When can a player legally be substituted into the game?

A player can be legally substituted into the game only after the existing player has been legally substituted. This means that substitutions must follow the proper procedure set forth in the rules of baseball. The player being substituted must leave the field before the new player enters and the manager or coach must notify the umpire of the change.

Legal substitutions are essential for maintaining the integrity of the game. They ensure that players have opportunities to rest and recover while allowing for strategic adjustments by the coach. The requirement for the existing player to leave the field helps to maintain clarity and order in the game.

The other options highlight misunderstandings about substitution rules. For instance, substituting only at the beginning of the game overlooks the ongoing nature of player changes throughout the match, while saying substitutions can occur at any time without restrictions neglects the structured process that must be followed. Similarly, stating that substitutions are tied to a specific time frame fails to recognize that they are allowed as long as the necessary protocols are followed regardless of the time on the clock.