Why ASA 6FP-3-I?

[Dakota]

ASA Rule 6-3-I (FAST PITCH)

2001
The pivot foot must remain in contact with or push off and drag away from the pitching plate prior to the front foot touching the ground, as long as the pivot foot remains in contact with the ground.

2002
Pushing off and dragging the pivot foot in contact with the ground is required. If a hole has been created the pivot foot may drag no higher than the level plane of the ground.

This change is not included in the 2002 Playing Rules Changes either on the ASA web site or in the front of the rules book, so there is no explanation of the reasons for the change.

It would seem that keeping the pivot foot in contact with the plate for the entire delivery has been outlawed, since "pushing off and dragging ... is required. Even though this may be a moot point for 99.99% of the fast pitch pitchers, I can't imagine that is what they intended to do.

It would also seem that the second sentence of the 2002 rule is just to clarify what "contact with the ground" means if there is a hole in front of the plate. This seems to just codify the common rule interpretation being used in practice by umpires anyway.

So, my question: Why did ASA make this change?

I have a hard time believing it was because too many umpires were calling illegal pitches when the pitcher was "dragging" her foot level with the top of the hole. It seems more likely it was to encourage umpires to make the IP call when the foot is above the level plane with the ground.

But, I'm just guessing.

Does anyone here know why the rule was changed?

[Steve M]

It's not a change, it's a clarification. But it should have been noted.

Steve M