After further research of my 2008 BRD I find that at least Mr. Childress in that edition took the current wording at its face value and I quote from section 362 (page 241): "(CHANGES 2007) Penalty: ball and balk with runners". italics his.

So, apparently this was changed in 2007 and they might have meant it.

Edited to add this tidbit from the preseason:

"March 16th, 2010 | 6:28 PM Marlins bench coach Carlos Tosca thinks it’s a good rule. He just wished he would have known about it a little sooner.
Tuesday against the Braves in Lake Buena Vista, first base umpire Joe West cited Josh Johnson for two balks. A ball was added to the count on both occasions. Apparently, Major League Baseball implemented some rule changes and didn’t bother to inform the Marlins."

I believe Joe missapllied the penalty to the hand to mouth thing.

"Is there anyone on this site whom you would believe?"

Answer: Most anyone but there are two who I'd have to do some checking on before believing them.

Keep digging coach, the hole is getting deeper.:rolleyes:

"Keep digging coach, the hole is getting deeper."

I will but it may take some time since I don't think this rarely used penalty, my or your interp, needs that much attention.

Now I have to put the 2010 BRD on my FD gift list. And maybe the latest MLBUM.

My wife is telling me I'm a "garrapata".