That's a balk (video)

[David Emerling]

Originally Posted by ManInBlue

I'd contend that the move, if illegal, doesn't get called when RHP doesn't throw to 3B, just the step and feint. And many of those steps are immediately followed by a turn to 1B. One may not notice "distance and direction" as easily when he makes so much movement. I'd like to think that on tha actual pick off attempt at 3B it would be called the same as LHP to 1B. But in reality, they probably have more leeway than LHP for the fact that you pointed out, it's not seen as often. What I mean is that we are looking all the time for an illegal move to 1B by LHP. We simply watch the move of the RHP to 3B, and when something illegal jumps out, we call it.

Many left-handers employ a technique of masking the placement of their free foot by immediately walking away after making the throw. They do not pose.

In the video, you will notice David Price does this. Most LHP's with a "marginal" move will do this. They usual continue walking toward 1st after making the throw.

Frequently the umpires are as surprised by the pickoff as the runner. The umpires look back at the pitcher, to check on the placement of his free foot, and the evidence is already long gone. So - since they didn't see it - they resign themselves that they'll just have to look closer next time.

Of course, if the umpire is specifically looking for the placement of the free foot ... if he's focusing on it ... the pitcher is screwed if, in fact, he is going beyond the 45-degree line.

David Emerling
Memphis, TN