Posted By:
leonIf the game is 9 innings then the answer could be 0 I think...
8.02 The pitcher shall not-
(a) (1) Bring his pitching hand in contact with his mouth or lips while in the 18 foot circle surrounding the pitching rubber.
EXCEPTION: Provided it is agreed to by both managers, the umpire prior to the start of a game played in cold weather, may permit the pitcher to blow on his hand.
PENALTY: For violation of this part of this rule the umpires shall immediately call a ball. However, if the pitch is made and a batter reaches first base on a hit, an error, a hit batsman or otherwise, and no other runner is put out before advancing at least one base, the play shall proceed without reference to the violation. Repeated offenders shall be subject to a fine by the league president.
So no pitch is made if the pitcher goes to his face with his pitching hand and touches it.........and the umpire calls a ball....he does this 3 more times...the runner gets on first with 0 pitches....he gets picked off first...and the pitcher does this 26 more times...would this work?
edited...to change my answer to 0....