csc@watmath.UUCP (Computer Sci Club) (05/28/85)
In article <2301@decwrl.UUCP> ryan@cloud9.DEC (Mike Ryan) writes: > >Hmmm, that gives me an idea. Suppose a hitter (say one without a great deal >of confidence) is behind the count 0-2 in the bottom of the ninth with his >team behind by one run, so it's imperative that he reach base. The pitcher >loses control of the ball and it sails far beyond reach of either the batter >or catcher. The batter could swing at the ball, striking out, and take off >for first. If he beats the throw, he's reached base by striking out >intentionally! > >Mike Ryan Two questions: 1) what is the (is there a) rule about when a swing of the bat is no longer a strike? Say in the example above, the ball has already reached the wall behind the catcher. Can the batter swing and strike out or is it too late? 2) Where|how|under what circumstances did this rule evolve? Most "oddball" rules have some play associated with them that caused the rule to come about. (as in the batter's circle example) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gilles Dignard Space People think factories are University of Waterloo musical instruments. Waterloo, Ontario They sing along with them. Each song lasts from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. No music on weekends. David Byrne -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
conrad@ucsfcca.UUCP (Conrad Huang) (06/01/85)
> >>The only time that a batter cannot run to first on a third strike is >>when there are less than two outs and first base is occupied. > >Why not? Can't the runner on first go to second and get a stolen base (or >would that be scored as a wild pitch/passed ball)? > >Mike Ryan Because if the batter could run that would set up a force at second. The catcher would naturally drop any third strike in order to be able to throw to second to start a double play. - Eric Pettersen