[Daryl H. Long]

Balk: NF Rule 6-2-4b : failing to step with the non-pivot foot directly toward a base....when throwing or feinting there....

"Step directly toward" is defined in NF Case 6.2.4 Situation B: To comply with the requirement to step directly toward F1 must step to the first-base side of a 45-degree angle between center of pitcher's plate and between home and first base.

Coach, the pitcher is required to step directly toward 1st base to throw there. He failed to do that so it is a balk".

Answer to Q1: Just say he didn't step toward 1st. Make no mention of 45 degree stuff as it will take much too long to explain.

Answer to Q2: I have no problem talking to a coach between innings to answer a quick question. Since I am a strict adherant to only 1 minute between innings there is not a lot of time to fully explain the rule. Just say he didn't step toward 1st. Depending on coach I might politely tell him as umpires we are taught how to visually determine whether step was directly toward the base or not and we can discuss it after the game if he so wishes. In parting I would ask him to take care of his asst. coach so I don't have to next time. Let's play ball.

Answer to Q3: If balk was so blatant that a blind man could call it why did you say earlier in the post you were 70-75% sure it was a balk?

(JK: Isn't Ohio weather great. Glad you got your game in. Here in NW Ohio we started season with 78 degree days then last weekend...SNOW. I was at the Toledo Mud Hens game Saturday night which was suspended in the 4th inning due to snow.)