Intentional walk: am I dreaming?

[Dakota]

Originally posted by mcrowder
I have been in leagues with a rule like this. The application was that if you walked (intentionally, semi-intentionally, or just accidentally) the batter before the automatic out, you didn't GET the automatic out - that batter was simply skipped. No ... you don't give the preceding batter 16 balls - you walk them as normal, but don't give defense the out.

I think the rule is silly, but in extremely recreational or extremely educational leagues, I do see the application as being a way to force the defense to pitch, and not just go for the "cheap" out.

That actually makes some sense. Perhaps that is what everyone has been talking about, but I was just visualizing that the IW was not allowed. Allowing the IW, but not then enforcing the automatic out, is simple, easy, and effective for the purpose.