January 13, 2018

 

Uncaught Third Strike

 

We need to be more consistency with our Uncaught Third Strike calls. This occurs for the Majors division and above for both baseball and softball. We use the term “Uncaught” because a catcher can catch the pitch but if not caught  in flight it is deemed uncaught. Thus a ball that skips into the dirt prior to the catcher catching the ball, is a ball not caught “in flight”.

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There are four scenarios which may result when a Third Strike is Uncaught. See the following videos of the proper mechanics for the Uncaught Third Strike (provided by Little League University)

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· Uncaught Third Strike - Obvious

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· Uncaught Third Strike - No Catch

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· Uncaught Third Strike - No Tag

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· Uncaught Third Strike - Tag

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Be aware of the count and don’t be too quick with your strike three call. If you do forget to make the call it is still the batter’s responsibility to know the situation and the rule. The batter has not given up his/her opportunity to reach first unless put out or he/she enters the dugout.

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I have to be honest. I have a difficult time seeing if the catcher traps the ball on a ball that barely skips in the dirt. Either I am blocked by the catcher or his mitt. We can’t expect our partner to have a good look at it being so far away. You have to make your best judgement call.

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As a reminder-if the ball kicks into foul territory the catcher can make the play and throw to the foul side of first base. The first baseman can use the orange or safety bag for the out.