When is a "Do Not Pitch" signal given by the plate umpire?

The "Do Not Pitch" signal given by the plate umpire indicates that the ball becomes dead immediately. This signal is typically used to prevent a pitch from being thrown for various reasons, such as when a player has requested time out or if there is a safety concern. When this signal is issued, the play is halted, preventing any further actions until the situation is resolved. This ensures the safety of the players and maintains the integrity of the game by clearly indicating that no pitches should occur while the umpire has signaled for a stoppage.

In this context, the other choices do not accurately reflect the nature of the "Do Not Pitch" signal. The ball being live and in play contradicts the very purpose of the signal, which is to stop play. Similarly, the signal does not indicate that the game is suspended, nor does it serve merely as a warning to the pitcher; rather, it mandates an immediate halt to the action on the field.