Tangent to passing a runner topic.

[AtlUmpSteve]

Originally Posted by CecilOne

And my final question was:

"Does "looks toward 2nd" count as a play or fake play, before the throw?"

Let's assume arm not raised.

HTBT call. A casual look in that direction, no; a quick head jerk around, yes.

The simplest way to determine what counts is to ask yourself if it is remotely reasonable for a runner to react as if threatened. If it is reasonable to react, then it isn't a LBR violation for the runner to react; if there is no reason to consider the runner in jeopardy of a play (fake play), then it isn't a play (fake play).

Players make partial or borderline moves for the sole purpose of getting the runner to react; that's what coaches teach. Look at the intent of the motion/non-motion, and judge accordingly. It's really that simple. And when/if a coach challenges that decision, you respond with "IN MY JUDGMENT".