Balk Clarification

[doump1398]

In a discussion over the possibility of calling a balk during a game this weekend, I could use some help in clarifying the pitchers actions.

RH pitcher from the stretch position disengages the rubber and turns toward first without taking the required step toward first and feints the throw.

Is this a legal move or considered a balk since he did not complete the throw to first.

[widac]

In a discussion over the possibility of calling a balk during a game this weekend, I could use some help in clarifying the pitchers actions.

RH pitcher from the stretch position disengages the rubber and turns toward first without taking the required step toward first and feints the throw.

Is this a legal move or considered a balk since he did not complete the throw to first.

If the pitcher legally disengages he can do whatever. It can only be an illegal feint if he is engaged. All the pitching regs start when he engages.

[blindumpire99]

Correct...he must legally disengage which means he must step BACKWARDS off the rubber with the pivot foot which then classifies him as an infielder.

If he is in the stretch and he begins turning the shoulders before he disengages the rubber or as he is disengaging it--balk

[Dragon29]

. . . and, just to finish up the thought . . .

Provided there's a runner at the base, he can legally feint to 2nd & 3rd without disengaging.

[therefump]

Disingaging from the pitchers plate successfully makes him a fielder and he can do what he wants. The key is "successful". At the lower levels I watch more for intentional deception before calling a balk. You can pick up intention easily in the younger kids because they generally "act" guilty.

[huntbomb72]

Just as an add-on to this discussion, blindumpire99 is correct the pitcher becomes a fielder. So remember if the pitcher step off and throws to first, if the throw is wild and goes out of bounds, you award bases as if a fielder threw the ball out (2 bases).

[cpttuna]

remember, to disengage the rubber, the foot must move before the hands. don't forget to watch the pitcher's hands.