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.