Expert: Ed Spindler - 8/25/2008

Question
Is a starting pitcher or a relief pitcher permitted to throw off the bullpen mound between innings once they have entered the game?  Example:  The starting pitcher is in his 5th inning, his team scores 6 runs and it is a long 1/2 inning.  During this time the pitcher gets cold and goes back to the bullpen mound to throw.  Is this legal?  For a reliever same rules apply?

Thanks!

Answer
In the pros you are not allowed to go back to the bullpen.  It would delay the game, plus managers don't want to let pitchers throw more pitches than necessary.  

In high school and college it is allowed UNLESS it would delay the start of the next half-inning.  This is up to the umpires, who, I guarantee, wouldnot allow it.