looking like a fool

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by Ran.D

Do mechanics require that the batter be called out on a dropped third strike when the rule applies, or is simply calling strike three sufficient?

I do remind the coaches of younger teams of the "1B occupied and less than 2 outs" rule and encourage them to communicate with their catchers.

It is recommended in ASA that you add "batter is out" whenever that is true by rule. It is STRONGLY recommended in ASA that you add "batter is out" whenever a batter starts to run when out by rule.

The NCAA Umpire Manual says

The umpire needs to make a ruling only if there is a subsequent play, attempted play, or apparent confusion by the offense or defense after the pitch. If the batter is entitled to run, and the umpire judges that the pitch was not caught (and/or has gotten confirmation from a base umpire that it was not caught), and a play is made on the batter-runner, either the plate or first base umpire will rule on the play. If the plate umpire has judged that the pitch was caught (and/or gotten confirmation from a base umpire that it was caught) and the catcher or batter appears unsure and attempts to play, the umpire should say while signaling an out: “Batter is out.”