NFHS test question
 

B1 enters the batter’s box while the pitcher is on the pitcher’s plate. Twenty seconds have elapsed since the time the pitcher received the ball. If the batter requests time, the umpire should:

A. Not grant time even for a batter who is uncomfortable because the pitcher has reached 20 seconds

B. Always grant time when requested.

C. Rule dead ball; an additional ball is awarded to the batter for the pitcher exceeding her allotted time.

D. Both B and C are correct.

I’m a bit confused by this question and the possible responses.

Is B1 entering the batter’s box to start the game/inning? If so, the clock should not be running for the pitcher’s 20 seconds as the PU should not signal/verbalize “play ball” until batter, pitcher, and catcher all are in position.

If B1 is entering the batter’s box with an existing count, i.e., not the first pitch, then would it not be the batter who has violated her 10-seconds?

Assuming something happened that would require a reset of the batter’s and pitcher’s time (loose ball on the field, for example), the batter is the player that should be ready first, correct?

For the test, don't overthink it. "C" is the intended answer.