Is it legal under NFHS rules for the starting pitcher to throw say 3 innings, move to shortstop for 3 innings, and then return to the mound to pitch the seventh inning?
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Legal.
He can even pitch twice in the same inning:
Rule 3.1.2: "A player may be removed as pitcher and returned as pitcher once per inning".
This can happen after the substituting pitcher faces at least one batter, until the batter is out or reaches 1st base. The starting pitcher can then go back to the mound.
There are other references in the rule if the starting pitcher is substituted, but if there is no substitution, and the starting pitcher stays in the game, it's OK.
He can even pitch twice in the same inning:
Rule 3.1.2: "A player may be removed as pitcher and returned as pitcher once per inning".
This can happen after the substituting pitcher faces at least one batter, until the batter is out or reaches 1st base. The starting pitcher can then go back to the mound.
There are other references in the rule if the starting pitcher is substituted, but if there is no substitution, and the starting pitcher stays in the game, it's OK.
Thanks....that's the way I interpret the rule. I had an umpire tell me yesterday that I couldn't make the switch and when I told him that I had a 2010 rule book in my bag that didn't prohibit such a move he said ok. Gotta say that really instilled confidence in his ability as an ump.
Not much interpretation needed for that rule.....
you knew the rule and the umpire didn't.....good job!
Knowing the rule book well is an additional tool in a good coaches strategy...
you knew the rule and the umpire didn't.....good job!
Knowing the rule book well is an additional tool in a good coaches strategy...
Good job knowing the rule. As a warning to guys either coaching or umpiring different levels, many summer leagues have a similar rule but the number of times varies. Just be aware of the level you are working.