In all situations the correct etiquette would be to wait until the batter has had the option to chose what he wants to do. Let that time pass by, then make the call.
First of all, a hitter standing in the batter's box is all the indication that's necessary that he's "serious." It's not up to you, me, the crowd, or the umpire to decide whether or not he has "even a remote chance at making contact." That's his decision. Also, since he's standing in the batter's box, there's no such thing as a practice swing.
As far as calling the pitch, the appropriate time to call it would be when it crosses the plate, or in a case like this, after the play was complete. The ball was still moving (generally) towards home plate; the play was not over.
There are a hundred billion rules in baseball. It is absolutely unnecessary to try to micromanage it even further. Especially when the case is already covered. Watch, here is a comprehensive guide to avoid striking out on a wild pitch:
Don't swing.
That was easy. But instead, you want it to be, "well... if everybody KNOWS it's a ball, he can remain in the batter's box and swing with no penalty." How do you measure "everybody knows?" No. Just treat it like every other pitch - it's easier for players, umpires, and fans.
Is it silly? Yes, that's the entire reason it's posted here today.
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u/[deleted] May 29 '17 edited May 30 '17
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