Retired Runner Interference

Question
Runner on First ground ball to the pitcher. Pitcher throws to the shortstop. Shortstop tags second base proceeds to throw to first as shortstop proceeds the runner runs straight at them causing the shortstop to alter their throw or hit the runner. runner never makes contact. It is my understanding that in this situation the runner must slide or give themselves up. Since no shortstop wants to hit a runner should this not be interference? Our umpires answer was the runner has a right to the baseline. I agree with that until they are put out and become a retired runner.  

Answer
Hi Andrew,

The problem is the runner cannot just disappear after being put out.  There is no rule to make them slide and "giving themselves up" can also cause problems.  What if they veer to inside or outside of the diamond and F6 decides that's where they are going also w/ their positioning and w/ the throw.  With a runner heading toward 2nd usually a good F6 adjusts their angle to make the throw.

Each play like this must been seen in it's entirety to make the proper call but unless the runner "does something" to interfere w/ the fielder this is a no call.

Mark