Which statement about obstruction is correct?

• A. The ball is delayed dead.
• B. Obstruction is declared when a fielder without the ball simulates a tag on a runner.
• C. Obstruction occurs when a fielder without possession of the ball denies access to the base the runner is attempting to reach.
• D. All the above.

Answer: (D)

Obstruction is when a fielder who does not have the ball hinders a runner trying to advance or reach a base. Because the defense is hindering the runner without possessing the ball, the play is treated as a delayed dead ball: the ball remains in play until the obstruction is called and the appropriate base award is made. The runner is awarded the base(s) they would have reached if unobstructed.

This includes situations where the fielder without the ball makes a tag attempt or otherwise blocks the runner’s path, even if the fielder isn’t in possession of the ball. Denying access to the base the runner is trying to reach is a classic example of obstruction. Since all given statements describe ways obstruction can occur and how it is handled, “All the above” is the best answer.