Balk question

[tiger79]

Runner on 2B and takes off early for 3B when the pitcher is still set. No runner was on 3B at the time. The pitcher  throws to 3B without disengaging from the rubber first, is that a balk?

[UmpJM]

Tiger,

 

No, it is never a balk for a pitcher to throw to an unoccupied base if it is for the purpose of making a play.

 

JM

 

Moderator Edit:
The last three posts answer this, but I liked this one best.

[Thunderheads]

if he steps directly or ...in the direction of 3rd to make a play on R2, ... no, it's not a balk

[Mike Prince]

As long as he steps towards 3b before the throw he is fine.

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