Dropped third strike

[chiefblue86]

ref5678, Although you specify Federation rules were being used, the following OBR applies to the dropped 3rd strike situation: 6.09 "The batter becomes a runner when---(b) The third strike called by the umpire is not caught, providing (1) first base is unoccupied, or (2) first base is occupied with two out; CASEBOOK: When a batter becomes a base runner on a third strike not caught by the catcher and starts for the dugout, or his position, and then realizes his situation and attempts then to reach first base, he is not out unless he or first base is tagged before he reaches first base. If, however, he actually reaches the dugout or dugout steps, he may not then attempt to go to first base and shall be out."

In other words, until he reaches DEAD BALL TERRITORY, the batter may attempt first on a dropped 3rd strike. And in all the years I've umpired, the batting circle has NEVER been considered as a dead ball area. Therefore, your guy could have run to first even though he had walked into the batting circle. Period.