Quote:
Originally Posted by jicecone
Now, mentally track just how many time the "speed-up rule" actually slows the game down in some games because the runner can't find their helmet or the coach waits to tell his players they are CRing until the catcher or pitcher actually get on, etc.................
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I've never viewed the courtesy runner rule as a "speed-up rule". After all, what speeding up does the pitcher need? He can get off the bases, go grab his glove, and head back to the mound faster than an outfielder can do that. The only speed-up rule out there is the one that gives teams one minute to get ready to start the next half-inning.
To me, the real purpose behind the courtesy runner rule is to give the two hardest working players on defense an opportunity to take a breather before they have to go back out onto the field.