run down obstruction

Question
In a rundown situation where several defensive players get involved and the umpire signals obstruction (delay dead ball) during the play, how is the play resolved. Are based awarded and if so explain. Thanks.  

Answer
Hi Jim,

This is a fairly common occurrence especially at the lower levels of play where the players don't practice run-down situations.

If the obstructed runner is put out after being obstructed a dead ball will be called and the runner will be awarded the base(s) they would have reached in the umpire's judgement had there been no obstruction.  The runner may not be called out between the 2 bases where they were obstructed.

Usually (but not always) this means we will give them the base they were heading to when they were obstructed.

Mark