In this category, the rules for 9-Man and 10-Man Pitching are technically the same. We will explore the similar rules regarding the Squaring of Shoulders and Hips as well as rules regarding the feet.
Similarities
Introduction
Squaring of Driving Hip (9 – Man)
The driving hip (the leg that is contact with the rubber) must be square on release on the ball. The rule is the same for 9-Man and 10-Man.
Squaring of Driving Hip (10 – Man)
The driving hip (the leg that is contact with the rubber) must be square on release. This rule is the same for 9-Man and 10-Man.
Squaring of Shoulders (9 – Man)
The rules states that the shoulders must be square on release. This does not happen often in 9-Man. Many 9-Man style pitchers have the non-pitching shoulder closer to home plate on release.
Squaring of Shoulders (10 – Man)
The shoulders need to be as square as possible (be an equal distance from home plate). The intent of the rule is to make sure that the non-throwing shoulder is not closer to home plate than the throwing shoulder.
Feet (9 - Man and 10 – Man)
The rules regarding the feet are exactly the same with a few exceptions for 9-Man Major Pitching as discussed below.
