girls fastpitch 12-15yrs asa

Question
girl on second 2 outs ball is popped upto shortstop area runner advancing on contact to third shortstop attempts to catch pop up while in baseline runner makes contact with fielder just prior to ball going in glove (fielder misplayed popup and was drifting backwards) umpire called runner interference saying runner is supposed to run around fielder(how does runner know fielder is going to backup she is running on contact) was umpire correct or should of it been obstuction on fielder

Answer
Hi Troy,

correct call, a defensive player must be given the opportunity to field the ball anywhere on the playing field, baseline or not.  The offense player must vacate or not enter that area.  The offensive player needs to pay attention to what's happening.

Can't be obstruction, the def. player was fielding the ball.

Mark