Quote:
Originally posted by ump3
I don't really think that it is as clear as clear can be. Certainly, if the runner were breaking home, and the pitcher made the same motion, you wouldn't balk him. He would be a fielder throwing home. JMO
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I'm not sure. At least when the pitcher is in contact, it has to be an actual steal attempt, not just a fake.
MLBUM:
7.7 THROWING TO AN UNOCCUPIED BASE
Official Baseball Rule 8.05(d) provides that the pitcher be charged with a balk if, while in contact with the pitcher's plate, he throws to an unoccupied base except for the purpose of making a play.
EXAMPLES:
(1) Runners on first and second, pitcher in set position. Runner breaks for third base and pitcher throws to third base.
Ruling: Legal play.
(2) Runners on first and second, pitcher in set position. Runner bluffs going to third base and pitcher throws to third base. However, runner did not go. Ruling: Balk, pursuant to Official Baseball Rule 8.05(d).
[Edited by Rich Ives on Oct 17th, 2004 at 12:52 PM]