Interference by Runner: Effect on Batter

[jackfrost]

In the case you pose, B4 is awarded first base by FC per rule and has completed her at-bat. In the OP, the batter hits a foul ball and has not completed her at bat

There may be some differences by code, but in USA the effect includes the statement, "If the inference prevents the fielder from catching a routine fly ball, fair or foul, with ordinary effort, the batter is also out" . With the interference, the ball becomes dead which takes away the ability for a catch, so the batter is out and has completed their turn at bat.

​

 

[EdLovrich]

There may be some differences by code, but in USA the effect includes the statement, "If the inference prevents the fielder from catching a routine fly ball, fair or foul, with ordinary effort, the batter is also out" . With the interference, the ball becomes dead which takes away the ability for a catch, so the batter is out and has completed their turn at bat.

And this is the issue. There cannot be a fourth out unless it is an 'apparent fourth out' due to an appeal. Without case book or interpretation language, it is a paradox. USA needs to issue guidance if there is not already case book language concerning this. Again I ask, can we get a USA certified umpire to contact USA for a rules interpretation so we have an answer?