Starting Pitcher Return to the mound
Question
Under the MLB rules, can a starting pitcher ever return to the mound for any reason? I have been told that the starting pitcher can leave the mound in a defensive position and then return to the mound. I have also been told that Fernando Valenzuela used to do this with the Dodgers. Any information about pitchers returning to the mound would be greatly appreciated. If there is a rule number that is associated to this discussion please let me know.
Answer
David,
There is no rule prohibiting a pitcher from moving to a different position then returning to the mound. As long as they stay in the game, they can play whereever they want. When a player is removed from a game, they cannot reenter for any reason.
I'm not sure about Fernando, but I know that Whitey Herzog used to use Cardinal pitchers in the outfield for a batter, then let them go back to the mound, in order to get a platoon advantage. For example, he would move right handed Todd Worrell to right field and bring in a left hander to face one left handed batter. Then, after the batter, Worrell would go back to pitching and a new right fielder would be brought in to replace the left handed pitcher.
Hope this helps!
Brian
Ive got a couple questions
Breaking Pitches.