the crow hop

Question
Hey Mark - simple question regarding pitching: Does the pitcher's foot have to be on the rubber when the ball is released?

Answer
Hi Tim,

basically (this doesn't cover all situations) a crow hop is a replanting and pushing off with the pivot foot

a legal pitch requires a step forward and toward the batter and dragging or pushing off with the pivot foot.  The release of the ball is simultaneous with the step.  Is the pivot foot usually in contact with the plate when the ball is actually released, no, but as long as it is simultaneous "with" the step it's a legal pitch.

Mark