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In the NFHS rule set, if an illegal pitch is delivered [delayed dead ball] the O-coach will only have an option if the batter hits the ball [fair or foul] or the batter becomes a baserunner. The batter can become a BR without hitting the ball on a dropped third strike [live ball] if appropriate conditions are met, by being hit by a pitch [dead ball], a base on balls [live ball], or catcher's obstruction.
I think it would be a rare play indeed to have an illegal pitch followed by catcher's obstruction. The penalties are slightly different, with no option for the obstruction call if batter reaches 1B safely and all other runners advancing at least one base. But since the IP was called first, I think it might have priority.
Case book plays:
6.2.2 Situation C: R1 is on second base. B2 hits an illegal pitch and reaches first base safely. R1 (a) is thrown out at third base, or (b) is thrown out at home, or (c) is safe at third base. Ruling: In (a), (b) and (c), the coach of the team at bat has the option of the play or the penalty for an illegal pitch.
6.2.2 Situation D: With R1 on third and R2 on first, B3 hits an illegal pitch to deep left-center field. R1 scores, R2 reaches third and B3 stops at first. Ruling: Even though B3 reached first base safely and R1 and R2 advanced at least one base, the coach of the team at bat has the option of the play or the penalty since B3 hit an illegal pitch. (6.2.2 Penalty Exception)
See also the 3 situations on catcher's obstruction - 8.1.1 situations G, H, and I.
Ted
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