When the umpire points with his right index finger while facing the pitcher signifies:

• A. Warning to the pitcher for pitching too close to the batter.
• B. Illegal pitch.
• C. Acknowledgment that the pitcher has a game ball.
• D. Play is to start or be resumed and simultaneously calls "Play."

Answer: (D)

In this signaling system, the gesture of the umpire pointing with the right index finger toward the pitcher and facing the pitcher is the official cue that play is starting or resuming and that the ball is live. It’s used at the moment action is about to begin again—such as at the start of the game, after a dead-ball stoppage, or after a timeout—often accompanied by the verbal call “Play.” This makes it clear to both teams that runners may advance, pitches are live, and the defense should be prepared to field the ball. It’s different from signals for warnings or illegal pitches, which use different gestures or cues.