MLB to Crack Down on Obstruction Rule

MLB to Enforce Obstruction Rule

Major League Baseball is set to crack down on the obstruction rule around the bases, according to sources. Umpires have been instructed to be more vigilant in calling the infraction, with a particular focus on plays around second and third base. The league believes that infielders have been blocking runners' paths to the bag under the guise of fielding the ball from a teammate.

Obstruction is defined as the act of a fielder impeding the progress of a runner while not in possession of the ball or in the act of fielding. One common infraction occurs when a middle infielder puts his lower leg on the ground to block the runner's path to second base, which can lead to injuries. Another infraction at third base involves an infielder moving up the line to block a runner's path as they receive the ball from an outfielder.

To address the issue, umpires have been instructed to call the runner safe due to obstruction unless the infielder needs to move into the path of the runner to receive the ball. Infielders are being told that it is acceptable to straddle the bag or stand in front or behind it, but they should not go to a knee or block the runner's path unless they are moving to receive the ball. It is a judgment call that is not subject to review.

Monitoring and Crackdown

The league has been closely monitoring play around the bases since 2021 and had considered enhancing the enforcement of the obstruction rule last year. However, they decided to observe the trend further, especially with other major rule changes like using bigger bases. Now, they are pushing for umpires to crack down on obstruction and change the behavior around the bases accordingly.

In the past, players would often take matters into their own hands, using aggressive tactics like sliding with spikes up or forcefully colliding with infielders who were blocking their path. However, such acts are not encouraged in today's game, leading to infielders pushing the boundaries of obstruction.

Pre-series meetings between teams would typically involve warning baserunners about notorious infielders who tend to block the bases. Some of the recurring names include Josh Donaldson, Ozzie Albies, and Bryson Stott. The league's aim is to create a shift in behavior and eliminate the prevalent obstruction tactics.

Increased Enforcement

While umpires may start calling obstruction more frequently during spring training, the real impact will likely be seen during the regular season. Most players are not playing at full speed during exhibition games, so the increase in calls may not be significant until the games truly count.

In conclusion, Major League Baseball is taking steps to enforce the obstruction rule around the bases more strictly. Umpires have been instructed to be more diligent in calling the infraction, particularly when it comes to plays around second and third base. The league wants to eliminate the practice of infielders blocking runners' paths under the guise of fielding the ball, and change the behavior around the bases accordingly.