Batter Out of Box in MLB

[Manny A]

For me to call this, it would have to be extremely obvious, such as noticing it when the batter squares well before the pitcher delivers the pitch, and then judging he never moved the foot when making contact. If the batter squares late, seeing his back foot completely out of the box behind home plate would be much harder than seeing it on top of or even in front of the plate.

I really haven't been paying that much attention during televised games to notice if it has become a trend. But now that you mentioned it, I guess I'll start looking.

[MD Longhorn]

Behind the plate, it simply can't be seen if you're in the right position. On the plate, it's a little more possible. Honestly, other than bunts as Manny mentioned, I doubt I've ever called this anywhere other than in FRONT of the batter's box (as in, toward the pitcher).

[rbmartin]

The next MLB game you watch, look at what the first thing the leadoff batter does in the top of the first inning....wipes out the batters box lines with his foot. Proof that it's not a priority in MLB.

In womens softball, I watch for it (usually on slappers) but not so much in baseball.

[jicecone]

Do batter really step out of the box while hitting the ball?

I've never seen that.

[MD Longhorn]

Originally Posted by jicecone

Do batter really step out of the box while hitting the ball?

I've never seen that.

Not likely in MLB.

Youth (including HS), especially bunting and still learning --- yes.

The rare times I've seen it in FRONT of the plate were usually batters setting up far in the front to adjust to a slower than normal pitcher, then not paying attention when they lunge at a ball. The few times I've called it, it was VERY obvious and most of them didn't even cause the manager to come out.

[JRutledge]

Originally Posted by jicecone

Do batter really step out of the box while hitting the ball?

I've never seen that.

I have seen it in HS and college. Rare, but I have seen it. Usually not by a very good player or really has good fundamentals as a hitter.

Peace

[bob jenkins]

The last time this was discussed (a few years ago) a handful of pictures of it happening at the major league leve were found. My guess is that it happens still.