Harper runs into umpire

[Gfoley4]

http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=23864085&c_id=mlb

(1st clip, couldn't find the video by itself)

Am I correct that there is no rule on this and Harper can't be awarded second?

[noumpere]

Right just play it out its not one of the two types of umpire interference. I wonder was there any discussion about it on the field?

[Lindsay]

Correct, umpire interference only applies to (1) plate umpire interfering with a catcher's throw [Rule 5.09(b)] and (2) a fair ball touching an umpire on fair territory before touching an infielder, including the pitcher, or before it has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher [Rule 5.09(f)].

Here is a video lineup of Umpire Interference and non-interference. Notice the "Umpire Collides with Fielder" as an example of non-interference. Same principle applies to an umpire colliding with the runner.

[Jimurray]

Correct, umpire interference only applies to (1) plate umpire interfering with a catcher's throw [Rule 5.09(b)] and (2) a fair ball touching an umpire on fair territory before touching an infielder, including the pitcher, or before it has passed an infielder, excluding the pitcher [Rule 5.09(f)].

Here is a video lineup of Umpire Interference and non-interference. Notice the "Umpire Collides with Fielder" as an example of non-interference. Same principle applies to an umpire colliding with the runner.

Unless you can talk them into it as happened at a TAMU game this year early in the season. R1 contacts U1 and thinks he's got 2B made. Tagged out at 2B. TAMU coach gets out negated and they put the runner back at 2B. Correction - back at 1B.

[Jocko]

Big XII umps fell for that?

[Jimurray]

Big XII umps fell for that?

It was covered by our UMPHUB guy: http://umpire-empire.com/index.php/topic/25821-what-is-umpire-obstruction/

Interesting quote from his discussion board:

"I have spoken to the umpire involved in the play and what some of ya’ll don’t realize is that the new field at Texas A&M makes it somewhat hard to see the ball when up against the new siding. He got caught looking for the ball and the runner made contact with him.

In turn Jim Paronto, Secretary Rules Editor for NCAA Baseball, stated it was wrong by rule but good for the game."

Not sure if it is true or not.