Taking signs while off the rubber - with a twist

[waltjp]

I know we've been over and over the topic of the pitcher looking for signs while not in contact with the rubber. I'm not looking to start a new debate but wanted to share a situation I've never encountered before.

I have the plate for a legion game on Friday night. The batter is in the middle of his AB, 2-1 count. The batter is in the box and the pitcher is on the mound straddling the rubber.

The batter then requests time, which I grant. He backs out of the box to my left and I leave the area to my right. The batter then looks at me and asks, "Wasn't he taking signs while off the rubber?"

I'm not sure I heard him correctly so I ask him to repeat it.

"The pitcher wasn't on the rubber when he was taking signs."

I reply, "Concentrate on your hitting and leave the umpiring to me. Get in the box."