Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 7/15/2006

Question
the batter strikes out but the catcher does not catch the ball but it deflects off of him and into fair territory, striking the now batter/runner while he is attempting to run to first base which was unoccupied.  is the runner out?

Answer
Sparky,

I have to admit, no one has ever asked me this question before!

If the batter runner hits the ball on purpose, then it is an obvious interference call.  The batter runner is called out and all other runners return to their base.

If the batter runner hits the ball accidentally, then it is a more interesting call.  Section 5.09(g) in the rules has a clause "If a third strike (not a foul tip) passes the catcher and hits an umpire, the ball is in play. If such ball rebounds and is caught by a fielder before it touches the ground, the batsman is not out on such a catch, but the ball remains in play and the batsman may be retired at first base, or touched with the ball for the out."  I'd say the ball is in play based on that rule (not that it hit the umpire, but that it hit the catcher and bounced into fair territory.  But there is no penalty for a runner accidentally interfering with a foul ball that is in play.  I'd probably rule that the runner was safe if no fielder made the play.  But if there was the slightest doubt in my mind that the batter runner interfered with the ball on purpose, then he should be called out.

Hope this helps!

Brian