As with so many other plays in softball, this play also depends on umpire judgment:
(1) If, in the umpire's judgment, the runner coming from 3rd base was trying to score on a squeeze play or a steal, then, by rule, the umpire would signal "DEAD BALL" immediately on the Catcher's Obstruction and award the runner home plate and the batter 1st base. Game over.
(2) However, on the other hand, if, in the umpire's judgment, the runner coming from 3rd base was not trying to score on a squeeze play or a steal, then, by rule, the umpire would signal "FOUL BALL" immediately and then offer the offensive coach the following options because of the Catcher's Obstruction:
(A) The result of the play - a less likely choice (i.e., put the batter back up to bat with the strike for a count of 1-2). Also, no run scores; runner goes back to 3rd; still 2 outs, or
(B) The penalty - a more likely choice (i.e., award batter 1st base). Also, no run scores; runner goes back to 3rd; still 2 outs.
