Baseball Pitcher Set Position Rules
MLB pitchers can use two different types of legal pitching deliveries. These are called the windup and set position, also known as the stretch. The set position is primarily used with runners on base because it allows the pitcher to disengage easily with the pitching plate in order to pick off a runner. Set position occurs when the pitcher has their back foot on the pitching plate or rubber.
Definition
Set position is a type of legal pitching delivery where the pitcher has one foot on the pitching plate to pitch the ball. This is when the pitcher makes contact with the pitching plate (also called the rubber) with their back foot. A right-handed pitcher would make contact with their right foot, and a left-handed pitcher would make contact with their left foot. The pitcher will make contact with the pitching plate with the outside of their foot. A right-handed pitcher's feet will face third base, and a left-handed pitcher's feet will face first base.
The set position is used in order to shorten a pitcher's delivery to the plate. It is used with runners on base because it allows for quicker delivery to home, as well as the ability to pick runners off. Many pitchers will even shorten their leg kick while in the set position.
Penalty
If a pitcher decides to use the windup pitching delivery with runners on base, it is still a legal pitch; it is simply just a disadvantage to that pitcher. Some pitchers choose to pitch out of the windup position instead of set position with a runner on third base because they most likely will not try to steal home.
Pitchers using any other style of pitching, such as not touching the pitching plate while pitching, or making contact with the pitching plate with their front foot, will be penalized with a balk. A balk occurs when an illegal pitch or pick-off move is made with runners on base. The penalty is the runners each move up one base.
Examples
- Right-handed pitcher: This pitcher has the outside of their right foot making contact with the pitching plate, with their shoulders facing third base, their glove facing the catcher, and their pitching arm facing center field, and throws a pitch. This is a legal pitch.
- Left-handed pitcher: This pitcher has the outside of their left foot making contact with the pitching plate, with their shoulders facing first base, their glove facing the catcher, and their pitching arm facing center field, and throws a pitch. This is a legal pitch.
- A pitcher stands in set position, but with their front foot on the pitching rubber instead of their back foot. This is an illegal pitch. A balk is recorded.
- A pitcher stands completely off of the pitching plate while pitching. This is an illegal pitch. A balk is recorded.
History
Set position was created to develop a quicker pitching motion and to prevent base runners from stealing bases. It also allows pitchers to pick off much easier and quicker, which also prevents runners from stealing bases. Set position, or “the stretch,” has always been a part of the game of baseball and therefore is a part of baseball history.
Helpful Links
Similar Rules to Set Position Rules
- Windup Position
- Balk Rules
FAQ
What is set position in baseball?
Set position is a type of legal pitching delivery where the pitcher has one foot on the pitching plate to pitch the ball. This often occurs with runners on base because set position is quicker and more efficient to home plate. A right-handed pitcher will have their right foot touching the pitching plate, with their feet facing third base, their glove facing the catcher, and their pitching arm facing center field. A left-handed pitcher will have their left foot touching the pitching plate, with their feet facing first base, their glove facing the catcher, and their pitching arm facing center field.