Straddling rubber to take signs

[Randallump]

Originally posted by etbaseball
buckweat -

In high school ball (Fed) this is a 'balk.' In college ball (NCAA-NAIA) this is a 'ball,' unless all runners including the batter runner advance one base on any subsequent pitch, which therefore nullifies the penalty.
In 'pro' ball (OBR) there's no penalty listed, however this is a "don't do that" issue, which means you should advise the pitcher, and catcher too, not to take/give signs when the pitcher is off the rubber. Now if they fail to comply, you have the authority to eject them for unsportmanlike conduct.

I found it very easy to control this matter by speaking with the catcher and letting him know that he is not to give any signals to the pitcher until, and unless, he is on the rubber. Bingo, problem dissappears.

This is what I was taught in the 5 week pro school I attended some time ago. The correct mechanic was:

Time!!! Get on the rubber!!!!

BTW, another example of this concept is when the pitcher, in the set position, starts with his hands together. Again, just don't allow it to happen.