I have a Little League question regarding being hit by a pitch on a ball that hits the ground prior to striking the batter. Please help with complete ruling. Is the batter awarded a base? Is it dead ball? I cannot find the full credible answer anywhere.

Thanks!!!!

Yes it is a dead ball, yes the batter is awarded 1st base providing he made an attempt to get out of the way of the pitch.

For the credible definition see rule 2.00 definition of "ball" and 5.09(a)

<U>2.00 Definitions</U> -
"A <B>Ball</B> is a pitch which does not enter the strike zone in flight and is not struck at by the batter. (<B>Note</B>: If the Pitch touches the ground and bounces through the strike zone it is a "ball". If such pitch touches the batter, the batter shall be awarded first base. If the batter swings at such pitch and misses, it is a strike. Junior/Senior/Big League: If the batter swings at such a pitch after two strikes, the ball cannot be caught, for the purposes of rule 6.05(b) and 6.09(b)(<small>uncaught 3rd strike cases</small>). If the batter hits such a pitch, the ensuing action shall be the same as if the batter hit the ball in flight.)

<U>5.00 Putting the ball in play - Live Ball</U>
5.09: :The ball becomes dead and runner advance one base, or return to their bases, without liability to be put out, when:
(a) a pitched ball touches a batter, or the batter's clothing, while in a legal batting position; runners, if forced, advance...;"

Thanks for the quick replies. I am satisfied and this why I love this site !!!!!!