The pitching regulations start when the pitcher takes his sign from the catcher.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. The pitcher may alter his stance before delivering a pitch.
• D. The catcher must give a second signal before the pitcher may pitch.

Answer: (B)

The moment that pitching regulations apply is when the pitcher has the ball on the pitcher's plate and begins his delivery toward home plate. The act of taking signs from the catcher is only a cue to start the process; it does not, by itself, start the pitching regulations or the pitch timer. The pitcher is allowed to adjust his stance after receiving the sign and before delivering the pitch. There is no requirement for a second signal from the catcher before he may pitch. So stating that regulations start at the moment of taking the sign is not accurate.