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
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