Trick pickoff play at 2nd (FED)

[David Emerling]

We've all seen (on the internet) the fake pickoff play at 2nd where the pitcher twirls and throws, the middle infielders dive as if trying to catch a wild throw, the centerfielder runs in as if he is trying to retrieve a loose ball. But the pitcher never actually throws the ball. The runner, fooled, tries to run to 3rd and is put out easily.

I've seen this on the internet many times. Some teams are very slick at it. They have clearly practiced it. I was working the plate and experienced it for the first time in one of my games. The runner didn't fall for it, however. It wasn't particularly well executed, in my opinion. Nevertheless, I got to thinking about that play after the game. There was a lot of yelling on the part of the defense during this play. Many of them were yelling, "Get the ball!" There was all kinds of shouting to heighten the drama of their ruse. Yet, the pitcher had the ball the whole time.

I'm wondering if this would rise to the level of verbal obstruction. I'm thinking that they can do all the acting they want, but as soon as they add deceptive yelling into their act, it might be crossing the line.

What do you think?

David Emerling
Memphis, TN