Batter Hit By Pitch NOT Awarded First Base
This video shows you an example of a batter not getting awarded first base simply because he did not make an attempt to avoid getting hit by the pitch.
Rich Marazzi
Rules consultant/analyst: Angels, D’backs, Dodgers, Nationals, Orioles, Padres, Phillies, Pirates, Red Sox, Rangers, Royals, Tigers, Twins, White Sox, Yankees, Bally Sports, YES, and NBC Sports Chicago.
In 1968, Don Drysdale had pitched 44 consecutive scoreless innings. Bases loaded, 0 outs, Drysdale’s 2-2 pitch grazed batter Dick Dietz, but plate umpire Harry Wendelstedt ruled Dietz made no effort to avoid the pitch., and remained at bat. After a short flyout, force out at home, and pop out,, Drysdale’s streak continued ultimately to a then-record 58-2/3,