(only) Runner is on second. On the pitch the runner takes off for third. The pitch is ball four. The batter immediately, but innocently heads to first right in front of the catcher trying to throw to third. Does the batter (now batter/runner) have a right to the baseline? He is just doing what comes naturally on a fourth ball. Does the catcher need to adjust his line to throw around the batter/runner? OR, is this just plain, obvious batter interference? I have my opinion but as an umpire I need something more than just an opinion. Reference? I have searched the ORB and the NFHS rule and case books. Googled and googled and came up empty. The only thing I can find is when the batter swings at a pitch and his momentum carries him across the plate..... interference!
