[GarthB]

Originally Posted by tibear

Interesting on how in this case, I'm getting a hard time for trying to apply the rules as written in the rulebook and in other cases was given a hard time for calling the "spirit" of the rule.

The only time I've seen anyone crticized for calling by the "intention of the rule" is when they are mistaken on the intention of the rule.

I will let you know that around here, if you disengage the rubber without separating your hands, everyone calls a balk!

Where is "around here?"

Basically isn't a balk called because the defensive team is doing something to deceive the runner and trying to get an unfair advantage? Isn't that why the rulebook says to separate the hands? This is to ensure the pitcher doesn't try something "sneaky" by stepping off and immediately throwing to a base, without dropping his hands to his side.

1. No.
2. No.
3. No.