Hit by pitch - Ejection - Can they replace runner at 1?
Hi,
During the fourth inning a batter gets HP'ed for a second time. He charges off towards the mound (bat in hand).
The plate umpire yells "Time" repeatedly then "Take another step and you're gone" the player takes 2-3 more steps so the umpire ejects him. Now the coach asks if they can put a runner at one? Can he?
Arguments for a runner:
1. The ball was dead as soon as it hit the batter so you can't call him out.
2. The batter got hit in the ribs, then ejected...Can you punish the side again by giving an out also?
Argument against the runner:
1. The batter did not take up his position at one so even if he was entitled to the base he never did.
2. Charging the pitcher bat in hand is a serious offense. Out of the game and an out for the inning.
So runner or not?
Regards
SAWolf
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