Batter's Responsibility to Avoid Pitches in MLB: Rules & Umpires

Question
Does the batter have to make an attempt to avoid being hit by a pitched ball in a major league game/

Answer
Armando,

In general, a batter must attempt to avoid a pitch. However, some leniency is given on a fastball, where the batter has very little time to react.

If the batter fails to attempt, the umpire will call the ball dead and a ball will be awarded.