Ball in Play Question

Question
I was at a 15-16 age level League game and saw a ruling that confused me. The situation was a runner on 3rd, one out. The manager had just finished visiting the pitcher on the mound and play was about to resume. Before the pitcher threw his first pitch, he attempted to pick off the runner at third. It was a wild throw and the runner advanced home. However, the umpire sent the runner back because he said the in order for the ball to be put back in play, a pitch must be thrown first.  That was a new one on me. Is this right?

Answer
Mike,

The ball and play is live when the umpire starts play again.  A pitch home is not required.  Otherwise a runner could take a huge lead - in fact, they could walk to the next base while the pitcher is getting ready to pitch.

Hope this helps!

Brian