Catcher hits batter throwing down to third

Question
Hello Mark,

What is the proper ruling if a catcher in the act of trying
to get the third base runner out hits the batter while
throwing to third?

What if they hit the third base runner?

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Tom,

it depends on a lot of factors,  It can be interference or it can be nothing

the batter cannot "actively hinder" the catcher while in the batter's box. that is a judgment call by the umpire as the batter cannot just disappear.

if the batter hinders the catcher by stepping out of the box or intentionally interfering with a throw, that is interference, again these are judgment calls as to what the batter did.

What if they hit the third base runner?
Nothing, bad throw, play on.

mark