Wreck vs. Interference

Question
Hi Mark,

Thanks again for your expertise on this site.  I can't tell you enough how much it has meant to those of us really trying to understand the rules.

I'm a little confused on the "Wreck" ruling.  If a defender must be allowed to field a ball anywhere on the playing field, and the runner must vacate the area to avoid having interference called (whether intentional or not), when specifically would you call a "wreck?"

I guess I'm having a hard time discerning between wreck and interference.  

Thanks so much for the help!


Answer
Hi Jayce,

A "wreck" does not apply to an offensive/defensive collision when a batted ball is being attempted to field or a defensive player attempting a throw to make a play.

A wreck can occur as a defensive player, offensive player and a thrown ball all arrive at the same time when a play is being made on a runner.  This could occur for example at 1st if the throw is slightly off or a play at any base (it's commonly a tag situation) when obstruction or interference is not committed by either player.  It is simply incidental contact.

Mark