by JOSEPHKENDALL » Tue Aug 23, 2011 1:53 pm
This paragraph states how it works (-5 max). It can be found at: http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/btf/pages/basesim/somrules.htm
When using either rating number, first add together the catcher's throwing arm rating and the pitcher's hold rating (found at the top of the pitcher's card), The total of the two numbers must not exceed the range of -5 to +5. For example, if the catcher's throwing rating was -3 and the pitcher's hold rating was -4, the total of -7 would be reduced to -5 . However, if the runner is "held on" subtract from the prior total the following, an additional -2 when using the first rating and -4 when using the second rating number. THIS NUMBER MAY NOT EXCEED -5. In order to demonstrate the entire calculation assume the following: the runner being held on, assume a catcher's throwing arm rating of -4 and a pitcher's hold rating of -3. If the dice roll total was 8 (two six-sided dice), the baserunner established a good lead and must steal. First total together the catcher' a throwing arm rating (-4) and the pitcher's hold rating (-3). Since (-7) is greater than the maximum deduction , reduce to (-5). Then subtract (-2). His chances for a successful steal would be 1-12 [19 + (-5) + (-2) = 12], If the initial dice roll was 5, the baserunner did not get a good lead. If the offensive manager still wanted to attempt a steal of second, his chances would be 1-5 [14 + (-5) + (-4)=5]. IF THE BASERUNNER IS NOT HELD ON, THE SAFE STEAL RATING (NUMBER IN PARENTHESIS) MAY EXCEED 20, IF A RUNNER IS HELD ON, THE MAXIMUM RANGE IS 1-19,