dropped third strike rule

Question
After the third strike can the batter run to first base even if she does not swing at the ball.

Answer
Hello Bret

The batter is out when she has three strikes however she can run to firstbase if the ball was dropped by the catcher even if she didn't swing at the ball. The defense can still get the out by throwing the ball and forcing her out at first base.

On a dropped third strike or a swinging third strike which the pitched ball hits the ground or is dropped by the catcher the batter can run to first base providing that first base is unoccupied. If there are two out the batter is can on a dropped third strike even if first base is occupied.  

On a dropped third strike the ball remains live and in play and runners may advance at their own risk. Some coaches teach their players run on strike three just in case the ball was dropped or hit, trapped, or hit the ground. If the ball was caught it抯 an out.