When does the starting pitcher warm up?

The concept of warming up to start the game is a tricky one. The nerves of the starting pitcher are very real and sometimes it feels like they just can't wait anymore. However, it is critically important as to when the starting pitcher goes down to the bullpen to begin his pre-game preparation.

If the pitcher is a member of the visiting team he needs to understand that his team will take the field 2nd. Despite the fact that he wants to get the nervous energy out he should wait until at least 20 minutes prior to 1st pitch before going to the bullpen. The visiting pitcher must take into consideration the fact that his team will be hitting in the top of the 1st as well. This additional time must be accounted for. Neglecting this issue is a common fault of starting pitchers in amateur baseball. They simply are not prepared to handle the 1st inning.

Pitchers are creatures of habit. They want to go warm up at the same time every time. However, that habit needs to be dependent on whether he is pitching on the home side or the visiting side.