Catcher Interference with Retired Runner


With a runner on second base (R2), the batter (B1) swings at the pitch, hits the catcher's glove, but B1 is still able to hit a single to the outfield. The umpire calls the obstruction, the play continues, but R2 is thrown out at home while B1 is safe at first base. 
 
The offensive coach reminds the umpires that this is one of the rare times that the coach gets the choice of the play (R2 out and B1 at first base) or the penalty (the batter is awarded first base and R2 remains at second base). 
 
What do the umpires do now?
 
Call
Obstruction of the batter is ignored if the batter-runner reaches first base and all other runners advance at least one base (NF 8-1-1e and case book 8.1.1E). In the situation below, since both B1 and R2 advanced at least one base, the obstruction is ignored. R2 is out and B1 remains at first base.