Final answer:
In the context of a high school baseball game, hitting a batter with a pitch is usually not considered an intentional tort unless there is clear evidence of an intent to harm. It's typically seen as an accident and part of the risks inherent to the sport.
Step-by-step explanation:
When determining if an intentional tort was committed, we must consider whether the pitcher aimed to harm the batter intentionally or if it was an accident. In the context of a high school baseball game, it is typically presumed that pitchers try to control their pitches and do not intend to hit batters. Accidents can happen, especially in a sport that includes fast-moving baseballs. Therefore, hitting a batter with a pitch is usually not considered an intentional tort. If it were to be considered intentional, the pitcher could argue a defense of the accident, suggesting there was no intent to injure the player, and that it occurred during the normal course of gameplay.
The exact circumstances, such as previous behavior, any verbal threats, and the context of the game, would all be factors in determining intent. However, without clear evidence of intent to harm, it's likely seen as an inherent risk of the sport and part of the game, exempting the pitcher from liability for the unintentional injury.