Batter Inteference?


 
With no outs and a runner on 3rd base (R3), the first pitch to the left-handed batter (B1) is in the dirt. The pitch hits off the catcher's shin guard and rolls towards the first base dugout.
 
R3 breaks toward home to steal as the pitcher races toward home to cover the plate. The catcher picks up the ball in front of the 1st base dugout as B1 stands motionless in his original hitting position in the left hand batter's box. The catcher throws to home, but the throw hits B1 in the middle of the back and R3 slides home safely.  
 
Defensive coach: "Ump, the batter interfered with the throw from my catcher to my pitcher!"
Offensive coach: "Ump, I properly instruct my players to stand still in the batter's box so they do not get called for interference!"
 
What does the umpire do now? If you think there is an out, who is out?
 
Call
Yes, there is a problem with this batter's "non-action"!
 
When a catcher is attempting throw out a runner at 1st, 2nd, or 3rd base, the batter is at risk to interfere, so it is safest for the batter to remain motionless. However, once the pitch has crossed home plate and there is a likely play on a runner near the plate, the batter must exit the area or be at risk of interfering with the play at the plate, (NF 7-3-5d).
 
In this case, the batter interfered and in this case the runner is out and the batter remains at the plate.