I need a rule interpretation for strikes.
 

I need a rule interpretation. I use to ump until my arthritis go too bad and I had to quit. As I was taught in several umpire clinics, if a pitched ball strikes the plate it is a ball, unless the batter swings at it. Am I correct or was I taught wrong? The rule reads Section 5. A BALL IS CALLED BY THE UMPIRE.
A. (Fast Pitch) For each legally pitched ball that does not enter the strike zone,
touches the ground before reaching home plate, or touches home plate, and
the batter does not swing.
EFFECT: The ball is live and runners are entitled to advance with liability to
be put out.

You were taught right, you still have it right and you posted the right rule that confirms it. :)

I'd be curious to know the circumstances where someone is telling you something different.

This guy in another forum is trying to tell me that that since the ball past through the strike zone, it negates the hitting the plate rule. If you can give me any documentation to support the proper rule, it would help. I can see how the rule could be confusing, but I usually can find the interpretations of confusing rules in a case book.

I don't know. Maybe send him over to this forum? We love fresh meat! :D

If you are referring to discussfastpitch.com, I believe I answered that question as did a few others, probably including you.:D