Expert: Brian Flaspohler - 7/30/2006

Question
In MLB when I was a kid, the catcher could stand to the side of the batters box for all four pitches. When did the rules change that had the catcher move out "during" the pitch? And "why" did they change the rule?

Answer
Jack,

In 1901 the National League passed a rule which stated that the catcher must be positioned within his box until the pitcher makes a pitch.  So, as far as I know, the catcher has always had to start behind the plate, even for an intentional walk.  I don't remember a time when they didn't, but my memory of MLB only goes back to the early 1970s.

The rule states that all fielders must be in fair territory when the ball is pitched except the catcher (and he is limited to his box).

Hope this helps!

Brian