Just like all the players on the field, the pitcher must abide by certain rules. Here are the rules that are specific to the pitcher or interaction with the pitcher.
1 |
The pitcher may not intentionally pitch at the batter. |
2 |
The pitcher may not deface the ball in any way. |
3 |
A pitcher who decides to throw to a base must step off the rubber and step directly toward the base to which the ball will be thrown. |
4 |
The penalty for an illegal pitch is that the umpire will call a “ball” for the batter. |
5 |
A manager or coach may visit the pitcher on the mound only once during an inning. |
6 |
Pitchers and substitute pitchers must complete pitching to at least one batter (or until the side is retired) before they can be replaced, unless they are injured. |
7 |
The pitcher is allowed eight warm-up pitches before each inning. Relief pitchers get the same courtesy during a game. |