Official scoring - strikeout

Question
My question concerns a strikeout and the runner reaching first base. There is a runner on second base. The pitcher throws a pitch that the batter swings at for strike three and the catcher catches on the bounce after the ball has hit the dirt. The runner takes off for first base, but the catcher believes he cannot run so holds onto the ball and does not throw it, thereby allowing the runner to reach first base without a throw even being made. I know it cannot be a wild pitch as the catcher caught the ball, but also does not appear to be considered as a passed ball. therefore what would be the ruling about the runner reaching first base. it would be considered a strikeout and .......

Answer
It is a strike out and a ........wild pitch.  Any pitch that hits the ground prior to getting to the catcher and allows a runner to advance is a wild pitch.  This includes the advance of the batter/runner to first on a dropped third strike in your situation.

Tom