Clarification

[LA ump]

I've had this happen a couple of times and been told two different things by my fellow umps. The Offensive team will start yelling "runner" ( such as a defensive player will yell when runner is stealing) as the pitcher is starting his delivery in an effort to get the pitcher to balk. I've had some partners tell me this is interference and batter is out. I've also had partners tell me this is nothing. What are your thoughts?

[spiritump]

stick and stones--play on

[mstaylor]

It's not interference but you also can't allow them to do or say something to draw a balk. If it causes a balk, disallow it, warn them and then toss any other offenders.

Normally I leave the yelling crap alone but there are certain things they can't do and you have to addess it.

[Rich Ives]

I've had this happen a couple of times and been told two different things by my fellow umps. The Offensive team will start yelling "runner" ( such as a defensive player will yell when runner is stealing) as the pitcher is starting his delivery in an effort to get the pitcher to balk. I've had some partners tell me this is interference and batter is out. I've also had partners tell me this is nothing. What are your thoughts?

Read through Rule 4 and you'll find the answer.

[noumpere]

Doesn't "verbal interference" exist in all codes (even if the standard for reaching it is higher in MLB)? Shut it down and then call it if it happens again.