[wadeintothem]

Illegal pitch is a delayed dead ball. Its not just a "ball". There is a whole series of issues to address, depending on whether the ball was hit and runners, safe or not. Never ever just call "ball" because you saw something illegal.

Put out your right arm and say illegal pitch. If nothing happens (no hit) I then say "thats a ball".

I then start to get set again. If they know the problem (like if I've called it a few times) usually we just go from there. If not, the coach or pitcher/catcher want to know what the problem was and so then I'll explain it.

I do not explain it until I'm asked, whether on bases or as PU.