Quote:
Originally Posted by maven
Many MLB pitchers use a "hybrid" stance, and it's allowed at that level with no runners on base. Cliff Lee is notorious. Here's his windup position:
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It's allowed at that level with or without runners on base. Of course, the windup from that position would only be used with the appropriate runner situation. Why it's allowed is up for debate. I say current OBR wording has no free foot position restriction. Wendlestedt says that while it's not legal (which I disagree with) there is no advantage gained by the pitcher and in fact an advantage for the runner so don't penalize it.
In the future, if someone wanted to sharpshoot the current OBR wording it might present a problem. This last season a pitcher got away with a quick pitch while standing sideways and he did not come set or windup, he just rared away and threw. Pissed off the batter but no call.