Runner on third breaks for home while pitcher is taking his sign. The pitcher steps back off the mount and throws toward home plate in an attempt to get the runner but the batter hits the ball, since the pitcher stept off the mound he is now, not considered a pitcher and the batter can not hit the ball. Am I correct on that, and if he hits ball what is penelty.

If the pitcher stepped off, then yes you are correct...

Here is the rule...

If the batter hits a throw, made by the pitcher while off the pitcher plate in an attempt to retire a runner stealing home, it is batter interference and an immediate dead ball.

Penalty: With two out the batter is out, with fewer than 2 out the Runner is out.

NFHS rule 7.35g (But all codes agree)...

I would "assume" that even if the batter swings and misses the throw, the interference is still upheld.

Right??? (I hate assuming anything or would this be an opinion/judgement type of call by the ump)

That is correct. The act of swinging is an interference. This was a subject of great debate on one of the boards but I don't remember which one. The opposig view was that if the batter didn't hit the ball or catcher then it wasn't interference. This is completely wrong. The catcher should be allowed an unfettered try at the ball and tag, including coming across the plate to do it.

That's what I thought.

The opposing view thing doesn't sound good....knowing our luck, the opposition will be behind the plate. I can see the " must have contact for interference" umps I know having a good time with this one.

quote:

I would "assume" that even if the batter swings and misses the throw, the interference is still upheld.

This, as stated above, is still interference but the ball would be "delayed dead". If the advancing runner is put out ignore the interference and play on. This affords the defense an opportunity to get other outs if there are other runners. If runner is not put out ump should call time and enforce the penalty as given by Piaa.