Balk?

[David B]

Originally Posted by Mark T. DeNucci, Sr.

I have NEVER said that there is no such rule. What I have said is: It DOES NOT matter if F1 DOES or DOES NOT take signs from F2 while not in contact with the pitcher's plate, BUT F1, at some point after making contact with the pitcher's plate, must take or simulate taking signs from F2 before he can legally pitch to the batter. If he DOES NOT, after making contact with the pitcher's plate, take or simulate taking signs from F2 before he pitches the ball to the batter, then he has violated a requirement of NFHS Rule 6."

MTD, Sr.

Mark, that is not the intent of the rule. He does not HAVE to take signs at all. Remember Jim Katt, he made a living with the "almost quick pitch".
I think that's what you are saying, but it was not very clear to me.

The majority of small ball players don't take signs either. They just get on the mound and pitch.

As long as they are not in the umpires judgement making a quick pitch all is well. If F1 in the umpires judgement delivers a quick pitch, then the umpire has to take further action.

PU has the responsibility to protect the batter in this situation.
But if the batter is ready, F1 toes the rubber (with a little bit of a pause) and then pitches, he has violated no rules.

Thanks
David