What should the umpire do if there is obstruction but no contact occurs with the runner?

In a scenario where obstruction occurs but there is no contact with the runner, the umpire should award bases. This decision is based on the principle that obstruction is meant to protect the runner’s right to advance and ensure fair play. Even in the absence of physical contact, the act of obstruction itself can impede the runner's progress, and thus, taking action by awarding bases is appropriate.

The umpire’s responsibility is to assess the impact of the obstruction on the play. If the runner is hindered in their ability to advance due to the obstruction, even without contact, they are entitled to the next base they were aiming for or the base that was directly affected by the obstruction. This ensures that the game remains fair and that obstruction does not go unpenalized, allowing players to take advantage of their rights on the field.

Ignoring the obstruction would undermine the integrity of the game, as it would enable players to interfere without consequence, while issuing a warning could be inappropriate because it does not address the actual impact on the play. A dead ball call is similarly not suitable in this circumstance since the play should continue with the adjudication of the obstruction being the priority. Thus, awarding bases serves the best interest of the game and maintains fairness.