We are at odds in my association over these questions. If possible, I would really like to hear of a KNOWN authorative opinion, from an actual authority. Please consider:
Are there any DEAD ball balks? Pitcher stands on or astride the rubber, but the ball is not live, is anybody calling this a balk?
Tougher question: During an at bat, batter gets TIME to adjust gloves. During this break, pitcher, on the mound, goes to his mouth. Call the BALL? Or say "don't do that". Does 8.02a1 apply during a dead ball?
Weirder question. As para 1. Pitcher is on rubber, and PU does NOT realize pitcher does not have ball. He has been scanning stands for MILFS, he comes back to earth and points and says PLAY! At this time a fielder who has the ball tags a runner off a base.
Q1. Can umpire legally put ball in play if pitcher does not have ball? (Or is this another, oh crud, and don't do that?). Do you still call a balk? Put please reconcile with the dead ball issue.
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