what is catchers interference

Catchers interference is a rule in baseball that occurs when the catcher or any other fielder interferes with the batters attempt to hit the ball. If this happens, the batter is awarded first base. If first base was already occupied at the time of the interference, the runners advance to the next base. When catcher interference occurs, the umpire will allow the play to progress because the outcome of the play may be more desirable than the interference. In that case, the offensive manager can elect to accept the outcome of the play over the interference. The manager must make the election to take the play or take the interference penalty by advising the plate umpire immediately following the play, and once made, such election cannot be changed. If the batter reaches first base on a hit, an error, a base on balls, a hit batsman, or otherwise, and all runners advance at least one base, the play proceeds without reference to catcher’s interference.