Why isnt this enforced?

Just Me100+ posts

Previous discussions got me re reading pitching rules. Why are the component regulations so selectively enforced? Many pitchers at HS level start off with "free Foot" in front of plate or to side, with their "rocker step" towards first. this isnt legal according to:
"The pitcher may have one foot, not the pivot foot, off the rubber and any distance he may desire back of a line which is an extension to the back edge of the pitcher's plate, but not at either side of the pitcher's plate. With his "free" foot the pitcher may take one step backward and one step forward, but under no circumstances, to either side, that is to either the first base or third base side of the pitcher's rubber."

4/13/046:58 PM

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Jeff Connell100+ posts

And when an umpire calls it he looks like an idiot that doesn't know the rules or is looking for something. I used to call it all the time and then realized I was the only one and backed off unless a coach questioned it. I know that is not right but this is the real world.

4/13/047:41 PM

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Just Me100+ posts

Buts it such an (unusually) clear section of the rules and so ez to see....

4/13/049:37 PM

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Jeff Connell100+ posts

It is very much like the question I asked about balks being called from the stretch. The rules clearly say that once you put your foot on the rubber you can not turn your shoulders to check a runner. And yet it is unreal how many do it obviously and umpires do not call it.

4/14/048:14 AM

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Pirate Fan100+ posts

Just Me.

What rule book are reading?
NFHS 6-1-1, 6-1-2 and 6-1-3.
There is nothing that says "...but under no circumstances, to either side, that is to either first base or third base side of the pitcher's rubber."
It does say from the wind-up position; "During delivery, he may lift his non-pivot foot in a step forward, or a step backwards and a step forward, but he shall not otherwise lift either foot."
If he step backwards, whether it is straight back or off to the side, he has stepped backwards and "In my judgement (as the umpire)has met the intent of the rule."

GAME MANAGEMENT; Key to Umpiring.

Also, what advantage is the pitcher gaining?

4/14/0410:21 AM

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Just Me100+ posts

Pirate my bad. Was reading MLB rules

4/14/0411:43 AM

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