The Dropped Third Strike Rule
Quick answer
On a third strike the catcher does not cleanly catch, the batter may try to run to first base — but only if first base is unoccupied, or if there are two outs. If first base is occupied with fewer than two outs, the batter is simply out and cannot run.
The rule
A strikeout is only complete when the catcher cleanly catches the third strike. If the ball hits the dirt or gets away, the batter has technically not been put out yet — and in certain situations can try to reach first base.
The batter is allowed to run when:
- First base is unoccupied (any number of outs), or
- There are two outs (even if first base is occupied)
When the batter is simply out
If first base is occupied with fewer than two outs, the batter is automatically out on the third strike even if the catcher drops it. This prevents the defense from intentionally dropping the ball to start a cheap force double play — the same logic behind the infield fly rule.
What the defense does
When the batter can run, the catcher must either tag the batter or throw to first base to record the out — exactly like a ground ball. If the throw beats the batter, it's a strikeout and a putout at first. If not, the batter is safe and the strikeout still counts as a strikeout for the pitcher, but no out is recorded.
Work through your situation
Set first base and the out count to see whether the batter can run.
Can the batter run?
The catcher did not catch the third strike cleanly. Set the situation.
The batter can run to first
First base is open, so the batter may try to reach first before being tagged or thrown out.
Frequently asked questions
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The Baseball Tools Team
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