[MA Softball Ump]

Originally Posted by Andy

As has already been stated...there is no rule basis for calling a batter out for throwing the bat.... I have seen umpires (mostly rec-level with little or no training) call a batter out for throwing a bat. They seem to think they need to "punish" the batter somehow....

ASA yes, no rule. But... NFHS does have a No Throw rule:

I start w/the premise that I would USUALLY not call it in NFHS. But I do enforce 3-6-16 (p. 40 2008 NFHS Softball Rules Book), when, in my judgement (or upon complaint from catcher or coach) the bat hits or almost hits the catcher. I give a warning to the player and notify the coach. If that player does it again, I will restrict the player to the bench (or eject pursuant to the penalty if I judge it to be egregious). It is a safety issue for the catcher. In those circumstances (a repeat) I judge it to be deliberate because it was done after the initial warning.

Of course, if the catcher was making a play, I might enforce 8-1-14 (p. 60 2008 Rules) - batter is out & runners return to previous base.
[edited to add penalty]