arrows22 wrote:Can a pitcher start with the ball in her bare hand by her side and step back to begin her pitching motion, bring her hands together while in her motion and without coming set or pausing continue to the plate for the pitch?
I guess what I am asking is: Does a pitcher have to bring her hands together and pause before beginning her pitching motion or is that an illegal pitch?
We've had a lot of information on a lot of pitching regulations quoted, but the fact remains -
One simple question was asked. "Does a pitcher have to bring her hands together and pause before beginning her pitching motion or is that an illegal pitch?"
One simple answer - no, she does not have to bring her hands together and pause before beginning her pitching motion. That does not constitute an illegal pitch, because the pause is required while her hands are separated, to take or simulate taking a sign.
All the other rules info applies, of course, but these were not addressed in the OP.
She has to complete it in 20 seconds or less.
She may step back, as long as the step back begins before her hands come together.
She also can't be chewing tobacco!
She also can't be wearing jewelry!
She also has to be in proper uniform!
So sure, she has to comply with all other rules. I only addressed the question asked.
And yes, she can step back and deliver the pitch in one continuous motion. The pause is required while the hands are separated, both feet on plate, or pivot foot on and stride foot back. While in this position, she takes (or simulates taking) a sign. Hands may be in motion when brought together for at least one second, so if there is a step back, it can all be one continuous motion.