Quote:
Originally Posted by Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.
The first and most important thing to remember is that the Pitching Rules do not take effect until F1 intentionally engages the Pitcher's Plate (PP).
Second: There is nothing against an act being deceptive as long as the act is not an infraction of the rules.
When F1 is straddling the PP he is not a Pitcher but an Infielder. (Think: one base from the PP and two bases from the Field.) While straddling the PP, F1 can take signs from anyone, but once he engages the PP he shall take (or simulate taking, this is a concept taken from FP Softball) his signs from F2. The requirement of F1 taking his signs from F2 while engaged with the PP is to prevent one thing and one thing only: Quick Pitch.
MTD, Sr.
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So to check my interpretation of what you are saying: Simulating taking signs from the catcher while not in contact with the PP is fine. Failing to take signs (or at least simulating them) and then quick pitching is the issue.
I had a feeling I was venturing into the realm of "should be" rules that Rich mentioned. The whole thing just feels wrong to me if for no other reason than it doesn't feel like a normal part of baseball.
I can say that my son did figure out that one of the opposing pitchers last night wasn't even going to attempt a pick off once he stepped on the PP. He initially came close to being picked off 1st base while taking a lead while the pitcher was not in contact with the PP. After that the pitcher went through the same routine but never even glanced at my son after stepping on the PP. On the next pitch, my son took off for second almost immediately after the pitcher stepped on the PP and was half way there when the pitcher started his motion toward home. I think the fact that these kids aren't being taught how to hold runners might be part of why I have a problem with this. This makes me thankful that I'm calling games in older ages where the pitchers have advanced beyond this. I appreciate the feedback.