When can a runner advance?

[SanDiegoSteve]

Originally Posted by Zoochy

There is a base runner and the batter fouls off a pitch. Can the umpire throw the ball to the pitcher? Or does the catcher have to throw the ball back to the pitcher?

The new preferred mechanic is to hand the new ball to the catcher, although it is perfectly acceptable and legal for the umpire to throw the ball back. Many umpires still prefer to throw it, and as long as they get it there accurately every time, there's no problem. Umpires who can't throw should definitely give it to the catcher, so as not to make the pitcher jump and dive around for the ball.

I have always thrown it back myself when the catcher is forced to chase a foul. If someone does that job for him, then I hand it to him. Next season, I plan to hand the ball to the catcher in most cases.