Newmarket Minor Softball Association
Providing over 35 years of continuous softball enjoyment in Newmarket
9. Difference between Interference/Obstruction
Interference:
- Typically an act by an offensive player.
- Also possible to have umpire interference and spectator interference.
- Results in “Dead Ball” being called (exception - umpire interference).
- Results in an out if by an offensive player.
- Common misconception - catcher’s interference is actually catcher’s obstruction.
Obstruction:
- Is an act by a defensive player.
- Results in a delayed dead ball.
- Award is determined at the end of the play (exception - if the obstructed runner is called out).
- An obstruction call does not entitle the obstructed runner to keep attempting to advance until played upon
These two rules require:
- An immediate call when either interference or obstruction occurs - do not hesitate, these are not the type of calls to be made after the fact.
Contact does not always mean interference or obstruction occurred. There is such a thing as incidental contact - 2 players both unsure of where to go and contact is made. Rule 8.10(c) states that the runner is not out when more than one fielder attempts to field a batted ball and the runner comes in contact with the one who, in the umpire’s judgment, was not entitled to field the ball.
TIP - when contact occurs and in the umpire’s judgment that neither interference nor obstruction occurred, make a “SAFE” signal with no verbal call - shows that you saw it and you made your decision that no call was necessary.
