Does the runner return?

[Pops]

When a batter is hit by a pitch, it results in a dead ball situation. But if a runner has already reached the next base when the batter is hit, do they stay there? (example: R2 steals 3B and is standing there when batter is hit.) Or do they return to the last base occupied at the time of pitch?

[mstaylor]

Only if he got there before the pitcher started to pitch. He returns to whatever base he possesses at the time of the pitch. If he is partway then it is the preceding base.

[yawetag]

They return. Runners return to TOP base, unless forced by the award.

[semper_fi_72]

When a batter is hit by a pitch, it results in a dead ball situation. But if a runner has already reached the next base when the batter is hit, do they stay there? (example: R2 steals 3B and is standing there when batter is hit.) Or do they return to the last base occupied at the time of pitch?

Return to base at TOP.

[Pops]

I was trying to visualize R3 stealing home and crossing the plate before the batter got hit. When you send him back to 3B, the coach will undoubtably have a fit.

[yawetag]

I was trying to visualize R3 stealing home and crossing the plate before the batter got hit. When you send him back to 3B, the coach will undoubtably have a fit.

If he knows the rules, he won't. Then again, he wouldn't come out and argue if an uneducated umpire allowed the run to count.

[mstaylor]

Yep, but he needs to direct his wrath to his batter for not ducking. :)