Re-Entry of players

Question
Dear Dr. Ambrose

I am running a league in NY that is 3 years in existance.  We have came across a situation this Sunday (Aug. 27th) where the game was called during the 3rd inning due to rain.  There were runners on base and such and I read a previouse post that you stated the game should continue where it left off.  The situation I am faced with is that there was a pitching substitution done and the "new" relief pitcher was warming up on the mound right before the game was called.  There was no pitch thrown to a  batter from this "new" pitcher.  My question is this...is the first pitcher allow to start off the continuation game or is he considered relieved?

thanks much
Lo Sukhram
Mayfield Softball League

Answer
Hi Lo,

If the sub was reported to the home plate umpire they are now in the game regardless if a pitch was thrown or not.

This would apply to any player (offense or defense), once you are reported you are legally in the game and the person you are subbing for legally out of the game.

The starting pitcher can of course legally re-enter.

Hope this helps

Mark