2013 OBR Changes

[UMP45]

Originally Posted by DG

"It is possiblea balk if, with runners on first and third, for the pitcher to step toward third and does not throw, merely to bluff the runner back to third; then seeing the runner on first start for second, turn and step toward and throw to first base. This is legal. However, if, with runners on first and third, the pitcher, while in contact with the rubber, steps toward third and then immediately and in practically the same motion “wheels” and throws to first base, it is obviously an attempt to deceive the runner at first base, and in such a move it is practically impossible to step directly toward first base before the throw to first base, and such a move shall be called a balk. Of course, if the pitcher steps off the rubber and then makes such a move, it is not a balk. It is legal for a pitcher to feint a throw to second base."

I am not sure I see what the change is. It has been interpreted that if you step to 3b and do not disengage before turning and stepping to 1b that is a balk, but if you come off the rubber as you step to 3b and then turn and step and throw to 1b, that is not a balk, and if you wheel without stepping that is a balk. What, as worded, is a change?

You can't fake a throw to third while in contact with the rubber. Simple.