With a runner on first and a hit-and-run sign, what should the batter do if the pitcher throws a change-up that bounces before the plate?

With a runner on first and a hit-and-run sign, what should the batter do if the pitcher throws a change-up that bounces before the plate?

• A. Swing at the pitch
• B. Let it go
• C. Change position in the box
• D. Attempt to bunt

Answer: (B)

When a hit-and-run sign is called, the expectation is that the batter will make contact with the ball to allow the runner on first base to advance safely. In the case of a pitch that is a change-up and bounces before reaching the plate, swinging at the pitch would not be advisable due to the potential for missing the ball entirely or making weak contact, which could lead to a double play or hurt the runner. Letting the pitch go is the appropriate response in this scenario. By doing so, the batter avoids the risks associated with swinging at a bad pitch. Additionally, holding off on the swing can help ensure that the runner on first base isn't thrown out attempting to steal. This preserves the opportunity for a better pitch that could be hit effectively, allowing both the batter and the base runner to progress. Moving to different positions in the box or attempting to bunt wouldn't be effective strategies in this situation because the goal of a hit-and-run is to make contact with the ball, which is not feasible if the pitch bounces. Hence, allowing the pitch to pass is the safest and most strategic option when faced with a bouncing pitch under these circumstances.

When a hit-and-run sign is called, the expectation is that the batter will make contact with the ball to allow the runner on first base to advance safely. In the case of a pitch that is a change-up and bounces before reaching the plate, swinging at the pitch would not be advisable due to the potential for missing the ball entirely or making weak contact, which could lead to a double play or hurt the runner.

Letting the pitch go is the appropriate response in this scenario. By doing so, the batter avoids the risks associated with swinging at a bad pitch. Additionally, holding off on the swing can help ensure that the runner on first base isn't thrown out attempting to steal. This preserves the opportunity for a better pitch that could be hit effectively, allowing both the batter and the base runner to progress.

Moving to different positions in the box or attempting to bunt wouldn't be effective strategies in this situation because the goal of a hit-and-run is to make contact with the ball, which is not feasible if the pitch bounces. Hence, allowing the pitch to pass is the safest and most strategic option when faced with a bouncing pitch under these circumstances.