Rule Book or Judgment Call?

Question
Dear Mark,

Coed slowpitch softball under ASA rules. Runner on first. Batter hits a ground ball fielded by the shortstop. As the shortstop throws (overhand from a distance) to the second base woman covering for the force, the runner from first base unleashes a sustained yell while approaching second base. The shortstop threw accurately and on time to the second base woman, but the ball hit off the top of her glove, bouncing over her head. The umpire ruled the runner safe at second.

Is interference in this case a judgement call, or should the defense lodge a protest?

Thank you!

KAB

Answer
Hi Ken,

Nice to talk with you again.

As you know Interference is defined as the act of an offensive player which impedes, hinders or confuses a defensive player attempting to execute a play. It may be in the form of physical contact, VERBAL DISTRACTION (my caps) visual distraction, etc.....

Defensive players must be given the opportunity to field the ball anywhere on the playing field without being hindered.

In this case I have interference (absolutely) dead ball, r1 is out and I also going to call the b-r out as my experienced, flawless judgement tells me this is an obvious attempt to prevent a double play.  I'm not going to tolerate this!

Interference is a judgement call...in my opinion did the offensive player impede, hinder or confuse....and hence not a  call you can legally protest.  

I would certainly and with some force and passion, CALMLY and CLEARLY explain the rules of interference to the umpire.

Mark