your thoughts...

[MPC]

Originally posted by Jim Porter
No such thing as FED here for baseball, and I didn't see it specified.

So, as far as the OBR is concerned, if you're inclined to call a catcher's balk, please leave your name here so I can be sure to never work with you.

Hello Jim, my name is Mel Chandler. I only work OBR on occasions during Legion and/or other summer ball. When I do work those games I follow OBR rules and according to OBR 4.03a, F2 is allowed to come out to make a play.

When working under NCAA rules I observe 5-4 (a)"The catcher must stand with both feet within the limits of the catcher's box until the pitcher releases the ball. Penalty-It is an illegal pitch if no one is on base and a balk with a runner(s) on base."

Just to split hairs a bit, I enforced the play I described as an "Balk/Illegal Pitch" and not a "Catcher's Balk." I've yet to find a "Catcher's Balk" referenced in any rule books. Only reference to when a catcher causes a balk.