Where is the defensive conference (as specified in the title)?
Was the coach coming out of dugout to talk with the pitcher?
Personally, I never declare the ball dead in this situation. In fact, I declare the ball very few times during a game. Just because time is requested does not necessarily mean it is granted. The games go a lot quicker and smooth if it isn't interrupted by needless declaration of dead ball every other play.
The instances I do kill the play, if there is a slide into a base and the plate/bag needs to be shoveled off, foul ball, ball goes out of play, conferences, someone needs to address a uniform issue (ie tucking the jersey in), balk, etc...
It is unneeded to protect the defense from an errant throw when the ball reaches the infield and the shortstop wants time to throw it to the pitcher. I won't grant that. Maybe I'm just a harda$$.
-Josh