Interfrence

Question
The batter gets a base hit to left field as the throw is coming to 2nd the 1st baseman moves 1/4 of the way to 2nd to back up the throw, the runner runs into the 1st baseman, the runner can see the 1st baseman and the 1st baseman is looking for the back up. Is this interference on the 1st basemen?.
         Thanks  Lee

Answer
Hi Lee,

No it would not interference but it is probably obstruction.  The defense obstructs and the offense interferes.  Since F3 is not attempting a play (simply backing up is not a play) there could never be interference on the b-r inn this situation.

If a defensive player not in possession of the ball or not in the act of fielding a batted ball hinders a runner legally running the bases that is obstruction and we protect the runner.  The runner is under no obligation to alter their line to the base because a defensive player is standing there.

Now F3 would have to be in the line the b-r was taking to 2nd, we would not allow the b-r to alter their path and "search out" a defensive player to gain an obstruction call.

Mark