What is the dropped third strike rule in baseball?

Answer by  John (9008)

The catcher must catch the third strike for the hitter to be out. If the catcher drops the ball, the runner can run to first; the catcher can still tag him or throw him out, but if he gets to first before the throw or being tagged, he is safe.

Answer by  Brett (7986)

It's when a third strike occurs (either by swing or called by the umpire), but the bat catcher doesn't catch the ball. The batter then has the opportunity to run to first base BEFORE the bat catcher can throw him out at first base (either by tag or touching the base).

Answer by  joantheresa (1421)

If a catcher drops the ball on a third strike, the batter can run to first base trying to beat the throw from the catcher.

Answer by  Kurt (4579)

If the catcher drops the third strike, the batter can attempt to run to first base safely. If the catcher throws the ball to first before the runner arrives, the batter is out.

Answer by  Kurt (4579)

Ordinarily the batter is out on the third strike ( either swung at or called ) but if the catcher drops the pitch, the batter can try to run to first base.