Pitcher taking signals.

[Rich Ives]

From the coaching box:

1) We don't want quick pitches. That's only part of the issue. It's as much about

2) As to deceiving a runner, the requirement that the pitcher not be within about 5 feet of the rubber without the ball (FED) is so the runner knows when the pitcher has the ball. If the runner knows the pitcher has the ball and still gets picked off before the pitcher starts to move to come set, I say it's because the runner is either a) improperly coached, b) has his head in the wrong place, or c) stupid. You really don't want to start any significant lead until the pitcher starts a "stretch" and you sure as hell must always pay attention.


BTW, for thise old enough, the National League used to allow signs prior to engaging, while the AL required the pitcher be engaged. The NL adopted the AL rule.