[Steven Tyler]

Originally Posted by dash_riprock

Yes I agree, but it's just another example of FED re-inventing the square wheel. They emphasize that the penalty for going to the mouth while on the rubber is a ball rather than a balk, but, with men on base, going to the mouth while on the rubber will ALWAYS result in a balk (from either pitching position), because it is an arm movement not associated with the pitch.

It's like having Professor Irwin Corey as the rules interpreter, assisted by Norm Crosby.

By Jove ole mate, I've think you've hit upon something. A pitcher cannot balk unless there are runners in place to lap the bases. Pip, pip ole chum.


Cheerio,
ST