If S1 pinch-hits for F1 and then F1 does not re-enter until much later, what is the ruling?

When S1 pinch-hits for F1, it creates a situation where F1 must comply with the substitution rules. According to these rules, F1 is considered to have exited the game once replaced by S1 and can only return under specific conditions. Since F1 did not face any batters during his initial stint as a pitcher before being replaced, he is not allowed to return to pitch later in the game.

In order for a pitcher to be eligible to return to pitch after being substituted, they must have faced at least one batter. However, because F1 did not step on the mound to pitch to a batter after S1 pinch-hit, they are effectively prohibited from returning to pitch in any capacity for the remainder of the game.

Thus, the ruling confirms that F1 cannot return to pitch because they did not face the first batter after being replaced. This consideration is crucial for understanding the application of the substitution rules within the context of the game.