Balk or Not?

[harmbu]

FED game. R1 breaks for second base as F1 is in the set position. F1 executes the "inside move" and steps toward second base but does not throw. F1 runs toward R1 attempting to catch him a rundown. PU calls a balk and says "pitcher must step off before completing the inside move." Was this called correctly?

[Mrumpiresir]

Originally Posted by harmbu

FED game. R1 breaks for second base as F1 is in the set position. F1 executes the "inside move" and steps toward second base but does not throw. F1 runs toward R1 attempting to catch him a rundown. PU calls a balk and says "pitcher must step off before completing the inside move." Was this called correctly?

No. This was not the correct call. It is legal for the pitcher to spin and throw or feint to second as long as he does not hesitate to first. Since a pitcher is never required to throw to second base, even from the rubber, I see nothing illegal. No balk. PU was wrong.