On-deck batter and blocked Ball or live Ball?

[NCASAUmp]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

If the ODB drops the bats, and they block the ball, it is a dead ball, and either interference (if an out can be made) or dead ball, blocked ball, runners return to last base touched prior to the blocked ball. This is discarded equipment left on the field; only the batter's bat is allowed to be left unattended.

This can be avoided by some preventive umpiring. I do not let teams leave a bat laying against the fence on the field of play. I'll hold up the pitch and make them either hold onto it or put it in the dugout. They usually figure it out after a couple of reminders.