FED one foot in batter's box during AB

[gmtomko]

Does anyone call this?

FED 7-2-1 says a batter shall have one foot in the batter's box during his AB and then lists exceptions when it is OK to leave the box.

In a recent game, in between innings, I had a coach question why I didn't call a strike on a batter who stepped out with both feet to verify his sign. Pitcher was taking his sign in the stretch and was not yet ready to deliver and time was not requested by the batter. I told the batter to get back in the box which he did. Total time was 5 or 6 seconds. Pitch was delivered and the game went on.

I keep after batters so it's been a long time since I called a strike on a batter for delay of game but those cases were obvious and not a technical interpretation of this rule.

Appreciate any comments.