The Royals and Tigers played at Comerica Park on April 15, 2026. In the top of the seventh, Kansas City had Jac Caglianone on second and Lane Thomas on first with two outs and the score tied 1-1 when Starling Marte hit a ground ball toward third base. Caglianone was called for interference when he impeded Zach McKinstry from making a play. The call ended the Royals rally.

Ruleball Comments

• This was a classic runner interference play.
• The runner must allow the defensive player to make a play. The runner cannot hinder or confuse the defensive player.
• In such plays, the defensive player has the right of way and is protected. Runners cannot advance on the play.
• If a batted ball deflects off a fielder, he is still protected if the ball remains within his immediate reach. If the fielder has to chase the ball, he is now in jeopardy of obstructing the runner.
• The runner must locate the fielder and avoid hindering the fielder.
• The Tigers won the game 2-1, so the interference may have impacted the outcome of the game.

Rich Marazzi

Rules consultant/analyst:  Angels, Dodgers, Mets, Nationals,  Padres, Phillies, Pirates, Red Sox, Rangers, Royals, Tigers, Twins, White Sox, Yankees, YES, and Chicago Sports Network