balk situation
 

Is it a balk when a RHP steps directly toward third whenever a runner on second is breaking for third? My idea is that he is steping toward an unoccupied base but to make a play and even though the runner will likely be put out this should not be a balk. Whats the correct call?

Thanks

youngblue,

If the R2 is breaking for 3B, it is perfectly legal for a pitcher to throw a pick-off to 3B from the rubber for the purpose of making a play on the R3.

JM

except from the windup in FED ball

F1 better make sure that R2 is really going and not faking or it's a balk.

ozzy,

Right. Unless he's playing under FED rules, in which case he's fine if the runner is only feinting an advance.

JM

JM, are you saying that under OBR F1 can throw to 3B if R2 is bluffing to 3B?

johnny,

No. That's not what I said at all.

Why do you ask?

JM

Thanks everybody. A vet told me otherwise but I didnt think he was right because it was an attempt to make a play. Just making sure. Thanks again!

For some reason, the first part of the rule ("shall not throw to an unoccupied base") is easy to remember; the second part ("except for the purpose of making a play") seems to be missed by many.

That's always the problem with exceptions to any rule. It doesn't happen much, but watch what happens when R2 standing on 2B gets hit with an infield fly. ;)