How does a batter reach first on a passed ball? A runner can advance on a passed ball on the first pitch thrown to the batter, but it's either a ball or a strike to the batter. The batter can take first on a 3d strike passed ball by the catcher. But isn't that the same as a dropped third strike? Maybe you can count this twice if you differentiate between a wild pitch on a third strike and passed ball on a third strike.