[SAump]

This happened to me in a game. A pitcher throws a slow-curve and plunks the batter in the helmet. The batter could have easily backed away for a ball (HIGH) but he was determined not to show any fear. The batter turned his head and (in fear) ducked into it. He had thought about the pitch, leaned his head forward and allowed it to plunk him. I believe his courageous act was intentional.

I call it a ball and ask the batter to stay there. The 3B coach goes ballistic. I consult with my only other friend out there and he rules that the batter may not have had time to properly react to the situation. He comes up with the cheap "frozen headlights" analogy and overrules my initial decision. That doesn't make me feel any better, but I awarded first base to the batter who later scores.

I can only hope the Coach who went ballistic over a courageous HBP batter doesn't ever see one of his kids get severely injured this way. He could have taught them to SAFELY back away from a pitch aimed at their head. I can only hope the batter will simply back away from a 100 mph rising fastball and allow it to SAFELY pass for a ball. Yes, I do discuss FAIR PLAY, SAFETY and PROPERLY EQUIPPED in my pre-game conference. Its just a GAME and I would hate for some adult to teach a young kid to stand up to any potential DANGER, without first considering the kid's SAFETY.

The DC comes up and states that my call was a judgement call and the OC cannot argue a very good BALL/STRIKE judgement call. I totally agree with his argument and tell him about that headlight analogy. I can immediatly tell how happy he is with my decision. I never even considered a DO-OVER. It didn't make me feel any better when the game ended 5-4. I walked away with a bitter taste that day. It wasn't a very good game from my point of view because I made an impact on the outcome of the game. But I accept my responsibility and do NOT blame my partner for letting me hang out to dry. I simply walk away and try to LEARN from it. There is always another GAME to call.