fastpitch girls softball 18u

Question
can the pitcher take the signal from the catcher while not on the mound?

Answer
Absolutely!   Unfortunately this is one of those rules that is misunderstood in fastpitch.

Once the pitcher takes their position on the pitcher's plate, the pitcher must take a sign OR simulate taking a sign.  The main reason for this is to make the pitcher pause after stepping on the pitcher's plate prior to pitching.  

Tom