What ruling is made when F3 tags R3 during a squeeze play?

In a squeeze play situation, R3 (the runner on third base) is attempting to score while the batter is attempting to make contact with the ball to put it in play. If F3 (the first baseman) tags R3 during this play, it indicates that R3 has been impeded in his attempt to advance home. The rules of baseball dictate that when a runner is tagged out on a play that involves an attempt to score due to direct interference, the offended team is typically awarded the base they were trying to reach.

In this scenario, since F3 interfered with R3’s advancement, R3 is awarded home plate, reflecting the nature of the interference during a squeeze play where the intent is to allow the runner to score without being tagged out. Additionally, the batter, who was attempting to make contact in the hopes of advancing, is awarded first base because the play was interrupted by the interference of F3.

The justification hinges on the principle that players must allow for fair play without obstruction during a live ball situation. Thus, in situations where interference occurs, the rules provide remedies to the affected player, giving R3 the ability to score while also offering the batter a safe base.