45-foot runner’s box

Expert Analysis

The NFHS Runner’s Lane Rule: Umpire’s Guide

Topics: Baseline, Batter Runner, Runner Interference

This Special Report was written by Rick Roder, author of The Rules of Professional Baseball: A Comprehensive Reorganization and Clarification. Email Rick, rick@nullrulesofbaseball.com Baseball’s running lane rule got its day in the sun in Game 6 of the 2019 World Series. Plate umpire Sam Holbrook ruled that Washington Senators’ batter-runner Trea Turner violated the rule…

Expert Analysis

Fall Classic Runner’s Lane Violation

Topics: Batter Runner, Runner Interference, Runners
This is a video post.
Expert Analysis

Trea Turner World Series Runner’s Lane Interference

Topics: Baseline, Runner Interference, Runners Lane
This is a video post.
Expert Analysis

Did Pitcher Throw at Runner for Interference Call?

Topics: Baseline, Latest News, Runner Interference, Runners

The Reds and Indians played in Cleveland on May 23, 2017, when the Reds’ Zack Cozart was called for batter-runner interference. Cozart was clearly out of the runner’s box but did Indians’ pitcher Carlos Carrasco have a good throwing lane to first base? And even if he did, does it matter since Cozart was clearly…

Expert Analysis

Jason Heyward Called for Batter Runner Interference

Topics: Baseline, Batted Ball, Latest News, Official Baseball Rules, Runner Interference, Runners

Before we look at a couple of recent batter-runner interference plays, let’s review the provisions and “interpretations” that cover rule 5.09 (a) (11) and the 45-foot long, 3-foot wide runner’s box that has been around since 1881. Keep in mind that the rule is designed to protect the fielder “taking” the throw, not “making” the…

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