New twist on ball thrown out of play

[SC Ump]

Originally Posted by John Robertson

In the game I described, the batter who flied out was unaware the ball was anywhere near her. She was casually walking back to her bench when the wild throw struck her gently on the foot. The ball still went into the bench area.

If this was a situation were a retired batter could not avoid being hit by a thrown ball, then I believe I would rule it a live ball and keep playing. If the batter was casually walking back to the dugout, ignoring her responsibility to keep her head in the game, then I have a blocked ball.

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by SC Ump

If this was a situation were a retired batter could not avoid being hit by a thrown ball, then I believe I would rule it a live ball and keep playing. If the batter was casually walking back to the dugout, ignoring her responsibility to keep her head in the game, then I have a blocked ball.

Agreed. A player who is retired does not get a free pass just because they have been put out. As long as they're in the field of play, they have a responsibility to avoid anything which could affect the play or, in this case, the status of a live ball.