the catcher was not in possession of the ball when this happened. is the runner allowed to score? is the batter awarded first base? whats the scoring?
2007-07-04 15:41:43 · 2 answers · asked by ocn64 1 in Sports ➔ Baseball
As soon as the catcher commits the illegal act of touching the bat, the play is dead and a balk would be called. The runner from third would be given home, and the batter is awarded first base.
It's covered very clearly under MLB Rule 7.07:
"If, with a runner on third base and trying to score by means of a squeeze play or a steal, the catcher or any other fielder steps on, or in front of home base without possession of the ball, or touches the batter or his bat, the pitcher shall be charged with a balk, the batter shall be awarded first base on the interference and the ball is dead."
2007-07-04 16:09:36 · answer #1 · answered by Craig S 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
If the catcher touches the bat, that's illegal and a balk is called. Base runner is allowed to advance one base; runners on third advance to home and score one run.
2007-07-04 22:52:42 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋