Quote:
Originally Posted by soup sandwich
It is illegal in baseball to scuff or otherwise alter the shape/surface of the ball because it may allow the pitcher to get crazy movement when using the modifed ball.
That being the case, why are pitchers and catchers always in such a damn hurry to have balls that have been hit, foul tipped, or slammed into the dirt taken out of play? Couldn't these damaged balls be used to the pitchers advantage?
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I think the rule is that they have to replace them and they try to stay on the umps' good side by volunteering. At least some umps actually inspect the balls before throwing them away. I've seen them put them back in their pocket to be thrown in after the next ball is lost.
My question is, how come they replace the ball if it hits the ground before the catcher catches it or is foul tipped at the plate, but they keep a ball hit in play in the rotation? There has to be more damage done, especially on those high choppers. I've seen balls stay in play that are screaming line drives, caught on a short hop in the dirt at third, thrown across the field and short-hopped by the first baseman as well. Makes no sense.
TM
