Another fine mess...

[IRISHMAFIA]

Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve

Just think about the process. The pitcher was replaced; if it was a courtesy runner, no big deal, the pitcher hasn't left the game. But, it wasn't; no matter how you wrap it, you had a substitute (upon discovery), and an illegal one at that.

But if it is a substitution, it seems to be a legal reentry of #2 for #22. However, the OP confirmed the coach was specific that it was a CR in this instance.

So, the pitcher had a sub; how does she get back in the game, then, if not a re-entry? Until/unless you find a rule that says it isn't a re-entry, that is the only way she can get in the game.

Just like the DP for the FLEX isn't a substitution, but the only way back in the game is a re-entry.

However, 8.10.A.2 states that neither the catcher or pitcher will be required to leave the game for a CR. And 8.10.F.Exception allows for the pitcher or catcher to return when a CR is no longer available to be a CR. May there be a semantics issue here because it doesn't necessarily make an allowance for the DQ's offensive player actually being the CR? Yeah, probably so, but I believe the application to this situation is viable.

Nowhere does it mention the use of a re-entry and the rule specifically noted that the player had not left the game unlike the DP/FLEX where that issue is addressed.

Of course, if there was a legal sub available, none of this would matter.

So, the moral of this story is, maintain and use the line-up card.