Ambidexterous Pitcher

[MikeStrybel]

Originally Posted by bob jenkins

PU knew it, but when does the "switch" take place. Neither had declared, so neither had switched. Thus, the rule change.

Venditte knew the rule, evidenced by his request for time and signalling to the PU that the batter can change one time. The crew allegedly knew the rule but it appears that the batter didn't.

Venditte stayed off the rubber until he saw the batter step into the box. It would appear that the batter made his decision and the pitcher responded. That would seem to indicate his switch. The rule in place at the time would have prohibited him from changing sides again during that at bat. No verbal 'declaration' was required back then.