Third Strike Rules: What Constitutes a Catch?

Question
Is a pitch that bounces prior to reaching the catcher, but is feilded(picked) cleanly by the catcher considered an uncaught 3rd strike

Answer
Brad,

Yes. In every rule code, the rules state the catcher must "catch" the third strike. All definitions of "catch" state that the ball is secured by the hand or glove before it touches the ground. Once a pitch touches the ground, the catcher "gloves" the ball. This is not a "catch," so the batter is able to attempt to advance.