Does contact between defensive and offensive players always imply obstruction or interference?

The correct answer is that it is false to say that contact between defensive and offensive players always implies obstruction or interference. In the context of softball, obstruction and interference are specific violations defined by the rules that apply under certain circumstances.

Obstruction occurs when a defensive player hinders or impedes a runner's progress without the ball, while interference typically involves an offensive player interfering with a defensive player's attempt to play the ball. However, not all contact on the field constitutes these violations. For instance, incidental contact that does not affect the play or is a result of normal running paths does not qualify as obstruction or interference.

The rules provide guidance for assessing the nature of contact and determining whether it results in obstruction or interference. Situations that may involve contact could be deemed legal interactions, particularly if players are following the flow of the game and attempting to make plays. Thus, it's essential to distinguish the context and intent of the actions taken by players on the field when evaluating potential violations.