Determining whether a batter was hit by a pitch can sometimes be a challenge for the plate umpire. Sometimes an umpire will have to rely solely on circumstantial evidence. Here are some of the criteria and types of circumstantial evidence an umpire can use to handle those situations:
• The batter’s reaction.
If the batter grimaces in pain immediately after the ball passes him, there is a good chance he was hit. Most first reactions are honest, and you can safely send the batter down to first. Sure, once in a while a batter will try to fool you, but umpiring involves compromise.
• Sounds.
Sometimes you hear a sound as the ball passes the batter. If you hear a sound other than the ball hitting or nicking the catcher’s glove or the bat, the batter was probably hit.
• Location of the ball.
If you have a fastball down the middle of the batter’s box and you are in doubt as to whether or not the pitch got a piece of the batter, give the benefit of the doubt to the batter. Why? A pitched ball belongs around the plate, not over the middle of the batter’s box.
• A ball in the dirt.
A ball in the dirt can be a tough call because the plate umpire will be straight-lined more on that play than any other. Adding to the difficulty of the call will be the sound of the ball hitting the ground directly before it may or may not have hit the batter. If it looked like the batter was hit and he tried to move, he was probably hit.
A quick process when you’re blocked out
When you don’t get a clean look, run the same sequence every time: reaction, sound, pitch location, and where the ball finishes. You may not have certainty, but you can still make a confident ruling by staying consistent in what you evaluate.
When to get help
If you’re straight-lined and truly don’t have enough information, use your crew. A base umpire may have a better angle on a pitch grazing a jersey, catching a back foot, or contacting protective equipment. If you ask, be specific about what you need: “Did you see contact, and where?”
Two spots that fool umpires
Hands and knob area. Bat, hands and glove can create similar sounds. If the ball deflects sharply or the batter immediately protects the hands, that’s meaningful information.
Elbow and shin guards. Protective gear can reduce sound and visible pain. Watch for body language: many hitters will instantly look at the guard or rub the contact point.
Sell it with calm, not volume
Whatever your ruling, be decisive. A firm signal and voice will do more for credibility than a big performance.
