after dead ball when does ball become alive

Question
QUESTION: In fastpitch softball, when does a dead ball become alive? What is the umpire mechanic? I've been told after the ball is back to the pitcher, umpire gives ball-strike count , points and says "play ball". It seems to me the moment the ball gets back to the pitcher in the circle the ball is live.

ANSWER: Hi Jim,

once we have a "dead ball" we can never have a "live ball" until the umpire says the magic word..............."PLAY",

I make sure everything is good to go, I look at the pitcher, take my right index finger, point at them and say the magic word.  I've always enjoyed that mechanic.


mark

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Mark. what about giving a ball-strike count before you point to pitcher and say "play"?

Answer
Hi Jim,

Sure if it's in necessary situation such a foul ball etc that makes the count important, part of the good to go package with me, makes sure everybody's on the same page.  

If it's the 1st pitch or something similar, usually not, as everyone knows it 0-1, and in umpire thinking 0-1 is not an important count.

mark