Time limit - -when does clock start running

[Dakota]

Theoretically, the difference between the defense taking the field and the first pitch is less than one minute.

I've had various instructions for starting the clock from leagues and TDs. It is not unusual to be told to start the clock at the end of the plate meeting, and to make sure the coaches know the clock has been started. The objective is to encourage a bit of hustle in getting the game underway.

For my normal league games, I will start the timer at the throw down from the catcher. Close enough to first pitch while not requiring that I be still fiddling with the timer when getting set for the pitch.

The championship play rule (ASA rule) seems to assume that an official scorekeeper exists. It is not really workable for the umpire to be starting the clock while the pitch is being released.