Quote:
Originally Posted by ss17
Can someone please clarify for me...
Pitchers can either step off and throw, or they can "jump turn." As a coach, I'm not familiar with all of the umpire lingo, but I am trying to figure out. When you guys say disengage, I am assuming you are talking about the step off move.
When you guys are saying that he must step toward the base, does that mean both feet must go to the base?? I only say this because it is sounding that the pitcher can pivot off his backfoot, still be engaged with the rubber, and still legally make a play on the runner. I know that is not the case, so can someone please clarify??
Thanks
|
Yes, the pitcher can be engaged with the rubber and step to the base and throw (first base) or throw and/or feint (second or third base). He does NOT have to step off the rubber to do this. If he throws the ball out of play while in contact with the rubber, the runners advance one base. If he steps backward off the rubber first (the only legal way to step off), then throws it out of play, it's a two-base award. The pitcher is only required to step toward the base with his non-pivot foot (the one not on the rubber).
Does this help?