What happens if a pitcher or batter breaks the pitch timer?
Rule- Canada
- MLB
- Professional baseball
- Replay review
- 2026
- Fans
- A pitcher who violates the timer is charged with an automatic ball. The pitcher must begin his motion before the timer expires.
- A batter who violates the timer is charged with an automatic strike. Batters must be in the box and alert to the pitcher by the 8-second mark or they are charged with an automatic strike.
- Umpires may allow extra time in special circumstances. MLB's example is a catcher thrown out on the bases to end the previous half-inning who needs extra time to put on his gear.
Source: MLB, Pitch Timer (mlb.com/glossary/rules/pitch-timer).
Added 25 Oct 2026