In which situations does catcher obstruction occur according to the given scenarios?

Catcher obstruction is specifically defined by the actions of the catcher (F2) during a pitch. In this case, the correct answer highlights a situation where the catcher is reaching over home plate after the pitcher has committed to delivering the pitch. This is significant because it indicates that the catcher is interfering with the batter's ability to hit the ball or take an appropriate action in the play, which is the essence of obstruction.

When the pitcher commits to the pitch, the play has effectively started, and any actions taken by the catcher that impede the batter can lead to a ruling of obstruction. This includes reaching over the plate in a way that distracts or hinders the batter. The rules are designed to ensure that the batter has a fair chance to either hit the ball or react to the pitch, and the catcher's actions at this moment fall directly under those governing interference.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the scenarios that constitute catcher obstruction. For instance, saying obstruction occurs only when the batter hits the ball overlooks instances where the batter is impeded before making contact. Similarly, stating that it occurs only when the catcher reaches over home plate does not consider the timing of the pitcher's commitment, and the assertion that it arises when the batter