Gotta question for all you umpires out there!

[griffinfan]

I saw this on tv this morning. Runner on first and the ball is hit up the middle. It hits the pitcher and goes toward the 2nd baseman. The baserunner runs into the 2nd baseman before he gets to the ball and is immediately called out for interference. Now, I always thought that if the ball is touched already, then the baserunner can run over (if he so chooses, I'd go around, maybe! lol) the defender if he's in the basepath. What do ya'll say? I would've called him safe.

[kevhol]

I saw this on tv this morning. Runner on first and the ball is hit up the middle. It hits the pitcher and goes toward the 2nd baseman. The baserunner runs into the 2nd baseman before he gets to the ball and is immediately called out for interference. Now, I always thought that if the ball is touched already, then the baserunner can run over (if he so chooses, I'd go around, maybe! lol) the defender if he's in the basepath. What do ya'll say? I would've called him safe.

I know the rule says any hit ball being played by an infielder OTHER THAN THE PITCHER, the runner is charged with avoiding the defensive player. Although, I never understood why the inclusion of the phrase "other than the pitcher" because unless you're running from 1st straight to 3rd, you're not going to impede the pitchers play on the hit ball. That is a paraphrase here...from the last time I looked at that particular ruling.

[Barnabas]

I am not an umpire and never heard of this situation. However, I think that the fielder should have an unobstructed opportunity to make a play. I do not think that anything gives the runner the free opportunity to hinder the fielder. Just my first thoughts. As for "other than the pitcher", it appears by that phrase that the batter/runner can push a bunt and roll the pitcher which is different for some reason. I know that in the "old days" that plenty of pitchers were disciplined by that tactic.

[griffinfan]

Thanks guys...I was wrong!!