In the MLB, do you need to make an attempt to get away from a ball coming towards you?

Question

Me and my friend are having a argument. I say you don't.

Answer 1

Yes...the rule states that a player cannot on purpose lean into a pitch to get a free trip to first base. Usually in the MLB if its a fastball you don't want to get hit. Its human nature to try to move out of the way. Some guys will take one for the team and stay in the batters box and let the ball hit them.

The umpire has the right to make the call if he deems that you tried to get hit by the pitch...

Answer 2

Yes, you need to make an attempt to get out of the way.  Back in 1968 when Don Drysdale was attempting to set the consective inning scoreless streak when he was close to the record he hit d**k Deitz with the bases loaded to end the streak.  However, the home plate umpire rules that Deitz didn't make an attempt to get out of the way.  Drysdale got Deitz out and manage to keep his scoreless streak in tact for a total of 58 2/3 innings until Orel Hershiser broke it.

Answer 3

Yes... if the ump rules that you made no attempt to get out of the way, the pitch is called a ball, not a hit by pitch

If you're referring to when on base, if you as a base runner get hit by the ball before it passes or is touched by a fielder then you're out, even if you're standing on a base, unless you're in foul territory

Answer 4

yes you need to have some attpemt you move away from the ball.

If you dont it be a dead ball ball 1,2,3 or 4.  

Answer 5

What do you mean? Like if a flyball is coming out at the center fielder he needs to dive out of that way?

Answer 6

Yes you do.

Answer 7

For sure. There have been a few (rare) cases in which the umpire called the pitch a ball and ordered the batter to remain at bat. All one needs to do is make a movement, any movement. Then it is a hit-by-pitch. It is rather funny to watch the guys look at the umpire when he says, "Ball!"

Answer 8

I assume you are speaking of a pitched ball while you're in the batter's box.  If so the answer is yes.  You have to make an attempt to avoid being hit by the ball.  If the umpire adjudges that an attempt was not made to get out of the way, then it will be called a dead ball and a ball.  The batter must continue to bat.  If a batter leans into a pitch and it is in the strike zone, it will be called a dead ball and a strike and the hitter must continue to hit.  Any runners must return to their base if this occurs.