What is the ruling when a coach interferes by physically assisting a runner?

When a coach interferes by physically assisting a runner, the correct ruling is that the runner is declared out and the ball remains live. This situation commonly arises when a coach makes contact with a player in the process of trying to help them advance on the bases.

The rationale for declaring the runner out is based on the rules governing interference. In this case, the assistance provided by the coach is considered interference because it disrupts the normal course of play and gives the runner an unfair advantage.

Allowing the ball to remain live means that the defensive team can still make plays on other runners, which maintains the flow of the game and ensures that the defensive team has the opportunity to react to the situation on the field. This ruling emphasizes the importance of maintaining fairness in the game, as coaches should not physically involve themselves in plays that could influence the outcome.