Removing the pitcher

[David Emerling]

Strict OBR ...

We all know that if a 2nd visit is made to the same pitcher in the same inning that the pitcher is required to be "removed."

The definition of "removed" is not specified within the rule book. Removed from the game? Removed from the pitching position?

Interpretations have specified that the meaning of "removed" means FROM THE GAME.

[However, traditionally, youth leagues that adopt OBR normally do not abide by this interpretation. The pitcher may remain in the game but may not return to the mound.]

My question is this ...

Is a "pitching change" considered a trip to the mound?

Example: The coach has already made a trip to the mound. Later, in the same inning, the coach decides to change pitchers. But he wants his current pitcher to remain in the game to play another position. And, he may want that pitcher to return to the mound later in the game. So - instead of requesting time to visit the mound, he only requests time to make a pitching change. The coach never walks out on the field.

Is this considered a "second visit", nonetheless? Or, can a coach circumvent the second visit provisions in this manner?

David Emerling
Memphis, TN

[Edited by David Emerling on Jun 13th, 2005 at 11:27 AM]