With no one on base, the batter (B1) swings and misses at a pitch in the dirt for strike three. However, the pitch then hits the catcher's skin guard and rolls into fair territory, a few inches in front of home plate. As the right handed B1 is leaving the batter's box to run to first base, he collides with the catcher who is moving forward to field the dropped third strike. To further complicate matters, as they collide, B1 accidentally kicks the ball away from the catcher. No one can field the ball before B1 arrives safely at first base.

 

The offensive coach likes the results of the play. He comments that B1 should have been awarded first base anyway because B1 was obstructed by the catcher as B1 was leaving the batter's box. The defensive coach argues that B1 should be called out for interfering with the catcher's attempt to field the ball in fair territory. If B1 is not called out for interference, B1 should be called out for kicking a live ball!

 

What do the umpires do now?