Tue Sep 30, 2014, 08:56pm
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Official Forum Member
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Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: USA
Posts: 14,565
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve
I differ in teaching this, as I do NOT say the HBP is ignored. The batter WAS hit by a pitch, and it IS a dead ball.
The difference is that there are three possible outcomes from HBP; HBP does not automatically result in an awarded base as is assumed by most.
1) HBP ruled a strike; dead ball, add strike to count, if #3, batter is out.
2) HBP ruled a ball and (depending on ruleset) batter failed to attempt to avoid, and/or ball not completely in batter's box; dead ball, add ball to count, if #4, batter awarded a walk.
3) HBP ruled a ball and (depending on ruleset) ball completely in batter's box and batter made any required effort to attempt to avoid; dead ball, batter awarded first base.
So, in my version of teaching, the HBP isn't ignored at all, it has multiple possible results.
And, to the other question, it doesn't matter what or when you announce the result, you will get feedback on anything in category #1 and #2. It's your job to explain the rule, the result, and move on.
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Of course, Steve is correct. I was using HBP more as a generic term usually relating to an award of the base. And it is a matter of fact that any pitch which contacts any part of the person or uniform of a batter is a dead ball without exception.
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The bat issue in softball is as much about liability, insurance and litigation as it is about competition, inflated egos and softball.
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