Can a pitcher throw between innings?
James Olson
Updated on April 13, 2026
Rule 5.07(b):
A game pitcher may return to the bullpen between innings, provided doing so does not delay the game in any manner.What do pitchers do between innings?
Between inning warm-upOn the way to the mound, do some arm flexing and shoulder rotating exercises to loosen the shoulder and back muscles. You have five warm up pitches. Use your full motion when throwing and concentrate on a target. Do not throw at full speed until your last pitch.
How many pitches are allowed between innings?
Between-inning breaks— Another important change is that a pitcher is no longer guaranteed eight warmup pitches between innings. However, he can take as many as he wants within the countdown parameters noted above.