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I guess it depends on the level of play. If I were doing 12U ball, Jim's approach would probably be appreciated by all. But working games in these parts with players who shave, at least above the shoulders, umpires who utilize that approach either learn not to, or don't work long.
We are umpires, not coaches. Our job is to see that neither side gets an advantage not intended by rule. To allow a pitcher to gain an illegal advantage should not be tolerated.
Note that I said "advantage". Admittedly, there are some balks that do not provide advantage and, again, depending on the level of the game, an argument could be made for letting them slip. But, again, in big boy ball, if you recognize it as a balk, call it.
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GB
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