[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally posted by Dakota
...how would it change?

Here is the situation, on the field, around the country. (I think these are all facts, but maybe not...)[list=A][*] The illegal foot mechanics rules (crow hop, leap, outside 24") are not uniformly enforced[*] Many umpires just plain don't make the call[*] The different levels call it differently (greatest enforcement at 12U or so, least at NCAA)[*] There is natural tendancy of people to copy the "big boys" (or girls), and hence the lower level pitchers try to copy the Team USA or college pitchers, the lower level umpires seem also to move in the direction of emulating the NCAA or international blues.[*] The crow hop rule, for one thing, is just a bit intimidating for an umpire to enforce, due to its complexity, and the lack of up front, frank training. There are no POEs or Case Plays dealing with the margins of this rule, for example.[/list=A]
The totality of this is bad for the game; bad for the integrity of the umpires; bad for the confidence of the coaches; bad all around, IMO

So, if you could change the rule, what would it say?

Here you go, all levels and classifications. If I were king, the rule would be:

Move the pitcher's plate back 6'-8';
Pitcher must start from the present set position defined by ASA with the except only the pivot foot required to remain in contact with the plate;
A rocking motion or step to the rear is allowed;
Pitch starts when hands are separated;
The wrist must be inside the pitcher's elbow throughout the delivery;
If a step is taken during the delivery, it must be forward and within the 24" of the plate;
Ball must be delivered underhand second time past the hip;
The pitcher may not touch the "circle" with any part of their body or uniform at anytime during the delivery.

Illegal pitch shall be called:
If the pitcher disengages the plate with the pivot foot on a step or rock to the rear or if the pitcher violates the "circle" rule (above).

Effect:

Disengage plate - Immediate dead ball. Ball on the batter.
"Circle" rule - Delayed dead ball. Coach's option: Ball on batter or result of the play.

You asked for it, there it is.


[Edited by IRISHMAFIA on Feb 28th, 2004 at 09:51 AM]