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Originally Posted by RPatrino
I believe that in FED it is also a balk if the catcher leaves the catchers box prior to release of pitch in ANY circumstance (not just on the intentional walk). I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong!!
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Well, since you asked for correction.
FED: Catcher can leave the box at TOP, not after the pitch leaves the pitching hand. FED can IW by verbal also so no need to pitch. Except during an IW the catcher can leave the box for other reasons.
OBR: Catcher leaving the box before the ball leaves the hand is technically a BALK, but major league umpires do not strictly enforce and therefore for all practical purposes it is TOP also. Catcher can leave the box for other reasons before TOP if an IW is not being given.