The question was can a right-handed pitcher turn over his right shoulder, do a 180 degree spin while maintaining contact with the rubber, and attempt a pick off at first?

My response was that there was nothing in the rules saying that this could not be done, but in reality there would be alot of places to screw up this type of move, i.e. faking to third or second in mid-motion...failing to maintain contact with the rubber...losing balance...failing to step directly toward first on the throw, etc.

What do y'all think? Interpret in all codes.

I may be wrong,
 

But doesn't it say something about breaking the back plane of the pitchers plate can only occur on a move to second base. I believe the situation you described would be a balk if at all possible to achieve.

I would call it a balk.

Simply because it has the intent of deceiving the runner, obviously.

Sure he can. Is it legal? Probably not, for the reason you have already mentioned. Failing to step.

Breaking the back plane would be a key problem with this move.

Great point, 3Apples and DG. I hadn't even thought of that. Thanks!

"The question was can a right-handed pitcher turn over his right shoulder, do a 180 degree spin while maintaining contact with the rubber, and attempt a pick off at first?"

1..180 degree turn will have him facing 2B.

2..180 degree turn will mean his non-pivot foot breaks the plane of the pitcher's plate.

3..Can you say, "BALK"?

Typically, with a runner on first, pitchers work from the stretch, with their foot parallel to the rubber and back facing first base.

So a 180° turn would have him facing 1B.

<b>So a 180° turn would have him facing 1B.</b>

But he's facing <i>home,</i> not 1B, when he throws to first. He's facing 3B when he's in the stretch.

I admit to having a little trouble understanding the original question. Does it involve jumping and spinning in the reverse direction from normal? Wouldn't that be a 270°?

Not easy.

270 degree turn is what I took his question to mean, in a counter-clock spin, around the pivot foot. Can't see this as anything but a balk, because the left foot went past the plane of the rubber and you sure can't pick anybody off with this move, unless the move tricked 'em.

Re: I may be wrong,
 

Guys, the discussion is over. The above quote was the information I was looking for.