catcher verbal interference

2016/7/15 16:55:57

Question
Hello - my question is for SSUSA or ASA Seniopr Slowpitch Softball. What constitutes verbal interference by a catcher when a pitch is in the air? I believe that the catcher is not allowed to verbally direct any comment to the batter that will distract him. My friend argues that the catcher yelling "good pitch" to the pitcher or "strike 2" while the ball is in the air is interference. I disagree. Can you please clarify this rule for us? Thanks.

Answer
Hi George,

the defense can only "obstruct" not interfere. I do not let a catcher use the batter's name, howling screams and the like, or umpire words like "illegal" etc. Other than stuff like that the catcher can chatter, part of the game.

Mark

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