Quote:
Originally posted by Warren Willson
If the runner had delayed his legitimate attempt to advance until after the batter had struck the ball, that would be a hit-and-run play and should not be considered as "stealing".
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I would agree with your assessment that a runner must be judged as attempting legitimate advance before the batter swings in order to be considered as stealing. Any action to advance initiated after the swing would be considered a result of further playing action. However, Warren, I don't think I'd agree with your assessment of the commonly referred to "hit-and-run play."
When a "hit-and-run play" occurs in the states, Warren, the runner commits to his advancement after the pitch is initiated but before the pitch is struck at. It serves little purpose to call a "hit-and-run play" and have the runner wait to see what the result of the batter's actions are. Perhaps it's different down under......
The "hit-and-run play" results in an attempt by the runner to advance little different than a steal attempt. It might more accurately be referred to a run-and-hit play. Still, the fact that the runner initiated legitimate advancement prior to the pitch is reason to award him his advance base should catcher's interference occur.
Freix