Balk or not?

[Tim C]

I thought we had put this to bed already.

It seems that without a video clip it is hard to explain.

MLB verbiage is probably the best:

When a RH pitcher goes to first on a pickoff without disengaging his first step with his left foot must be "distinct and direct".

This means as soon as the RH pitcher lifts his left foot the very next movement must be towards the area of first base.

A pitcher cannot lift his leg to any appreciable height, even if smoothly, as that is deemed to be two distinictive movements and therefore a balk.

While this is clear in my mind I am sure others find it confusing.

Regards,