quote:
Originally posted by coach2709:
I was reading another post asking what to do if the pitcher cannot see the catchers fingers when getting signs and it got me to thinking - would it be illegal if the pitcher had one of the wristbands you see catchers using now for getting signal from coaches on what pitch to throw?
I'm assuming it would be illegal since other arm bands are illegal but just checking.
Assuming that you're speaking of FED rules, There are two rules that need consideration. First 1-5-12: "Jewelry shall not be worn...." While the rubber so-called "cause bracelets" are considered by FED to be jewelry, sweat bands and play or "pitch" armbands are not.
However, the fourth sentence of 1-4-2 states: "A pitcher shall not wear any item on his hands, wrists or arms which may be distracting to the batter."
So, in my opinion, the wearing of a well designed pitch armband would not be illegal in and of itself. But, when a batter claims that it distracts him, it's going to come off.
Bottom line, you might get away with it once in a while, but probably not very often.
