If the batter-runner rounds first base and makes a break toward second after tagging, what happens during interference?

When a batter-runner rounds first base and breaks toward second base, the situation is different from a typical run to first. If interference occurs during this action, the rules establish that the play is treated as a dead ball. This means that all action ceases and the umpires will reset the play.

The concept of interference typically involves one player obstructing another's opportunity to make a play, and in this case, the immediate stoppage of play prevents any further advancement until the situation is resolved. Therefore, declaring interference results in a dead ball, allowing all runners to advance to the next base or return to their last legally occupied base, as determined by the situation at hand.

For clarification on the other choices: declaring the batter-runner immediately out or ignoring interference might lead to unfair advantages or penalties. If R1 scores and R2 is out, that would not appropriately address the interference that occurred. Thus, the correct interpretation aligns with the framework of treating the play as a dead ball to ensure fairness and rule adherence.