Attached video of a 14u game, USA rule set.
6A section 1D is pretty clear, "while on the pitcher's plate, the pitcher shall take a signal or appear to take a signal with the hands separated."
Further, from the April 12th, 2019 USA Softball Rule Plays and Clarifications:
"they must step on the pitcher's plate with the hands motionless for enough time to take a signal or simulate taking a signal. The pitcher then must bring their hands together for not less than one second and not more than 10 seconds. This could be a very short period and meets the definition of taking a signal if the hands are motionless."
This is probably the #1 illegal pitch infraction I see. Also the #1 illegal pitch infraction I see not getting called.
It's an easy fix for the pitcher, just take your sign on the pitcher's plate. Most collegiate pitchers do.
From a game management perspective, I get why a lot of umpires don't call it, but in club play it should be called on my opinion.
End of rant.
https:s//youtu.be/sZnHEwKzTIo
6A section 1D is pretty clear, "while on the pitcher's plate, the pitcher shall take a signal or appear to take a signal with the hands separated."
Further, from the April 12th, 2019 USA Softball Rule Plays and Clarifications:
"they must step on the pitcher's plate with the hands motionless for enough time to take a signal or simulate taking a signal. The pitcher then must bring their hands together for not less than one second and not more than 10 seconds. This could be a very short period and meets the definition of taking a signal if the hands are motionless."
This is probably the #1 illegal pitch infraction I see. Also the #1 illegal pitch infraction I see not getting called.
It's an easy fix for the pitcher, just take your sign on the pitcher's plate. Most collegiate pitchers do.
From a game management perspective, I get why a lot of umpires don't call it, but in club play it should be called on my opinion.
End of rant.
https:s//youtu.be/sZnHEwKzTIo