Learn something new every day...

[scOtt]

In the Twins game just now... bases loaded, bounced third strike, Mauer just steps on the plate for the PO. Doesn't have to tag the runner or throw to first. I didn't know that...

[beaner]

In the Twins game just now... bases loaded, bounced third strike, Mauer just steps on the plate for the PO. Doesn't have to tag the runner or throw to first. I didn't know that...

Nor did I. Makes sense though, I guess we just never thought about it.

[scOtt]

Credit to the Twins org and Mauer himself that HE knew it.

[BaltimoreTerp]

In the Twins game just now... bases loaded, bounced third strike, Mauer just steps on the plate for the PO. Doesn't have to tag the runner or throw to first. I didn't know that...

Normally the dropped-third-strike rule isn't in effect with first base occupied, except with two outs. I assume in that situation it would be just like a bunt; they could get whatever other runner would be forced by the ball being in play. Sounds like a nice heads-up play by Mauer to understand that and not risk the throw.

[scOtt]

Normally the dropped-third-strike rule isn't in effect with first base occupied

That's what I thought.

except with two outs.

That's the part I didn't know.

[RShack]

In the Twins game just now... bases loaded, bounced third strike, Mauer just steps on the plate for the PO. Doesn't have to tag the runner or throw to first. I didn't know that...

Only happens with 2 out. If 1B is occupied with less than 2 out, then a dropped 3rd strike doesn't matter, the batter's out anyway.

[BaltimoreTerp]

That's what I thought.

That's the part I didn't know.

I don't think most people do. I remember once in rec ball I had that happen as a batter. Argued with the ump over it after he called me back off first and said the inning was over. Didn't work

[RShack]

Normally the dropped-third-strike rule isn't in effect with first base occupied, except with two outs. I assume in that situation it would be just like a bunt; they could get whatever other runner would be forced by the ball being in play.

Right. When a dropped 3rd strike does matter, it instantly turns the batter into a runner. Once he's a runner, then force plays can happen just like if he hit it.