Quote:
Originally Posted by RKBUmp
Why would a ball that unintentionally hit an on deck batter necessarily be considered a blocked ball?
A blocked ball is one that is touched, stopped or handled by a person not engaged in the game or which touches loose equipment......
Is an on deck batter not also a part of the active game? A space is provided for them in live ball territory, they are allowed to be in live ball territory during play and can act as an additional base coach directing a player between 3rd and home plate. A batted or thrown ball that unintentionally hits a base coach is not interference and is a live ball. Same would go for an errant throw or deflection that goes off an umpire.
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No, the ODB is not part of the game. The rules only allow the ODB permission to leave their assigned area for certain purposes, they do not provide them with any protection or "rights" as it pertains to what occurs when they leave that area.