What is the umpire signal for 'Do not pitch'?

• A. Right arm straight out front with palm outward and fingers up.
• B. Both arms extended with all the fingers pointing at the pitcher.
• C. Either arm extended with one finger pointing at the pitcher.
• D. Verbal command, 'Do not Pitch!'

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that umpires use a specific nonverbal gesture to stop the pitcher from delivering a pitch. The signal for Do not pitch is shown by the right arm extended straight out in front, with the palm facing outward and the fingers held up. This clear, outward-facing gesture communicates immediately to the pitcher (and others nearby) that the action must pause and no pitch may be delivered.

Why this works best: it’s unambiguous, quickly seen by the batter, catcher, and pitcher, and uses a single, standardized movement rather than a verbal cue. It specifically communicates a halt to the pitching action without requiring words, which helps keep the game moving smoothly.

The other depicted options don’t match the standard Do not pitch signal. They would represent different calls or are verbal rather than the approved nonverbal gesture, so they don’t convey the same instruction as effectively.