NFHS Foul Ball

[Pepsidude1]

After a batter fouls a pitch back to the backstop, retrieved by the catcher, must the catcher return this directly back to the pitcher? Or can she throw to another player who then returns the ball to the pitcher.?

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by Pepsidude1

After a batter fouls a pitch back to the backstop, retrieved by the catcher, must the catcher return this directly back to the pitcher? Or can she throw to another player who then returns the ball to the pitcher.?

From the NFHS Case Book:

6.3.2 SITUATION C:

(F.P.) The bases are empty and the batter has a count of no balls and one strike. On the next pitch, the batter hits a foul ball which the catcher retrieves and throws to third base.

RULING: A ball is awarded to the batter and the count becomes one ball and two strikes.

[Pepsidude1]

Yes, that is what the case book has. So let me break that down one more level - does it matter if there is no one on base or if we have runners on?

[Manny A]

Originally Posted by Pepsidude1

Yes, that is what the case book has. So let me break that down one more level - does it matter if there is no one on base or if we have runners on?

I don't think it does. It's a foul ball; there are no possible plays that can be made on runners. So a throw to third base would violate the rule.

[MT 73]

We use USA for HS and the only time the catcher can throw to a base without making a play is after a strikeout.
Same penalty as in NHHS.

[Pepsidude1]

NFHS rule certainly needs to be revisited. Applying common sense to this foul ball situation would lead one to say the ball is essentially 'dead' and nothing can happen until the ball is put back in play.

NCAA describes this perfectly:
The catcher must return the ball directly to the pitcher after a foul tip and each pitch not contacted.

Exceptions:

1. To play on a base runner.

2. When the batter becomes a base runner.

3. After a strikeout.

4. After a putout or an attempted putout made by the catcher.

5. When a checked swing is appealed on a third strike.

6. When the batter is not entitled to first base but runs anyway.

7. An errant throw intended for the pitcher.

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by MT 73

We use USA for HS and the only time the catcher can throw to a base without making a play is after a strikeout.
Same penalty as in NHHS.

You may want to re-read that rule 6-7.B. Pay particular attention to the EXCEPTION (does not apply with a runner on base). The catcher can throw to any base without making a play as long as a runner is on base.