All pitchers seem to leave the rubber well before they release the ball. What is the rule on this?

Question

And who monitors if they are even touching the rubber? Think they can get away with it? I think none of the umpires can see if from where they are standing.

Answer 1

Pitchers don't stand on the rubber. They leave the foot of their push-off leg pressed against it, hence why it looks like they aren't on it. They are only required to be in contact with it. Of course, some might cheat a little, but for the most part, that wedge of rubber helps them push off so they use it. If a pitcher were to overtly be off of it, he'd be called on it.
Interestingly, in part of the 19th century, pitchers were required to be in contact with the rubber with BOTH feet. Honestly, the 19th century stats should be considered the dinosaur days of baseball and the stats from there, while they count, should be separated from the 20th century. Come to think of it, the 21st century stats should be kept separate from the 20th century. There will always be the all-time list.

Answer 2

Most pitchers push off the rubber as they release the ball but, as you say, there are some that fudge a little. It really doesn't give the pitcher any added advantage and most umpires will let it slide unless the opposing manager complains. This only applies with no runners on base since it would be a "balk" with runners on base.

Answer 3

If they are then thats a balk. A pitcher must not leave the rubber before releasing the ball unless they step backwards off the rubber.

Answer 4

The umps do call it now and then. It is an optical illusion, most of the time it just looks like they don't have contact. The 3rd base ump has the best view and they do watch it.