Balk question to 2B

[Micky]

I had a discussion with a guest umpire from the US (I live in the Netherlands, we follow OBR). He said, unless F1 steps of the pitcher plate, you have to throw to 2B on a pick off attempt. I was under the impression that you never have to throw to 2B on a pick off attempt. You only have to step towards 2B on an inside move (feint a throw, and this qualifies as feint), but you don’t have to disengage. If you turn inside and keep your foot on the pitcher plate it is a balk he said. So now I am confused. Are there situations where you have to throw to 2B on a pick off attempt? The only thing I can find in the rules is that you don’t have to throw to 2B. I have also looked at several posts here. I can find no scenarios where F1 has any movement towards 2B and a balk is called (except when he drops the ball). So my conclusion it that what he told me was incorrect. But since he seemed to know his stuff on many other things, I just want to double check. 

Also, there is the “jump and turn” move, similar to the pick off move to 1B. You don't have to throw then either as far as I know. But what qualifies as feinting there? Or is the jump and turn enough to feint a throw? Or do you have to make a throwing motion?

TIA

[Tog Gee]

That umpire is confused.

Pitcher CAN always fake to 2B regardless of whether they spin or make an inside move. Don't have to fake a throwing motion either.

A pitcher CAN balk when picking to second, for example, if the lead foot/free foot doesn't step (enough) towards second base or gain (enough) ground towards second base. I think in college rules, officials want to see the lead foot clear past the plate towards second base.

Look here for legal feint: (2:18)

 

Edited July 15 by Tog Gee