Baseball Instruction/catching a strike ball

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Expert: - 5/26/2008


Question
If the catcher drops any ball thrown to him that is a strike can the unpire automatically call it a ball.

Answer
Hey Rachael,

The umpire can never call a pitch a ball because the catcher dropped the pitch.
Was it strike three and the catcher dropped the ball?  In the older leagues, there is a drop third strike rule, where the catcher must catch the third strike or else he has to tag the batter or throw to first base.. but it still is not a "ball."

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Volunteer

Dennis Girardi

Expertise

I can answer all questions reguarding little league baseball and instruction. I can help on pitching, coaching, batting order, batting instruction, fielding and strategies.

Experience

I have managed and coached baseball for over 30 years. I have also been a comissioner of a ten year old league, for 3 years. I took care of the whole league from scheduling the umpires, to running the draft, to purchasing the trophies.

Organizations
SAA Baseball (Schaumburg Athletic Association)

Education/Credentials
I attended many umpire and instructional clinics.

Awards and Honors
Many first place finishes.

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