MLB Game Situation: Batter Interference


 
As reported by one of our umpires...
 
One out. The batter (B1) has a 3-2 count. The runner (R1) is on 1st base and stealing on the pitch. The 3-2 pitch is somewhat out of the strike zone, so the right handed batter starts to cross the plate on the way to first. The plate umpire calls the pitch a strike. B1 is standing on home plate but bends over to avoid the catcher's throw to 2nd base. There is no contact between the catcher and B1. R1 is safe at 2nd on the steal on a close play at 2nd base.
 
Any action needed from the home plate umpire?
 
Call
Although you probably have to see this play to know for certain, my write-up was meant to describe batter interference (by a retired batter) while the catcher attempted to retire a runner stealing 2nd base.
 
In this situation, the batter is out on strikes. Since R1 was safe at 2nd, then the penalty for the batter interference must be enforced. Since B1 is already out, then R1 is now also out -- we have a double play. 

Bonus: Does anything change if the count was 3-1 when this play started?
 
Call
On the bonus question, since the batter is not retired on a 3-1 strike nor was R1 retired by the catcher, so the penalty for the batter interference must be enforced -- B1 is called out and R1 is returned to first base.