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"I believe I'd call this a step and still call it an IP"
I agree with you TexBlue. To take it a bit further, the NHFS POE (as does ASA POE 39) discusses a Crow Hop as follows: "A crow hop is defined as a replant of the pivot foot prior to delivering the pitch. This can be done by (2) lifting the pivot foot and stepping forward . . . prior to starting the pitch.
6.2.3 Note (or ASA 6.3.G) states that it is not a step if the pitcher slides her foot along the plate as long as she does not break contact. Then I guess you could say that if she lifts her foot (thus breaking contact) it is a step. I don't think that a step has to land in front of the plate. ASA adds an additional clarifying sentence "Raising the foot off the pitching plate and returning it to the plate creates a rocking motion and is an illegal act.
Little Jimmy: "Although unusual, plate ump and I weren't sure if this really met the definition of a crow hop."
Personally, I am convinenced that this is the intended definition of a crow hop. Anytime the pitcher shifts her weight back and lifts her pivot foot and sets it down on the plate, or in front of the plate, or jumps out in front of the plate - before starting her pitch she has committed a crow hop.
BTW, the NFHS web site has a PowerPoint with an interesting video clip of a coach demonstrating a major league CH. He steps way back, lifts his pivot foot 6" up, and drives forward. His pivot foot lands 3' out before his hands separate! After the pivot foot has landed he starts his windmill and then pitches. By time his stride foot lands he looks like he must be half-way home! Now that is a Crow Hop!!!
WMB
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