[Carl Childress]

Originally posted by BigUmp56

Carl,

Can you expand on why this ruling was implemented?

Does it have anything to do with the defensive team gaining an advantage through deception?

Tim.

I suspect you're right. Also, it might have to do with delay of game by giving the pitcher extra time in the dugout.

Here's what Evans says:

As early as 1920, provisions were added to cover situations in which unannounced substitutes entered the gfame. In essence it ruled that when an unannounced substitute replaced a player, the substitute should be considered in the game even though the umpire was not properly notified. These provisions were essentially the same as those stipulated in 3.08a with only one exception. That exception is an amendment to 3.08a.3 that was enacted in 1980. This change in wording merely legitimized a custom that had been practiced since the earliest days of the game. Instead of an unannounced fielder being considered in the game when he reached his position, the rule was amended by specifying "... and play
commences."

[CC Note: But that doesn't apply to a pitcher, only to a fielder.] This officially legalized the custom of someone from the bench warming-up the pitcher or another player taking throws at first base between innings. The purpose of the amendment was to clarify the intent of the rule and at the same time expedite play.

At one time, managers or captains were subject to $5 fines for failure to notify the umpire of substitutions. By the 1940’s, the fme had escalated to $25. In addition, a "similar fine" was imposed on an umpire who failed to hve proper announcement made to the spectagtors.

Good question.