If the starting pitcher does not face one batter, which is a legal outcome?

• A. He may later return to pitch.
• B. He may never return to the game.
• C. He may play another position, but not return to pitch.
• D. He must face one batter, even if it is to issue an intentional walk.

Answer: (C)

When a pitcher is taken out before facing a batter, he hasn’t pitched to anyone yet, and the rule allows him to remain in the game in a defensive role other than pitching. He may re-enter the game in another position on defense, but he cannot return to the mound to pitch again that same game. This keeps the pitching credit with the new pitcher who faces the batters, while still letting the original player contribute elsewhere.

So the legal outcome is that he may play another position, but not return to pitch. The other possibilities don’t fit because the pitcher isn’t allowed to switch back to the mound later in the game after being removed without facing a batter, and there’s no requirement for him to face a batter in this specific situation.