Calling the game

[GarthB]

Steve:

Why are you so specific in stating the inning, the outs and the score? That seems to suggest that you think the answer to your question would differ under other circumstances. Personally, I think that is dangerous.

Try this:

"A pitcher, during a live ball, and while his catcher in getting signs for the dugout and a runner is preoccupied with talking to his coach, has taken to the rubber and assumed the wind-up position.

Tired of waiting for everyone to get ready, the pitcher either drops his hands to his sides without legally stepping off, or steps off incorrectly.

Do you call this technical balk or ignore it?"

Reviewing: Runner is not paying attention or attempting to get a lead. He is not at a disadvantage. Catcher is unaware of the pitcher. Pitcher has no advantage. Runner is standing on his base, again no disadvantage to the runner and no advantage to the pitcher. No one is expecting a pitch or a play. Adavantage: umpire.

Personally, at the levels I call, under those conditions, in any inning,I don't believe I would have seen that move.

No call.





[Edited by GarthB on Feb 20th, 2003 at 01:33 PM]