Quote:
Originally posted by catch9
Straddling AND taking signs IS a balk.
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Although the rule states that a pitcher "shall" take his signs from the catcher while on the rubber, there is no specified penalty if he takes his signs while straddling the rubber unless he steps quickly to the rubber and delivers the pitch.
Quote:
Originally posted by catch9
I had a catcher tell me that he was "scratching" and not giving a sign. Too bad, bonehead. If you made it appear close enough to giving a sign that I called it - it was violating the spirit of the rule to such an extent that calling it was required.
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The spirit of the rule is to prevent the pitcher from quick pitching to the batter.
Quote:
Originally posted by catch9
Think about it this way.......you don't call it and the runner is picked off - the coach sees the sign taken while straddling. What reason do you give for NOT calling the balk?
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Unless the pitcher has made a move naturally associated with his delivery while off the rubber, he can pick off the runner as an infielder. If I were to be questioned as to why this was not a balk, my answer would be that he's not violated the rule until he quick pitches
Quote:
Originally posted by catch9
Since pitchers are sometimes unaware of the rule - or they have had prior umpires ignore the violation, I give the "secret, friendly, warning to the catcher. That usually makes the violation go away.
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I agree that a little preventitive umpiring is appropriate here. Simply call time and dust off the plate while you let F2 know what's on your mind.
Tim.
[Edited by BigUmp56 on Dec 15th, 2005 at 06:01 PM]