Dropped 2nd Strike

Question
Dr. Ambrose,

No I didn't mistakenly type the subject.  What's the rule for this situation with a runner on 2nd base.  The batter believes the count is 2-2 but it's really 3-1.  On the next pitch the batter swings and misses.  The catcher drops the ball. The batter thinking it's a D3K proceeds to run to first.  The catcher proceeds to throw the ball to first which ends up being an over throw into the outfield.  The base runner on 2nd scored on the play.  The umpire allowed the run as the ball was considered in the field of play. I agreed with this ruling.  However, the umpire ruled the batter (now on first base) return to the batting area to complete her at bat. I politely disagreed with the ump as I thought the batter should be called out since she left the batting area for a reason not listed in the rules.  What's the correct call in this case?

Let's say the catcher made a good throw to first base and the batter thought she was out as called by the first base ump.  She proceeds to the first base dugout.  In this case I believe the batter is out since she left the field of play even though she only had two strikes on her.

Answer
Hi Keith,

yes this happens every now and then.  We put the batter back at bat w/ the previous count and whatever else happened, happened.  There is no rule to allow the batter to be called out and they are protected from an interference call by the D3K rule (even though this is not a 3rd strike call). Plus the defense should know the situation and we put the burden of the play on them.  The catcher should know there is no play at 1st and therefore not throw the ball there.  We call this a DMC (dumb move catcher).

The umpire should know the situation and never call an out here, they put the offense in jeopardy and must correct it

Mark