Some folks are concerned about judging players' "intent." Note that the intent test is mentioned in the "approved ruling" under 8.05. Here is the entire passage:
Quote:
Umpires should bear in mind that the purpose of the balk rule is to prevent the pitcher from deliberately
deceiving the base runner. If there is doubt in the umpire's mind, the "intent" of the pitcher should govern.
However, certain specifics should be borne in mind:
(a) Straddling the pitcher's rubber without the ball is to be interpreted as intent to deceive and ruled a balk.
(b) With a runner on first base the pitcher may make a complete turn, without hesitating toward first, and
throw to second. This is not to be interpreted as throwing to an unoccupied base.
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Notice that the intent test is CONDITIONAL: we are to apply it as a last resort, and only when we are in doubt concerning a balk. It does not apply to other rules (or so a narrow reading of the rule would maintain).
Does anyone else find (b) strange here? What does that play have to do with assessing "intent to deceive"?