Umpire Rules Runner Out on Glove Contact, Ending Game

A runner was ruled out for interference after his foot made contact with a fielder's glove during an attempt to field a batted ball. The contact occurred as the runner tried to reach third base. Officials met, reviewed the play on video, and determined the runner had hindered the fielder's attempt.

6.01 states that if a runner hinders a fielder's attempt to catch or field a batted ball, the ball is dead and the runner is declared out. In this instance, the contact prevented a clean throw. The fielder said he felt the cleat clip his glove and knew the rule before the play. The runner stated he did not feel contact and only realized the call after seeing the replay.

The call came with runners on base in the ninth inning.

The team at bat had loaded the bases with one out before the final play. The loss marked the tenth defeat in the last 14 games for the visiting club. The home team improved its record with the victory.