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Originally Posted by canadaump6
8.05 Comment: b) With a runner on first base the pitcher may make a complete turn, without hesitating toward first, and throw to second. This is not to be interpreted as throwing to an unnoccupied base.
Some umpires in my association weren't sure what this wording implies. Does it mean that the pitcher can start his motion and wheel to second regardless of whether R1 is stealing? Or does R1 have to be stealing before he throws to second base?
One would think that everytime there is R1, 2 out and a 3-2 count, the pitcher would simply do his leg kick, then whirl around and throw out R1 at 2nd, but I never see this done.
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The runner must have started an attempt toward second base, whether or not he returns to first is irrelevant.
Base runners should not leave on a 3-2 count with two outs until they are certain that the pitcher has committed to home plate. The majority of baserunners won't fall for any shenanigans from the pitcher.
When the pitcher moves forward toward the plate with his kick leg, he can no longer make that move to second base. He must lift his non pivot leg and immediately do one of the following 3 things: a) spin around toward second, b) step and throw to first, or c) pitch the ball. If he hesitates with his leg in the air or first steps toward first, he then cannot throw or feint to second.