Running to first without hitting

Question
Runner on third. Batter leaves the batter's box without hitting and runs to first to draw attention while runner on third scores. Pitcher may or may not of come to a set. What should the ump do? Is this a travesty and should the player be out and ejected?

Answer
Bill,

This is how I'm understanding the situation: Runner on third, number of outs doesn't matter. Batter enters the box to wait for the pitch. Before the pitcher begins the pitch (whether he came set or not), the batter begins running toward first base while the runner attempts to steal home.

The penalties may be different, depending on the ruleset used. Using OBR (Official Baseball Rules), the batter will be charged a strike, the ball is dead, and no runners would be allowed to advance:

Rule 6.02(d): The following rule shall be in effect for all National Association Leagues:
(1) The batter shall keep at least one foot in the batter抯 box throughout the batter抯 time at bat, unless one of the following exceptions applies, in which case the batter may leave the batter抯 box but not the dirt area surrounding home plate:
(i) The batter swings at a pitch;
(ii) The batter is forced out of the batter抯 box by a pitch;
(iii) A member of either team requests and is granted 揟ime?
(iv) A defensive player attempts a play on a runner at any base;
(v) The batter feints a bunt;
(vi) A wild pitch or passed ball occurs;
(vii) The pitcher leaves the dirt area of the pitching mound after receiving the ball; or
(viii)The catcher leaves the catcher抯 box to give defensive signals.

If the batter intentionally leaves the batter抯 box and delays play, and none of the exceptions listed in Rule 6.02(d)(1)(i) through (viii) applies, the umpire shall award a strike without the pitcher having to deliver the pitch. The ball is dead, and no runners may advance. The umpire shall award additional strikes, without the pitcher having to deliver the pitch, if the batter remains outside the batter抯 box and further delays play.