on deck batter

[MrUmpire]

Originally Posted by Rich Ives

He threw it to the pitcher. He gave it to the defense instead of making them come get it.

And that's not assistance?

What world do you live on?

The world in which offensive players do not handle balls still in play. Obviously you are a stranger here.

At the time if his first "handling" (time of interference) no one knew what he was going to do, except perhaps the Amazing Kreskin and you, the Incredible Ives. Most of the rest of us are umpires.