Baseball Instruction/dropped 3rd strike

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Expert: - 5/5/2010


Question
Is a pitch that bounces prior to reaching the catcher, but is feilded(picked) cleanly by the catcher considered an uncaught 3rd strike

Answer
Brad,

Yes. In every rule code, the rules state the catcher must "catch" the third strike. All definitions of "catch" state that the ball is secured by the hand or glove before it touches the ground. Once a pitch touches the ground, the catcher "gloves" the ball. This is not a "catch," so the batter is able to attempt to advance.

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Volunteer

Andrew Senger

Expertise

Anything related to baseball rules.

Experience

I am a baseball umpire. I am certified for High School (NFHS), and work in Missouri (MSHSAA). I also umpire for local leagues that use both NFHS and OBR.

Organizations
NFHS - National Federation of High Schools MSHSAA - Missouri State High School Athletic Association GSLAU - Greater St. Louis Association of Umpires

Education/Credentials
I have attended numerous training lessons on umpiring. Many of these lessons including Rules Interpretations.

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