dropped 3rd strike (pitch hit ground first)

Question
ASA girl fastpitch. 12U

Is it a dropped 3rd strike if a pitcher threw the ball and it hit the ground first and catcher not catch it?

Answer
Hi Chris,

A pitched ball that hits the ground continues to be a live ball.  If swung at and missed with 2 strikes, the 3rd strike rule would be in effect if the other conditions for it applied.

It doesn't matter if the catcher picks it up on the bounce or not as it has already hit the ground, remember the rule states the batter becomes a b-r "when the catcher fails to catch the 3rd strike before the ball touches the ground...." in these cases the ball has already touched the ground.

mark