by PDad » Mon Feb 24, 2014 2:34 pm
They do if it would transfer to the ball. It was a rule change for this year.
10.13.1 Directs the pitcher to wipe off all substances that will transfer to ball before gripping it.
RATIONALE- RESOLVES THE CONTROVERSY REGARDING DIRT AS A FOREIGN SUBSTANCE AND CLARIFIES THAT DURING THE GAME, ALL SUBSTANCES THAT TRANSFER TO THE BALL MUST BE WIPED OFF.
10.13 Substance on the Ball/Items on Pitcher
10.13.1 Under the supervision and within view of the umpire, a resin (a drying
agent) may be used on the pitcher’s hand/fingers. Any substance (including
resin, dirt or saliva) applied to the pitcher’s hands and fingers must be wiped
off if it would transfer to the ball.