 
Feb 17, 2014
7,152
113
Orlando, FL
The umpire needs to control the field of play and direct the base coach to back away from the line. This is a player safety issue and most umpires vigorously enforce this rule. You do not need to be in the actual coaches box, just respect the distance from home plate and the baseline. If he refuses he view the game from the parking lot.
 
Oct 11, 2010
8,337
113
Chicago, IL
There's a box, he says he doesn't have to stand in it. And to be honest, I've never seen a base coach stay in their box.

I am pretty sure they just need to start there on the pitch. Easiest example is 3rd base coach running down line to give runner single weather to go, slide, whatever. They are very seldom close to coaches box.
 
Aug 23, 2016
359
43
I'm not sure what the rule is here, but...

...what an @$$hole!


Oh...wait...I forgot. 10U rec ball is serious business.

Yeah, I don't get it. Does he go home with a sense of accomplishment when he intimidates 9 and 10-year-old girls?

(The sad thing is that the head coach of this team is even worse.)
 

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