Obstruction
Obstruction occurs when a fielder, without possession of the ball and not in the act of fielding it, impedes the progress of a runner. The ball may remain live or become dead depending on the code and type of obstruction.
Examples
- A first baseman blocks the base path without the ball, causing the runner to slow down.
- A catcher stands in the base path on a steal attempt before receiving the pitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is obstruction always a dead ball?▼
No. In OBR and USA Softball, many obstruction calls are delayed-dead-ball situations.
Does the runner automatically get the next base?▼
Not always. Awards depend on the type of obstruction and the umpire’s judgment of runner placement.