[MNBlue]

For those of you that don't have access to the rule:

Pitching Procedure
10.2 Taking the Signal from the Catcher

10.2.1 Before starting a pitch, the pitcher must comply with the following:

10.2.1.1 Both feet must be on the ground in contact with the pitcher’s
plate and a portion of the pivot foot must be on the top surface of
the pitcher’s plate. Both feet must be within the 24-inch length of the
pitcher’s plate.

10.2.1.2 Hands must be separated.

10.2.1.3 The ball must be held and remain in one hand, either bare or
gloved.

Notes:
1. Rolling (not tossing) the ball is legal as long as contact is maintained with the
hand including the wrist.
2. A ball dropped by the pitcher before her hands have come together and then
separated shall be live and base runner(s) may advance with liability to be put
out.

10.2.1.4 The ball may be held in front of, at the side of or behind the body.

10.2.2 While in this position, the pitcher must take (or simulate taking) a signal
from the catcher.

EFFECT (10.2.1 to 10.2.2)—Illegal pitch. (See Rule 10.8)


I have been told to enforce the rules as written, without discretion. So, to answer your question, no I haven't been instructed otherwise. So, the pitcher you were dicussing should have been called for an IP.