I don’t know if this idea has come up before, but I want to propose a rule change. The current rule is that when a batted ball hits the pitcher’s protective screen, it is considered a foul ball and becomes part of the count. I think that when a batted ball strikes the screen, especially on the fly, the batter has perfectly timed their swing. I know the screen is there to protect the pitcher, but if the screen wasn’t there, the batter has an excellent chance at a hit. Instead, the current rule penalizes the batter for a well-struck ball.
My proposal is that when a batted ball hits the screen, it should only be considered a dead ball and not count as a foul ball.
My experience is that situation only occurs a few times a year (and never to me!), but seems a fairer rule, especially for the batter.
I’m interested to hear what others think about this.