What happens when a pitch hits the batter and is not swung at?

When a pitch hits the batter and the batter does not swing, the rules state that the batter is awarded first base. This is based on the principle that the batter is entitled to occupy the batter's box and is protected from being hit by a pitch. If the pitch strikes the batter and they have not made an attempt to swing at the ball, it qualifies as a hit-by-pitch scenario, leading to the batter being awarded a free base.

This rule is designed to ensure player safety and maintain fair play during the game by providing protection to batters in the box. The situation might differ if the batter intentionally tries to get hit or if they were not in the box at the time; however, for a typical case where the pitch simply strikes the batter, the result is that they get to advance to first base.