Illegal Pitch ?

[chapmaja]

Originally Posted by IRISHMAFIA

So, can you tell me exactly what to look for to determine the difference between simulating taking a signal and hesitating prior to the pitch?

There is nothing "key" about it. The purpose of the rule was to make the pitcher hesitate enough to give the batter an indication the pitcher was in a position and prepared to pitch. Any, and I mean ANY, stretch of the rule or application is OOO.

The hesitation before pitching is the simulation of taking the sign. No other action is needed. The point I was making is that the pitcher can not step onto the pitchers plate and immediately begin the pitching motion. There must be some sort of pause, which acts as the simulation of taking the sign, which by rule is allowable.