Dropped 3rd strike
 

What is the correct mechanic on a dropped third strike. I keep thinking back to the Angels/White Sox where the Angels argued that the PU indicated an out. Any help out there?

bicon411,

Have you tried the "Search" function?

JM

It's not a dropped third strike. It's an uncaught third strike. Some PUs give the "safe" sign, others give no sign. But you should verbalize, "Strike three".

Bob

You verbalize on a swinging 3rd strike?

I indicate 3rd strike (caught) by pointing then hammer for out. When the ball isn't caught I just indicate strike without the hammer out.

I've been trying a couple of things like indicating strike then pointing down to the ground with my left hand. Also, adding "balls on the ground" in an attempt to give the batter a fair shot at running but I'm not too comfortable with that yet.

I generally point with my left index at the ball, while giving the fist with my right and saying nothing. It hasn't been a problem but I should probably add "no catch" verbally to the hand signals.

I give the hammer, then hold a 'safe' sign out for a few seconds until everyone gets the idea. I need to work on adding a verbal mechanic also.

I signal safe and verbalize "no catch." Is this correct? I don't signal the out for the strikeout. Wouldn't this get you in trouble if you signaled out?

By using a verbal "no catch" you're giving both the defense and the offense the heads up. It doesn't make sense that this mechanic is only for the benefit of the defense. I think this is especially true with the rule change that has the batter out as soon as he leaves the dirt circle surrounding homeplate. I guess it's true that the batter should run if he has any doubts in his mind, but why favor the defense when the catcher has the best idea of whether or not he fielded the ball cleanly.


Tim.

How about the "2nd strike" not caught rule?

Had this happen in a game to decide the league champs. Bottom 7, tie score, home team runner on 3rd. Swinging strike 2, BR hauls butt down to first, catcher panics throws the ball over F3's head...winning run scores.

Defensive team coach has a stroke, claims I should send R3 back to third. My response, "Coach, shouldn't your players know the count?"