|
There is no need to put the ball in play at the start of any inning except the first...
Gee:
Rule 2.00 "PLAY" is the umpire's order to start
the game or to resume action following any
dead ball.
Switching up, fielders warming up, pitcher throwing
five warmup pitches, me brushing the plate, all happen during dead ball time, at least in my games. I have
been training the pitchers NOT to throw that first pitch
(of each inning) until I point and say PLAY.
This is also important after a TIME OUT, or other significant dead ball time. PU pointing for PLAY let's everyone know ball is now live (especially the BU). How many time do you see a pick off play attempt before PU has pointed TIME? If you use this mechanic properly and consistantly it makes for a smooth game, as your partner always knows if the ball is live or not. Cuts way down on
coaches squwaking, too.
|