Strike or HBP?


 
With a 3-2 count on the batter, the runner on first base (R1) is stealing on the pitch. The pitcher throws a slow hanging curve-ball. The pitch is well inside but the batter takes a vicious and  uncontrolled swing at the pitch. Not only does the batter miss the pitch, but the pitch strikes the batter in the arm.
 
The defensive coach thinks the batter should be out on strikes and R1 returned to first base.
 
The offensive coach thinks the batter should get first base (on either ball-4 or an HBP) and R1 should be awarded second base.
 
What does the umpire do now?
 
Call
A batter can be awarded first base when the pitched ball hits him, provided he does not strike at the ball (NF 8-1-1d and casebook 8.1.1D). If he strikes at the ball, a strike is called, the ball is dead, and runners return.
 
In the situation below, the batter is out on strikes, the ball is dead, and R1 returns to first base.