Pitcher side step

[cbfoulds]

Originally posted by Dean Strong
Yes, thank you for that rule interpretation. I guess I'm assuming that 8.05e names an illegal pitch as a balk, so I guess I'm asking if this is an illegal pitch.

/SNIP/

So, you may not have seen this side step from the set position, but is a a legal pitch and/or a balk with runners on base? Thanks.

"Illegal Pitch" is defined in another rule, and this ain't it; so, no - it is not an illegal pitch. But, just because the Rules like to mess with your mind, it is also not "legal".

Remember, not every violation of the pitching rules is a balk with runners on. Some are "Don't do that!" violations.

The windup side-step is probably not even that.
The FED rules change merely formalises the way the rule has [not] been enforced for a long time at all levels under all codes.

I'd need to see [or have explained in some detail] exactly what F1 is doing from the set position, to answer for that: I just cannot visualise a "side step from the set position", I guess. Unless, once F1 comes set, he takes TWO steps, one to the "side" [actually, toward 1st or 3rd] and one toward home to deliver: THAT's a balk.