Quote:
Originally posted by MPC
Guys, you are all making valid points to support your position. However, it seems that our state interprets it differently. We are trying to get one of our state commissioners to get an official ruling or clarification from the FED rules comm.
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There's no need for a rule "clarification." The time of the pitch is that moment when the pitcher is committed to delivery. You're confusing when the time of the pitch "begins" and when the pitch "ends." See FED 2-28-3 (TOP) and 2-28-4 (pitch ends).
The time of the pitch is important for: making awards, returning runners to bases, allowing the catcher out of the box.
You're staying that there is an end to the time of the pitch. But it's like the width of a line in geometry; there isn't any.
The situation: Pitchout during a steal. When is the catcher free to leave the box?
(1) In FED the catcher may leave the instant the pitcher begins his motion. I seriously question whether your state has a ruling to the contrary. Rather, I think there has been miscommunication. Happily, the FED rule book is crystal on that point.
(2) In NCAA, the catcher may not vacate the box until the ball leaves the pitcher's hand. Your college guy was right on that, except.... If you watch any college ball, you know that rule is simply not enforced. They use the OBR practice that applies to an intentional walk.
(3) In OBR, during a pitchout the catcher may leave his box at any time. He must remain in his box until the pitcher begins his motion ONLY when the defense is granting an intentional base on balls.
Strangely enough, Evans and Roder agree: Intentional walk -- The catcher can't leave until the ball is delivered. Anybody who watches major league baseball knows that ain't so either.
The BRD explains all this pretty well in Section 284.