NCAA change
Oversight Panel approves
new plate obstruction rule
Oversight Panel approves
new plate obstruction rule
Greg Johnson | NCAA
The NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel approved a rule banning defenders in softball from blocking the plate or base before they have possession of the ball, effective for the 2018 season.
The NCAA Softball Rules Committee believes this change is equitable for the base runner and the defensive team. Under the rule, a base runner will have a clear path to the base. Also, if the defender has possession of the ball and is in front of the plate or base, the runner can slide and have contact with the defensive player if the runner is making a legitimate attempt to touch the plate or base.
If a defender blocks the plate or base before gaining possession, the runner will be called safe. If the runner contacts the defensive player without making a legitimate attempt to slide, the runner will be called out.
Currently, the defender could block the plate or base while in the act of catching the ball. The rules committee felt the language was too ambiguous.
The rule change clarifies the rule and seeks to remove any gray area for plays of that nature.
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| Wesley Wolverine senior #99 OF Lauren Hoffman (Middletown, DE). |
