PICHER TAKING SIGNS RULE
The pitcher may take his signs from anybody he wishes. However, he must do it while he is on the rubber. It is not a balk if he does not take his signs from the rubber. The umpire should simply tell the pitcher to do it right. If he continues to violate the rule; eject him.
The purpose of the rule is to prevent a quick pitch to the batter or to hinder the runner in obtaining a lead off. If the pitcher takes his signs while off the rubber and quickly steps on and throws a pitch; this WOULD be a balk. But, it is a balk because of the quick pitch. NOT because he took the signs while off the rubber.
The intent of the rule was this:
"The pitcher shall take signs WHILE STANDING ON THE RUBBER"
(Note: I removed the "from the catcher")
The intent was NOT this:
"The pitcher shall take signs ONLY from the catcher while standing on the rubber."
Submitted by: Jim Booth
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