Base Running Rules: Rounding First on a Ball Four (Passed Ball/Dropped Ball)
Question
There is a lot of talk about rounding first on ball 4 -
what if the catcher drops the ball or it is a passed ball
on ball four, can the b-r still round 1st?
Answer
Hi Chris,
A BB as far as the b-r is concerned is treated as a batted ball whether the catcher catches it or not. The ball is live and the b-r may advance beyond 1st if they wish, certainly they can round it.
Once the b-r touches 1st base and the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle the LBR is in effect and those rules apply. In all cases even if the LBR is in effect the b-r is allowed to round 1st, may stop once then immediately advance or retreat to the base.
Mark
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