Expert: Andrew Mullins - 5/7/2009

Question
During a pitching change, I stayed out on the mound and discussed the situation with the new pitcher during his warm-up tosses (mechanics/outs/situation,etc.)and was told I had to go back to the bench by the base umpire.  Since it was an official trip to the mound, couldn't I have stayed out there until the warm-up tosses were completed?
I wasn't slowing down his pitches, but the umpire seemed agitated and made a big deal about sending me back to the dugout.  By the way, even though the kids are 13, we're going by the major league book.

Answer
Even though there is not official rule for you to return to the dugout after the change, it's a courtesy of the game to make the change then leave so the game gets back to normalcy.

Even in a high school or college game, I would have allowed you to stay w/ no problem.

Just curious, why did you actually stay instead of returning to the dugout?

Thanks for your question, Andy

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