Expert: John Priest - 6/10/2008

Question
QUESTION: Batter at plate had a 3 and 2 count.A runner at second base with one out.On the next pitch to the batter the catcher misses the ball completely and hits the catcher on the the top of face mask and helmet area.Is the base runner from second allowed to run to third base?

ANSWER: Joe,
Depending on the league the runner may be able to take 3rd base.  Some lower level little leagues don't let runners take the extra base on past balls.  Some upper level little leagues and higher can take the extra base on a wild pitch, but this is up to the runner.  The catcher can throw them out if he kept the ball in front of him.  I have never heard of any league giving a runner an extra base if the catcher doesn't catch the baseball.  

Hope this helps
Thank You,
John Priest

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: On this particular play the base runner ran to third on the passed ball.The homeplate umpire send the runner back to second base and walked the batter to first base due to ball four count.Wasn't it a live ball and the runner should have stayed at third base?

Answer
Joe,
Yes, you are correct the runner should be able to go to third base on a passed ball.  I would check your league rules.  Some little leagues (if this pertains to you) don't allow runners to advance on passed balls.  In most leagues a passed ball is still live no matter if the batter has walked.

Thank You,
John Priest