Proper use of the colored first base bag

Question
I coach a recreational girls softball team (ages 13-15). We had a situation where a batted ball to the left side of the infield was thrown high to first base. The first baseman reached up to catch the ball and then stepped back onto only the orange bag to put out the runner. The fielder was not pulled into foul territory. The runner was called out. I have questioned the call with the league coordinator since my understanding is that the correct application of the rule is that the runner should be safe. Below is the response I received from our coordinator.

"Orange and white first bases.  The baseman does not/cannot always touch only the white base when making a play.  The runner and baseman both have an obligation to try to complete the play without colliding.  If obstruction/contact occurred because the baseman was on the orange bag only, then the ump should have given the baseman a warning the first time.  On subsequent times in the same game, if contact occurs because the baseman is only on the orange base, the runner should be called safe.

In both of the above situations, it is up to the judgement of the umpire.  They make the best call based on all that they see."


The response implies that a warning is in order for the first occurance and that there must be interference to invoke the rule. My understanding, in this situation the only judgement is whether the fielder was pulled into foul territory. If not, the runner is safe whithout regards to whether interference has occured. What is your opinion regarding correct application of the rule in this instance and whether a warning is typically given on the first occurance to players of this age.

Thanks for your input.

Answer
Hi Michael,

The LC can alter any ASA rule they want for local play, so it that's the way they want it, for league play that's the way it is.

However for ASA play there is no option for a warning, the intent of the rule is to avoid collisions at 1st and subsequently penalize the offense or defense for violating the rule. If the defensive player is not drawn into foul territory by an errant throw or if the throw is not coming from foul territory they must touch the white otherwise the b-r would be safe.  

Just a sn, the offense "interferes" the defense "obstructs"

mark