Expert: Dennis Girardi - 5/18/2007

Question
I do understand the rule, the runner may get the base, but does it count as a out for the inning or just the pitcher.  

Answer
Hey Dave,

I am not sure of your question, but I'll try anyway.

I don't understand this part. "does it count as a out for the inning or just the pitcher."  Just the pitcher?

A drop third strike is when the pitcher strikes out a batter, but the ball is missed or dropped by the catcher.  The batter runs to first base as if he hit a ground ball.  The fielder can tag the runner or throw to first base to get the out.  A drop third strike only goes in affect when there is No runner on first base.

The play goes down as a strike out reguardless (out or safe), but there is no OUT unless the batter is thrown out or tagged out.  So actually, you can have 4 strike outs in 1 inning.

So it goes down as an out for the innning, and a strike out for the pitcher.

Dennis