Expert: Martin Hoover - 4/17/2007

Question
during our last game, bases were loaded, the count was 3 balls 2 strikes, on the next pitch, the catcher dropped the ball. the third base coach sent the runner in to try to steal home. He was called out at home plate by the home plate umpire. the problem is the last pitch was never called ball or strike. The home plate umpire was following the live ball as the catcher got it and blocked him plate to tag the runner out, so he looked to the field umpire to call the ball/strike. he called it a ball. My question is which counts, the out for the runner trying to steal home plate or the 4th ball which would cause a forced run with bases being loaded.  

Answer
Melissa,

There is no specific space of time that the umpire must call a pitch.  In this case, if the umpire said he called it a ball(whether heard by anyone or not), the pitch is a ball.  Most rules state that an official may go to his/her partner(s) for help in making a call.  While a pitched ball is not something I would go to my partner on, there is no rule against it.  I cannot accurately give clarification on this issue because I would have to view the play and the umpire's mechanics.

However, if it is the fourth ball, then the runner is awarded first base, and all other runners advance one base without liability to be put out.  The out at home plate is null due to the fact the runner on 3rd base must advance one base safely.

I hoped this has helped, if you need anything else, please let me know.

-Martin Hoover