Batter "Walks" on Ball 3

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by Manny A

Much simpler to just call "BALL THREE!" as the batter takes off, and then let things play out. If F2 is still fooled into allowing the runner to advance to second without a throw, oh well. As for the batter, give her the benefit of the doubt that she lost count. If it happens again, then it's probably time for a warning for the head coach to knock it off.

Manny, I agree with adding, "Batter, in the box, please" to the end of that call. At that point, the clock starts on being prepared for the next pitch.

AFA the TASO comment, just using the word trickery in defending the ruling makes me question it.

[Crabby_Bob]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

Manny, I agree with adding, "Batter, in the box, please" to the end of that call. At that point, the clock starts on being prepared for the next pitch.

AFA the TASO comment, just using the word trickery in defending the ruling makes me question it.

"Batter, in the box, please." Like it. Might be easier in ASA (batter must be in the box within 10 seconds of being directed) than FED (within 10 seconds of the pitcher receiving the ball, catcher in position).

[jmkupka]

If there were no runners on, maybe, but the batter wouldn't pull that stunt then anyway.

If the whole purpose of her act is to advance her runners, through deception or whatever, F2 is likely throwing the ball to 3B or 2B or cocking back to fire it somewhere while she thinks it out...
Is the 10-second clock really running at that point?

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by jmkupka

If there were no runners on, maybe, but the batter wouldn't pull that stunt then anyway.

If the whole purpose of her act is to advance her runners, through deception or whatever, F2 is likely throwing the ball to 3B or 2B or cocking back to fire it somewhere while she thinks it out...
Is the 10-second clock really running at that point?

If she left the box when not permitted, it doesn't take that long. No, if there is an on-going play, the clock does not start at that point, but the direction of the umpire is another indicator she is not a BR.

Along the train of thought of killing the ball, what are you going to do when a catcher who is on the ball guns out one of the advancing runners? Is it fair to take away the defense's opportunity to retire an active runner?

[jmkupka]

Absolutely not fair to deny defense a chance for an out.
What I have had happen on more than one occasion is, batter heads up the line on ball 3 (mistakenly), runners from 1B & 2B hesitantly leave for the next base ("wasn't that ball 3? no? ok..."), and are thrown out by a mile (if F2 is on her toes).

If they all leave like they're entitled to do so, then we as umps know it's likely a ploy; still no reason to kill the ball, but I would guess a good time to tell the coach to cut the crap.

[MD Longhorn]

90% of the time, if you simply state Ball 3, while catcher has the ball, they are going to clue in and throw out the runner. That will put a VERY quick stop to this stupid strategy.