[wadeintothem]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

In my case, this is more a rationalization of a philosophy, than a literal interpretation of the rules, BUT....

I call an illegal pitch when a youth pitcher doesn't wipe after licking her fingers because the rule says so; not because I think I have EVER seen a youth throw a spitball, or gain any other advantage on the ball. So far as I know, it is done only to increase the sensitivity of the fingertips. This is not an intent to cheat, or gain an unfair advantage; and I would call the illegal pitch, but never actually consider an ejection for that offense.

Now, when the men add stickum, chewing tobacco spit, vaseline, and other foreign substances, that is absolutely done with the intent to cheat. Do it once, get caught; illegal pitch. Do it again; ejection.

Again, my philosphy, moreso than a strict interpretation.

Sounds about right to me as well.