More Running Lane Questions

 
The UF/FSU video from last week reminded us that the runner's lane does not apply to all the plays that occur near it The runner’s lane often comes into play when a catcher is attempting to retire a batter-runner after a short bunt or a dropped third strike. 

What about in these situations:
1. B1 bunts and runs to first base entirely legally within the runner's lane. However, B1 exits the runner’s lane two steps prior to first base in order to tag the first base bag (after all, the first base bag is outside the runner’s lane). B1 is struck by the catcher’s throw during those last two steps before the base. Is that a running lane violation?

Call
1. The NF rules do not specifically mention this, but the general interpretation that it is legal to exit the runner's lane with a step/stride/slide in the immediate vicinity of the base for the sole purpose of touching the base (if the runner has been running legally up to that point).


 
2. With R3 on third base and no outs, B1 grounds to the shortstop. The shortstop throws to first to easily retire B1 at first base, but the first baseman’s throw home to attempt to retire R3 at the plate strikes B1 while B1 is clearly outside the runner's lane. Is that a running lane violation?
 
Call
2. The runner's lane rules only apply in an attempt to put out a runner going to first base.


3. With bases loaded and one out, B1 grounds to the pitcher and the pitcher starts what is hoped to be a inning-ending 1-2-3 double play. R3 is easily forced out at home, but the catcher’s thrown to first base to complete the double play hits B1 who is clearly running outside the runner's lane. Is that a running lane violation?

Call

3. Although there is an intervening play (force out at home), the runner's lane rules still apply.