On the field question

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I understand that the umpires are part of the field but I have a question for Bretman.
Have a runner from first going to second on a hit ball by batter, on the way to second the field umpire runs in front of the runner going to second, therefore running into the runner and causing her to almost stop and the defense throws the ball to second for the force out. She would have clearly been safe if no contact from the umpire. What is the correct ruling on this? Should the runner be called out or safe?

 

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It's sad for the offensive team, but the correct call here is runner out.

There're only two situations that qualify as umpire interference. One is when the plate umpire impedes the catcher's throw to a base on a steal or pick off. The other is when a batted ball hits an umpire before passing a fielder (more common in baseball, where the umpires are inside the diamond, but possible in softball).

In all other case, the umpire is treated as "part of the field". If they're hit by a batted ball after it passes a fielder, or hit by a thrown ball, or get tangled up with a runner or fielder it's...nothing. Live ball, play on get what you get. There is no penalty or remedy prescribed by the rules.

And shame on the umpire for putting himself in the position to impede a player! That's something you have to be aware of and always try to avoid.

 

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Thanks bretman