A pitcher is a valuable position on a baseball team and its role is to throw the ball to the batter. One of the most important skills a pitcher must possess is the ability to come “set” before throwing the ball. This means that the pitcher will stop and assume a certain position before throwing the ball. The question of whether a pitcher must come set before throwing the ball has been debated for many years, and there are various opinions on the matter. In this article, we will look at the importance of a pitcher coming set and the arguments both for and against it.
What Does it Mean to Come Set?
In order to understand why a pitcher must come set, it is important to know what it means to come set. A pitcher will come set by stopping and assuming a certain position before throwing the ball. This position can vary depending on the pitcher and the style of pitching they use. Generally, the pitcher will stand with their feet shoulder width apart and their hands in front of them. This position allows the pitcher to have better balance and control over the pitch they are throwing.
Why is it Important for Pitchers to Come Set?
There are several reasons why it is important for pitchers to come set before throwing the ball. Firstly, it allows the pitcher to gain better control over the ball. By coming set, the pitcher can ensure that their body is in the correct position for the pitch, allowing them to throw with more accuracy. Secondly, it allows the batter to get a better read on the pitch. By coming set, the batter has more time to identify the pitch and adjust their batting stance accordingly.
Argument for Pitchers to Come Set
The main argument in favor of pitchers coming set is that it allows the pitcher to have better control over the pitch. By coming set, the pitcher can ensure that their body is in the correct position to throw the ball accurately. This can help the pitcher to make more precise pitches, which can result in fewer walks, strikeouts, and home runs. Additionally, it allows the batter to have more time to identify the pitch and adjust their batting stance accordingly. This can lead to better overall play from both the pitcher and the batter, resulting in a more enjoyable game.
Argument Against Pitchers to Come Set
There are some arguments against pitchers coming set. The main one is that it can slow down the game. By coming set, the pitcher is taking longer to throw the pitch, which can make the game drag on. Additionally, some pitchers may feel that their pitch is more effective when they don’t come set. They may feel that by coming set, they lose some of their momentum and are not able to throw the ball as hard as they would if they didn’t come set.
MLB Rules Regarding Pitchers Coming Set
The MLB has specific rules regarding pitchers coming set. According to the MLB rulebook, pitchers must come set before throwing the ball in all situations except during a pickoff attempt or a pitch out. Additionally, the pitcher must come set within 12 seconds of receiving the ball from the catcher. If the pitcher does not come set within 12 seconds, they will be called for a balk, which results in an immediate dead ball and the batter being awarded first base.
Other Professional Leagues
The rules regarding pitchers coming set vary in other professional leagues. In the Minor Leagues, pitchers must come set before throwing the ball, but there is no specific time limit for how long they can take. Additionally, some international leagues, such as the Nippon Professional Baseball League in Japan, do not have any specific rules regarding pitchers coming set.
The Impact of Pitchers Not Coming Set
The impact of pitchers not coming set can be significant. If pitchers do not come set before throwing the ball, it can lead to an increase in walks, strikeouts, and home runs. Additionally, it can lead to a decrease in accuracy and control, which can result in more wild pitches and balls in the dirt. Finally, it can lead to an increase in balks, which can have a negative impact on the game.
Conclusion
Overall, it is important for pitchers to come set before throwing the ball. Coming set allows the pitcher to gain better control over the pitch, as well as giving the batter more time to identify the pitch and adjust their batting stance accordingly. Additionally, most professional leagues have specific rules regarding pitchers coming set, and the consequences of not coming set can be significant. For these reasons, it is important for pitchers to come set before throwing the ball.
Keywords: Pitcher, Come Set, MLB, Professional Leagues, Control, Accuracy