DEFLECTIONS
Fielders can deflect batted balls; pitchers can deflect batted balls. As a former
catcher, though not a very good one, I’ve always been proud that rules committees
have resolutely refused to include pitchers into the "fielder" category.
When a fielder deflects a batted ball: if he moves to refield it, contact between
runner and fielder is neither obstruction nor interference, but the runner receives
any benefit of the doubt. When a pitcher deflects a batted ball: (a) if another
fielder has a legitimate play on the ball, contact between runner and fielder
is interference (NCAA, OBR); (b) if the runner does not have time to avoid contact,
it is neither interference nor obstruction (FED). Rules are scarce; interpretations
abound. The effects: Treat such plays the same at all levels. Beware the fielder
who tries to make up for his initial fumble, and keep an eye on a runner who can
avoid contact but doesn’t.
FED OBSTRUCTING RULES
• Obstruction Table
• Deflections
• Making a Play
|
|
|
