Is this a Balk - Stepping Off

[Mudder]

Got this RHP I see quite often.  He comes set, and then he steps off to get a runner, say R2, back to the 2B.  Does not feint a throw after he steps off or anything, just steps off, looks over then re-engages, etc.  The problem is when he is on the rubber and set, typically the first movement is to step off then then separate your hands, etc., but he starts to lower and separates his hands just before he steps off, or sometimes at the same time as he steps off.  Not sure if I've painted the picture, but this is a balk correct?  The disengagement has to be noticeably before any other movements he would normally make.

[conbo61]

Separating his hands BEFORE he steps off IS a balk. Unless it is obvious, I would not call it.  That being said, if the pitcher is getting close, a discreet conversation in the name of preventative officiating may be warranted.

[noumpere]

 The disengagement has to be noticeably before any other movements he would normally make.

​In practice, you have it backwards.  If you see the drop / separation clearly before he begins to disengage, balk it.  Otherwise, let it go.

[maven]

Separating his hands BEFORE he steps off IS a balk. Unless it is obvious, I would not call it.  That being said, if the pitcher is getting close, a discreet conversation in the name of preventative officiating may be warranted.

​I wouldn't bother with the discreet conversation: if he's borderline, he's legal, and unlike a no-stop balk, speeding up will make him LESS borderline.