ASA QUESTION: Is a called strike in order if batter does not pull bat back from ball? Even if out of zone.
ASA QUESTION: Is a called strike in order if batter does not pull bat back from ball? Even if out of zone.
Can a bunt attempt be considered a swing?
I am of the opinion that most of the umpires understand that "squaring to bunt is a stance" holding a bat still when ball is out of zone is not an attempt to bunt and the call is to be made when ball is out of zone whether the bat is there or not as long as it is not moving. I think timing may play more of a key than we may realize. If we "square" late say as the ball is approaching the plate then I can see how there could be an argument of an attempt or judgement of such.
I do not feel pulling the bat out just to avoid a call is necessary. Especially if umpire understands mechanics and feels barrel of bat was coming back and the intent of the hitter was to bunt down first base line and in judgement calls strike. But in reality hitter was just "pulling out" to avoid a strike. L,ol so it goes on and on. Move it late to avoid a call and bat unintentionally gets in path of ball pops up and play is made for the out. Many arguments for and against I guess.