What does “Interference” mean?

Definition: An act by an offensive player (batter or runner) that hinders, obstructs, or confuses a defensive player attempting to make a play. Why It Matters: If interference is called, the ball is dead, the offender is out, and other runners must return to their last occupied base. It is the offensive counterpart to "Obstruction." Canadian Context: A common call in co-ed leagues occurs when a runner fails to use the "Running Lane" to first base and is hit by a throw, or when a runner touches home plate instead of crossing the "Scoring Line." Cross-Links: Obstruction • Running Lane • Home Plate Scoring Line • Dead Ball