Back to: All User Sample Course – OBR and NFHS Rules

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Definition

Runner’s Lane Rule 5.09(a)(11)

A batter is out when: In running the last half of the distance from home base to first base, while the ball is being fielded to first base, he runs outside (to the right of) the three-foot line, or inside (to the left of) the foul line, and in the umpire’s judgment in so doing interferes with the fielder taking the throw at first base, in which case the ball is dead; except that he may run outside (to the right of) the three-foot line or inside (to the left of) the foul line to avoid a fielder attempting to field a batted ball.

Remember: Key Points to the Rule

1. The batter/runner is not required to stay in the runner’s lane. But if he runs outside the running lane (in fair territory) and interferes with the fielder receiving a throw at 1B, he may be called out for interference.
2. The lines are considered part of the running lane.
3. The batter/runner is permitted to exit the three-foot lane by means of a step, stride, reach or slide in the immediate vicinity of 1B for the sole purpose of touching first base.
4. The rule is written to protect the fielder taking the throw.
5. The throw must be able to be caught by the fielder.
6. A throw must be made. If a throw is made by a fielder and it hits the runner while out of the runner’s lane in the back, the umpire usually calls interference.
7. If the batter/runner is out of the lane and the play is completed by the defense, no interference is called unless the batter/runner interferes with the 1B making a throw to another base.

This play happened in the 2019 World Series. Here is the World Series Play Explained:

More Running Lane Examples:

• https://baseballrulesacademy.com/?s=runners+lane
• https://baseballrulesacademy.com/user/insider-report/batter-runner-interference/
• https://baseballrulesacademy.com/user/insider-report/dangerous-batter-runner-first-baseman-collision/
• https://baseballrulesacademy.com/user/videos/running-lane-home-first/
• https://baseballrulesacademy.com/user/insider-report/scioscia-protests-batter-runner-interference-rule/