interfering with the DP turn

Question
I play in a senior circuit(50+) where you are allowed to overrun all bases. It is not a no slide league, but you don't have to slide. Numerous times this season, the infielder trying to make the DP turn has been run into by the runner from first base, having been put out by force, coming in to 2nd standing up. I have complained that this is interference, and that the runner should either slide or turn into right field. The runners usually say "I"m too old to slide", and when I mention turning to the outfield  they say "what if he drops it? I have a right to the base".

I would just like to have a clarification on what the umpire should be calling here. I am mindful it's a senior rec league, but that shouldn't interfere with the proper calling of interference.

Thanks, maybe you can keep my 2nd baseman from getting maimed.

Answer
Hi Jamie,

this is always a difficult q.  The runner cannot simply disappear, and unless they do something to interfere they are allowed to attempt to reach the base safely.

Now you state there is contact between the runner and the fielder.  Did the runner have a chance to avoid contact (again this disappear thing)? A simple bump between 2 players trying to occupy the same space at the same time vs a taking out are different animals. Did the fielder attempt a throw?  Was there a play at 1st?  All these things come into play for interference.  You have to see all the elements of the play.

Generally speaking, generally, most of the time in these types of situations it is not interference although the defense thinks it is.  I think your F4 or F6 should work on taking a different angle on the throw to 1st when it's this close at 2nd.

Mark