Baseball · WBSC / Rule 13
Pitch clock and pace of play
WBSC · 2025–2026In short
The WBSC clock applies differently from the MLB timer.
When the clock applies
The pitch clock is set to 20 seconds and operates only with no runners on base, including extra innings. It starts when the pitcher receives the ball in the mound area. The batter has 10 seconds to enter the box. Stepping off the rubber does not stop the clock unless the umpire grants time.
Keeping play moving
Pitcher delay is penalised with a ball; the batter must observe the box rule, which can produce a strike. Listed exceptions allow leaving the box, including a completed play or being forced out by a pitch. A granted timeout does not always restore a full clock. Separate timing instructions govern visits, pitching changes and inning breaks.
Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Based on the supplied WBSC Official Rules of Baseball 2025–2026, including its event-specific appendices. References use physical PDF pages. Explanations are condensed; the supplied edition and its stated competition conditions determine scope.
Sources & approach ↗
Sources & approach ↗