This is discussed frequently, even at the NCAA level. I think that a runner leaping over the ball can in fact stop the fielder dead in her tracks. But, the call comes at the discretion of the umpire. Some coaches tell the SS (for instance) to go ahead and make contact with the runner, to get the call.
Smart middle infielders charge the heck to balls hit near the base path, and runners advancing. The defensive player initiates the contact, or forces the runner to delay, and go behind. If the slightest contact is made, the runner is out almost always.