Balk Talk

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Lapopez,

I had to make these adjustments about balks when I crossed over from Babe Ruth BB (OBR) to high school BB (Fed):

Here are two actions that are not balks in FED but are in OBR:

(1) F1 while in the stretch prior to bringing his hands together is allowed to abruptly and quickly turn his shoulder toward first to drive back a runner (as long as there is no significant arm movement). This would be a balk in OBR. 2009 Fed CB 6.1.1(J)

(2) F1 is allowed to throw (or feint a throw) to an unoccupied 2nd base even if a runner at first just feints an advance to 2nd. This would be a balk in OBR. Fed Rule 6.2.4(b) & Fed CB 6.2.4(A)

Now here is an action that is a balk in Fed but not OBR:

F1 must come to stop with both hands together level with the chin or below. Anywhere wholly above the chin is regarded as a balk. However, in OBR F1 can bring his hands together and stop above his head, at his forehead, etc. Rule 6.1.3 & CB 6.1.3(M) & CB 6.1.3 (N)