Balk with no runners

[WillSun]

Yes, this is very basic, but can a pitcher balk with no runners on base? My understanding of a balk is that it occurs when a pitcher makes a motion to one base but throws to another in an effort to pick off a runner or fake the batter.... I don't understand how it can happen with no runners, yet I've been told it can...

(btw, I coach a 13-14 boys Dixie Youth team)

[jicecone]

High Schools Rules definition:

Rule 2.3.1 "Balk- A balk is an illegal act by the pitcher with a runner(s) on base which entitles each runner to advance one base."

Otherwise it is considered an illegal act by a pitcher, for which other penalities may or may not be enforced.

[mick]

A balk can only occur if there is a runner.

[Rich Ives]

Mysterious!

OBR: "8.05 If there is a runner, or runners, it is a balk when_"

The Dixie rules on line for your age group only show additions to some basic set of rules, but doesn't say what basic set. If you presume OBR, then see the above.


OTOH, if the basic set is DYB, the 12U part of Dixie, then it doesn't specify runners for a balk, and says the penalty is no pitch, dead ball, no runners advance.

[FVB58]

If the pitcher, in the wind-up or set position, drops the ball and it does not cross the foul line it is a balk. With no runners on it is a ball to the batter. There is also the infamous catcher's balk which can occur with no one on base and it is a ball to the batter.

[DownTownTonyBrown]

Originally posted by FVB58
If the pitcher, in the wind-up or set position, drops the ball and it does not cross the foul line it is a balk. With no runners on it is a ball to the batter. There is also the infamous catcher's balk which can occur with no one on base and it is a ball to the batter.

If the dropped ball DOES cross a foul line it is a ball. If it DOES NOT cross a foul line it is nothing (with no runners), no pitch.

From OBR
A ball which slips out of the pitcher's hand and crosses the foul line shall be called a ball; otherwise it will be called no pitch.

INFAMOUS catcher's balk is correct... that's an illegal pitch if the catcher is not in the catcher's box when the pitch begins (actual wording is different) like for an intentional walk. AND nobody in their right mind would call it... JMHO.