What is MLB Pitching?
MLB Pitching, or Major League Baseball Pitching, is the act of throwing a baseball from the pitcher’s mound to a batter in order to record an out or score a run. Pitching is a key element of the game of baseball, and pitchers are some of the most important players on the field.
Types of Pitches
Pitchers are able to throw a variety of different pitches, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The most common pitches are:
- Fastball – This is the most common pitch and is thrown with maximum velocity. It is usually thrown straight, but can be thrown with movement.
- Curveball – This pitch is thrown with a spin so that it breaks in the opposite direction of a fastball. It is used to surprise the batter and can be difficult to hit.
- Changeup – This pitch is thrown with less velocity than a fastball, but with a similar delivery. It is used to fool the batter into thinking the pitch is a fastball.
- Slider – This pitch is thrown with a spin so that it breaks in the same direction as a fastball. It is used to break in on the hands of a batter, making it difficult to hit.
Cheating in MLB Pitching
Cheating in MLB Pitching is a violation of the rules of the game and can be punished by the league. Cheating can come in many forms, from illegal pitches to foreign substances used to alter the ball.
Illegal Pitches
Pitchers can be penalized for throwing illegal pitches. These include pitches that are thrown above the legal limit, pitches that move illegally, and pitches that are thrown with an illegal grip.
Foreign Substances
Pitchers can be caught using foreign substances on the ball in order to alter its flight or to make it harder to hit. These substances can include pine tar, Vaseline, sunscreen, and saliva.
Sign Stealing
Sign stealing is a form of cheating in which a pitcher or catcher attempts to get an advantage by deciphering the opposing team’s signs. This can be done by looking for subtle body language or by using technology to decode the signs.
Corruption
Corruption in MLB Pitching can occur when a pitcher or catcher uses their influence to gain an unfair advantage. This can be done by bribing umpires, or by manipulating the rules of the game in order to gain an advantage.
MLB Pitching Scandals
In recent years, there have been several scandals involving MLB Pitching.
- The Black Sox scandal – In 1919, eight members of the Chicago White Sox were accused of taking money from gamblers in exchange for throwing the World Series.
- The Pete Rose Scandal – In 1989, Pete Rose was accused of betting on baseball games while he was the manager of the Cincinnati Reds.
- The Biogenesis Scandal – In 2013, several MLB players were accused of using performance-enhancing drugs supplied by the Biogenesis clinic.
- The Astros Sign Stealing Scandal – In 2017, the Houston Astros were accused of using technology to steal signs from opposing teams.
MLB Cheating Penalties
The league takes cheating seriously, and those caught cheating can face serious consequences. Penalties for cheating can include fines, suspensions, and even permanent bans from the game.
Fines
Cheaters can be fined for their actions. These fines can range from a few hundred dollars to several million dollars, depending on the severity of the offense.
Suspensions
Cheaters can be suspended from the game for a period of time. Suspensions can range from a few games to an entire season, depending on the severity of the offense.
Permanently Banned
In extreme cases, cheaters can be permanently banned from the game. This is rare, but it has happened in the past, such as with Pete Rose and the Black Sox scandal.
Conclusion
Cheating in MLB Pitching is a serious violation of the rules of the game and can lead to serious consequences. Pitchers can be caught cheating in a variety of ways, from illegal pitches to foreign substances used to alter the ball. Cheaters can face fines, suspensions, and even permanent bans from the game. It is important for pitchers to remember that cheating is not tolerated in Major League Baseball and that they will face serious repercussions if caught.