bounced pitch hits batter

Question
If a pitch hits the ground in front of the plate and then hits the batter ----does batter get to take base as a "hit batter"?

Answer
Hello Nancy,

Yes, whether or not the pitch contacts the ground first of not, is irrelevant.  Keep in mind, the batter can't just allow the pitch to hit her.  She is required to attempt to avoid the pitch.  If it was a slow bouncing or rolling ball which struck her and she made no attempt to avoid it, the umpire would most likely only call it a ball.  Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Coach Mike