Worst rule in baseball...

[ozzy6900]

Originally Posted by tmagan

The step balk.

Called against the Padres tonight when the left handed pitcher threw to first. Incredibly subjective rule that is rarely called by umpires because it leads to fifteen minute arguments. It is never called in a World Series for a reason. In my opinion, do away with all step balks and if the runners can't adjust, that is their problem.

Step balks do not lead to 15 minute arguments, they lead to 5 minute tirades after the ejection. When a manager comes the top of the stairs on a balk call and the umpire lifts his leg and taps it, that indicates a step balk and it cannot be argued with. If the manager even comes out onto the field after that signal is given, the manager is ejected. A manager may question any other balk call, then once explained, he cannot argue.

As per the MLBUM

• A manager may come out and question the reason for a balk call (other than a step balk) and shall not be ejected for his visit to learn why the balk was called. He may be ejected if he argues the call after explanation.

Also, a step balk is illegal by rule so like it or not, it has to be enforced. The runners cannot adjust (and should not be forced to) illegal acts by the pitcher. Note that I did not use the word deceive because it is the pitcher's job to deceive the batter and the runners. The deception must, of course, be done legally.