Expert: John McInnis - 6/11/2007

Question
Can the first baseman, or any other infielder, block their respective bases as the runner is trying to get back to their base on a pick-off attempt? We've had one player's hand stepped on at first base and another hurt while going back into second base.  Safety seems like it would dictate that it is illegal. Not to mention that why wouldn't everyone just park their infielder in front of the base to inhibit the runner from getting back to the bag. We are a 12 year old federation team in Michigan.  

Answer
Hi Tony,

Fielders cannot obstruct runners unless they are charging for a ball. In this case, the runner can go around the fielder.  

In most cases, umpires call obstruction when they witness an attempt to interfer with the play (either runner or fielder).  Generally, runners must be allowed to run without obstruction and fielders must be allowed to catch without interference.

If a fielder stands in the path of a runner, the runner has to avoid deliberate contact.  He can go around and IF, by doing so, the fielder gains the time to tag the runner, USUALLY, the ump will call obstruction and award the base OR the runner can object the call and ask for a ruling.

If there is a deliberate obstruction or the obstruction is particularly violent, most umps will award the base and can give a bench warning or even game expulsion.

Parking a fielder in front of a base is not proper and its the coach's job to point this out to the umpire.  This will draw the umps attention to the act and increase the chances of awarding bases.

Good luck in you season,

JohnMc

I hope this helps.