What is the ruling if a runner makes contact with a fielder without permission?

When a runner makes contact with a fielder without permission, it is classified as interference. This rule is in place to protect fielders who are attempting to make a play on the ball. The action of the runner, by making contact without any legitimate reason to do so, disrupts the fielder's ability to field the ball or make a play. As a result, the fielder is not only hindered in their action, but the integrity of the game is compromised.

The ruling of interference by the runner can lead to the play being stopped, and depending on the specific circumstances, the runner could be called out or penalized. This ensures that safety is maintained on the field and that teams can execute plays without unintentional hindrance from baserunners.

Options suggesting that it is a legal play or a judgment call by another player do not align with the established rules of baseball, which aim to regulate contact between players to ensure fair play. While the potential for play review exists in higher levels of baseball, interference calls typically rely on the umpires' judgment during the game.