Expert: John McInnis - 6/11/2009

Question
Last night in a ll game. Man on first stealing second, left handed batter up.  Catcher comes up throwing, somehow his throwing hand hits the batters bat, kid had to waive it or be standing almost on the plate for this to happen as he didn't swing on the pitch.  Catcher almost broke his hand.  Is this interference assuming batter was in the box.

Answer
Hi Brian,

does not sound like the batter intended to interfer with the play.  If he had made a faux move, then I would think the ump would see some intent.  Again, Umpire would be the best judge on this call.  

With LH batter and play from 1st to 2nd base, there is a higher chance that the batter and/or his bat would be in the way.  

Sounds more like an accident and I hope the catcher heals quickly.

Best of luck in your season,

JohnMc