Does the batter have to attempt to avoid being hit by a pitch?
Question
Question
In a high school baseball game...
Several batters were hit by pitches. Most were from nonbreaking pitches that weren't that fast (changeups). A typical example: The batter froze allowing the pitch to hit him square in the hip. When I asked the umpire following the game, he claimed that the batter did not have to make any movement if the pitch was thrown right at him.
Question - Did the umpire rule correctly in this case?
Answer
Greg,
The batter must make an attempt to avoid getting hit, even if the ball is a clear ball. If they just stand there, they are not supposed to be awarded the base. This is clearly stated in the rulebook.
This is rarely enforced at any level - a shame really.
Hope this helps!
Brian
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