What occurs when a hitter steps out of the box during a pitcher’s delivery?

When a hitter steps out of the box during a pitcher's delivery, the proper protocol is for the umpire to call "Time." This allows the play to be paused, preventing any unfair advantage or confusion. The hitter stepping out can disrupt the pitcher's delivery, but the rule maintains that there is no penalty for the batter's action in this scenario. It is important for the umpire to manage the game effectively and facilitate a fair contest, which the calling of "Time" helps to ensure. By stopping play, the umpire allows for a reset in the situation, maintaining the integrity of the game without penalizing the batter for an action that occurs outside of normal play.