This was posted in a thread about outfielders. I want to discuss it re: obstruction.
Worst MLB Call Ever
I don't know the rule for MLB but I understand that:
1. A defensive player blocking a baserunner's path, without possession of the ball, that causes the baserunner's to slow or alter his path has obstructed the runner.
2. A defensive player is allowed to pursue a thrown ball into a baserunner's path.
At the rec or MS level these rules are pretty workable, but at higher level ball, I see a conflict that can be difficult to resolve.
In the case above, it is obvious that the runner would be out if the throw were to the plate instead of into the base path.
It's also obvious that the catcher had the ball in his passion before the runner arrived.
The commentator wanted the runner to slide, thus removing the possibility that the catcher caused him to alter his running path prior to receiving the ball.
For younger players, errant throw will cause collisions regularly. My problem is, will the MLB see an increase in errant throws up into the base path to allow the catcher to go there?
Worst MLB Call Ever
I don't know the rule for MLB but I understand that:
1. A defensive player blocking a baserunner's path, without possession of the ball, that causes the baserunner's to slow or alter his path has obstructed the runner.
2. A defensive player is allowed to pursue a thrown ball into a baserunner's path.
At the rec or MS level these rules are pretty workable, but at higher level ball, I see a conflict that can be difficult to resolve.
In the case above, it is obvious that the runner would be out if the throw were to the plate instead of into the base path.
It's also obvious that the catcher had the ball in his passion before the runner arrived.
The commentator wanted the runner to slide, thus removing the possibility that the catcher caused him to alter his running path prior to receiving the ball.
For younger players, errant throw will cause collisions regularly. My problem is, will the MLB see an increase in errant throws up into the base path to allow the catcher to go there?