re: Reason #276 why softball players celebrate too much

quote:

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I recall having to have the pitcher come set, step off, and then throw it to the base.

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That's what typically happens, but it doesn't have to happen that way. It just has to be before the next pitch, if the umpire hands the catcher the ball they can appeal at home plate, or throw to a base for an appeal there. It doesn't have to go to the pitcher first.

They probably do the come set, step off, throw to a base routine when other runners are on, to clearly indicate an appeal, and so it's not a balk.


Fun fact, if a pitcher wants to appeal a tag at third base, and throws it wildly into the stands, they can no longer appeal.