Catcher/Batter Interference. Ball gets by Catcher.

This is a repetitive problem at the Little League level. Runner on second, right-handed batter at bat. The ball gets by the catcher. The runner breaks for third. As the catcher retrieves the ball and prepares to throw to third, the batter backs out of the batter's box, and crosses in front of the catcher while out of the box. There is no contact as the batter is several feet away from the catcher.

This may be an interference call resulting in calling the batter out and returning the runner to second base. The rule states that the batter is out for either interfering or hindering the catcher by leaving the batters box.

Stepping out of the batter's box or moving in front of the catcher are not violations in and of themselves. To be Offensive Interference, you must determine that the batter actually did interfere with, obstruct, impede, hinder, or confuse a fielder (in this case the catcher) who was attempting to make a play. It can be a difficult determination and a controversial call absent contact or very close proximity, Contact is not required.

With no runner trying to score, the penalty is: Batter out, Ball dead, Runner returns to second.