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Originally Posted by Paul L
My image of this is that the batter hit the ball, not the other way around. The pitch was a ball because it was high, not inside. Even though PU judged no attempt to strike the ball, it doesn't seem right that a batter can cause the ball to hit him, even unintentionally, and be awarded first base. I have a hard time imagining the batter not attempting to strike at a pitch above the plate when his hands strike the ball, but I suppose it's possible. HTBT, but I would likely say that this batter made no attempt to avoid being touched by the pitch. But I gather that veteran good umpires disfavor this exception. Maybe DC should have asked for a checked swing appeal.
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I would see checking his swing as an attempt not to get hit by the ball...
Unless the batter actively flinches at the ball as it comes in (perhaps with the knee or elbow), or just stands there with absolutely no movement, he's getting first base. Pretty much every other thing he can do is an attempt to not be struck with the pitch, including checking a swing.
I'd have to be there though to say 100%... but the way you described it, I'm awarding first.