College softball obstruction rule, explained: How controversial call against Texas swung Game 1 of WCWS

Contributor
Daniel Chavkin
College softball obstruction rule, explained: How controversial call against Texas swung Game 1 of WCWS image

The first game of the Women's College World Series featured a classic pitcher's duel, where any little mistake could make a huge difference.

It was Texas that made that mistake on a controversial call in the top of the fifth inning, leading to the first run of the game. Instead of throwing a Texas Tech base-stealer out, the runner was awarded second base on an obstruction call, which has become a frequent talking point in softball.

That play would prove to be key, as the Red Raiders scored the first run of the game two batters later. With NiJaree Canady on the mound, and facing Texas ace Teagan Kavan, that run was a massive advantage for Texas Tech.

The play itself that essentially allowed Texas Tech to score is the story, as the Longhorns felt they should've been out of the inning. Here's a breakdown of what happened.

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What is 'obstruction' in softball?

In softball, obstruction is when a defender sets up to catch a ball in the baseline before actually catching the ball, preventing a clear path for the runner to the base.

In 2023, the rule was revised to take place if the fielder either "blocks any part of the leading edge of first, second or third base or home plate" or "blocks the runner from advancing or returning to a base." Obstruction won't be called when the fielder has possession of the ball or if the throw takes the fielder into the baseline.

MORE: How Texas Tech made College World Series for first time in program history

Texas-Texas Tech obstruction call, explained

In the fifth inning of Game 1 in the Women's College World Series, Texas catcher Reese Atwood appeared to throw out Texas Tech runner Logan Halleman on a steal attempt at second base. However, after the Red Raiders challenged, they determined that Texas shortstop Leighann Goode obstructed Halleman by stepping into her baseline before catching the ball.

There is no question that Halleman would've been out without the obstruction, but the rule states that on obstruction, the runner is awarded the base. Later in the inning, Mihyia Davis came through with an RBI single, scoring Halleman for the game's first run.

The run ended Texas ace Teagan Kavan's scoreless streak, though it was unearned. However, Texas was able to overcome the play in the sixth inning, when Atwood came through with a two-run single to take a 2-1 lead, which stood up as the final score.

MORE: What to know about Texas softball coach Mike White's New Zealand roots