Just wanted some Umps to confirm this scenario. Runner on first, other bases empty, pitcher comes set, lifts free leg and spins toward second taking a step toward the bag and throws to F6 or F4 at the bag. No balk according to Forsyth County Rulebook and the comments under Section 8.05.
Specifically the wording states: (b) With a runner on first base the pitcher may make a complete turn, without hesitating toward first, and throw to second. This is not to be interpreted as throwing to an unoccupied base.
Pretty sure this only applies if the runner makes an attempt to go to 2nd. The pitcher can throw to an "unoccupied" base if that is where the runner is attempting to go.
That's right. My issue is there is a wide range of interpretation on what "making a play" means. Some umps I have seen feel the runner must have made it halfway to second. Others consider a secondary lead enough to allow a throw.
FEDS rules are even more lenient. They add the phrase of something " or I order to make an out or drive a runner back."
I have seen umps allow a feint throw to second with no one there and a runner leading off only. Just curious what some local umps take is on this.
I'm not calling in Forsyth this year so I don't have the red book (and I think I tossed last years version). Throwing to an unoccupied base is a balk, but there is umpire judgement that does come in to play. If the umpire feels like the runner was going or making the pitcher think he was going, he can throw to second and it is not a balk. A standard lead or even a secondary lead does not open up the throw to second base in my judgement. Others may see it different and judgement calls can not be argued. I believe my Fed rule book is in the gear bag so I can't just look it up at the moment. I think there are 3 organizations calling baseball games in Forsyth this year.
Pitcher throws to 2nd w/ Runner on 1st - No Balk
Posted - 03/08/2016 : 13:27:50
