Follow-Through Interference


With no outs and a 1-1 count on the batter (B1), the runner on second base (R2) is stealing on the pitch. B1 swings hard at the pitch, completely misses the pitch, and hits the catcher's arm with his bat during the follow-through. The catcher is still able to make a throw to third base, but the throw gets past the third baseman, and R2 is able to safely advance to home.
 
Are there any actions for the umpire?
 
Call
In NF (and only NF), follow-through interference is handled in the same manner as the batter making any movement which hinders the catcher's attempt to play on a runner (NF 7-3-5 and casebook plays 7.3.5B, C, and D).
 
In the play below, since B1's follow-through interfered with the catcher's attempt to retire R2, B1 is out and R2 must return to second base.