Illegal Pitch ?

[chapmaja]

Originally Posted by RKBUmp

Pitcher can take the signal anywhere they like, rule simply says after taking position with the hands separated they must simulate taking a signal. Basically keep hands apart for a moment after stepping on.

We actually talked about this at our meeting Sunday. The ruling we were told to use was exactly that.

The rule is clear,

a) she must assume a position on the pitchers plate with the shoulders in line with first and third base and the hands separated.

b) while in this position she must take a sign (or simulate taking a sign).

Simulate taking a sign is the key part of the rule. As long as she is doing something such as pausing before before bringing the hands together, looking at the catcher, or nodding at the catcher, she is simulating taking a sign, which meets the requirements of the rule.

No sign actually has to be given by the catcher.

This is covered in casebook 6-1-1 situation e (letter c).