text: in baseball, what counts as a "swing"? is it if the batter "goes around"?  or if the bat crosses the plate? apparently there is no official rule regarding when a half swing is considered a full swing (strike) (www.baseball-almanac.com).  the site below mentions that this ruling is completely up to the discretion of the umpire. generally, factors such as whether the bat passes the front of the plate or the batter pulls his wrists back are considered in making this decision.   i hope this helps!