Micah Owings?

Question: There is a lot of talk about Micah Owings having an offensive role in 2008. I know the following facts: 1. A pitcher can be moved to another position, but not back to the mound in the same inning. 2. Substitutions can allow for multiple position switches. 3. Relief pitchers must face at least one batter. My question is this: does there need to be a SUBSTITUTION for him to switch positions, or could he spell another pitcher for the remainder of an inning? That would be interesting to see, Owings come in from RF in the middle of an inning, with the starting pitcher moving to RF, and then switching back. Thanks for input.

Answer: There does not necessarily need to be a substitution. Take this for example. Jeff Cirillo starts the game for the D-Backs in which Micah Owings starts on the mound. Being a former pitcher, switching Owings and Cirillo back and forth would be a possible situation that, although unusual, is perfectly legal and logical. No substituion is made. The example you give, Owings coming in from RF to be a relief pitcher and the pitcher he replaces heading to RF, is highly unlikely as most pitchers are exclusively that, pitchers. You don't have too many Utility Pitchers around. Your example is however perfectly legal and reinforces the fact there doesn't NEED to be a substitution, but not making one seems illogical. Cheers.

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