Q:  Recently some of the players are not wearing the wristband on their arm they are putting it on their belt, some right over the buckle so all they have to do is look down. If a player is wearing the wristband on the belt and that wristband is hit by a pitched ball, is that considered a part of the uniform and would he get awarded first base?

A:  Wearing the arm band around the belt or over the buckle is not part of the official uniform, (Rule 1-4-4).  If a pitch hits the armband,  this either a ball or strike depending on where the ball is pitched. Rule this as loose equipment and the same as having a batter's glove hanging out of a pocket and it is hit by a pitch.  Rules 1-5-9 and 1-5-10 would settle the matter, which gives the Umpire the right to rule on the legality of the equipment.

Q2:  I have noticed that pitchers are putting the wristband in their back pocket, when a defensive play is called, the pitcher steps off the rubber, pulls the wristband out of their back pocket, gets the play, puts the wristband back in their pocket and goes back to the rubber. At times this can take an additional 30-60 seconds of time and can happen many times during the game. This normally happens with runners on base so the time between pitches does not come into play (20 seconds). Any suggestions?

A2:  According to Rule 6-2-c, the pitcher has 20 seconds from the time he receives the ball to either pitch or attempt a play.  The pitcher stepping backwards off the mound to look at his arm band does not constitute a play or a feint and therefore if his time runs out, a ball would be added to the batter's count.  A tough call to make, but considering the time factor it would keep the game at a good pace.