|
To add to what Steve said...
The courtesy runner rule allows you to put in a player to run for the pitcher or catcher as a courtesy... the CR is not officially entered into the lineup, and hence has not officially entered the game as a sub, and the pitcher/catcher has not officially left the game. The purpose of the rule is to speed up the game (in the case of the catcher) and to avoid injury (in the case of the pitcher), but most coaches use it more strategically than that (speed on the bases). There are several restrictions on who can be a CR, as noted in the earlier comments.
"Pinch" (as in runner, hitter, etc.) is a common term, but basically it is a standard substitution. Sub1 enters for Starter4 (etc.). The player has officially entered the lineup and is officially in the game, and the player she is replacing has officially left the game.
You need to use the correct term or you may find you have done something you did not intend to do. For example, your catcher (#10) has batted and has reached base. You request time and tell the plate umpire you are entering #12 as a pinch runner for #10. If the umpire does not notice that #10 is the catcher and ask if you really mean pinch runner or courtesy runner and just takes you at your word, you have now entered #12 as a sub for #10, and your starting catcher has left the game.
__________________
Tom
|